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unhappytimeleaper · 8 months

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Character analysis; main concepts

A lot of this references some hints to lore and stuff I found. Not a lot are direct spoilers, but since Venti is built on his vagueness to his past, this likely will be able to be subject to change as time goes on.

Also, I wasn't sure if I asked if anyone would reply to whom to pick for my analysis. I asked some friends on a Yandere discord server, and in passing, one of them mentioned Venti, so I just went with it. Shout out to them. I hate making decisions. And leaper lore, but Venti is the reason I got into Genshin, so I guess it's fitting he is first.

Anyway, that means sending who I should do next. I'd prefer to space Genshin characters out, but anyone on my lists can be requested, as well as general requests being open.

The final quick personal note is I wanted to thank everyone for the 150 followers. I know it's not a lot, but I am thankful for the handful I know have been around for a while and for those who have considered following; Tumblr and most other SNS are rough for creators as reblog ratios are so low and other issues, but I am very grateful for those who keep coming back.

Venti [Barbatos]; Unedited. Gender neutral reader. Part 1 of 3

Warnings; yandere!! It touches on every main category of the troupe, so if you are sensitive to manipulation [emotional and mental], alcoholism, codependency, guilt [even self-imposed], obsession, lying, stalking, some general creepy behavior, breaking and entering, possessiveness, delusional thoughts, unwanted touching [sfw], and anything else you can think of being related to yandere troupes, then it's best to just not read. Also, a massive warning for talks about religion, idolization in the 'church,' and abuse of power within religious settings.

Word Count: 8.4K

This blog is 17+ please have your age in your bio or tagged; any ageless blog and below the age asked for will be blocked at the end of the week.

Maxed Stats

General manipulation

As a key component, Venti is a general trickster; he comes naturally with the skills of forgery, fabrication, pilfering, and illusion-making. These tools under his control make him naturally an enigma but build into easy traits of manipulation as he needs not just to you but to anyone. And for an early establishment, Venti's natural manipulation is not just tied to these specific skills. Still, it almost comes coded into how he exists as more of himself is revealed. Though these particular skills of lying are much harder to pick up on, between the riddles of his words and decent, innocent appearance, it's easy for him to pull off a twist of words or lie his way out of a situation.

As pointed out, manipulation is a skill that Venti can best use against anyone. To you, he is likely able to find excuses to keep up his actions. Outside of the wall of Mondstadt, he can quickly find reasonings as to why he's there, too. More often than not, he's somewhere close. While in areas like Windwail and Brightcrown, he can stay hidden, only needing to reveal himself if you find yourself in trouble, in regions like Starfell and Galesong, you can often see him not too far off in the distance. Even if you doubt his reasoning, it's hard to find proof of his stalking, making the moments unsettling, but his cuteness and way of words make it hard to get upset. Guilt festers as he looks so sad with accusations of something more sinister and that he has ulterior motives. Or how within the walls Venti is quick to find you and cling on, either in close proximity of walking or physically bound to you somehow— it's easy to tell when he's been drinking as he tends to be much more touchy in those moments. While it takes a lot for him to truly get drunk, he likes to play it up as there are so many more benefits and things you let slide. You have to take care of him in some way, and he always has a reason to be around longer.

In cases of late nights together, Venti sometimes lets you feel as if you have the upper hand, too. Pretending to be more drunk than he is and more open, allowing you to handle your chance at burning questions as he wistfully gives answers. Often, they are still vague but do let you delve more into his past, the trauma he has endured, or the loneliness that has come into his life. The more you learn, the more guilt grows at the idea of rejecting him. Of leaving Mondstadt in favor of exploration or answers. It's also not one where everything he shares is a goal of manipulating these feelings or actions.

Venti's love is absolute; for that, he wants to share what he can, with his goal of being bound to you, which means sharing these personal moments. For him, learning about you is so much easier with his status and age. Still, you can seldom learn about him in the same way, even more, as he can't fully spill his guts about his past at a moment's notice. However, he can think of this as an added benefit; manipulation, even if it's not the goal, is still emotional manipulation.

These times, there often are levels of manipulation about other places and people he puts in place. Different regions and gods aren't free from their past either, and Venti is known to share moments of these in his riddles. Aspects of how the lands have changed, how they have changed, but the imposing struggles carry through their lands. It's not really shit-talking them, nor a full-on slander campaign, but the language and words he uses are often dulled in favorability of what they could be. Similarly, he might often find ways to weave in things that could cause greater fear in you to manipulate you into thinking you are much too weak for the creatures that lurk there. While some parts you can chalk up to his story-telling nature and that by making it more dramatic, it sounds better, there often is a growing uneasiness about how vicious parts it could really be. More than countless times, there have been moments of your own danger, only saved by the grace of the wind and Venti nearby… In contrast, he speaks of Mondstadt and its people much more positively, and while he has some jealousy of those in his region you gain closeness with, he also tends to have a much more positive relationship with them, allowing those to be better tools to help in his love life than those in say Sumeru or Inazuma. He tends to maybe add in some more lighthearted jabs that can have an air of jealousy in them, even more if Venti feels you've been around them a lot recently, but in the way he talks, it often is more of playful bad-mouthing than down right insults.

As touched on, Venti's manipulation of you isn't always intended or done with negative goals. One side of this is again linked generally to how he speaks. Being this enigmatic person whose words are always wistful and hold more profound meaning, there is a natural draw to learn more. It's only made more of something that is hook when he doesn't often go around sharing this self-lore to someone so known but distant in Mondstadt to just anyone. It's almost like a balloon or bubble; the hints that are added build up little by little as time goes on without seeking out Venti for more until it pops. A droplet of information at a time until it consumes your mind, going back looking for more details to answers to the questions you'd had running in your mind for days. Soon enough, you are the one asking where the mysterious bard is to the townspeople, only cementing more in their minds the nature of your relationship being more than platonic. It also, again, just makes you feel special, a self-imposed superiority that you are the person who knows him best [which this ego can be inflated more if you know him as barbatos as well]. Venti knows these actions are manipulative in a sense, and again. At the same time, it doesn't truly harm anyone; it's still manipulation at its core in building this unique reliance on him.

And Venti's manipulation is ever present in the town and the people of Mondstadt. The key ways he uses these are to get more information about you and, as usual, get away with things. However, as briefly stated, Venti uses the wind and himself as a factor in starting rumors that there is naturally more to what is happening between you that can be exploited for later use. But back to the first point, Venti is able to once again use his 'charm' and way of speaking to easily coax others to give out more information about you. He literally likes things about your past, interests, personal relationships with others, likes, dislikes, and such through his friendly demeanor and guiding the conversations. And while he can easily track and monitor you through the wind, by talking to others around and having them tell him where you are, it helps set up a close alibi if you were to question him later. Essentially, in this case, the guards and townpeople become effective scapegoats for his stalking if needed. Furthermore, these questions end up helping intensify any rumors as the questions, over time, can become more and more romantic.

His manipulation does also be a benefit as he really is one with the people, if not distant in details. By having personal connections to groups like people in the Adventure's Guild and Knights of Favonius through people like Jean & Kaeya, they easily can be tools to help with his… well, propaganda. Even the temple with Rosaria. You ask about traveling and other nations to people in the Adventure's Guild, and they tend to often only share more gruesome or darker aspects of their stories. Of have plenty of tragedy by the time they reach the 'positive goal' that it's a natural persuasion to not want to often venture too far outside of Mondstadt. Or say you are one to leave; Venti could use points of manipulation he's built to have, say, Rosaria or Kaeya go with you, depending on where. The wind can always join you, but Venti isn't up and one to fully be able to run off from Mondstadt for long periods of time. If you plan to go on just a trip for travel, it's one thing for him to run off and join you, but freedom itself in Mondstadt is unique. It's not necessarily true freedom, and while he's awake with a purpose, he can't in his heart run from Mondstadt to travel with you. And while he'd be able to do anything in his power to persuade you to not leave, he's one to physically force it unless you're genuinely trying to run off for something dangerous. However, if someone else were to go. Friends of you and Venti… you'd have to come back, right? Kaeya can't leave his post forever, and it was him who accompanied you for this task, so it would be unfair to go on alone and not see him back… Yes, through others, you'd always be lured… guilted into returning home to him eventually.

Manipulation is also used here in more of a test; he does this often with people but imposes an idea or thing involving you. Those he wants to use in a way of getting close, he bluffs some lies out, and their reaction or steps they handle in regards usually is how he tests to see if they are reliable in what he needs. It's nothing extreme, but it's best to know if he can trust their feelings and opinions on you before letting you get too close. If they fail, well, a little bending of the truth to make it so neither of you wants to interact and never really hurt anyone.

This all helps build into how appearance tends to help. Not only for the general public but even for you, as his boyish charm and looks naturally tend to frame him as innocent. People are quick to brush off his questions even if they progressively get more concerned as 'puppy love' or that it's simply 'too cute' to see the young love from the bard. Many might even favor this as they see it as him likely being willing to turn a new leaf and grow into something worth settling down [i.e., get a job and place to live, though really, instead, it grows more into him crashing at your home and still playing song for whatever he can— money or alcohol]. His verbal actions are easily brushed off, but even the physical side of things, too. Pilfering is a great talent of his, but when caught with your items or breaking in when you're out, he tends to be pushed aside if he plays up his demeanor and lies. Scolded with warnings, sure, but scratching his head and sighing with a 'promise I won't do it again' tends to get everyone to roll their eyes and back off. As mentioned, his appearance can even present him as harmless to you; if someone brings it up, you might also awkwardly laugh and brush off the events. It's just Venti being Venti. He truly is primarily harmless, and he's stayed over so much at this point him breaking in was likely just a result of a habit of being in there…

And the limits of manipulation can be pushed if he so chooses. Call it divine intervention, more or less cause while he does so more with a dirty conscience, he can be driven as Barbatos to truly step in. Religious intervention. It seems weird when the Church of Favonius suddenly comes in contact with some old documents, ones with never seen details of an old love interest to their beloved god. The news and rumors sweep the nation, and even weirder, most of the details and notes recount someone… like you. Things seemed to get stranger, and from there, only more documents could be found of this exact figure appearing throughout history, like some sort of reincarnation. The fascination of it all quickly became the center of the topic, and with the likeness you bared in the story and aspects of appearance, you're status seemed to shoot up within the night. Not so much a holy figure but deemed with some strange uplighting in the way people spoke. That is, or how Barbatos ever seemed to come back to Mondstadt, you'd need to be there just like how the past reminisced. For those who do know, it weirdly only pushes you away from them if you ever seek help, that that story must be bound to fate, and that Venti can't be as much of a nuisance if you give it time. The problem is only dug in worse as Venti creates poems and ballads of the sort, claiming he actually had heard of these but never sought to share them until now. As the stories grow, you're pushed more and more to the church with the idea of gaining barbatos' favor and attention. Leaving… just became much more complex.

Dependence [reversed]

Dependence comes in a weird form, at least compared to others. While in general fashion, dependence typically is the idea that they want you to solely rely on them for everything, not only for power and love, it can even be with money, housing, or other necessities. While Venti likely would be much more dependent on him being really the main source of your love and affection, the rest… he doesn't care so much about. Power may be a little; he doesn't need or want you to depend on him for it, but it does give him a little ego boost when you have to or ask him. And too many other aspects of actual dependence go against aspects of his belief in freedom. Venti's course of manipulation never truly prohibits your own freedom; again, less you actively seek to do something he knows poses a threat; it just often forces you to rethink and become more hesitant in actions or thoughts.

As for other forms of dependence, well, Venti doesn't have them. He steals, only really eats apples, to your knowledge, and is homeless. It's quite pitiful in a humorous way. However, as you get closer and bond more with the bard-friendly nature, it is hard for you to let him live like this. Well, in certain ways, stealing alcohol or bribing others to give him some with songs you can't really stop unless you plan on going bankrupt. But more frequently, you invite him for meals and shelter him in your place. Even more frequently if the weather is bad or as winter approaches. Venti isn't manipulating you necessarily into these tasks, but dependence some with a factor of self-guilt. He's your friend, someone you've gotten close with, and with that, he's come to truly rely on you for these things. He was fine in the past, but to leave for who knows how long and let him fall back into such a life would make you a bad person. Right?

Logically, Venti knows he doesn't need to depend on you for these things as they don't have any real effect on his life, but it's so domestic. He gets access to all your items; you put time and love into meals, or even sharing what you purchased from Good Hunter fills him with warmth. On cold nights, he finds it easier to slip under your blankets and, even if it's fake, pretend to sleep like how couples would. Being a god comes with a lot of good but a lonely life, and after seeing so many, there comes a time when it's nice to indulge in it. Gluttony has always been a crime of his, it seems, such as with alcohol, but this also can't be that bad if no one is getting hurt. So just let him depend on you a little longer. At least until he can find out some solution before he sleeps again.

Self Harm

Similar to dependency on basic things, one form of manipulation that Venti doesn't do on purpose but knows that there still is a benefit to his actions is his indulgence in drinking. While it takes a lot for him to truly get drunk, as noted, he does like to play it up for you, and it's not uncommon for you to have to take care of him or come help him. In all sense, Venti, while not necessarily drunk, is an alcoholic, and to a detriment, it is a form of self-harm. Through learning more and hearing the tales and songs of his past, it's apparent the wounds run deep, and Venti's only way he knows to deal with them is through drinking in an attempt to numb or forget. The reality of knowing this is hard; you see it with others you've likely gained closeness with and how drinking has affected the lives of so many.

This leads to two outcomes: this, again, guilt that breeds when thinking of leaving. The connection Venti has formed is tangible with how deep it is to you, even if you don't reciprocate in that way. That's if you were to leave, would things only get worse with his drinking problem? Unlikely, he would died from drinking, but it's more than just drinking; it's the mental state of him in that position and how the loss of more people would rip the wound open even more. Furthering, if you had actually spent time talking about his past and working to unpack and find better ways to cope with the trauma outside of alcoholism, leaving would be a dick move and revert all that progress no matter how you explained it. How much could you're conscious take knowing this? How far could you make it without the guilt of him back home as the stories of his past cloud your mind? The wind tickling your skin and almost like a whisper reminding you of it. It's one thing to share a drink or two with the bard and have a fun night in the tavern, listening to his songs and dancing. It's another to picture him alone under a tree, empty bottles scattered from stealing from him alone, reminiscing about his lost friend and the imagery of war. The wind gets colder, licking the back of your neck, and the guilt is painful, ready to burst out your chest for even thinking of it. Some wounds you cannot heal, but the idea of making them worst or abandoning the person who's come to need you most is mentally crippling.

General obsessiveness

Venti doesn't necessarily read as obsessive. Not outwardly, at least, though it's easy to blame his charm for that. Okay… well, maybe not charm, but within his manipulative nature and looks, his actions and questions regarding you don't play as obsessive to those who listen. It's unlike many others who you can just look at them and feel in your bone there is something off, or in how they speak, they care just a little too hard. His sharp tongue and trick of words allow people to very easily give up information without thoroughly having them aware they have, making his tendencies go far under the general public's radar still. And for those who do somewhat witness it, he doesn't mind playing up his role a little more. Just a young, helpless bard looking to woo someone. It isn't a crime, right?

The mask he wears holds many layers. The bard, the god, the lost wind. Not many will ever get a look at what really goes on and what is an exaggeration. Or under exaggeration when it comes to you. In most cases, Venti stretches his stories up, his words riddled and larger than life that people have to dim down to work out the true meaning. So when he sells his obsessive love as much less, people are quick to brush it off or dim it down further to avoid those actual layers of emotions being peeled forward.

A chunk of this also extends to the shame and questions it brings out of freedom. Venti has never tried to take it away in a solid way, but is it true freedom to either of you when you fill so much of his thoughts that you can't really do anything without him? It is the thought that replays and replays of you and him doing things; it's the obsessive nature of having to know where you are, who you're with, and what you're doing. Are you safe? Are you planning on leaving? Should he come to find you just to be sure?

What about the images. The visions he remembers from the wars, from the people he's lost, and that truly, at any time, perhaps something will happen, and you'll be next. The flashes of violence and fear that only make the goal of getting his next drink to numb them go away— or you. The sight of you, the smell of you. Having you hold him and remind him that the past is gone.

You'd be able to see it, maybe not the full extent, but you've come to know the bard enough to tell when the cogs in his mind are turning and the way he tries to drown out aspects of himself. It's hard to tell what he's thinking, but you know some of it is tied to the past as he holds the stolen wine in one hand and grips you so tightly with the other as you try to stumble back to your home and out of sight. You can tell something is off when he's snooping through your things early in the morning as you're just waking up and when he's clearly been inside your place while you were out with a friend. Or that he's been leaving more and more questionable lyrics? No, less like poems or lyrics but ramblings about love and fear and what can only be aspects of you on the counter as he runs around god knows where. It's worrying. It's uncomfortable to an extent, but not enough or in a way that you can just cut him off. Kick him out. Maybe just talking or setting a little break, but the pressure in your chest and bile in your throat at the thought of cutting contact brings you to a sobbing mess each time.

But, what does keep him from being fully obsessive is that Venti still has things to do. Freedom of Mondstadt and giving up his title as the god doesn't mean he's abandoned his role truly, and if he's awake, that means between drinking, being with friends, telling stories, and everything about you, there is something he has to do. He still is out fulfilling a duty no one, but he knows of, and really, part of that seems more scary than anything he's done to you. You know he'd never hurt you; it's not a fear of that, but as Venti opens up more to you, the parts he still keeps hidden remind you that this is only a fraction of what you know. Guess it's good that you still have some time and space to yourself, but as obsessive as he is in his thoughts and other flaws, he can dial it back if needed for a short amount of time. At least from your perspective.

Wrong idea; type 2

In a sense, Venti is give an inch; he'll take a mile. Like a stray cat. You feed him once he keeps coming back for more. One thing is that this wrong idea can start more slowly, but the second you mess up and do something more romantically affectionate, it instantly becomes much more intense in the progression of what he's willing to take or do.

As mentioned, for anything to start, you need to be at least on a friendship level basis with Venti, and a sorta higher level of one. Nothing extreme, but the type of friends who do spend a considerable amount of time together and, for example, willing to open your house to him to stay in occasionally. Not even in a 'stay in the same bed' type way, but he knows aspects of your personal life, and to a level, you learn more of his 'Venti' side for any of his traits to really start manifest. However, it is already very easy to set off more and delve into the realm of leading him into the wrong idea territory.

Some ideas of how this might be are such as gaining more physical contact. While the intent is friendly, Venti is from a different time, and being touchy already seems less common than you already have a 'flirty' aptitude. Grabbing his arm or hanging off of him when sober makes his heart flutter that there could be more. Certain gifts, flowers, or making uniquely special foods just for him. Not just any meal, that's normal, but if you were to make something sweet with apples that wasn't a typical dish, it leads his heart to beat just a little harder. Or that one time when he did stay over and you fell asleep holding onto him rather than the usual routine of wandering off to your own spot after putting a drunk Venti 'to sleep.' You must have been exhausted… but this is his first time really getting to see you up close.

You must be doing all this with some… ulterior motive. Sure, he's heard of courting; he's older than people think and knows more of the ins and outs of things. People treat him like someone far more innocent by these looks— not just with drinking. And yeah, it comes in handy sometimes, but not when people talk down to him about this. At first, there was some apprehension. Teyvat was in a dangerous time, and as carefree as he plays himself up, he's always guarded about his next move.

Obsessiveness starts more simple. His questions are more of curiosity about many things, and what is better than to trick it out of people and you. Sure, he knows most basic things of your life, but that couldn't mean you aren't linked to more questionable things and had figured out he was Barbatos, either. He comes off a nosey at best. When digging to see if you'd ever been caught doing 'bad things' most inform sure— but in the sense you had been a kid and teen once. You'd easily gotten into trouble more than a few times but never was it for anything imminent or serious. He digs more into the lineage of your family and the other people you associate with. Nothing strange… fine, but perhaps a different route. He remembers some old common courting techniques, and he's seen some of them in this era, too. He's not blind to it, but as he shares more of the details, the more people tell the 'young' bard. It's probably a hint that he should reciprocate. I mean, he already hangs off of you like a hangover anyway. It's surprising he isn't already attached at your hip with how much you both sort of rely on each other. Although you tend to treat him more as a companion than him, he depends on you like a leech.

And the switch flips.

In certain aspects, if you did have some sort of crush, it likely would melt away with how quick his obsessively wrong idea notion takes over. What was harmless flirting testing the waters is instantly blown into a large scale. Even if you didn't like him in that way and other signs were one of platonic closeness or accidents, it doesn't seem to make a difference. His touchiness is insatiable, and the amount of time he starts demanding you spend with him is much more intense. If you try to brush him off, his poutiness damps the air, and things just an uneasy tingle. You find him trying to make all sorts of snacks and now haggling not just for drinks but for gifts. Every story he tells, every song he sings, and every poem has some romantic undertones that, paired with former questions and actions, people know it is about you. And the stalking doesn't help.

Venti's turning point makes him feel like there is more and that there could be more. He's not fully delusional. There are aspects of a lucid point that you're pulling away, but that just means he needs to try harder, right? He's seen so many relationships go like that. If you stop trying, if you let them pull away, that's really how you lose them. It's obvious how much time he puts into this, how much he thinks about how to move forward, and how he can use things like his skill sets of manipulation to keep you bound to him [not literally but in a figurative state]. However, it is only time before you get worn down from trying to fight and redirect… adapting does become just so much easier. Conversations, trying to explain, just don't seem to reach him. Lucid and all, you can't understand him or his goals anymore, and even when he does calm down back into a slight breeze, the second you give him a bit of that former closeness back, it picks back into a blustery.

Stalking

While Venti's stalking habits have mostly been pointed out, there is one other big thing that needs to be recognized. Sure, in Mondstadt and the borders of other regions, he often can find himself about to sneak away and physically follow you around for extended periods of time [days, weeks, etc.]; what happens if you leave. Of course, Venti can easily manipulate others to go with you as a safety net and use it to get you back home, but things are rough when you're gone. Luckily, or to your dismay, you aren't ever really alone as the wind follows you. No matter how far you go, how pleasant the weather is, or how rough the wind is a constant companion following in your wake. It's often a nice breeze, though it picks up a significant amount if you're nearing danger or in danger. Though a strange pattern of it picks up when you spend a little too long talking with locals…

Yes, the wind itself can't do much, but its following reminds you of your faithful companion back home, the one you'll have to eventually return to. And while 'freedom' is given, it's never truly 'free' as the wind follows far and wide until you come back to your love.

Final [unique]

Where final comes in is related more to Venti's 'sleep.' From the context, it seems Venti has less control over when he sleeps and for how long. It's not that he chooses to abandon his land in the time. It's that he cannot fight when he goes into his slumbering state. For hundreds of years, and the times he wakes up are only that when there is something of great importance. This wouldn't be much of a problem before you— Mondstadt was given their freedom, and it was just how it was. He awoke, he came, he helped, and he left; nothing more or less.

However, he had been awake for longer than usual. There was something, even outside of you, that had brewing. Something deeply important kept him awake, even if he didn't know what. And he established a life. A true life this time, with friends in the taverns and everyday 'enemies' with his habits. He found a 'job' and a 'home' within his city as one of the people. And he fell in love. It's one thing to become intrinsically a part of an environment, and even if you don't feel the same way, have that connection knowing any moment it could be lost. To go back into a long-standing sleep with every person, even facet of that life is potentially gone when you are to wake up again. To lose that loved one to time.

Venti has lost so much, each person he's established a bond with passing or having to move on to more incredible things. When he awakes, everything is different; every person is mostly a new face, with few exceptions of those only being a few like him. Is it wrong for love to be so fragile when he knows the change of fate of it being lost is greater than the reward? That if he were to fall asleep, you would easily be able to move on. Find someone new, forget about him, or at least be nothing more than a distant memory. He knows other types of love can be platonic, that the affection you give to the city kids isn't the same, or the way you play with the cats as he watches from a distance. He knows that when he sees the couples in Mondstadt, he's supposed to be happy for them, and imagine if it was you two rather than have the breeze pick up ruining their outing. That he shouldn't be this jealous or bitter; it's unsuiting of his persona, but how else are you supposed to know when love is useless if not with you, the one person he could so quickly lose. When you're not around, this gets worse. Celestia, be damned if he were to fall asleep without at least getting to see you one more time.

This acknowledgment does considerably bring out more of his obsessive nature, almost like paranoia, but in a way that no one can quite place. That he needs to have knowledge of where you are and how long you've been gone, or that he needs to be with you to make up for the time. The obsession leaks into you're time together; since he doesn't need sleep, he'll just lay there watching you. Hands sometimes ghost your face as he pulls you close, worrying about if he can't save you if he were to suddenly fall back asleep tomorrow and never see you again. It's the way sometimes he grips your arm a little too tightly and breathes in too deeply when hugging. That he needs to find a solution to keep you immortal so if he does sleep, you'll still be there when he awakes, or even better, you can sleep with him [and awake] at the same time. You'd never have to be alone, he'd never have to be alone. And sure, it's a stretch, but it's not a loss of freedom because once awake, you can still go anywhere you want together, and even with this idea, you still have full mental awareness and control over your mind.

General Delusional [unique]

Venti isn't delusional. His perceptiveness to things around him and his need to protect himself, plus his lifetime, has made him more or less hyperaware of things and life around him. He hears the prayers of people and the lives of others, and being lucid/logical is simply a must for that of a god. But he hears the prays, he hears the others speak, and he yearns in a sense to be able to have the luxury of being delusional. Of just being able to let everything go and pretend things are good or that you like him back in that way. It sounds nice. Easy. To be able to imagine your life together as some fantasy story, he's the knight who'd come and save you and live happily ever after.

Scratch that. barbatos isn't delusional, but Venti can be. The mask, the person he's playing can be. He isn't just a storywriter; he's a storyteller. An actor, a character of his identity. So no, deep down, he knows the truth; he's extremely aware of that, but why not just play the part. Let him play as if he was lost in those delusions and that whatever it is can be that way. When you're cooking dinner for each other, Venti knows you're just making a meal as always, but why not play it up. That you're coupled and that this is making a meal together as a such— it was a little weird when he came over to help, but you didn't question it. At least he was doing something. But meal times together when he would help progressed weirdly. Putting his arms around you as you try to cut things, holding out utensils for you to try things on. It got very strange the one time when baking, he leaned over and licked a crumb off your face. You didn't bake for a while after that.

Or going out. What once was normal progressed into him inching closer and closer, then hands briefly touching. You didn't think much. It's the bard unless your Diluc. He's been pretty much harmless around the city. You think. So what if he was one to try to hold hands or brush arms that just matched his bubbly personality. Though the linking of arms and leaning into when waking, staring into your eyes with such affection did change things a lot.

It's nothing more than a role, or sort of game to Venti. The delusion is there, but it is more like oil sitting on top of water. He can turn it off at any moment, but where is the fun in that when everything in his life is so serious. With you, it's easier to just pretend. At least he still has all the control and lucidity of the problems when needed.

Projection

This has been touched on already, but to relate it back, Venti isn't so much delusional in the sense he believes it's real but that if he projects the message hard enough through stories, through songs, and to the people of Teyvat that you're together then in some way, that will be true. The projection of his words he knows are false, and he knows in some way, even if it isn't true, that if a story is spread enough, people take it as fact. And if everyone takes it as fact, then it's just easier for you to accept it as well. He really doesn't have to do anything to force you. It's not taking away anything. It's just altering it so that way things work out in his favor. Much like the general sense, it pairs as well. If he tells himself it's true, perhaps he can force that delusion to cloud the lucidity he feels about all of it. It's almost like in a state of being drunk, where you know what's going on to a certain level, but it's foggy. It's rose-tinted enough that if everyone thinks it, he can, too.

This projection is only made worse if he gets involved as Barbatos. It changes things from just the slightly weird couple who, honestly, the people of Mondstadt can't really explain how they ended up that way. They remember bits of it, but it seems like someone through someone, though some random grandma just mentioned you were taken, and everyone ran with it. But if the church were to find the falsified relics and stories, then there just is nothing you can do. Now, it's not only Venti trying to project something there but the whole church following, believing that you are some saint and by having you married? Honestly, you aren't really sure what all this goal is to have you 'connected to Barbatos' even means, but whatever it is… it doesn't sound good. The expectations of you are doubled, and the projection of you being more than human is suffocating. But it's only made worse when Venti comes forward as Barbatos to you, saying you should just play the part. Stay with the church as some saint and with him. You'll still have a life of freedom outside of it, just with some more expectations about how you interact with others. You'd be bound by the marriage of some sort, and he'd find a way to make it eternal. It doesn't sound too bad, right? Freedom isn't truly free, but it never has been. It's an elusive concept, something subjective, but if you still have the right to enjoy your life and the good of being such, then it should be okay. You can still leave the church figuratively and travel, arguing it's on some journey for something. You aren't restricted in how you speak or think, but things like infidelity and how you speak of love need to be more kind. Yet you'd live a life of peace, one of never needing to be allowed and have the blessing of a god in your favor.

If not, think of the projection people will have if you say no. If you try to run away, you lose everything. That would be the true loss of freedom. The loss of your friends, your loved ones. Your home. Venti projects this idea of love and what love should be for you two, not between you and him necessarily, but to everyone else, making it all the more terrifying at the consequences when he finally does. Not if, but when.

Monopoly

This is where things get rough because Venti is possessive in a way that can't be controlled. He feels it settling in his chest when he spends too long talking to the shopkeeper or giggling a little too hard at a friend's joke. He hates it when you work and when you dedicate your time to the kittens outside The Cat's Tail. He whines when you have to leave in the morning and when you turn up to Angel Share just a little too late, begging to know who you are with. It hurts him. He can't explain it in the way it crushes his soul, seeing you give your time to others, your energy, and your care. It pains him so deeply to see you run yourself thin for the world around you, for those who could never understand you like he does.

Venti knows it would be easy to whisk you away. To use his godly powers to keep you safe, to keep your attention and love only on him. How things would be so much better for you, for each other, if you could just monopolize your time for him and you and no one else. The idea weighs on him like a pile of bricks. He knows it's wrong; he knows it goes against everything he stands for. And call him childish, but he can't help how he feels.

It's true he never really acts on it. Clinging onto you and carping over it, sure, the way he tugs slightly on your arm after you keep talking to the passerby you bumped into, an old friend, ready to drag you off to somewhere in Mondstadt, you can be alone. How he holds on just a little too tight when you talk about events at work and the people you chatted with, quickly wanting to move to a more interpersonal topic.

Venti never really monopolizes you or your relationships, but his bratty and more childish act really is brought out more with you around. You still get the socialization and ability to be around whoever, but it always needs to be rightfully compensated with some alone time with the god as well, so pick your battles sparingly and just go with him when his fuse starts to burn out.

Bizarre Seeking [unique]

Tying back to his sleep issue, the case of bizarreness only relies so much on how far he's willing to push to keep you immortal, either through godhood or other means. It's surprising he'd even consider it; his testament for Celestia is apparent in conversations, and the path to godhood is not seen in a much higher light based on conversations. But Venti knows sacrifices need to be made to get what you want, and if that means the pursuit of godhood or immorality to not lose any more of his loved one, then that's a sacrifice to be made.

Because of this, Venti ends up pushing you into countless more and more weird scenarios. You end up visiting a certain alchemist more, not really ever knowing the reasons why, and stranger things of yours seem to be going missing. What is that strange bruise on your arm, and why does this one piece of hair seem slightly shorter than the rest? You also swore that Caramel Pinecone tasted weird last time, but even when you ordered the Love Poem instead, it was still off…

The limits of Venti's morality are very much pushed with the goal of finding a way to extend your life more permanently, and while the actions he takes are questionable, they aren't anything he would do less deemed necessary. Beyond that, once he finds the key to unlock it, his bizarre-seeking tendencies end up dying down or stopping altogether.

Also, while he considers and will try to push for a Celestia ascension if push comes to shove, the ability to actually achieve godhood this way is much more complicated and dangerous. Something he might keep trying for, but this way is much less likely to succeed, and he knows this, which is why other bizarre tendencies take priority.

General protectiveness

Overall, protectiveness is a standard feat. Venti doesn't want you to get hurt and will do nearly anything to prevent it, hence a considerable factor of his stalking outside of walls of the city or towns. Even with others, if he thinks they pose some physical threat, Venti has little fear of stepping between you and 'the threat.' It's not so much a protective coating or an extreme case where he needs to check everything you do, touch, eat, drink, or interact with. Still, there is a natural sense of him wanting to protect you and watch over you to make sure that nothing can gravely hurt you. This mirrors why the wind follows you if you travel and picks up to warn you and redirect you away from dangers, a protective aura of Venti that trails after you. It's not even a doubt that you can't, but the inherent need to make sure you make it back in one piece.

There is, again, only one primary reason Venti will use full force to intervene, and this is if he knows you are purposefully trying to run off somewhere that will put you in danger for any reason. Often downplaying his strength of wind, the storm, if needed, will border Mondstadt making it. Hence, nothing gets in or out until you agree to drop it, tearing nearly everything that comes in contact with the barrier if you don't agree to listen to him first and think of a genuine plan. The wind sees all, and while terraforming isn't much on his bucket list anymore, Barbatos has no fear of proving his worth and power if in the name of love and protection. Even if it hurts you to know whatever your goal is foiled, if it's the one-stop against your freedom, there are some things not worth being risked.

Lowest Stats

General [none]

The one trait Venti inherently lacks is sadism. Nothing he does to you or others is derived from the pleasure of hurting or seeing others hurt. And while those such as the abyss creatures for fatui foot soldiers are at the whims of his fighting, it's not done with the goal or satisfaction of a battle but rather a necessity for 'his' people and you.

It's apparent that actions that long-term hurt you or have serious effects, both mental and physical, that fundamentally change you aren't truly a goal. Yeah, the immortality would literally change you, but not with the goal of making you conform or transform into a new mental mindset. At least not right away, as he knows that a long life naturally changes people, but there never is a purpose to rid you of traits. To tie you down and break you until you love him the way he loves you.

Freedom, as touched on, is never truly free. Not of people, not of actions, or even of mindsets. But is it that Venti wants you to be you; be the self you choose to be and the freedom that comes with that, even if aspects of it hurt him. It's why if he has to let you go to Sumeru for a festival he knows wouldn't be possible for him to also attend, he lets you know you'll come back to him without the burden of being changed or conformed to have to come back. It's why, in every case, Venti does whatever is in his power to keep you from being genuinely hurt, even if he can't always fulfill that promise. It's why, despite everything, he can't hurt the people who create the fires of jealousy in his core being.

Venti has an awareness that many of his actions are immoral and that he has dirtied his hands in the past just as much. he knows of the guilt you struggle with, and then he is using his skills to manipulate and play everyone like a fiddle, but in the eyes of a god and one who believes in freedom, it is not in his role to harm anyone in the light of you. It's a turning point he could never come back from if he were to directly hurt you or anyone else with the goal of keeping you with him, and it would be a dishonor to everything he was created from. A stain on the nameless bard he honors so deeply, so while the envelope of what is okay is pushed every day with his other actions, there is never once a hand that is laid on you for the sake of 'love' from Bardatos.

──⭒─⭑─⭒────⭒─⭑─⭒──

Statistic diagram; Venti [Barbatos]

#leaper.analysis #yandere #yandere writing #yandere x reader #yandere headcanons #yandere scenarios #yandere genshin #yandere genshin headcanons #yandere genshin impact #yandere venti #genshin.leaps #genshin x reader #venti x reader #tw: yandere #tw: manipulation #tw: alcohol #tw: stalking #tw: religious themes

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gingiesworld · 8 months

Text

Sorry Doesn't Make It Right

Natasha Romanoff x GN! Reader

Warnings: Angst. Death. Sad Nat

18+ MINORS DNI

"Just don't touch me!" Nat yelled as Y/N tried to take her hand. A sad look on their face as they pulled away. Since they had come home from getting themselves out of that Hydra base. They were distant from everyone since they never really bothered to look for them. Even their best friend Steve never looked for them.

Although they went to Dr Cho for their wounds, not really trusting Banner considering the circumstances. Nat was already away on a recon mission with her sister when she learned of Y/N's capture but she was ordered by Fury to carry on with the mission.

"You know, I never asked for any of this." They yelled at her making her flinch. "I had to get out of there myself. Hell, you don't even know how I managed to escape."

"Then tell me." She told them sternly as they just laughed and shook their head no.

"You never cared when I came home and you sure as hell don't care now." They scoffed before leaving the room and heading for their routine check up with Cho.

"Your breathing is getting worse." She noted as she returned the stethoscope back around her neck. "I also got the results back too." She gave them a saddened look.

"I'm dying aren't I?" They asked already knowing the answer.

"I'm so sorry Y/N." She said as she handed them a bottle of water. "It's an enhanced for of Tuberculosis."

"Which make sense since Hydra have been working on bio weapons." Y/N coughed a little as Cho got them a tissue.

"Is there anyone you want to tell?" She asked them as they shook their head.

"They all shown there true colours when I had to save myself." They told her with a tight lipped smile, hopping down from the table. "Thank you Helen." They gave her a sincere smile, the sincerest smile they have given to anyone since they returned.

Everyone else had went by their own days, doing their own things while Y/N made their way to the kitchen, grabbing an apple and a bottle of water before they disappeared to the confines of their bedroom. Not wanting to really be near anyone at that moment.

"Dinner is ready Y/N." Vision informed them as he phased through the wall.

"I'm not really hungry Vis, thank you." They told him as they sat gazing out of the window.

"I have seen something unusual about you since you have returned home to us." He stated as Y/N raised a brow. "You don't seem like yourself and I am somewhat concerned for you."

"I'm fine Vis. I'm alive and that's what matters right." They told him, trying to hide the sarcasm. "I uh. I just need to be alone Vis but you don't need to worry about me. No one else does."

"I think you may be wrong." He stated as he gave a somewhat awkward smile. "Natasha is somewhat concerned about you especially since she was ordered by Fury himself to remain in her mission although she wanted to find you."

"Nat would have never followed an order blindly, not when it comes to someone she cares so deeply about." They stated as Vision shook his head.

"Fury and Mr Stark knew about the contagions, and the experiments with them." Vision informed him. "Both of them seemed to think they may have used you as a test subject for one of the experiments."

"Yeah, they are certainly right about that." They chuckled as Vision looked at them curiously as they coughed. He stepped closer and rubbed their back soothingly as the coughing fit eased off. "Thanks."

"What is it that you have?" He questioned as Y/N shrugged.

"It doesn't really matter, I'm dying all the same." They told him quietly. "Besides, I just want to die here in my room alone as I would have in that damn cell."

"Do you want me to tell anyone?" He asked as they shook their head no.

"I don't want anyone to know Vis. It's just you and Dr Cho that know and I would love to keep it that way." They told him as he nodded before leaving.

"Seriously! Are all of you so self fucking centered that you haven't noticed that one of our own has suffered!" Yelena yelled as everyone sat in silence. "Not to mention, you all left them to rot with Hydra."

"We thought they were dead." Tony tried as Yelena shook her head. "We did. We never had any leads or anything so that seemed like the most logical explanation."

"You know that is utter bullshit." Yelena spat before she turned to Nat. Everyone completely disregarding Vision who had made a small plate and grabbed another bottle of water from the fridge with some paracetamol. "They're your partner Natalia, you claim to love them and yet, I don't see you comforting them. Seeing how they are, in fact you only argue and push them away!" Everyone remained in a silence filled with shame and guilt as Yelena chuckled. "I am done with this so called family." She spat before she pointed to her sister. "That's what you called this merry band of power rangers." With that she stormed off as silence filled the room.

"She's right." Steve spoke up as everyone looked to him. "Y/N was one of us and we failed them. We gave up on them." He looked around at the faces. "We ought to be ashamed to even consider ourselves heroes."

"I brought you a little food and some medication." Vision spoke as he let himself inside Y/N's room once more.

"Thanks." They spoke in a coughing fit. Clutching their chest as it tightened, feeling like they had a boa constrictor wrapped around their chest.

"I think you need to see Dr Cho once more." He urged as Y/N waved him off.

"I don't want to die in a hospital." They told him as the two never realised Yelena was listening. "I just don't want to die." They told him as he just nodded in understanding.

"I can fetch Dr Cho if you need?" He suggested as Y/N just nodded as they coughed some more. Wiping their chin with a tissue to see some blood before tossing it in the trash. Vision disappeared before Yelena made herself known.

"So you want to die alone?" She asked them as they took a rattley breath.

"No one cares Lena." They whispered, her heart broke at the sight of her best friend, frail and grey, their tired eyes bloodshot. "Even Nat doesn't care."

"I care!" She yelled as her tears fell. "You're my best friend and I care." She whispered shakily as Y/N moved to stand. Everyone had heard Yelena yell.

"I don't want to die." They whispered weakly as Yelena shook her head. "I don't want to go. I had plans." They told her as they stepped closer to her. "I wanted to marry your sister, adopt a bunch of cats with her. I wanted all of that!" Their own tears started to fall as everyone noticed. "I don't want to go." They fell to their knees as Yelena was fast enough to catch them. As their sobs became more, it became harder to breathe which caused them to hunch over as they coughed. Yelena rubbing their back as Dr Cho and Vision returned.

"Ok." She whispered as she listened to Y/N's breathing. "Help me get them on the bed." She informed them all as Vision and Yelena helped them. "I'm sorry Y/N." She gave them a sad look. "It's only going to get worse."

"Make it stop." They asked her weakly. "Please just make it stop." Everyone watched as they became a completely different person to the hard shell they once were. "I would do anything."

"I can't Y/N." Dr Cho spoke sadly. "There isn't a cure for this strain. I have tried to find a cure strong enough but I haven't."

"Just kill me." They pleaded with her. "Please just kill me." They whispered before going into a coughing fit, the worst one they have had.

"We're so sorry Y/N." Steve spoke softly as Y/N calmed down.

"Your sorry doesn't make it right Captain." They snapped as they glared at the so called family they had. "You all left me. Not one of you who weren't on a mission bothered to even find my location and now look where that got us." They coughed as Yelena moved to hold their hand. "I am dying and it's all your fault. I was on a stupid mission with Tony who's tracker didn't even work." Tony looked away which Y/N soon chuckled. "So you knew where I was but never bothered to save me like I would have saved you every damn time." They turned to Cho with pleading eyes. "Isn't there an end of life thing or something they use for terminally ill patients?"

"Yes there is." She nodded.

"Do you think we could use it?" They asked her as she nodded. It broke Nat's heart seeing how easily they were giving up the fight.

"So you're just going to die." Nat spoke for the first time. "You're not even going to fight to survive."

"I have fought to survive every damn day of my life Natasha! Everyday and I am barely hanging on as it is." They yelled before taking a weak breath. "I have no fight left in me because I am tired. I am sick and tired so please just let me go in peace." They gave her a pleading look. "Please." Natasha only nodded as she came in and sat beside them.

"Well I am staying here." She told them as she kissed their head and took their hand in hers. Everyone else soon joined, taking a seat on the floor or standing around the room. It was silent as Dr Cho had set up the drug for them.

"You will start to feel sleepy soon." She told them calmly. "It will be like just falling asleep." Y/N gave her a thankful smile as she gave them a sad smile before she left the room. Unable to watch her favourite patient die.

The only sound that you could hear was the loud rattley breaths from Y/N as their breathing soon laboured. Once they heard the deepest breath leave their lips, everyone knew that that was the moment they lost someone they all loved. They all had memories with them, most of them good besides the last memories since they returned home.

Dr Cho stood outside the room, choking on her own sobs as she heard the cries come from the room.

"No. Please wake up." Natasha cried as she shook them gently. "Please don't go. Please." Yelena and Wanda both held her close as Bruce came over to check the pulse with a heavy heart. Once he shook his head, Natasha wailed as she clutched onto Yelena for dear life. The sounds of her broken cries filling the room as everyone else soon started to break as she broke down. Yelena dragged her from the room, kicking and screaming as she tried to fight her younger sister in her devastation. Wanting to be close to Y/N, even in death.

#natasha romanoff x reader #natasha marvel #natasha romanoff #natasha romanov #scarlett johansson x reader #marvel fic #wanda maximoff imagine #wanda maximoff #yelena boleva

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am-i-the-asshole-official · 21 days

Note

AITA for being semi-close to someone a lot younger than me?

This is something I've been worried about for a while, but it's become more prominent lately after me seeing several people say it's inherently creepy for an adult (or even just way older person) to be interacting with a child. And I really don't want to be like that, I don't want to hurt a kid ever, especially since I know what it's like to be groomed myself.

So I (18F) have known this kid (13) for about 3 years now. They reached out to me online because of similar interests- mainly in games and in YouTube channels, and we bonded a lot over that. They didn't have their age in their bio so I didn't immediately know their age, but I did find out a few months in.

Over the course of when we've known each other I've been as careful as I can to be age appropriate. I never bring up anything sexual for obvious reasons (the only time it ever came up was them asking what a sexual term meant, which made me very uncomfortable and I tried to change the subject... to which they started repeatedly inappropriately using the word. They ended up looking up the definition and where horrified. Even that conversation makes me feel wrong).

I also make sure to not put any of my personal issues on them. I couldn't always hide when I was upset- both because for the first year of us knowing each other I had unmedicated ADHD that made my mood swing a lot, and for the past 2 1/2 years or so I've been in a very toxic relationship that I still don't know how to get out of and quite frankly, am scared to get out of because I don't know how they'll react if I do actually leave them. Do to this, there's been times they could tell something was off and would ask me what's wrong. I avoided telling them as much as possible, just giving them something vague and reminding them that it's not their responsibility to help me, because they would always try to help cheer me up, and even that didn't feel right because they're a kid. They should be focusing on themself, not me. The worst of this though, is there was a time I was struggling heavilly with suicidal thoughts. I was planning to attempt, and sent out a vague "goodbye" type message, trying not to make it too obvious what was happening. They caught on though. They weren't the one who helped me calm down from that but I still know how awful it is to be sitting there, scared you're going to loose someone important to you. Especially for a kid. I've apologized for that happening many times, and it hasn't repeated, but every time they just go "It's fine, you were a struggling kid too back then" as if that makes that okay. It doesn't feel right.

Throughout the 3 years we've known each other, I've also tried to help out where I can with several issues they've had. Which was pretty much just me giving advice for how to handle difficult situations where I felt I could, and offering comfort and reassurance where I couldn't. Among other things, I helped them recognize several instances where other people they met online where intentionally trying to groom them. I explained to them that it wasn't normal for someone my age to want to be with them/find them attractive, because there where several instances of them telling me of 15/16 year olds getting with them. That no responsible person my age would be doing that to them, and that it wasn't okay for them to do that.

Because of the help I've given them, I notice they look up to me quite a lot. They have told me they see me as a role model and "the best person they know" (I can guarantee I'm not, and have tried to get them to not see me that highly because that seems unhealthy). They even see me as a sort of parental figure, including calling me parental-like names. That by itself I don't mind too much, I know they had a terrible home-life and didn't feel they could actually look up to their real life parents. So if I am giving them something I think every child deserves to have (a parental role model they can look up to), I'm glad. I just worry I'm not as good a role model for that as they think I am, and that I'm a creep, just like the ones I have gotten away from them in the past. I do care about them a lot, and do see them in that sort of familial way, and I want to protect them and help them have a better life, because I know they have struggled a lot and if I am able to help them, I want to. But I'm worried I'm causing the same harm that has been caused to me, and that others have tried to/have caused to them in the past without even realizing what I'm doing wrong. I don't want to be like those creepy assholes.

AITA?

What are these acronyms?

#aita #am i the asshole #suicide cw

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snoutbleed · 26 days

Text

Telling a story takes guts.

Forensic photographer Sören Heinrich can’t ignore the nausea bubbling in his throat when documenting someone's darkest day. He loses sleep over the fates he captures but is drawn to the purpose vested in his grisly role. When blood-slicked prints become Sören's next subject, he finds a message that blurs the line between his personal and professional life.

"This is where I’ve been. Don’t follow."

Unable to fathom his long-lost brother’s crimson handwriting, Sören descends into the criminal underworld for answers. The young boar's inner demons guide him toward a morbid self-reckoning.

Direktion 2 has their work cut out for them.

Crime is on the rise in post-reunification Berlin. Among the cases, the Polizeidirektorate in the city's westernmost boroughs is baffled by freak murders at the hands of denizens without motive.

In the shadow of the Berlin Wall, the crime wave takes a supernatural twist behind the lock of a post-Soviet puzzle.

Camera flashes at the crime scenes reveal gruesome secrets stirring in the shadows.

Unravel the conspiracy in #LONG STORY SHORT.

#The Filing Cabinet -- scan the profiles of those in the know. #Bloodstained Polaroids -- view the images of lives gone astray. #Evidence Board -- learn the details of secrets best kept. #Mystery Signals -- behold the lore of the mind melt. Face the music in the official Long Story Short playlist!

Everyone gathers toward the Abschnitt.

There are several Polizei Berlin stations like the Abschnitt, but everyone tied to this supernatural symphony ends up near this Spandau station particularly.

Sören Heinrich -- ( boar | tag | bio ) The black sheep of the Abschnitt. Sören’s abrasive nature keeps his co-workers at bay, a division widened by their western ideals clashing with his East German upbringing. He distances himself from the station through tight focus on his job, always the first to arrive at a crime scene. Don Jae Hale -- ( elk | tag | bio ) The silver-tongued Kriminalhauptkommissar of the Abschnitt. Hale is quick to dismiss the killings up until his leadership comes under siege by the paranoid public. Umeya Romanova -- ( fox | tag | bio ) The Bundeskriminalamt detective sent to assist with the Abschnitt’s mounting cases. Rumor says Umeya is there for more than the mystery, but her motives veiled by a callous attitude. Marieke Reiss -- ( rabbit | tag | bio ) The star psychology student barely escaped a killing. Now a key witness, Marieke can’t rest easy knowing she could be the next victim, driving her to take matters into her own hands. Reinhardt Müller -- ( donkey | tag | bio ) The Abschnitt’s disgraced ace detective, worn down and living in the grimy corners of Berlin. When crime spikes, Reinhardt tries to relive his “glory days" of detective work. Ukko Heinrich -- ( boar | tag | bio ) The crime lord defends his territory with brutal but firm methods. He's sworn to his found family, the country's political rift making him protective to a fault. Vorwitz Albrecht -- ( bat | tag | bio ) A gardener with good banners but bad morals. Vorwitz's unsavory career choices put him in the Abschnitt, but he finds a way out with Sören.

Entropy knows no bounds.

Stop, look and listen: stories are everywhere. Behold my settings.

Face more madness in #TALES GONE STALE.

LAID TO WASTE -- an abomination stirs in the bayou, its secrets poisoning a township. THE WASTED LIVES -- a group of galactic fugitives embark on a never-ending getaway on a runaway cruiser. (Links need an update. Stay tuned.)

The mind behind the melancholy.

ACHTUNG! This blog is 18+ for gore and suggestive content!

You can call me Dissy (she/her). I'm a writer with stories and ideas always bouncing inside my head, especially this one. Feel free to ask me about myself, my writing, my characters, or anything else. I promise you I can bark up a tree for hours.

I also do Polaroid photography: check out @hogrot for my shots!

I also encourage comments, critique, etc. about this setting. I want to pace myself while writing this, therefore I have all the time I need to refine this where I can. I don't expect this story to come out for a while anyway, especially as I run it through critiques. Hell, this pet project wouldn't have come into fruition thanks to the feedback of some incredible friends.

Shoutout to PYRY for doing character design and art for this setting, as well as giving his ideas and characters for the Heinrich plotline. Go check out his killer art. This story wouldn't exist without him.

Another shoutout to @tsanapi, an incredible artist who drew the art pictured above. Her sense of style is so keen.

And a final thanks to you, the reader, for tuning into the mind melt. This signals wouldn't have picked up without you.

#wip intro #writeblr #writers on tumblr #creative writing #writing #story writing #furry writing #writing community #writer intro #long story short #furry #furry art #oc art #oc writing

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cozymochi · 3 months

Note

Oo I love Elena of Avalor, what's Emilio's relationship to his cousin like? and his dorm mates?

[😳💕 IN REFERENCE TO THIS DIP]

Gonna answer these questions in reverse to test the waters. I briefly mention it on his bio image but I think I mixed up the subject pronouns in my sentence structure when referring to his relationship to the other guys 💀 i realized too late that it reads awkwardly- SO LEMME CLARIFY.

🦜 Emilio’s relationship to Kalim 🦦: Kalim —much like how he wants to treat any first year in his dorm— really wants to seem like some really cool older brother to his younger peers. Emilio finds this sunny disposition a lil’ off putting to a degree BUT…. Emilio does wanna get close to Kalim if only to elevate his own sense of worth and perceived status. Which can translate to Emilio being something of a bootlicker. Not Sebek level, but whatever lets him seemingly advance.

He doesn’t necessarily care about Kalim’s wealth per se, heck Emilio himself is already from a noble family in his home country— but being close to the Kalim Al-Asim looks really good on the outside in Emilio’s mind. “Humble” little Emilio managed to network with THE Asim heir? Now that’s something worth talking about, especially back home. Business is one thing but to be in his inner circle? That’s very special.

In general their relationship is amicable, but It’s hard to say if Emilio actually cares for Kalim on a personal level, if at all. But Kalim definitely cares for him as he does for anybody else. It’s probably the least complicated.

…Which segues into-

🦜Emilio’s relationship Jamil 🐍: Jamil does not like Emilio, and Emilio views Jamil as an obstacle. So naturally he wants to get in Jamil’s good graces as much as possible too! Emilio frequently tries buttering up Jamil in some shape or form via giving him information he’d find valuable or emulating how Jamil treats the other students in the dorm to “set an example.” If Jamil rejects an impromptu party, Emilio is right there to second that notion!! (Note: only applies if Jamil is present) He tends to, dare I say… parrot Jamil…? 😉

But unlike Kalim, Jamil is not as easy to sway. He can spot a fake smile a mile away. At first, Jamil assumed something far more nefarious about Emilio’s intentions, but that dissipated quickly after investigating further.

…That said, Jamil will use Emilio’s desperation to get in good spirits with Kalim (for as surface level as they are). It makes Emilio rife for exploitation. Jamil will often test the waters to see how far Emilio is willing to go, without actually giving him much of an inch in return… But, Emilio has his practical uses. He has his own invaluable connections, and underneath all that phoniness is someone genuinely capable with an eye for detail that most in the dorm don’t seem to have.

At first, Jamil didn’t trust Emilio at all because of his incessant behavior… and now?? I mean he still kinda doesn’t cuz Jamil is just like that, but he eventually learned Emilio himself is generally harmless and his interest in Kalim is purely surface level for petty vanity reasons. …That and Emilio is similarly from a noble family, so Jamil doesn’t want conflict to start with should anything crop up. He has yet to figure out why a guy from a noble family like Emilio would feel the need to overcompensate so much. Why would he feel the need to elevate his status, shouldn’t he already have it? And for that matter, why go to so much effort?

That said, as much as Jamil finds Emilio’s constant - and I mean constant- schmoozing annoying, in an ironic twist it makes Emilio seemingly the only somewhat capable person he trusts in the dorm to watch Kalim should Jamil be out of commission for arbitrary shenanigans of the month. He both trusts and doesn’t trust him, it tends to flip back and forth. They’re kinda both “useful” to each other.

…Kalim thinks Jamil and Emilio are best friends.

✨NOW FOR THE PERSONAL LORE✨.

🦜 Emilio’s relationship to his cousin 💎:

Much like anything in this universe, Emilio’s relationship with his cousin more or less directly parallels the source his whole character draws from.. So, it’s parallel to Esteban’s relationship with Elena minus the indirect hand in parental death (side note: This show is bonkers). I feel like I’m not doing many favors by NOT going into depth on the Esteban and Elena stuff, but for the sake of brevity on the long post I’m going to have to leave it out. Watching the series informs a lot of the directional choices here, but that’s an unreasonable ask. So, I guess I’ll have to leave it at “if you know you know.” BACK TO THE MEAT AND POTATOES:

Emilio is jealous of his cousin. Unlike her, he wasn’t born into nobility, but rather adopted into her family after both his parents perished in an accident. While his cousin looks to him like an older brother and Emilio to her like a younger sister, his cousin often gets showered in praise and far more attention from that side of the family than he ever gets. He often wonders if they even remember him. In fact, they usually DO forget he’s there. No matter what it is she does, she gets rewarded and lauded whereas if Emilio does something similar or more impressive, it doesn’t earn much fanfare. In fact, his family just assumes it was his cousins doing.

Emilio, in an attempt to gain their praise and attention, has developed something of a vain complex where overcompensating is his way of getting recognition. He wants to be seen as capable and worth seeking for advice and wisdom, so he makes it a point to learn as much as possible and make as many connections as he can (Ironic, considering what his signature spell is). That side of the family works on the Grand Council to the Queen of their country “Shining Peninsula,” so there’s a lot he wants to live up to. He wants to work to get there, his cousin, however is just expected to already have a spot.

As for her, it’s not that she’s incapable. Far from it. Despite his jealously, Emilio does love his cousin. She’s very understanding and down-to-earth, but her sheltered lifestyle and need to live up to the expectations put on her leads her to being extremely impulsive and act on instinct. Did I mention her magic reserves are crazy high? In another ironic twist, she’s the one who seems to notice that Emilio is very knowledgable on a lot of things she’s blind to, and while she might turn to him for help… she kinda falls into the same pitfalls the rest of her family does. She doesn’t usually listen.

Hey, in a weird way it also kinda parallels Kalim and Jamil. So, maybe Emilio could find a kinship in a certain somebody.

So, someone out there is probably wondering if this cousin is twst Elena. Yes. Her name is Marisol.

#twstposting #my art #(its there)#emilio estrada alvarez #twst oc #its the maternal side #i shouldnt clog the main tag with my bs #…that said still have to organize a little #twisted wonderland

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inkareds · 1 year

Note

Can I please request some fluffy headcanons with namor or a lazy day? I need more soft namor after the fight between wakanda and talocan is over, Thank you if you do this!

Care for You Namor

nav // marvel m.list // ko-fi ✧.* word count: 2.4k ✧.* genre: SFW // suggestive fluff ✧.* warnings: just some suggestive things at the end but I still think it's SFW

After the fight between Wakanda and Talocan, Namor worries you were disappointed in him, how wrong he was.

Taglist (rmbr u can join my taglist through the link in my bio or commenting in my monthly wip lists on which fics you'd like to be tagged also if you'd like to be removed j tell me! No hard feelings!!! <3): @simonsbluee @namorwife @euphrosyn3 @dilly-dalladalla @deliciousfestsalad @lothkat @thoughtfulbelieverstrawberry

(all italic texts are Mayan)

“I can’t believe he would do such a thing, I mean, giving up to that spoiled Wakandan Princess?! It’s a disgrace to our fighting abilities. We had them! You know we did!”

“Does it matter if we had them or not?! If what they’re saying are true, that ‘spoiled Wakandn Princess’ bested him in a fight. He could’ve died and the only thing you’re thinking about right now is if we were defeating those Wakandan soilders or not?!” You practically yelled at Attuma.

Namor, your husband, had said it would be better if you both were to fight on different fronts. After all, it was expected for him not to fight with the main army as he would’ve needed to fight against Shuri. If you were fighting with your soldiers it would bring the overall mood up, seeing their ruler fighting alongside them would give them more strength to fight.

That decision had come as a double-edged sword, whilst it was true that the soldiers fought more valiantly with you in the ranks reminding them why they were fighting. It was also true that it brought you great anxiety when you realised that you didn’t know what was happening to Namor. For all you know he could’ve been dead or dying when fighting against Shuri.

You knew better than to underestimate the woman. She may be much younger than both you and your husband, but she held the experience of someone double her age. Coupled with the loss she had experienced at the hands of your husband? It’s only natural that she’d fight fiercer than anything both you and your husband have seen so far.

She was dangerous. You know that.

The entire time you fought, feeling your blade clash together with the spears of the Wakandan soldiers, the only thing on your mind was to get this done quickly so you may be of assistance to Namor, your king, your husband. Nothing could’ve described the insane amount of thankfulness that rushed to you when you saw him and Shuri standing side by side on that ship.

When he forced everyone to back down, unlike your people, the first thing you thought about was quickly dispelling your people. You’ve faced enough losses today, you’ve seen one too many of your subjects be killed in front of your eyes. You will not squander this chance of mercy Shuri has granted your king just because of pettiness.

But just like in the war, once you were back in your underwater kingdom you were once more separated. As general, Attuma, a very close friend and confidant to you, pulled you aside to talk about the casualties and his overall rage at Namor’s decision.

“Would you rather he die?” you asked in an exasperated manner towards Attuma when you saw the way his face still held anger. You knew where he was coming from, both your people and you have trained practically every day for this day to come. For the day that the people above waged war. To know and accept that the first battle in that war was lost to you, was hard to swallow.

But it was something you had to swallow, and you’ll force everyone else fighting by your side to swallow as well. As selfish as it sounds, you’d rather lose a hundred battles than lose your husband.

“There are strategic reasons why this is adventageous for both of us. If K’ul’kukan had killed Shuri it would’ve crippled Wakanda as a nation, yes! But that would mean they no longer have anything to lose! Did you see how many of us they were able to kill? What do you think will happen when they lose their pillar? More cassualties will follow, and Wakanda is greater as an ally than an enemy.”

It was true you were rather frustrated at the turn of events, but now that you were away from the battleground and had some time to think. There was an advantage to losing and being spared after all. Advantages that would not show their true colours until later on. When Attuma looks unconvinced you turned your head. It’s useless trying to move an immovable rock.

“Enough, remember who you are talking to Attuma.” Despite fighting on the same front you were quick to remind Attuma of his manners and the respect he should show you as his ruler, “I am tired of the fighting and I want to see my husband. Now leave me be, if you have anything to discuss about, Namora will take my stead.”

Attuma seemed as if he was about to say something, but he quickly shut up when you pointed a sharp glare in his direction. “Of course, your highness, forgive my disrespect.”

“You are forgiven, now go.”

When Attuma left the room you’re in, a room decorated from wall to wall with war strategies, statistics, and the like, you quickly left as well. The water could not carry you fast enough to the cavern that held your chambers with your husband. The only time you were able to see him was with Shuri on that ship, and even then he looked rough.

You could only guess how many injuries he actually sustained during the battle.

Finally setting foot on the cavern you practically ran to your shared chambers. As you slammed the door open, his attendants and the doctors around him jumped at the sight of their ruler.

“Thank you for tending to my husband, you may now leave.” You quickly masked your panic as you realised the other people in the room.

Namor looked at you with an unreadable gaze, sitting on a chair, his attendants surrounded him fussing about his wounds, massaging him with oils to ease his muscles, and two doctors worked at once to heal the wounds on his body and wrap the bandage around his ankle. “Your highness, we haven’t fully bandaged the king yet-”

“No matter, I will do that myself, now leave.” The doctor that spoke to you quickly nodded and stood up before urging his partner to leave with him.

Not long after that the attendants soon left as well after tidying up their tools.

In quick succession the moment they left the room you dropped to your knees in front of your King. Grabbing the bandage that the doctor left behind and slowly finishing dressing the wound on his ankle where Shuri ripped off his wings.

You were silent and gentle when your hands slowly placed down the bandage once you realised the bandage on his ankle was already bled through. Namor didn’t speak when you slowly pulled the bandages away, showing the gash. He didn’t even wince when you placed medicine on the open wound.

The only thing he did was watched as you meticulously cleaned and dressed his most damning wound. His silence was due to how he thought you felt. Here you were on your knees in front of him, showing him your subservience and yet he wasn’t able to win just a simple fight. He assumed you felt disappointed in him.

The king of Talocan himself, a god in his own right, not being able to win a fight against a princess not even an eighth of his age? He felt great shame facing you right now. To any of his subjects, he would’ve told them about Shuri’s fighting spirit. How she was incredible on the battlefield.

But to you? He can’t say anything.

There were no excuses that would leave his mouth if you were to ask why it was that he lost.

He had placed you on the front lines, you could’ve died and he wouldn’t have been able to avenge you. How can he call himself your husband if he can’t even do that?

Buried in his own self-loathing thoughts Namor didn’t realise that you were done bandaging his ankle. His train of thought was only stopped when he felt your warm lips against his own.

His eyes widened as he realised what was happening. Why were you kissing him? He was unworthy of your love, your touch, your kindness right now. When he didn’t kiss back you pulled away.

“My love.” You whispered placing your forehead against his. “I was, so scared.” Namor was just about to apologise for putting you in such a dangerous position, thinking you were scared of having to fight the Wakandan army.

But the moment he sees the tears leaving your eyes and the way your hands so delicately placed themselves on top of his chest covered in bruises and marks. He realised you were scared for him. At that point, he had nothing else to say.

Did he seem so weak that you were worried for him? How unworthy was he truly for your love? You, a warrior, a deity in your own right.

“Please stop thinking,” it was as if you could practically hear his self-loathing thoughts. “Stop thinking, just- just look at me.” One of your hands left his chest and went to angle his chin upwards to face you.

You stood taller than him right now with him seated and you standing next to him. This way Namor could truly see how worried you were. “It killed me inside not knowing if you were winning the fight or not.” You finally croaked out in between your tears.

Namor, finally breaking from his spell, grabbed both your hands, slowly lifting them and giving your knuckles long kisses. “I’m sorry, my love. I’m sorry for worrying you. I’m sorry for failing.”

“Hush, I couldn’t care less about any of that right now. I’m just glad you’re here with me.” Then and there silence wrapped the two of you in its warm embrace.

Though neither you nor your husband felt cold often, to be in each other’s presence, basking in the silence and comfort of just existing together felt warmer than anything else in the world. His hands slowly caress your own. Both of you with your closed eyes and touching foreheads. There was nothing else more calming in this world than this moment right here.

When you remembered Namor was still fresh off the battlefield you pulled away from his touch, leaving him to slightly reach for your skin. “Patience, my king. Let me take care of you.” A hint of mischievousness lined your voice at that moment.

Seeing s how the tension was slowly melting away, Namor only grinned and watched you intently as you walked behind his chair towards the table holding numerous oils. Picking one bottle up, he chuckled once he realised what you were going to do.

“Is something the matter, my king?” the edge in your Mayan only made Namor’s grin widen. “No, no, please continue. Serve your king.” he teased.

It was your turn now to smile at his words, all before going towards him and pouring some of the oil on his back and your hands. Slowly you pressed the palm of your hand on his back. You’ve done this plenty of times to both your king and your soldiers as a way to ease their tense muscles after battles to know what you were doing.

But no matter how many times you’ve done it with Namor, every time it still feels intimate. He practically melts against your touch as you pushed your hands to knead away the knots in his back and body in general.

You smiled as you watched the way Namor eased. You wished you could truly describe to him the amount of awe you had for him. Though you aged slower than most humans and mutants alike, you haven’t lived half of Namor’s lifetime. You couldn’t imagine what it was like to be him those days when he was alone.

To be a king at such a young age, to be a god to a people for such a long time. Such burdens materialise in the way his muscles ached and tensed.

But now with your skilled hands, you release all of that tension.

Despite this, you were still quite cheeky, as you couldn’t help but speak when Namor kept lowly groaning at the pleasure of your hands on his back. “Is this that enjoyable my king?” you know he’s used to your jests, but what you didn’t expect was for him to suddenly stand up.

The sudden action caused you to jump and he took that opportunity to lift you off your feet before dropping you down on your shared bed.

“K’ul’kukan!” you yelled out entertainingly when Namor crawled on top of you, placing his body weight on both his hands and knees he looked down at your now flushed face as you looked up at him. “It was very enjoyable, I think I should return the favour, no?”

A grin made its way to his lips as he began to lean down to your neck and pepper light kisses. Despite your clear enjoyment of what he was doing, seen by the way you were craning your neck to give him more access, you half-heartedly pushed him away. “Your wounds are still fresh K’ul’kukan! They’re going to reopen if you keep doing this.”

He only hummed in response against your skin, his teeth slowly grazing and nibbling on the soft flesh of your neck. “Your doctors are going to be mad at me.” You tried to reason with him.

“I’ll make sure that doesn’t happen. I’m the king remember?” You swear he’s only teasing you, but Gods was his voice the most sultry thing in the world right now.

Slowly through his soft touches and kisses, you began to forget that you were supposed to be worried about his well-being. “I was scared of you too.” he whispered so quietly against your skin.

At that moment, you realised why he was doing this. It wasn’t because he wanted to say thank you for massaging him. Maybe that did play a part, but the reason he was now praising your body as if you were a temple was that he was scared.

He was terrified about your own safety. Now that you were in his arms, words failed to describe how happy he was. And when words fail, actions speak louder.

So, you stopped struggling and let your king, your husband, your God, make you feel like a deity.

Hi! I know this isn't REALLY what you asked for but I just couldn't get this out of my head! I hope you enjoy this either way though! But if you'd still like me to make a lazy day fic for Namor I can totally do that!!! <3

#namor x reader #mcu namor #mcu namor x reader #namor x you #namor x y/n #mcu

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galacticgarbagebin · 5 months

Text

Today in my bio 2 recitation we were separated into different groups of climate activists/ companies (clean tech energy, climate hawks, etc) and had to try and “solve climate change” by picking a subject we’d like to work on, like increasing energy efficiency of vehicles or upping taxes on coal. Afterwards, we would each send one member to present on what we think would work in our best interest. There was… some good moments. To name a few:

World Government rep: (…) and politicians, those rat bastards,

Bio prof, leaning in to loudly whisper with a hand hiding his mouth: you’re a politician

WG rep: yes. as I was saying,

Bio prof: ,

Forestry rep: so we’re going to cut down on deforestation.

Bio prof: you mean… stop doing the thing that is your job?

Forestry rep: yes.

Bio prof: congrats! your class was the only one to lower the temperature difference this much as far as I’m aware. unfortunately, nearly all your plans are all completely unachievable or unprofitable,

TLDR; classroom politician roleplay ends in large amounts of self-sabotage among companies and self-loathing in their employees, professor prays none of us work for companies with any amount of political power

#there was a lot of other instances that slipped my mind #it’s been a hot minute since class #I love college though it’s so funny sometimes #None of us know what we’re doing #bless my profs soul for putting up with us. he got a doctorate for this shit #also!! if anyone is interested we used en-roads simulator for this activity #it’s real neat check it out #college #ecology #biology

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bwabys-scenarios · 8 months

Text

Fixer Upper

Part 14

Perv!Kurapika x Fem!Reader

part 13

part 15

warnings: THIS CHAPTER IS HEAVY!!! mentions of SH(no actual self harm, just Leorio being paranoid) reader being suicidal and writing a suicide note

taglist: @fabitheraven @tsukilover11 @ashdownunderscorebeloved @lemonslut @homeinmydreams @superweeniehutjrsblog @bugmomwrites @heartsforseo @lixiawinter @altaircc @itszenava @fiightforlovee @mimi-sanisanidiot @monainanuttshell @wow-im-gay @whorermoviestar @lightshowerrr @mama-m1na @aceywaceyboobybear

If you’d like to be ADDED to the taglist, please comment a red heart ❤️, make sure you’re able to be tagged/mentioned, and have your age in your bio(IF YOU ARE ALREADY ON THE TAGLIST, YOU DON’T NEED TO ASK TO BE ADDED AGAIN!!)

After the three ate dinner, they decided on moving campsites.

“It’s in our best interest to not stay in one place for two long. We’ll walk across the island and scout out a different place to make camp for the night.” Kurapika said, packing up his satchel. (Name) nodded, Leorio carrying her backpack for her.

“Yeah, that sounds like a good idea. But…”

She held onto Leorio’s sleeve. “Won’t it be harder to see where we’re going in the dark? What if someone stalks us under the cover of night?”

Kurapika stood, brushing off his tabard. “It’s better than getting ambushed as we sleep. Someone has been here, I saw footprints near our shelter.”

(Name)’s eyes widened. “I see. Well, lead the way then, Pika.”

He walked ahead of her, occasionally glancing back to stare at Leorio’s hand in hers. Kurapika had begrudgingly accepted that Leorio was in fact warmer than him, and if she stayed near Leorio, she wouldn’t get too cold.

It didn’t stop him from feeling jealous, though.

——————

The three walked for a while, until they came across a certain magician.

“Hisoka.”

Kurapika pushed (Name) behind him, eyes trained on the man. Leorio laughed humorously. “Haha, what a coincidence.”

“Hi Hisoka.”

(Name) waved to the man, earning a sly smile in return. “(Name), what a pleasure to see you. I see you’re still…”

He gestured to the butterflies flying around her hips.

“Hmm?”

Leorio quickly changed the subject. “Do you think you’re his target?”

“It’s possible…” Kurapika responded, glancing back at (Name). They jumped when Hisoka began to laugh.

“There’s no need to be so jumpy. I only came here to ask you all a favor. You see, I only need two more points to pass this faze. How about two of you give me your badges?”

“Are you serious!?” Leorio exclaimed, reaching for his weapon.

“Of course.”

“There’s no way in hell, forget I-“

“I’ll give you my badge.”

Leorio stopped, eyes going wide when (Name) stepped forward, holding out her badge. “(Name), don’t-“

She continued to walk, but was stopped when her badge was snatched from her hand.

“Pika, why did you take my badge?“

He didn’t answer, instead turning to Hisoka. “You say you only need two more points, which means we aren’t your targets, isn’t that correct?”

“I’m the one asking questions around here, so are you going to give me your badges or not?”

Kurapika stayed calm. “So what happens if we refuse?”

Hisoka smirked. “I think you know the answer to that.”

He glanced to (Name), licking his lips. The two immediately moved closer to shield her from his view. “Hisoka…” Kurapika warned, his eyes bordering on turning red.

“I’ll ask you one more time. Are you going to give me your badges, or aren’t you?”

(Name) glanced between her two friends, pulling out her dagger.

“Wait, what if we make a deal?”

“Oh?”

Both Leorio and (Name) stared at the blonde in confusion.

“I’ll tell you right now, all together we are carrying five badges. The first one is my own, and the second is the one I captured from my target from a battle earlier today. We got the third badge from my targets ally, but it’s only worth one point to either of us. The fourth badge belongs to (Name), and the fifth-“

“That belongs to me!” Leorio said.

“Ahh, so the man in the white button up dress shirt and (Name) don’t have enough to pass.” Hisoka said.

“What’s it to ya!?”

(Name) patted Leorio’s back. ‘Sorry Leorio, but I can’t say that I already have enough points to pass.’

Kurapika explained why some of the badges could only be worth one point to Hisoka, because they were other peoples targets.

“Very impressive, you’re quite right I didn’t pick either of those numbers. Anything else?”

He advanced forward, Kurapika reaching a hand to push (Name) back further. “There’s still two badges we haven’t ruled out.”

He took them out. “Here they are. One badge that’s only worth a single point to us, and my own badge. If you want the badge that’s only worth one point to us, you can have it, but that’s all I’m going to give you, nothing more.”

He dropped his satchel to the ground, picking up his weapons. “If you’d rather settle this by force, I promise it won’t be like last time.”

He used his teeth to unsheathe his weapons, exposing double swords. “This time, I will fight you.”

Leorio pulled out his own dagger, (Name) stepping between them, much to Kurapika’s dismay.

“If you two are fighting, I will as well!”

As the three stood before him, Hisoka began laughing. “Just what is yours and (Name)’s number by the way?”

“#404 and #406.”

It was quiet for a moment before Hisoka spoke again. “Hmm. That’s not what I picked, so neither of you are my targets. You’ve got a deal, I’ll take that extra badge. Who knows, it just might be the one I need.”

Kurapika slowly lowered his weapons, Leorio stepping closer to (Name) as the blonde walked over to a tree, placing the badge in a hole.

“I’ll leave it right here.”

“There’s no need to worry. I’ll stand right here until you’re long gone.”

Before they could leave, Hisoka held up a hand. “Wait.”

They paused, Kurapika holding onto (Name)’s hand.

“I was asked to give these to you, (Name).”

A cloth sack was tossed to her, smacking her in the face. “OH! Um… thank… you?”

Hisoka shrugged, shooing them away with his hand.

The two grunted as they grabbed their belongings, pulling (Name) along with them as they walked backwards into the brush.

She peeked into the bag as they walked, face heating up.

“What is it?” Kurapika asked, attempting to look over her shoulder. She closed the sack tightly, shooing him away.

“Nothing you need to see!”

———————

(Name) pouted as the two scolded her while she tended to the fire.

“You can’t just give up your badge like it’s nothing! Don’t you want to pass?” Leorio flicked her forehand before scowling.

“He’s right, (Name). What if Hisoka took your badge? We’re already trying to find Leorio’s target, we wouldn’t have time to find six badges for you.”

She nodded. “I know. I would have probably just failed.”

They stared at her, Kurapika placing a hand on her shoulder. “(Name). Why did you decide to take the Hunter Exam? It’s like you’re not taking this seriously, but not like Killua.”

The air grew tense, (Name) staring into the flames. “I told you already, I took the exam because I didn’t have any other options.”

Kurapika sighed. “I’m sure you had at least some other options, (Name). So tell us-“

“Kurapika.”

He froze. It was the first time she’d used his full name since she’d given him a nickname days ago.

“I don’t want to talk about it. I’ll be more careful, just…”

He pulled away when he saw tears begin to bead at the corners of her eyes. “Please, don’t ask me again.”

The blonde stared wide eyed as tears ran down her cheeks, hands trembling. ‘Did I… did I make her cry?’

Leorio walked over, plopping down beside her. “Come on, (Name). Let’s get you to bed. You took your medicine?”

She nodded, using her sleeve to wipe away her tears. Leorio helped her up and crawled into their shelter with her, pulling her into his chest. “Sleep. You’ll feel better in the morning.”

Once she was asleep, Kurapika crawled in as well, lying next to her on the opposite side.

“Don’t beat yourself up over her crying earlier, she’s hormonal. She’ll cry easier than she usually would.”

The blonde sighed. “But I was still the reason for her tears. I’ll apologize in the morning. But for now…”

He pulled her towards him, glaring at Leorio. “You can keep her warm, but keep your hands to yourself.”

Leorio huffed. “You’re acting like an overprotective boyfriend. I’m only holding onto her so she’s protected from the cold. Don’t be selfish.”

Kurapika looked down, seeing her stop shivering when Leorio wrapped his arms around her. He sighed, snuggling into her back. “Fine, but just until this phase is over.”

———————

Three days passed by, the three having no luck with finding Ponzu. The two were waiting by a tree for (Name) to come back from using the bathroom.

“She sure is taking forever. (NAME)! HURRY UP!” Leorio shouted, the blonde smacking him over the head.

“You shouldn’t rush a lady. She’s still… you know. She could be… changing her hygiene products.”

“You mean her pad? Maybe, but it shouldn’t TAKE THAT LONG!”

The bush rustled next to them, (Name) appearing with an irritated expression. “Sure just announce to the world I’m using the bathroom, that’s not embarrassing at all.”

She dried her wet hands on her shirt. “I wash my hands after I use the bathroom, shocker I know. Took me a minute to find a stream.”

Leorio rolled his eyes. “Okay, (Name). Let’s get going.”

They searched for another hour before Kurapika stopped. “Let’s take a break and eat some lunch.” He said this while looking to (Name) who looked tired.

“Our last day on the island is almost over, and I still haven’t found my pretty little princess with the funny hat.”

“Your princess?” Kurapika repeated, snickering.

“Maybe I should go back to the beach where we started. If she’s already got enough points, she might be waiting there with the others.”

Kurapika shook his head, taking a piece of fruit (Name) offered him. “I sincerely doubt that. An important factor in this phase is that even if you’ve had your badge stolen you can always try and steal it back. Even if you’ve collected the six points necessary to pass, you still have to protect them until the time is up. We all finish this phase at the same time.”

He took a bite of the fruit, giving (Name) a smile. Leorio sighed. “Good point.”

“It still might be worth it to take a look. There are only 20 hours left, so anyone who has already obtained the six points to pass this phase would be smart to stay as close as possible to the rallying point. At least, that’s what I would do.”

Leorio stood up. “Alright then, what are we waiting for?”

(Name) pouted. “For me and Kurapika to finish our lunch.”

She leaned against the blonde, cooing. “Right, Pika? Need your strength, huh?”

“Yeah…”

He leaned his head against hers, nuzzling her gently. “Thank you for the extra food, (Name).”

Leorio rolled his eyes. ‘Gross.’

The three made their way to the rallying point, peeking out of a bush. (Name) was taking a short nap on the ground, using Kurapika’s lap as a pillow. She had been a bit lethargic lately, the two allowing her to rest as much as possible.

“Hmm, well, if she is around here she’s doing a good job at hiding.”

Kurapika sighed, absentmindedly rubbing his hand over (Name)’s hair. “Yeah, but she’s going to have to show herself sooner or later. Our chances of finding her are going to be better if we split up, so why don’t we agree on a time and meet back right here?”

“And what if four of us went looking?”

“Gon!?”

(Name) shot awake when she felt something hit the ground around her, Kurapika keeping her steady as she stood up. “Did I hear Gon?”

The boy smiled, walking over to the group. “This is great, I guess we all had the same idea. I’ve been up there for a while, watching a lot of people go by.”

Leorio gasped. “Aw man! I should have been watching from up in a tree.”

“Yeah, right, just leave the tree climbing to Gon.”

Leorio huffed at the blonde. “So, did you ever manage to get the badge you were after?”

“Well… kind of.”

(Name) took a moment to wake up as they talked, blinking sleepily until she could see Gon, and his swollen cheek.

“Gon!”

She stumbled forward, pulling him into a hug. “Aww, I’m so glad you’re okay. Wait, who hurt you?”

“That sure was a delayed response.”

Kurapika elbowed Leorio, gesturing to Gon. His reaction to (Name)’s question concerned the two.

She had him sit down, using a wet cloth to clean off his face before applying a bandage. “Do you need me to carry you? You must be so tired. I did promise you that piggyback ride, yeah?”

Gon sighed, leaning his head against her shoulder. “No, I’ll have to take you up on that later. You’re tired too, (Name).”

There was something about the way she doted on Gon, being so gentle and motherly that made Kurapika’s heart swell. She really was a sweet girl. There was nothing to gain by tending to the boy, but she did anyways, even offering to carry him despite her own aching body.

(Name) reminded Gon of Aunt Mito, the boy relaxing as she ran her fingers through his hair. “Ponzu smells like chemicals huh? That means you’ll be able to track her.”

He nodded. The last few days had been hell for him, the nights spent freezing as he thought of his Aunt Mito. Now (Name) was here, wrapping her cardigan around his shoulders as she fed him fruit and let him drink from her canteen.

“We should get going. Gon, you ready?”

He nodded, standing up. “Yeah, let’s go.”

The boy proudly wore (Name)’s pink cardigan as he tracked Ponzus scent.

——————

They were led to a cave, where Ponzu was supposedly hiding in.

“She’s in there?” Kurapika asked, the boy nodding.

“So my little princess is playing hide and seek? Alright.”

He began walking forward.

“Wait, Leorio, you’re not going in there alone, are you?”

“Why shouldn’t I? Ponzus my target, isn’t she? You guys wait here, I’ll be right back.”

Kurapika shook his head. “That’s a bad idea. You said before that she likes setting traps for her enemies. Going alone is too risky.”

“So what, you want to put us all in danger? Look, I’m the one who needs the points here. I’ll handle this myself.” Leorio replied, turning away.

“Leorio, please don’t!” (Name) called after him, the man hesitating slightly before continuing.

“Leorio!”

“Alright, how about this, we’ll give you 30 minutes. If you’re not back in 30 minutes, we’re coming in after you.” Kurapika offered.

Leorio shook his head. “No forget it. If I don’t come out, you should head back to the rallying point.”

“Then tell me, what was the point of us all teaming up together!?”

Leorio growled. “Fine, we’re disbanding the team!”

“What if I don’t want to?”

“I’m not leaving you, Leorio!”

Gon and (Name) stared at the man, determination in their eyes. “What’s wrong with you guys? I told you not to come with me, didn’t I? Why won’t you listen?!”

“I’m staying no matter what! If you want me to leave, you’re gonna have to make me!” Gon exclaimed.

Leorio sighed, the blonde smiling. “Well? What is it going to be?”

Leorio groaned, glancing between the three. “Okay, whatever. Hang on to this for me.”

He threw his briefcase to (Name). “Oh, sure.”

They watched as Leorio entered the cave, Kurapika sitting down. “Come, (Name). It’s time to rest.”

Gon watched as (Name) beamed at the blonde before leaning her head against his lap to take a little nap.

“It’s only 30 minutes, is that enough time for-“ Gon went quiet when he heard (Name) snore, snuggling into Kurapika’s tabard.

“For her? It’s plenty of time for a nap.”

Kurapika spent the next 20 minutes running his hand over her hair, humming a lullaby he was taught as a child.

“Kurapika, is (Name) important to you?”

The blonde blinked, looking up in surprise. “She.. she is. Very.”

Gon hummed, scooting over to pat her head too. “It’s nice having someone you want to protect, right?”

Kurapika looked down at the girl, who looked perfectly content on his lap. “… yes. It is.”

Gon smiled. “Will you protect her forever?”

Kurapika stayed silent for a moment, his hand cupping her cheek. “I will.”

For the next 10 minutes, Kurapika was absolutely enamored with (Name). Her sweet sleeping face, the way her hand gripped his tabard as she slept, her occasional sleep talk, it all made him smile.

“KURAPIKA, GON, (NAME), STAY BACK! SNAKES!”

“Leorio!”

(Name) squeaked when she felt her head hit the ground, but had no time to react. She was being picked up and thrown over someone’s shoulder, her moment of vision gone after she was thrust into darkness.

‘I’m getting tired of being picked up and carried around…’ (Name) thought, before she was sat down on the cold, rocky ground.

When she was able to look around, she blinked. “Leorio? Ponzu? What happened while I was asleep?”

She received no answer, her two friends kneeling at Leorio’s side. “What happened?”

“Are you okay?”

(Name) stretched before crawling over. “Leorio?”

“You stupid idiots… I told you not to come in here…” Leorio groaned out.

“This is bad, he has snake bites covering most of his body. I only hope they’re not venomous.” Kurapika said, looking over Leorio’s body. (Name) lifted his head, setting it in her lap to keep him comfortable.

“I’m pretty sure these snakes are vipers! I don’t think they have enough venom to kill someone!” Gon explained, holding up a dead snake.

“Ew, put that down! Good think I carry hand sanitizer. Could catch a disease…”

She grabbed his hands, spraying them with her hand sanitizer. The boy pouted, but let her clean his hands.

“Yeah, but most people don’t get this many bites. We better administer first aid. I’ll need some light.”

Gon took Ponzus light, (Name) staring in disgust as he lowered his mouth onto one of Leorio’s bites.

“Gon. You are not about to-“

He spit out of of Leorio’s blood, (Name) gagging. “Gon!”

She pulled him away. “I know you’re trying to help, but if you have even a tiny cut in your mouth, the venom could travel through your blood stream!”

“She’s right…” Leorio grumbled.

“Plus you have no idea if Leorio is carrying any diseases.”

“HEY!”

“I agree with (Name), it would be unwise to even drink after him.”

“Kurapika if I could move right now I would kick your ass for that one.”

(Name) patted his head. “Oh, come on Leorio. What if I had some kind of disease?”

“I’d still tap it.”

“Leorio there are children present. And Kurapika.”

The blonde’s eyebrow twitched, slamming Leorio’s briefcase a bit harder than necessary. “We’re going to have to give him an antidote right away. I would feel bad hitting an injured man.”

(Name) applied bandages to his wounds, before feeling his forehead. “He’s coming down with a fever…”

“I can’t find anything that looks like an antidote in here! We have to take him to a doctor, or he won’t survive.” Kurapika said, running his hand through his hair.

The two lifted him up, (Name) following behind them carrying his briefcase. “We’ll have to carry him all the way back to the rallying point.”

“(Name), I wouldn’t do that. Believe me, you don’t want to take another step towards the exit of this cave.”

She stopped, turning to the green haired girl. Ponzu looked… concerned?

“Yeah, why not?” Kurapika asked, keeping an eye on the girl.

“Because of the snakes. Can’t you hear them? Those are Bourbon’s snakes. He set a trap.” Ponzu replied.

“A trap?”

“That’s right, it’s been set for anyone that tries to leave this cave. A thousand snakes will attack at the same time. And you’re right, a single bite won’t kill you, but if you’re bitten by this many of them you’ll end up just like Leorio. You’ll be paralyzed and eventually die. It’s exactly what the snake charmer wanted. We’re all stuck in here together. There’s no way for us to leave.”

(Name) nodded, gesturing for them to lay Leorio back down. They did, and she placed a wet rag on his head.

“Bourbon, you’re after our number badges aren’t you? If that’s what you want, they’re yours!” Kurapika called out, holding his badge. Gon nodded in agreement.

“You can have all the badges I’ve got too, but you have to let us leave now!”

“Bourbon, say something!”

Ponzu sighed, joining (Name) and placing a hand on her back comfortingly.

“It’s no use, he’s not going to remove his trap no matter how many badges you offer him.”

“But why not?”

Kurapika’s eyes narrowed, watching Ponzu, not liking that she was touching (Name).

“Yeah, how can you be so sure?”

“Well, because…”

“He’s already dead.”

(Name) finished Ponzu’s sentence, staring at the corpse of Bourbon.

“Huh?”

All three of them stared at her, Ponzu’s eyes wide. “How did you know?”

(Name) looked between the three. “He uh… he just doesn’t feel alive, ya know?”

Silence.

“And he hasn’t blinked the whole time we’ve been here.”

“Ohhh!”

(Name) rolled her eyes. ‘Guess… it’s not normal to feel if someone is dead or alive just by their vibe. Hmm…’

She let the three talk as she took care of Leorio.

“That’s right, it was me. I was the one who killed him. How I did it will be my little secret.”

‘Okay, go Ponzu! I support women’s rights and wrongs.’

She didn’t say this aloud though, because Kurapika would scold her.

(Name) did however, stand up and begin approaching Bourbons body while they were distracted. ‘There must be an antidote on his body somewhere. If he uses poison as a method of attack, he’d need an antidote to bargain with.’

“(Name), wait!”

She felt her sleeve being pulled, saving her just before snakes leaped out to protect their masters corpse.

Ponzu sighed, pulling the girl closer to her. “I could have told you that wasn’t going to work. He’s their master, and even though he’s dead they’re still trying to protect him. So it doesn’t matter if you want to leave this place or go near him. If you try to do either of these two things, all the snakes will instantly attack you.”

Kurapika grabbed (Name)’s arm, pulling her away from Ponzu. “(Name), are you alright?”

Ponzu raised an eyebrow at the blonde, but stayed quiet. ‘Was she telling the truth about them not dating? He’s weirdly protective.’

(Name) nodded, patting his shoulder. “I’m fine, Pika. Not a single bite!”

He nodded slowly, cupping both of her cheeks, squishing them. “You need to be careful, you reckless girl. Do I need to hold your hand through the entire exam?”

She pouted. “I wouldn’t mind if you did…”

Kurapika blinked, his cheeks turning pink. He let go of her cheeks, crossing them over his chest. “Well, perhaps I will.”

Ponzu tried to hold back a laugh. ‘He’s way too obvious.’

Gon pulled on (Name)’s sleeve then pointed to Leorio. “Oh, yes, I’ll look after him. Don’t worry!”

Kurapika watched as she scurried away, sitting back down to take care of Leorio.

The three continued to talk, (Name) not paying any attention. She continued to bandage his injuries, occasionally feeling his head to check if his fever had gone down. ‘No luck…’

(Name) watched as Ponzu revealed she had bees in her hat. ‘Wow, Girlboss.’

Ponzu explained that each badge had a tracker, so they’d know where the applicants were at all times.

When Ponzu said she had been stuck in the cave for several days before they’d shown up, (Name) immediately began to rummage through her backpack.

“Ponzu, here.”

She placed a few granola bars and a canteen of water in front of her. “(Name)…”

The green haired girl scooped up the food and water, taking off the wrappers and shoving it into her mouth. Kurapika smiled warmly from across the room as (Name) patted her back. “Easy, you’ll choke.”

“Hasn’t she been saving those for emergencies?” Gon whispered to Kurapika. The blonde sighed.

“I guess to her, helping someone she barely knows is an emergency.”

(Name) continued to care for Leorio as Ponzu explained she had tried to help, but Leorio wouldn’t listen.

‘Sounds like Leorio.’ (Name) thought as she ran her fingers through his hair.

“I still can’t believe that, he knew they were going to attack. All we can do is hope he has enough strength to relax until the morning. That’s the only chance he’s got.”

Kurapika stood, turning to Bourbon. “Pika? What are you thinking?”

He placed a hand on the top of her head, about to move when Gon stood. “Kurapika, take care of Leorio for me. I’m sure it’s there.”

(Name) raised an eyebrow. ‘There’s no way this 12 year old gets to risk his life and not be stopped, but I get scolded for it.’

And that’s exactly what happened. She watched as Gon was attacked by the snakes, in both awe and anger.

“Oh my god it bit his ear! What assholes!”

Kurapika ignored her comment, grabbing the antidote. (Name) snatched the antidote and injected it into Leorio’s arm. “Sorry, I keep forgetting you have medical experiences.”

She didn’t answer, quickly moving onto Gon. (Name) didn’t pay attention to the other two, focusing on her injured friends.

“You feeling okay, sweetheart?”

Kurapika’s eyebrow twitched. Leorio held onto her hand. “I’d feel even better… with a kiss…”

“If he can make jokes he should be fine.”

Kurapika pushed (Name) away a bit, creating some space between the two. “Pikaa! Don’t get between us, I gotta take care of him!”

He pouted, but moved out of the way. “Hmph…”

“Ponzu, I have a question.”

“Yeah, what is it?”

“Do you have any of that sleeping gas left?”

“Hmm? A little, how come?”

“Cuz I thought you might trade some of it… for this!” Gon pulled out Bourbons badge.

(Name) continued to care for Leorio as they talked.

“Are you absolutely sure you can do this?”

“9 minutes, that’s my personal record for the longest time I’ve held my breath.”

“Yeah, but I’m sure that’s when you were totally healthy. Your body still hasn’t recovered from all that venom yet!”

‘Wait, 9 minutes? Is that possible? Is Gon human? I’ll ask him later.’ (Name) thought, packing her bag.

Kurapika and Leorio placed their trust in Gon. “Oh, I trust him too.” (Name) said, giving a thumbs up.

Ponzu released the sleeping gas after Gon took a deep breath. Before they fell asleep, Kurapika kneeled down and pulled (Name) into his arms.

———————

(Name) awoke to the feeling of someone gently running her hand over her hair. “Hmm..?”

“(Name), you’re awake.”

Kurapika smiled down at her. (Name) couldn’t remember a time when he wasn’t smiling when looking at her.

“How long was I asleep for?”

He pushed some of her hair out of her face. “Long enough for the phase to finish.”

“What!?”

(Name) looked around, seeing that they were no longer on the island, but an airship. “Pikaa, why didn’t you wake me up?”

He laughed, pulling her into a hug. “Would you believe it if I said you were too cute to wake up?”

She gasped, the blonde able to feel her cheeks warming up against his shoulder. “Cute?”

“Yes, very.”

She stayed quiet, wrapping her arms around him. “Don’t tease me, Pika.”

He didn’t answer, but smiled. Leorio watched from across them with a raised eyebrow. “Can you two not, I just ate breakfast.”

(Name) pulled away, cheeks hot. “Oh… sorry.”

She sat a few feet away from Kurapika, sneaking glances at him.

“Did… did Gon and Killua pass?”

Kurapika nodded. “Yes, they did. Would you like to see them?”

“Yes please!”

Kurapika led her out of the room by the hand, Leorio falling back asleep.

They spotted Gon and Killua talking by the window, (Name) dropping Kurapika’s hand to run towards them.

“Gon! Killua!”

They turned their heads just in time to see her tackle them into a hug, kissing the tops of their heads. “You guys passed, I’m so proud! I knew you could do it!”

Gon beamed, Killua half heartedly swatting her arms away. “Hey!”

But anyone could tell he wasn’t actually trying to push her away, just by the content look on his face.

“Aww, I love you too, Killua. You too, Gon.”

Kurapika had been smiling at her sweet gesture, but it dropped the moment she said those words.

‘She… she loves… them?’

A realization dawned on him. She’d never specified that she was IN love with him, just that she loved him. He had just assumed that was what she meant.

Why did he feel so disappointed?

After cooing over the two boys and giving them candy for their hard work, Kurapika softly announced that there was a meeting for the remaining applicants.

“Pika?”

She offered her hand to him, and he took it. ‘Even if… even if she’s not in love with me, I still… I still want to be by her side… why is that?’

They stood next to each other, hand in hand as Netero walked in.

“I’d like to welcome you all here. Congratulations to all nine of you for making it to the final phase. I’m delighted and surprised to discover that seven of you are rookies. On average, one rookie passes the exam every 3 years or so. I think it’s actually been 10 years now since a rookie passed the exam, and suddenly this year we have so many talented new applicants.”

(Name) looked around the room, disappointed to not see Ponzu there. Pokkle was, though, and he was giving her a knowing smile.

“The final phase will be taking place in 3 days time at the Hunters Association Hotel. Until then, get some rest, you’re going to need it.”

“Just one question, what’s the final phase going to be?” Leorio asked.

“It’s a secret!”

“Secret!?”

“Gives you something to look forward to.”

Netero left, leaving the group of ten alone.

(Name), Kurapika, Gon, Killua, Leorio, Pokkle, Bodoro, and Ponzu sat in a circle. (Name) had her head in Kurapika’s lap, his hand resting on her head.

“Last time we were on this airship it was completely packed, now with only 10 of us on board, it sure feels empty.” Hanzo said, glancing at (Name) and Kurapika.

“What the old man was saying before I sure don’t like the sound of. I wonder what he has planned for us.”

Kurapika hummed. “Whatever it is, worrying about it now won’t make any difference.”

“Would you stop being such a downer? Everyone here’s tense, so the least you could do is lighten the mood!”

Kurapika glanced around the circle, then down at (Name) who held onto his tabard which a frown on her lips.

“Oh… I didn’t realize.”

Leorio sighed. “You know guys, we’ve all worked so hard. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could all pass together?”

Killua snickered. “Seriously? Back when we were in trick tower you said you’d do anything to pass, even fight your friends.”

“So what? That was then, this is now!”

“You know, it’s kind of pointless for rookies to lead this discussion, we should be asking for information from whoever has the most experience.”

They glanced at Pokkle. “Hey, don’t look at me guys! I failed the fourth phase three years ago! I’ve never made it to the final phase before.”

“Well that was useless, thanks for nothing.”

(Name) sat up. “Hey, don’t be mean to Pokkle!”

She threw her shoe at the ninja, the man catching it and placing it behind him. Kurapika raised an eyebrow at this, causing Hanzo to sigh and throw it back.

(Name) pouted as Kurapika put her shoe back on, retying it for her. She ignored Bodoro’s explanation, cuddling into Kurapika’s tabard. He didn’t mind, even enjoying the fuzzy feelings she gave him.

She rubbed her eyes. (Name) was getting sleepy again.

“What’s that? Are you going to tell us or not?”

“What’s left is the wide range of knowledge required of all Hunters! Prepare yourself for a written exam!”

(Name) jumped at the sound of the entire room gasping, scowling. ‘Can’t they let a lady have her beauty sleep? Hmph…’

“Come on, (Name). You can be my study buddy.” Kurapika hoisted her onto his back, carrying her to the library.

“Hey, I haven’t agreed yet!”

He glanced back at her. “Oh? Are you going to study with someone else?”

She giggled. “No, of course not.”

——————

(Name) and Leorio sat in the library after Kurapika left. The taller man had just been scolded for trying to cheat by Pokkle, and begged (Name) to help him.

“I’ll be right back, (Name). I need to… use the bathroom.”

“Oh, okay! Wash your hands!”

He sighed. “I’m not a child you know.”

Leorio left, after he closed the door, he smirked.

‘Now that she’s distracted, I can go through her bag and get some of her snacks…’

The tall man snuck down the hallway, feeling a little guilty. ‘Well, it’s just for now. After the exam I’ll pay her back with as many snacks as she wants…’

Leorio walked into the room they would be sleeping in, spotting (Name)’s backpack leaning against Kurapika’s satchel. He crouched down, picking it up.

Leorio opened the bag, beginning to rummage through it. He pulled out various items of clothing, quickly noticing that none of the things he pulled out were pairs on underwear.

Although Leorio hadn’t come looking for panties, he now couldn’t stop thinking about it. ‘Where is she hiding them?’

He unzipped a pouch, immediately smirking. ‘There they are.’

Leorio had found where she kept her panties, pulling out pair after pair. ‘She wouldn’t notice if I took a pair or two… there’s plenty of them, I can pick whichever pair I want.’

He continued to pull out pairs, humming as he looked over them. ‘Hmm… should I do the pair with the red hearts, or the pink ones with polka dots?”

He paused, seeing something white peeking out of the pouch. ‘Hmm? Did I miss a pair?’

He reached into the pouch, but instead of pulling out another pair of panties, it was a white envelope.

‘Oh!’

A grin spread across his face. ‘Is this a love letter or something? Juicy!’

The envelope was unsealed, the man easily able to get access to the letter within.

He unfolded it, and as his eyes scanned over the letter, his face fell.

‘Oh… oh my god…’

—————

Kurapika glanced at Netero as he explained that all the applicants were being interviewed. “Who are you interested in, and who would you prefer not to fight?”

Kurapika pointed to (Name), Gon, and Hisoka.

“Gon and (Name) for positive reasons, Hisoka for negative ones. Given the right reason, I’d fight anyone. But without good reason, I won’t fight at all. However…”

Kurapika glanced at (Name)’s picture again, his eyes softening. “I would have the most trouble fighting her.”

Netero nodded. “Alright, you’re dismissed.”

Kurapika walked out of the interview, spotting (Name) waiting for him. “Pika!”

She ran towards him, smiling. “Did it go well?”

He nodded, patting her shoulder. “Yes, it did. After Killua, you’re up. You haven’t gone yet, correct?”

He nodded, Kurapika promising to wait outside for her.

“#406!”

(Name) sighed. “I’ll be back in a moment, Pika. Will you miss me?”

She was teasing, but he nodded without hesitation. “I will.”

She turned away quickly so she couldn’t see her flustered face.

(Name) sat in front of Netero, still a little giddy from Kurapika’s comment.

“Hello, #406. Congratulations on making it this far. I have a few questions for you, then you’ll be free to go.”

She nodded, looking over the pictures.

“First, who out of your fellow applicants are you most interested in?”

She blushed, her eyes immediately drawn to Kurapika. “Him, #404.”

Netero smiled. “Your boyfriend, correct?”

(Name)’s jaw dropped. “Boyfriend!? No, no we aren’t dating. Who told you that?”

Netero blinked. From the information he’d heard from several people, they seemed to be inseparable, constantly holding hands, occasionally giving each other pecks on the cheeks and forehead.

“Oh, um… next question. Out of the applicants, who would you least likely want to fight?”

She looked over the applicants. “I wouldn’t want to fight any of these 4, or #44, Hisoka.”

She pointed to her friends and Hisoka.

“(Name), I ask that you be completely honest. I’m using this information to make the final phase.”

(Name) played with her skirt. “Well… I was lying about #44. If I had to, I would fight him.”

Netero seemed intrigued by this. “Really? What would be a reason to fight him?”

She tilted her head. “If it mean saving my friends, I would throw my life away to distract Hisoka in a heartbeat.”

This seemed to slightly surprise the old man, who quickly recovered. “I see, so you’re aware of how dangerous Hisoka is.”

She nodded.

“I see, you’re dismissed.”

(Name) left the room, Kurapika looking up from the book he’s borrowed from the library. “Would you like to go eat dinner?”

(Name) nodded, taking his hand. “That sounds like a great idea, Pika.”

Kurapika sat across from her at a booth as they ate, (Name) kicking her feet happily. For the past week neither of them had been eating enough, and now they were catching up on their lost meals.

“Mmm, I never knew plain chicken noodle soup could taste so good!”

She drank the broth, before sighing contentedly. “I thought the food you made for us was delicious, (Name).”

She giggled, waving her hand. “Oh, you’re such a sweet talker. Gonna make me blush, Pika!”

He laughed, leaning his head against his hand. “It’s the truth. I could eat anything you make, forever.”

She did feel her face heat up at that. “Well… I would do that. If… you wanted.”

Kurapika’s cheeks turned pink at the implication that to make food for him forever, they’d have to stay together. “I… I would really like that.”

He reached out to hold her hand, eyes a pretty shade of red.

“(Name), I…”

He was about to say something, but stopped when Killua and Gon walked up. “(Name), can we have some candy? All of the cafeteria food is laaame!”

(Name) laughed. “You can have some candy after you eat dinner.”

Killua pouted, but didn’t disagree.

She stood up, patting Kurapika’s arm. “I’ll be right back, I’m gonna go grab my bag real quick!”

He sighed, watching as she walked away with lovesick eyes. Killua raised an eyebrow, but ignored him to get dinner with Gon.

(Name) walked down the hallway, humming to herself. ‘Hmm, wonder what I should do during the next phase…’

Before she could think about the next phase anymore, she crashed into someone’s chest. “Eek! Sorry, I- oh, hey Leorio!”

She smiled up at him, her happy expression faltering when she spotted his tears. “Leorio? Are you o-“

He pulled her into his arms, squeezing her so tight that she had to smack his arm to let her go. “L-Leorio, can’t! Breathe!”

He let her go slightly, silent as he grabbed her arm and pulled up her sleeve. He said nothing as he examined her other arm as well, moving on to kneel down and check her thighs.

“L-Leorio, what’s gotten into you!?”

She pulled away, covering herself. The man breathed a sigh of relief, but his relief didn’t last long. Leorio stood up and rushed to the bathroom, leaving (Name) confused.

‘Is he alright?’

———————

Leorio kneeled down in front of the toilet, vomiting up whatever had been on his stomach.

‘God… oh god…’

He heaved, leaning away to think back to the contents of that letter.

‘To whomever finds this letter,

My name is (Name) (Last Name). I am the first born daughter to (Father) and (Mother). I have two younger siblings, Mint and Pepper. As I write this, I am 18 years of age.

Soon, I will be taking the Hunter Exam. I have been disowned by my family, and have no other options. If I am being honest, I do not expect to survive, and I do not want to.

If this letter is found on my dead body, please do not blame the killer. This is what I wanted, I am not angry. I knew what I was getting into.

Regards, (Name)’

If that wasn’t enough, written on the back in a different colored pen was another message.

‘To my new friends,

I’m sorry for constantly worrying you all. I came here to die, and though that is still what I want, you four have made my time during this exam a little more bearable. When I say that I love each of you dearly, I mean it from the bottom of my heart.

Gon, you are the incarnation of kindness and I hope you never lose your smile. You mean so much to so many people, even if you don’t know that sometimes. Weakness is just an opportunity to become stronger, so remember you have friends to rely on.

Leorio, you may not know it, but you are kind as well. I have left the location of my old textbooks and notes below. I wish you the best, and hope you become an amazing doctor. I believe in you, even in death I am rooting for you!

Killua, you are more than your blood ties. Being an assassin may be what you were trained to be, but I know you can be so much more. You’re intelligent, strong, and most importantly you have a good heart. Despite everything, you still smile at the ones you care about. That’s what makes you human.

Kurapika, how do I even start? You are the only person I’ve ever fallen in love with. Your gentle kindness and compassion won me over immediately. I’m sure it’s obvious how much I care for you, and I almost don’t want you to feel the same way. I want you to know that I love you, and if you love me too, please forget me and live your life to the fullest. You deserve happiness, and I wish I could have given that to you.

I’m sorry I wasn’t strong enough to continue this journey with you all. I’m just so tired, and if I’m dead, it’ll mean a burden off of many peoples shoulders. Please, never blame yourselves. This decision was made far before I met any of you.

With the utmost love, (Name).’

Leorio held his stomach, tears streaming down his face. (Name), the girl who gave all of them nothing but kindness and love, had been suffering so much in silence.

Even in her suicide note, she’d done nothing but try to reassure and comfort them. She genuinely, truly loved them.

“(Name)… why… why would you do this?”

He wiped the vomit from his mouth with a paper towel, stumbling over to the sink to wash his face.

Leorio was terrified. There was still one phase left of the exam, and it was possible it could end in her death. She’d made it obvious she didn’t want to survive the exam, and he wasn’t sure when she’d updated her letter.

When he checked her arms, he’d found no evidence of self harm, only a few scars and scratches she’d received during the exam.

‘But being reckless with her life is a form of self harm, all on it’s own.’

The puzzles were clicking into place. The look on her face while sitting on the edge of the platform and betting her life during Trick Tower, her throwing herself in front of Killua even when she knew he could dodge, her offering her badge to Hisoka just a few days ago, it all pointed to her disregard for her life.

‘How didn’t I realize sooner? She’s been suffering in silence this entire time… I…’

He stumbled out of the bathroom and back to (Name) who was handing out candy to the two boys. He watched her from a distance for a moment, trying to see if he could see any trace of sadness that would have clued him in.

But (Name) was no stranger to hiding her pain. She expertly smiled, Leorio now barely able to notice how she looked almost tired afterwards, like smiling was a chore.

‘(Name)…’

But when Kurapika looked at her, it’s like her face lit up, eyes sparkling with a light they didn’t have when she wasn’t being looked at.

‘She… she’s in love with him.’

Leorio left the cafeteria, eyes red from crying. He wasn’t sure what to do. He couldn’t confront her about the letter now, it would only stress her out. All he could do was watch over her, and try his best to keep her from getting herself hurt.

He didn’t yet know how hard that would be.

———————

Kurapika sighed contentedly, planting a kiss on top of (Name)’s head. She was asleep in his arms, face pressed against his chest.

They’d spent nearly all day catching up on sleep, taking Netero’s advice to rest.

(Name) had insisted on cuddling, though Kurapika didn’t need much convincing. He was growing addicted to her touch, never feeling quite right unless she was nearby. ‘So pretty…’

He pulled away slightly so he could see her face, cupping her cheek gently. The blonde wanted to stay like this forever, gazing at her sleeping face while her arms were wrapped around him, keeping him warm.

“Pikaaa!”

He barely held back a chuckle when her eyes slowly blinked open. “Yes, (Name)?”

“I’m starving. Wanna eat with me?”

He sighed, pulling her close. “Five more minutes.”

She whined. “Ughh, Pika…”

But she didn’t try to move out of his grasp, in fact she sighed and cuddled closer. “I like when you hold me, Pika. Makes me feel safe…”

He felt his heart thump against his chest, face burning red. “I… I will hold you whenever you want, (Name). I’ll never deny you.”

“Really? Do you really mean that, Pika?”

She was looking up at him with those sparkling (e/c) eyes. He could feel her grip on his tabard tighten, her tone almost desperate.

“Yes, yes I promise.”

He held onto her hands, leaning his forehead against hers. Kurapika’s eyes shot open when he felt something wet against fall onto his hands.

She was crying.

“(Name)? (Name) are you alright?”

He cupped her cheeks, thumbs swiping at her tears. He was panicked, eyes gone wide at the sight of her tears.

“No, no I’m alright. I’m just… I’m just so happy.”

She gave him the prettiest smile he’d ever seen, laughing as he desperately wiped at his tears. “Sorry for worrying you, Pika.”

She held his hand on her cheek, moving her lips to kiss his palm. “Thank you, thank you for caring for me. I… it’s really saved me.”

He didn’t understand how he saved her, and he was barely listening. The feeling of her lips on his palm had his mind and heart racing.

“Let’s go get some lunch, okay?”

He could only nod as she led him to the cafeteria, eyes half lidded.

Gon and Killua were already there, eating lunch. (Name) and Kurapika sat next to them after getting their food, the blonde leaning against her shoulder as they ate.

“(Name)! Have you seen Leorio today?”

She tilted her head. “This morning, yeah, but he’s been off studying since then.”

Gon sighed. “I’m worried. Last night he seemed so anxious, and his face was pale.”

(Name) thought back to his strange behavior, munching on her sandwich. “… I’m worried too. After lunch, I’ll go check on him.”

Kurapika nodded, (Name) feeding him a grape. “I’ll come with- oh, thank you.”

Killua gagged. “Gross. Go be lovey-dovey somewhere else, I’m gonna puke.”

(Name) laughed. “I can feed you grapes too if you want, Killua.”

He pouted, but didn’t protest when she slid into the booth next to him and fed him grapes. Kurapika scowled, but didn’t do anything about it.

After lunch, (Name) walked over to the library, where Pokkle and Leorio were cramming.

“Leorio, Pokkle, I brought some snacks for you.”

Pokkle looked up, smiling at the girl. “Oh, (Name), thank you! When I get so focused on something I forget to eat.”

He munched on the plate of food, Leorio setting his book down to glance at her.

“… you feeling alright, (Name)?”

She tilted her head. “Yeah, why do you ask?”

Pokkle stopped. “Oh, is it because of…”

He gestured around her stomach area. “You know?”

(Name) stared at him for a moment. “You’d better clarify, Pokkle.”

The boy panicked, waving his hands in the air.

“Your… your period?”

He seemed nervous, playing with his food. She snickered. “You and Pika are so awkward. Yeah, I’m okay, besides some cramps.”

That hadn’t been what Leorio was talking about. He was worried about her mental health, but sighed. “Im glad you’re doing better, then.”

Pokkle glanced at Leorio before scooting towards her to whisper. “Did you get the package?”

“Package?” She blinked, also whispering.

“The… the menstrual products. Hisoka was supposed to give them to you.”

“THAT WAS YOU?!”

Leorio jumped when she yelled, being even more surprised when she gave the brown haired boy a hug. “Pokkle you’re a life saver! I thought I was going to run out b-“

He pulled away, cheeks a little pink as he shook his head. “No, I don’t deserve any credit for that. Ponzu, my girlfriend is the one that arranged it.”

(Name) nodded, standing up. “Really? That’s so sweet of her!”

Pokkle looked down at his lap. “(Name), I really appreciate you giving Ponzu food and overall just being nice to her. I couldn’t find her the whole fourth phase, I was scared she…”

He cleared his throat. “Anyways, doctors said that because she was able to eat something before they found her, that she was going to be okay. She… wanted me to say she’s grateful for your help.”

(Name) waves her hands. “No, it was nothing I promise. I’m sure she would have done the same.”

But she wouldn’t have. Pokkle was beginning to realize that (Name) highly overestimated the kindness of others, and because of that he understood why Ponzu had asked him that favor.

“Pokkle, I want you to keep an eye on (Name). She’s kind of reckless, and I’m… worried about her.”

Pokkle sighed, patting her shoulder. “If you need anything (Name), I’ll be willing to help.”

She smiled before leaving, waving to the two. Leorio glanced at Pokkle, noticing the worried look in his eyes.

‘So I’m not the only one that has caught on.’

———————

The next morning, (Name) walked with the other five into the site for the Final Phase. They stood in front of Chairman Netero.

“The final phase will be a 1v1 fighting tournament. I’ve made a chart that shows who will be fighting who in the tournament.”

The sheet fell from the chart, earning gasps from the 10 applicants. “It can’t be…” Kurapika said, his grip on (Name)’s arm tightening.

“Is that thing right?” Leorio asked.

“At the end of this tournament…”

“Only one of us passes?” Killua finished for Gon.

(Name) followed Kurapika’s gaze, seeing that he was pitted against Hisoka. She made a distressed noise, tugging on his sleeve. The blonde pulled her a little closer, soothing rubbing her arm.

“Oh man, are you up against Hisoka in the first match?”

He nodded at Leorio’s question. “Hey, do whatever you can to beat this guy, don’t let him advance to the next round.”

“I’ll win, no matter what.”

(Name) jumped when Netero laughed.

“I know this might look daunting, but here’s the thing. In order to pass the final, all you have to do is win one match.”

The applicants gasped.

“You see, in this tournament it isn’t the winners who move up, the losers of each match are the ones that advance to the next round. So whoever reaches the end and loses will be the or that fails.”

Leorio sighed. “What a relief, he should of told us sooner, this isn’t going to be hard at all.”

He gasped. “Kurapika, I changed my mind, you gotta lose.”

“Be quiet and let me think! I have a feeling there’s more to it than that, but there’s no way to be sure until we’re done fighting.”

(Name) looked at the board, spotting who she’d be fighting against. “#301, that’s…”

She glanced over to the man with the purple Mohawk and needles coming out of his face. Leorio looked to the chart, then followed her gaze.

‘That’s who she’s fighting? He looks terrifying. I’m sure he’d have no problem killing her…’

Leorio scowled, looking down at his shorter friend. She stood no chance against the man, Leorio was sure of it.

“Alright then! If you have any questions, we’ll have time to address it later! Before we do that, I’d like to announce the matches for the first round of the tournament. Please listen for your name and your opponent.”

The man took a deep breath before announcing the round. “The first match will be, applicant #44 and applicant number #404. Hisoka vs Kurapika!”

Kurapika relaxed slightly when he felt (Name)’s fingers interlock with his. She snuck a glance at him, finding him also sneaking a glance. When they’d eyes met, they smiled, both internally wishing the other good luck.

——————

“The rules for the matches are very simple. There are no restrictions, you can use any weapons you like. In order to win, your opponent must forfeit by admitting defeat. However, if you kill your opponent during the match, you will immediately be disqualified. And as there can be only on loser, the rest of the group will automatically pass, and the test will be over. Is that clear?”

(Name) tensed slightly, her grip on Kurapika’s hand tightening. Leorio noticed this, both relieved and nervous.

‘She’s probably upset that she likely will not be killed during this phase the final one. If my theory is correct…’

His thoughts trailed off as Chairman Netero continued.

“It’s a great accomplishment to have made it here, to the final phase. And as the chairman of the exam committee, I’d like to say how proud I am of each and every one of you. You are now only one win away from becoming fully lisvensed members of a society of Hunters. I wish you all the best of luck in your matches. Now, let the first round of the final phse begin.”

(Name) squeezed Kurapika’s hand before she let go, allowing him to walk forward, but the blonde turned around last second, pulling her into a quick hug.

“I’ll come back to you a winner, okay? I promise.”

She felt his lips brush against her cheek in a secret kiss before he turned back around and marched into the ring.

“You can do it!” Gon yelled, the blonde turning his head.

“That’s right, and I will.”

Leorio groaned. “What are you talking about? I told you to lose!”

“Hmph. I live only for one reason. As long as I hear the voices of my people calling to me, as long as their eyes are in the hands of thieves and murderers, I won’t stop until I gain vengeance. And that is why I have to become a hunter.”

But even as he said this, the first thing that popped up into his mind was (Name). When he tilted his head to give her one last smile before his match, he paused for just a moment.

She didn’t look scared, or excited for him. She looked… sad. He’d never seen such a look on her face before, it looked almost… empty. If he didn’t have his match, he would have rushed to ask her what was wrong.

But he didn’t. Becoming a Hunter came first, even before (Name).

He scolded himself. ‘What am I thinking, ‘even before (Name)’, of course my mission comes before her…’

His heart thumped against his chest painfully though, when he remembered her face.

‘Just focus on the match. Don’t think about her for now.’

He took in a deep breath.

“Ready? Begin!”

(Name) couldn’t watch past Kurapika unsheathing his swords. She hid her face in Leorio’s chest, the man sighing.

“I’ll tell you when it’s over, okay?”

She listened to the others occasionally cheer him on or gasp in shock.

“KURAPIKA!”

“Damn you Hisoka! What the hell do you think you’re doing!? You can’t kill you opponent or else you’ll be disqualified!”

(Name)’s eyes went wide, the girl turning to look. Kurapika was on the ground, his white undershirt torn and bloody.

“Pika?”

Leorio watched as her lip quivered, tears entering her eyes. Kurapika stood, immediately swinging his sword to attack Hisoka, you kicked him in the stomach and sent him flying across the room.

“Kurapika… you’ve had enough, stay down. Don’t get up, you’ll get another match.”

Leorio put his hand on (Name)’s shoulder. He was worried for Kurapika, but he was worried for (Name) as well. She looked terrified, like her entire world was crashing down around her.

The blonde stood again, wielding his sword.

Killua grabbed (Name)’s hand. “Nothing we can say will make him quit, all we can do is stand back and watch him fight.”

(Name) watched as Kurapika’s eyes turned red, but not the pretty shade of scarlet she was used to. No, those were the color of anger, hot, fiery red.

“HISOKA!”

He attacked Hisoka, landing a good hit on him. (Name) looking away again when she saw Hisokas expression.

“I forfeit. I’d rather wait for the next round. I can do that, can’t I?”

(Name) gasped, immediately rushing into the ring to pull Kurapika into her arms.

“Hey-ouch!”

He gasped when she squeezed him, the girl pulling away. “Oh, sorry Pika! You’re hurt…”

The blonde smiled at her, the harsh red of his eyes fading to that scarlet color that only she got to see. “I told you I’d win, (Name).”

This time he wrapped his arms around her, the other contestants and examiners watching curiously. He used his thumbs to swipe away her tears. “Don’t cry, (Name). I’m alright, so dry up those tears, okay?”

She nodded, resting her head against his shoulder.

“Come on, Pika. Let’s get you fixed up, okay?”

She led him away by the hand, still sniffling.

“Can I have your attention please? The second match will begin 30 minutes from now. All applicants meet back up at that time. You’re dismissed.

——————

(Name) bandaged Kurapika’s injuries as him and Leorio talked. He leaned his head against her shoulder, his shirt sitting in her lap.

“While I’m glad you may be getting some information from Hisoka about the spiders, I’m still upset that you kept going, even after getting hurt.”

She was pouting as she bandaged his side, the blonde chuckling aginst his shoulder. “I apologize for worrying you, (Name). Will you forgive me?”

He looked up at her through his blonde lashes, the girl sighing. “Of course I will, especially when you’re giving me those puppy dog eyes.”

He smiled, cupping her cheek. “Your match is after Gon’s. I’m…”

He looked down, a frown on his lips. She reached up, brushing a stand of hair out of his face. “No matter what happens, just know that this has been the highlight of my life. And hey, on the bright side, if he kills me then all of our other friends will p-“

He looked up, eyes burning red. “What are you talking about? There would be no bright side to your death. I…”

The image of her corpse filled his mind, making him groan. “No… no I can’t lose you too. Not you.”

Leorio’s eyes softened. “She’ll be alright, Kurapika. She…”

(Name) wrapped her arms around Kurapika, holding onto him so tight he winced. “I… I’ll try my best, Kurapika. So please, don’t worry about me.”

He pulled away slightly slightly to look her in the eye. “I think I’ll worry regardless. You’re… you’re very important to me, (Name). If you died, I wouldn’t know what to do with myself.”

She felt tears well up in her eyes, the blonde unable to keep his own eyes dry. “Pika…”

Leorio pulled the both of them into a hug. “Let’s not talk about the possibility of anyone dying, alright? We’ll just wish (Name) luck.”

The three stayed like that for a minute, Kurapika taking in (Name)’s warmth and sweet scent before they broke apart. Leorio helped (Name) to her feet as Kurapika began walking into the building to watch Gon’s match.

“It’s time for the second match of the final phase! Hanzo vs Gon!”

(Name) sat down on the floor, beginning to stitch up Kurapika’s torn shirt. Although she wasn’t as talented at sewing as she was at knitting, she could at least make his shirt wearable again.

She glanced up to watch Gon and Hanzos match begin.

“Ready? Begin!”

Gon attempted to outrun Hanzo several times, only for the ninja to instantly catch up to him.

She gasped when the ninja chop him on his neck, sending him to the floor.

“If this was a regular fight this would be over now, but it’s not. So you’re going to have to wake up.”

(Name) watched as he sat Gon up. “I bet you’re feeling a little woozy, huh? That’s because I struck a blow to your brain stem. Now you get it, right? My skills and strength are far superior to yours, your better quit while you’re ahead.”

“No way!”

The ninja struck him upside the head, causing him to heave. “You don’t want to reconsider? If you quit now, you’ll still be able to fight in the next round. There’s really no point in being so stubborn about it, come on and say the word.”

“No I won’t!”

He struck him again, holding him up by his hair. “Are you positive?”

“I’ll never surrender!”

Hanzo slammed his head into the ground, (Name) dropping her supplies on the ground. “Gon!”

She had to be held back by Kurapika when she began to walk forward.

“Gon, don’t be a fool! Give up now while you still have a chance!” Leorio yelled out, his face tense.

“(Name), Leorio, suppose you were in his position. Would you be willing to say I give up?”

(Name) went quiet at Kurapika’s words. He pulled her closer, his hold on her moving from her shoulders to hand.

She sighed, squeezing his hand lightly before sitting back down to work on his shirt again.

As the fight continued, Leorio and Kurapika slowly moved to stand in front of her so she didn’t have to see.

It had been over three hours. At this point, her hands were too shaky to continue her work, and the tears in her eyes made it much too hard to see.

“You still aren’t taking me seriously yet! I’ll tell you one last time, there’s no way you can win!”

The sound of Gon’s scream made (Name) sob, Kurapika instantly turning to comfort her. But this was the wrong move, because now that he was crouching down, holding onto her, she could see the scene in front of her.

Hanzo kicked the boy in the stomach, causing him to cough up blood. She gasped, eyes wide as saucers as they made eye contact with Gon’s.

He was hurting, she could tell. (Name) wanted nothing more than to run into the ring and pull him into her arms, to help him.

But she couldn’t do a single thing. Not whne his eyes looked that determined.

“Alright that’s enough, you bastard I’ll kill you! Let me stand in for him, I’ll fight you!” Leorio exclaimed, his lip bleeding from biting down on it.

“If you don’t have the stomach, then leave. It’s going to get a whole lot worse.”

“WHAT WAS THAT!?”

Kurapika stood up to prevent Leorio from charging forward, the referees explaining that if he interfered Gon would be disqualified.

(Name) placed her hands over her ears, squeezing her eyes shut so she wouldn’t have to see what was happening to the young boy.

CRACK!

She looked back up, anger replacing her sadness. Gon’s arm was twisted unnaturally, the ninja still joking it in his grasp.

The crack had been so loud she could feel it in her bones, shivering.

Her group of friends stared on in shock as he groaned in pain, holding onto his bow broken arm. She stood, holding onto Kurapika’s arm.

The two were angry, she could tell from their faces alone.

“If that guy lands one more hand on him, I won’t be able to stop myself. And you better not get in my way either, Kurapika.”

“Stop you? I wouldn’t think of it. Rest assured, I feel the same.”

He glanced at (Name), heart thumping against his chest when he saw the tears running down her cheeks.

Kurapika placed his hand over hers, keeping his eyes on the match.

———————

After Gon won, turning the tables on Hanzo and getting everyone to laugh at his innocent determination, it was (Name)’s turn.

“The next fight is between #301 Gittarackur vs #406 (Name)!”

(Name) handed Kurapika his stitched up shirt, leaving her backpack with Leorio as she entered the ring, dagger in hand.

“(Name).”

She looked back to see Kurapika, the smile on his face not quite reaching his eyes. “… good luck.”

(Name) gave him a thumbs up before facing her opponent.

“Ready? Begin!”

She wasted no time, getting into a fighting stance as the(honestly kind of creepy)man stared at her from his corner of the ring.

“You got this (Name)! Beat his scary looking ass!” Leorio yelled out. Kurapika glanced between the two in the ring, his heart thumping against his chest.

Gittarackur seemed to observe her for a moment before walking forward calmly.

“If you give up now, I will not have to hurt you. I’d prefer to win quickly.”

(Name) faltered for a second, a look of confusion crossing over her face. “Why would I give up so quickly? I’m here for a r-“

He didn’t give her the chance to finish her sentence, he was already pinning her to the ground. His hand squeezed her throat as she clawed at them, Kurapika’s eyes flashing red.

“Ah, I can’t kill you, can I? Hmm…”

He pulled his hand back just before she was about to pass out, tapping her on the head with a bit too much force. “Come on, breathe in. Can’t have you dying on me.”

Kurapika felt a hand on his arm, his eyes darting to the left to see Leorio. “Kurapika, you’re moving forward.”

The blonde blinked before looking down to see he’d taken several steps forward before Leorio had stopped him. He hadn’t even noticed that his body had begun to move on his own.

“I know it’s hard to watch, but we can’t interfere. Not yet.”

Kurapika scoffed, but his eyes remained on (Name) softening slightly when he saw her take in big breaths of air. ‘Come on, (Name), you can’t beat him. Please, I don’t want to lose you…’

“I’ll say it again, now that you’ve gotten a taste of what’s to come. Give up, and you’ll leave without any permanent damage.”

Kurapika bit his lip, the metallic taste of blood filling his mouth as he watched (Name) struggle underneath Gittarackur.

“I’m… im not giving up… anytime soon.”

The man’s face didn’t change, he only moved his hand down her body slowly until his palm rested against her leg.

“Last chance.”

The two stared at each other, (Name) not saying a word. If Gon could could withstand Hanzos beating, there was no reason she couldn’t take this.

The sound of bones breaking filled the air, along with (Name)’s anguished scream. “(NAME)!”

Kurapika rushed forward, having to be physically restrained by Killua and Leorio. The two other boys were barely able to hold themselves back at the sight of (Name)’s pained expression. Tears were falling from Kurapika’s scarlet eyes, the blonde struggling against them.

“This could have been avoided, you know. I did warn you.”

He tapped his finger against the broken limb, humming to himself. Each tapped caused the girl to gasp out, holding a hand over her mouth to prevent herself from throwing up.

“Mmm… should we move on to the next leg? Or are you ready to go-“

(Name) used her unbroken leg to slam into the side of his face, rolling onto her stomach. She gritted her teeth as she struggled to her feet, wielding her dagger.

“(Name), just stop! Please!”

It was Killua this time, his cries surprising Leorio and Kurapika. The white haired boy clutched the fabric of his shirt as (Name) struggled in vain to get up.

“I didn’t think you had any fight left in you. Interesting.”

The kick had done little to no damage to Gittarackur’s face. The man crouched back down in front of the struggling girl. He pulled her up by her hair and looked into her hazy (e/c) eyes.

“I can’t kill you, and you won’t give up. How annoying, will I have to beat you into submission?”

He held her up easily, as if she were just a porcelain doll. “I won’t be giving up, so you’ll have to kill me.”

She lifted her hands to dig her nails into his skin, baring her teeth at him like a wild animal.

The man tilted his head before dropping her onto the floor. “Oh dear, I don’t think we will be meeting eye to eye. I guess I’ll just forfeit and try again.”

For good measure, he stepped on her broken leg as he left the ring, causing the girl to scream. Kurapika ran to her side, Leorio close behind. “(Name), you idiot, look at you…”

The tall man checked her pulse, sighing. Killua appeared next to her, crouching down to look at her leg.

She gave them a weak smile. “Still… won…”

She sat up quickly, and Leorio had to hold her hair back as she vomited. Kurapika watched on in anger and concern, gently patting her back.

Once she finished she passed out, a medical team then rushed over and placed her on a stretcher. Although Kurapika wanted to watch the next few fights, he didn’t want her to be alone.

He followed them into an infirmary, where (Name) was placed on a bed as they assessed her for damage.

“Broken leg, some bruising on her neck…”

Kurapika sat next to her, holding her hand as she slept. “(Name)…”

——————

Something warm enveloped her hand, something fuzzy tickling her cheek causing her eyes to blink open.

Kurapika was leaning against her shoulder, the sound of his steady breathing telling her he’d fallen asleep. His hand was in hers, and his pretty blonde hair grazed her cheek. ‘So that’s what that was…’

It was dark in the infirmary, and she spotted Leorio sleeping in an empty bed across from her. She wasn’t sure what time it was, or how long she’d been asleep, but judging by the sky, it had at least been half a day.

(Name) winced at the pain in her leg and neck, noticing that it had dulled enough to be tolerable. Judging by her sluggish reactions, they’d put her on some intense pain medication.

She placed a hand on Kurapika’s head, running it over his hair. ‘I wonder how long he’s been here.’

She felt a little guilty that he only had her shoulder to sleep on, so she tried her best to soothe him before falling back asleep. Her eyelids were way too heavy, her body much too tired to stay awake any longer.

When she awoke again, it was to the sound of her two friends talking.

“Yeah, I’ll go grab lunch in a minute.”

“Thank you, Leorio. I can’t leave h-“

They stopped when they heard her groan, eyes fluttering open to see Kurapika and Leorio staring.

“Pika? Leorio?”

She didn’t have time to think, Kurapika had moved foward, pulling her into his arms. “(Name)!”

She felt his cool hands on her back, rubbing it soothingly. “You’re awake!”

Leorio grinned, sitting on her bed. She nodded, hugging Kurapika back and squeezing her eyes shut. “Sorry for worrying you, Pika. I’m awake now.”

He pulled away, only to lie his head in her lap as he sat by her bed. She played with his hair as Leorio began to explain the events of the final phase.

“Killua… killua failed?”

Kurapika grumbled softly when her hands lifted from his head to place over her mouth. “And he killed someone?”

“I don’t think it was because he wanted to, that brother of his, the same man that broke your leg was actually Illumi. Killua’s brother, and the eldest son of the Zoldyck family.” Leorio said, clenching his fist.

She sighed, placing a hand back on Kurapika’s head, which seemed to satisfy him by the noise of contentment he made. “Yes, that sounds likely. I don’t Killua would kill anyone without a good reason.”

Leorio held onto her other hand, the girl tearing up. “And Gon? Is he okay?”

The tall man nodded frantically, quickly leaning forward to wipe away her tears. “He’s alright, he’s actually in one of the hotel rooms sleeping right now. They said his arm should heal pretty quick, considering how clean the break was. And apparently it will even heal back stronger.”

She sniffled, the wound causing Kurapika to look up. “What’s wrong?”

Her lip quivered as the blonde sat up, joining Leorio in wiping her tears away. “I… I…”

She began to sob, her hands covering her face. “I can’t believe… I can’t believe I passed…”

The two smile softly as she cried, both wrapping her up in a group hug.

———————

(Name) grumbled as she practiced walking with her crutches, Kurapika occasionally catching her when she slipped. “Careful, (Name).”

“I know it’s a lot to get get used to, but you’ll get it eventually.” Leorio said, bringing in their lunch.

Kurapika guided her to her bed, helping to lift her leg, now covered in cast onto the bed.

(Name) munched on her sandwich, a pout on her face.

“What are you pouting about, sunshine?”

Leorio placed his fruit cup on her plate, the girls face lighting up a little. “Well… it just sucks having to deal with a broken leg.”

Kurapika blinked, before handing her his fruit cup as well after seeing her face brighten up. She giggled.

And that was worth it for him.

“Yeah, I get what you mean. At least the exam is over. It would suck having to go through another phase with a broken leg, huh?”

The three laughed.

“Hey, has there been any news on Gon or Killua? It’s been nearly a day since I woke up…”

The two glanced at each other. “No news on Gon, but… Illumi said he ‘went home’.” Leorio grumbled after swallowing the rest of his lunch.

(Name) sighed, playing with her hair. “I see…”

“But there is some good news! We’re getting our hunters licenses today, after a quick briefing.”

She seemed to perk up a bit, beginning on her second fruit cup.

After lunch, the two escorted her to the meeting, each sitting on either side of the girl. Kurapika kept a watchful eye on Illumi, his grip tightening on (Name)’s hand when the dark haired assassin turned to look at her.

His gaze didn’t seem… right. Kurapika couldn’t quiet place it, but the way Illumi was looking at her made left deeply unsettled.

When Illumi looked away, Kurapika was able to give (Name) a smile as she gushed over her hunters license. “Pika, Pika look! It even has my name on it!”

She handed it to the blonde, who held it up to the light. “Yes, it does. You earned this, (Name). I’m proud of you.”

He handed it back before turning his attention back to Chairman Netero. As the chairman spoke, he felt (Name) lean against his shoulder, the blonde resting his head on top of hers.

Kurapika and Leorio had just brought up the fact that failing Killua was unfair when the door opened.

It was Gon, (Name) attempting to stand to talk to him but being pulled back into her seat by Kurapika.

The young boy spared her a glance, eyes softening when he saw her injury. Killua wasn’t the only one Illumi had hurt.

He continued until he was standing right in front of Illumi.

“Apologize. Apologize to Killua.”

“Apologize? For what?”

“You don’t even know what you did wrong?”

“No.”

“Then you’re not qualified to be his brother.”

“Hmm, are there qualifications to be someone’s brother?”

The boy lifted Illumi up by his arm, the sound of bones cracking filling the air. (Name) winced, her hand moving to her cast. Kurapika caught this, quickly covering her ears so she didn’t have to hear the awful sound.

(Name) closed her eyes, holding a hand over her mouth as she began to feel nauseous. Kurapika didn’t move his hands until Gon let go of the assassins arm.

“During the match against Gittarackur, or should I say Illumi, it became clear to us that Killua was not himself. I believe he was under the influence of hypnosis, therefore his actions were not his own. Typically, a person can’t be forced to kill, even under the deepest hypnosis. But to Killua, that wouldn’t be the case. Killing is normal to him, he thinks nothing of it.”

(Name) looked to her left as Leorio spoke up. “The situation gets complicated because it happened during my match with Bodoro. So I’m pretty sure some of you must be thinking he was trying to help me pass the exam. But then guess what? The one that disqualifies would be me, not Killua!”

The blonde nodded in agreement. “In any case, if he was under someone else’s influence, he shouldn’t be held responsible for his actions. Therefore, failing him would be unjustifiable.”

As the three continued to talk, (Name) looked down at Gon. He clenched his jaw, his grip on Illumi’s arm tightening again.

“There’s something else we should go over. I’m really curious to know what happened between you and Hisoka during the first round, what did he say to you? You both still had energy left to fight, and then he leaned in and whispered something in your ear. Next thing you know, he surrenders. Weird huh? If someone receives a threat, then it makes sense that they may admit defeat. That’s what happened between me and Hanzo. It’s also what happened between Bodoro and Hisoka. But in your situation, it’s exactly the opposite, which makes me think that you and Hisoka reached some kind of secret agreement. So I figure, if we’re going to sit here debating what is suspicious, then we should also start looking at the way you won your match. Therefore if you have nothing to hide, all you have to do is tell you what Hisoka said before he decided to forfeit the match.” Pokkle said, crossing his arms.

Kurapika frowned. “I don’t hav wto answer that.”

“I think we have a right to know!”

“I don’t. If you’re unhappy by the way I passed, then you must feel terrible about passing by default.”

(Name) gasped, lightly smacking Kurapika’s arm for his comment. He glanced at her, pouting slightly.

“WHAT DID YOU SAY!?”

Gon sighed. “There’s no point in arguing. We’ve all passed the exam, it doesn’t matter how or why. If you don’t feel like you deserve it, then it’s up to you to change that.”

(Name) smiled. ‘That’s right, Gon.’

“I know for a fact Killua can pass this exam if he tries again. It’s too bad he got disqualified this time around, but that’s okay.”

His grip tightened again, Illumi not reacting at all. “Illumi, you made your little brother into an assassin and you made him kill even though he didn’t want to! I’ll never forgive you for that!”

“You won’t forgive me, really? So, what will you do?” Illumi asked, tilting his head.

“I’ll do nothing to you, I’ll just make sure Killua has nothing to do with you or your family every again.”

The assassin reached out his arm, Gon jumping back.

Netero continued talking, (Name) getting up to follow after Gon once it was over. She stood next to him with Kurapika and Leorio as Illumi stared down at him.

“I want you to tell me where to find Killua!”

——————

(Name) let out a squeak when she was hugged from behind, Kurapika turning quickly at the sound.

“(Name)~ you should come to town with me! I’m going to get a dress for the party tonight!”

Menchi had her arms wrapped around (Name)’s waist, keeping her steady when her crutches fell. The blonde’s eyes narrowed at this.

“Into… town?”

She glanced at Kurapika and Leorio, who were standing close by in case they needed to catch her or interfere.

“Yeah! You coming? It’ll be just you and me!”

(Name) twiddled her thumbs. Menchi, a gorgeous woman was inviting her to go dress shopping with her. “Oh, I would but…”

She opened her wallet, the blue haired girl peeking over (Name)’s shoulder to look in. “I don’t have any money.”

Menchi laughed. “Money, oh (Name), don’t worry about that! I’ll buy you anything you want…”

Menchi pulled (Name) in closer by her hips, giggling when she squeaked again.

“Hey, she’s injured, be careful!”

Kurapika rushed forward, pulling (Name) into his chest. Menchi scowled at this, putting her hands on his hips.

‘Oh yeah, forgot about the twink guarding her.’

“Pika, it’s alright.”

Leorio picked up her crutches for her, handing them back as Kurapika held her steady. “Menchi, are you sure that would be okay? I’m sure it won’t be easy to find something inexpensive in my size…”

Kurapika raised an eyebrow at this. ‘In her size? Is it harder to find clothes in her size or something?’

He watched as Menchi grinned, not liking the way her eyes scanned down (Name)’s body. “Don’t worry about that, sweetheart. I hate shopping alone, so consider your dress a thank you for accompanying me.”

(Name) waved her hands. “No, no I couldn’t accept that! Going shopping with you would be no problem at all!”

Was… was Menchi blushing? Kurapika pulled (Name) a little closer.

“You sure are as sweet as you are stubborn, aren’t you? Tell you what, I’ll give you my number, and once you become an accomplished Hunter, you can pay me back with a favor.”

“Deal!”

Kurapika watched as they exchanged numbers, quickly pulling out his phone. “(Name), here’s my number. If anything happens while you’re in town, don’t hesitate to call me.”

“Oh, me too!”

She laughed as she typed both Leorio and Kurapika’s numbers into her phone.

“Alright, when are we leaving?” (Name) asked. Menchi smiled.

“Right now!”

The blondes eyes widened when Menchi picked up (Name) and ran away, carrying her bridal style.

For the two hours they were gone, all Kurapika did was pout. Leorio attempted to cheer him up by offering his fruit cup when they grabbed a snack, but Kurapika wasn’t want easy to cheer up as (Name) was.

The two sat in the hotel lobby, Leorio drinking coffee, and Kurapika sipping on some orange juice. The blonde would sigh every once in a while, glancing towards the door.

“You sighing and whining isn’t going to make her come back any sooner.” Leorio said, flipping through the pages of that days newspaper. Kurapika huffed.

“I’m not sighing.”

Leorio looked at him over his newspaper, raising and eyebrow. “Really? Then what is that noise your making every time you look at the door?”

Kurapika didn’t answer, going back to sipping on his drink. Another 15 minutes passed, Kurapika growing more irritated by the second.

“Pikaaa!”

Kurapika jumped out of his seat, turning in every direction until he spotted (Name).

He felt his heart begin to thump against his chest again. She was wearing a cute pair of shirt, jean overalls over a pastel tshirt. There was a pocket over her chest, a sunflower decorating it.

“(Name), you look… adorable.”

He looked her up and down, seeing she was wearing a pair of back leggings underneath her short overalls, along with a new pair of sneakers.

“Pika, I’m gonna blush. Menchi saw most of the clothes I brought were battered and torn, so she bought me a few things to tide me over until I…”

She paused, seemingly realizing something. ‘Wait, what am I going to do next?’

Leorio noticed this, stepping in. “(Name), you should get some rest. You seem tired.”

He began leading her towards the room her, Leorio, and Kurapika were staying in. The blonde followed behind them, carrying a container with a piece of chocolate cake which he’d saved it for (Name).

“Hey, I wanted to explore the hotel!” She said, stopping in front of him. Leorio raised an eyebrow.

“You can do that later. For now you sh-“

“GET BACK HERE, GITTARACKUR!”

Leorio and Kurapika ran to catch Gon before he attacked Illumi. (Name)’s eye twitched slightly before she began her journey to catch up with them. By the time she got there, Gon was already running away.

“Thats got to be the most stubborn kid that’s ever lived. Ahhh, I’m throwing in the bucket.” Leorio said with a sigh.

“I think you mean ‘throw in the towel’.” Kurapika corrected.

(Name) huffed as she reached the two, pouting. “Tell me I need to rest one second, go sprinting off the next.”

Leorio rubbed the back of his head sheepishly, the blonde putting a hand on her shoulder. “Sorry, (Name).”

“Never mind, let’s go.”

She began walking in the direction Gon had. “Go? Go where?”

She grinned. “Let’s go make sure Gon doesn’t get himself into any unnecessary trouble.”

They got there just in time to watch Gon fight against Illumi. Suddenly, the assassin stopped, (Name) walking forward after he explained where Killua was.

“Hey!”

The man stopped, turning back to look at her. Kurapika attempted to pull her back, but she pushed his arm away.

“I know Killua, he’s a really sweet boy, and I know he wouldn’t just kill someone without good reason.”

She squared up to the man, scowling up at him. Illumi peered down at her, dark eyes narrowing as they stared into hers. “A sweet boy, huh? That’s new.”

The girl pushed a finger into his chest, Kurapika and Leorio gasping. “I swear to god Illumi, if I find out you did something to him, I’m going to beat the shit out of you. Got me?”

He tilted his head, his eyes unblinking. “Really? I’ll hold you to it, then.”

He turned and began to walk away, waving. “See you then, (Name). I hope you’ll fair better than you did in the final exam.”

She huffed, flipping him off before turning to Gon. “Sweetheart, don’t ever do what I just did. That man is dangerous and isn’t scared to hurt a woman or child. You’ll steer clear of him, understood?”

He fidgeted with his shirt. “I’ll try.”

(Name) sighed, then ruffled his hair. “Good enough.”

After this, (Name) was escorted to their room before they left to search up some information on the internet.

———————

(Name) looked over herself in the mirror of Menchi’s room, sighing softly.

Menchi had been hellbent on helping her with her makeup and hair, which (Name) was hesitant to allow. She wanted to look pretty, especially because she wasn’t sure if this was the last night she’d get to spend with Kurapika, but didn’t know how good Menchi was with her hair type, which was (hair type).

She was good, almost too good.

(Name) looked again after she was finished, jaw dropped. She almost looked like a different person, almost.

Her hair was in a different style than usual, and makeup done expertly, suiting her face perfectly. The knee length forest green dress was gorgeous on her, Menchi placing a gold necklace around her neck to compliment it.

“You look stunning, hun. You ready to wow the pants off that cute blonde?”

(Name)’s face heated up, the girl stuttering. “I-I’m not-“

Menchi rolled her eyes. “Oh, anyone can see you like him. And from what I’ve seen, I think he likes you too.”

‘After all, even the referees assumed they were dating…’ Menchi thought as she had (Name) turn in a circle slowly to make sure her dress was even.

She escorted (Name) to the party, walking arm in arm with her.

“Great to see you all, please enjoy yourselves tonight, you’ve certainly earned it!”

Menchi left her side to sit with Buhara, (Name) feeling something collide with her back. “(Name)! Come take pictures with us!”

She looked down to see him lightly pulling on her dress, the other two waiting nearby.

When she made eye contact with Kurapika, she could of sworn there were hearts in his eyes by the way he was looking at her.

“(Name)…”

As she came closer, she could see his cheeks turn red, eyes half lidded when she stopped in front of him.

“Yes?”

It’s like time froze around the two when they made stared into each others eyes. He lifted a hand to cup her cheek, and for a second, she thought he might kiss her.

“You’re gorgeous.”

She blushed, but the moment was interrupted. “Come on, it’s time to take a picture!”

The two were dragged away by Gon, who had them all stand together as someone took their picture.

Right before they took it, (Name) pulled Kurapika towards her and kissed his cheek right as the camera flashed.

The blonde stuttered as she took a copy of the picture, face red as a tomato. “(N-Name), you-“

She smiled at him, handing him his own copy. “I have you a little kiss. Did you dislike it?”

He shook his head quickly, almost too quickly. She giggled, licking her thumb and wiping his cheek. “Sorry, hun. I’m wearing lipstick.”

His heart beat against his ribs painfully as she wiped the lipstick mark away, almost pouting. Kurapika wouldn’t have minded having her mark on him, and was a little disappointed she was wiping it away.

“Ahh, im so happy I got a picture with you all! Though, it would be better with Killua…”

Both her and Gon sighed, before she sighed. “Gon, are you going to bring back Killua alone?”

He nodded, looking down. (Name) ruffled his hair, the boy looking up to see her grinning. “Not anymore, im coming with you.”

“Really?” Gon exclaimed, beaming up at her.

“(Name)!” Both Kuraoika and Leorio yelled.

“You can’t be serious. You know it’s dangerous right? Even if your leg wasn’t broken, which it is, going would be a suicide mission.”

(Name) brushed of Kurapika’s words. “I can’t let Gon go alone, he’s twelve! After all, he’ll need someone to cook for him.”

She pinched the boys cheek, but he didn’t mind, he was too happy he got to spend a little more time with her.

Kurapika and Leorio on the other hand, seemed worried.

“You’re kidding me. You mean the four of you are finally going your separate ways?” Pokkle asked, raising an eyebrow at Leorio and Kurapika. They sat together while Gon and (Name) wandered around.

“I’m going back to med school. I want to become a doctor, and now that I’ve got my hunters license, I won’t have to pay the tuition fees.” Leorio answered.

“What about you?”

“I’m going to find a job where I can gain some experience, and work my way up to becoming a blacklist hunter.” Kurapika said, smoothing out his tabard.

“Then I guess this might be the last time you four ever see each other.”

The two looked to Gon and (Name), who were chatting on the balcony. Kurapika felt physically I’ll at the thought of never seeing her again, clutching his tabard tightly.

When Pokkle and Kurapika were left alone, the brown haired man sighed. “You know, (Name) is pretty smitten with you, according to Ponzu.”

This wasn’t the first time he’d heard of (Name) having feelings for him, but it was the first time it had been from someone other than Leorio.

“…”

Ponzu stood, walking past him. “She’s got a lot of people that care about her, so it would be in your best interest to treat her kindly.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.”

Kurapika looked up when he heard the click of (Name)’s crutches. “Pika, Leorio’s being chased by Menchi again!”

The blonde snickered. “Oh this I’ve got to see.”

—————

“Okay then. Once you step out of those doors, you’ll no longer be considered applicants, you’ll be hunters. You’ll be our friends as well as our rivals. I wish you luck, and hope that our paths will cross again. That’s all, and now you’re dismissed.”

(Name) exchanged numbers with Pokkle, who also gave her Ponzus number. “If you need anything, just send me or Ponzu a text.”

“Same with me, if either of you need help I’ll be on my way!”

She gave him a hug, Pokkle returning it this time. Kuraoika allowed this with the knowledge Pokkle wasn’t single, but did stare at him.

She ignored Hanzo trying to give her his number, the ninja stuffing his business card into her bag. “Just take it.. damn tease..”

“What was that?”

The ninja was already running off.

(Name) shrugged before joining Gon as they walked towards their destination.

“I guess this is it, huh? We don’t wanna miss our flight, so we’re gonna go now.”

(Name) smiled, giving the two one last hug. “Truly, meeting you all has made my life that much brighter. I hope you two are able to find happiness, in whatever way you need.”

Gon turned back before they left. “Thanks for everything, you guys! I’m really happy that I met both of you!”

(Name) squeaked when the boy dragged her away, having to keep hold of her crutches so she wouldn’t fall.

Before they could get too far, they heard Kurapika and Leorio call after them.

“Gon, (Name), wait for us!”

They pulled the two into their arms, the four laughing as they hugged each other.

“I guess we’re destined to be together.” Kurapika said, sitting next to (Name).

“Yeah, Gon, (Name), I’ll stick with you to Padokea and beyond.” Leorio agreed, crossing his legs.

She giggled, holding her bag to her chest.

‘I’m so happy to be alive.’

114 notes · View notes

thehollowwriter · 2 months

Text

The Official Bio of Nkululeko Adrade

Basic Info:

Name: Nkululeko (En-koo-loo-lee-ko) Adrade

Nicknames: None yet, but some just call him Adrade or Nkulu for short

Homeland: Afterglow Savanna

Species: Sally Lightfoot Crab beastman

Birthday: 18th April

Age: 16

Height: 197cm

Dominant hand: Left

Class: 1-B

Dorm: Heartslabyul

Best subject: Conjugation

Club: Track and Field (He's very good at longjump)

Unique magic: TBA (He hasn't got his yet)

Family:

•Unnamed parent

•Unnamed siblings

•Unnamed cousins

Preferences:

Hobbies: Crafting/making things

Likes: Looking after the hedgehogs, the beach, flowers, drawing

Dislikes: Troublemakers, the cold, people who act fake

Favourite food: Nori wraps

Least favourite food: Octopus

Appearance:

Nkulu has long, waist length hair that is orange and red at the top and slowly shifts to light blue, like this:

However, unlike the picture, he has braids similar to this:

He often ties his hair in a pontail. However, he also loves to try out different hairstyles as much as he can. He has dark red eyes. His lower half is that of a Sally Lightfoot Crabs (which are aa brazilian crab!), and it is blue, black, gold, and red! Like this:

It makes him look extremely big and intimating even though he isn't. He's black (for the Americans/non-South Africans, I don't mean "not white" I mean black), tall, and very fit. He doesn't have pincers, but he does have claws.

Personality:

Nkulu is actually a very chill person. You could almost call him the stoner/surfer dude type. He gets excellent grades and is extremely dedicated to whatever he decides to do. He's honest to a fault, almost too honest, but will happily trip someone up if it benefits him. He's warm and easily excitable and always ready to try and learn new things. He's a bit of a jokester as well.

Some Fun Facts/Extra Info

•Nkululeko means "freedom" in Xhosa

•Nkulu is South African (whatever twst's equivalent is??) and one parent is Xhosa, and the other is Brazilian

•He thinks Riddle is great, especially post-OB Riddle

•He's trying to figure out his sexuality

•He's friends with Jack and Epel

•He heard Floyd call Yuu Shrimpy and told Yu with a completely straight face that he, as a crab, will have to eat them because that is the way of life. He then burst out laughing at their horrified face.

•He is extremely strong

...........................................

A/N: My other oc! Not a mer this time! I am not black, however I am South African and I thought it would be neat to have a South African oc besides Quinn ^^

Tagging: @distant-velleity @cyanide-latte @ramshacklerumble @kitwasnothere @the-banana-0verlord @officialdaydreamer00 @theleechyskrunkly @elenauaurs @jovieinramshackle @boopshoops @oya-oya-okay @whspermy-name @cynthinesia @elysia-nsimp @br3adtoasty @quartztwst

@the-trinket-witch @ghostiidasponk

#nkululeko adrade #riddle rosehearts #heartslabyul #floyd leech #octavinelle #yuu #twisted wonderland #twst oc

47 notes · View notes

cienie-isengardu · 5 months

Note

There is visual storytelling with Bi-Han's frustration with Liu Kang, but story mode does nothing to validate his frustrations at all, making said frustration seem unjustified, and that he's in the wrong for feeling this way, as he's the only Lin Kuei who actually is frustrated. Not everyone saw his frustration, so is the visual storytelling intentional, or coincidental? It's ironic, as Mortal Kombat is not known for its subtlety at all.

In advance, forgive me for starting with introduction-digression about Mortal Kombat 1’s storytelling - I promise it has a point related to Bi-Han.

Mortal Kombat 1’s main purpose is to set the ground for future storytelling so understandably, we can’t expect this game to spell out every detail to us at once right away. We, as freshly introduced guests to Liu Kang’s timeline, take a lot at face value about characters and setting because we simply don’t have enough knowledge about them yet. However I wouldn’t say MK1 lacks subtlety or it didn’t show us a pretty nuanced world already. The best example is the Edenia admired and praised by Liu Kang, as a beautiful, knowledgeable and wealthy place

and indeed the first impression fits well what Fire Lord told his champions. Yet under the gorgeous facade lurks the much darker, uglier side of Edenia - and by extension, of Royal Family.

When the wonderful and joyful parade was disrupted,

the scene following was there to explain the conflict between Li Mei and the Royal Family, however the visual side of story foreshadows what Baraka’s chapter will reveal - the sick people are treated like unwanted trash. Here alone, they aren’t peacefully led outside the city, they are bound like criminals - both (potentially) sick and those who refused to hand them over to the authorities for "quarantine" (a word used by Li Mei, but as next chapters will shown, the quarantine means banishment and dying slowly in miserable conditions). This one chapter alone gives us two sources about Edenia - Liu Kang’s words and the background details which frankly paint two different pictures. Liu Kang noted how Sindel spared no money for the festival and Tournament (Mileena added it is to honor the memory of Sindel’s late husband and her father)

and how he does not judge the Queen, only admire

- but apparently the Queen cared more for Festival/Tournament and to make Edenia look as a great nation than she cared for her sick subjects who for years were dying in poverty, excluded and persecuted by edenian society. She even blamed Mileena for getting sick and said that to her face. Sindel also accepts Umgadi system that literally forces edenian families to give up their first daughters for training (indoctrination), so the ruling Family have a loyal Palace Guard to uphold their safety - and power - and Liu Kang, like most of characters, admired those warriors showing no criticism toward such practices that strips born-free citizens from their freedom, family, even from right to fall in love. All in the service of Edenia’s monarchy.

My point is, what we are told about Sindel - the beloved good Queen - and what we are shown by details happening in background or brought by tie-in materials (character BIOs, intro dialogues) are not mutually exclusive, but those for sure highlight the contradictory and flawed image the new Mortal Kombat saga introduced in its first installment . However the main criticism toward Sindel is not focused at presented by story flaws and errors, only at her relationship with Liu Kang and Earthrealm and comes from General Shao and his allies. Considering who he is, it is easy to side with Sindel yet we can’t say the game didn’t laid some solid ground for a very serious criticism, both for Sindel, the ruling Family and Liu Kang who always spoke highly about the Queen, King and Princesses.

Now, let’s talk about Bi-Han.

On one hand, intro dialogues and story mode itself are too consistent and repetitive about Bi-Han’s firm take on freedom & enslavement to think it is coincidence, especially for a character so sidelined as Sub-Zero was. Clearly, someone made a deliberate choice to emphasize those two values in regard to motives behind Bi-Han’s action, even if the official BIO itself appointed POWER as his main theme.

On another hand, there is no doubt that the game was not intended to focus on Sub-Zero’s frustrations nor examine its roots in any great detail, at least not at this early stage of introducing a new timeline. It doesn’t help that Bi-Han was seen in two first chapters, one his own (ch. 8) and in following Scorpion’s (ch.9) to disappear from the story for good and returning as the Champion/Titan Sub-Zero only as an alternative choice of player.

However! Even with such limited focus, the game in my opinion laid enough ground, both as what we are told and what we are shown by story mode alone, to get the feeling Bi-Han’s frustration didn’t come out of nowhere. Could it be handled better? Of course! But I must disagree with the opinion that visual storytelling didn’t do its work. It may not hit fans straight in the face with all its nuances, yet there is a clear difference in how Lin Kuei characters are treated by Fire Lord in contrast to other Liu Kang’s Champions and friends.

And this is not just about Bi-Han, but also about the treatment of Kuai Liang and Tomas.

For one, the story always presented Lin Kuei doing Liu Kang’s bidding - be it testing the new Champions or eliminating a threat (black op mission). We do not see Fire Lord interacting with them outside of Lin Kuei servitude, while he clearly spent time with Johnny, Kenshi, Raiden and Kung Lao outside of their main (game) purpose. This is especially visible at the end of the story, when all of them dinner together at Madam Bo’s, clearly celebrating their success. Bi-Han’s lack of presence is understandable, yet Kuai Liang and Tomas? All we are told about Scorpion is that he was tasked with making a new clan to replace the rebellious Lin Kuei (thus he is doing another bidding of Fire Lord while Champions are allowed to take a break and enjoy time with friends)

while Smoke is completely omitted - even though the man fulfilled his duty to Earthrealm as any other Liu Kang’s Champion did and now helps to build Shirai Ryu clan.

Frankly, not acknowledging Lin Kuei in itself contrasts a lot with how Liu Kang interacted with his Outworld friends and Champions. Bi-Han has never been addressed as Grandmaster of Lin Kuei (nor by his codename?), even during introductions to Kung Lao, Raiden, Kenshi and Johnny. Meanwhile, the edenian Royal Family’s titles are always respected. Jerrod is called outright a friend and so is Geras - yet not once in story mode Liu Kang expressed regret over the premature death of Bi-Han, Tomas and Kuai Liang’s father. Smoke actually was omitted all the time by Liu Kang and visually/story-wise speaking, Liu Kang alienated Tomas more than Bi-Han did in the few scenes the brothers shared together.

Even the recruitment of new Champions is questionable. Liu Kang took Bi-Han - a Grandmaster who had his own duties to a whole clan - on a trip to test the new fighters. Since Bi-Han and his men weren’t fighting to the fullest of their strength, what was the point of dragging Sub-Zero in the first place instead of just picking fighters more closely in level to Kung Lao, Raiden, Kenshi and Johnny? Was Bi-Han’s presence there truly necessary, when already two other sons of the late Grandmaster took part in the test too? All done just to lose so the precious Champions could brag about their victory? That alone must be frustrating if we remember that members of the Lin Kuei weren’t trained to fight the “honorable kombat match”, as in one on one, but to kill the enemy as fast as possible - as chapter 8 and 9 clearly showed.

Sure, the story mode - be it the words taken at face value or visual storytelling alone - didn’t go out of its way to hit us in the face about Bi-Han’s frustration yet there is a clear contrast in how Liu Kang treats his Lin Kuei subordinates and how he interacts with people he openly admires and likes. There are plenty of nuances laid out for people who will bother to look for those hints and compare them to the rest of presented material.

Also, a thing worth to remember: just because Kuai Liang and Tomas are content with their life and duties, it does not mean Bi-Han shouldn’t be frustrated by things the way they are. Just because he is not trying to be sympathetic, doesn’t mean his feeling of injustice is invalid or that his points have no merit whatsoever.

I may be disappointed with the creators' choices, but I can't say that MK1 is devoid of nuances and interesting contradictions. All comes down to fans and their personal perception of what the story tells us through characters and what shows to actually happening.

#mortal kombat #my replies #bi han #sub zero #kuai liang #tomas vrbada #sindel #liu kang #sorry for the rant about sindel but she is a good example how fans will omit character's errors if said characters is praised and admired #even if story clearly shows said character's flaws #while those who don't bother to play nice like bi han will be looked down even if story hints there is more about his frustration than #hurt (male) ego or whatever #liu kang doesn't treat lin kuei as his friends but as his servants / people for the dirty work #and bi han has a right to be angry about that

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hanjisungs-bigtittyg0thgf · 5 months

Text

Muse

music major!bang chan x art major!reader

Trigger warnings: none

Content warnings: your teeth might fall out over how sweet it is??? that's literally it. it's all fluff lmao

Summary: after what you believe is a chance meeting, chan becomes your muse.

Word count: 3237

Author's note: omg hiiiii babes it's been a minuteeee. this is kinda short but it was the first thing i wrote after finally working through some stuff. shoutout to @hopelessromantic5933 for requesting this, sorry for making you wait almost two years 🥲 anyways, i hope you all enjoy it! don't forget to check out my other work ❤ and don't hesitate to send in asks! also redoing my tag list so comment or dm to be added! much loveeeeee

Tags: @bahng-chrizz

content after the cut

You let out a soft sigh as you grabbed your bag and stood from your desk. You were contemplating changing your major as you made your way out of the classroom, digging through your bag to find your phone. You loved learning new concepts and trying new things but the technique you were learning this week was one you’d never appreciated. You didn’t hate it per se, but you definitely avoided that style. It just didn’t speak to you.

You finally found your phone and began scrolling through your notifications as you made your way towards your favorite food truck. You made a confused face when you saw an Instagram notification from right after your class started. You clicked on it and were greeted with a page full of photos that screamed music major. “Who the fuck is this?” You didn’t bother to go through his pictures, choosing instead to scan his bio for any indication that you knew him. All you came up with was that you attended the same university and shared some mutual friends. He was cute from what you could see so you shrugged and approved the follow request, pocketing your phone as you reached your destination.

You placed your order and stepped to the side, turning to survey the quad. It was a beautiful day and everyone seemed to be taking advantage of it. Maybe inspiration would strike if you sat and people-watched for a bit.

You heard your name a few minutes later and gave a polite smile as you took your food, then scurried off towards your favorite tree. Campus staff had placed a massive wooden lawn chair and some fairy lights under that tree and it always felt so cozy. Plus, you had the best vantage point from there. You could almost see the entire quad from that one spot and you often found yourself sketching study groups there. Today would be slightly different since you were trying something new, but you found a sense of comfort as you settled into the chair and happily munched on your lunch.

As soon as you’d finished eating, you grabbed your sketch pad and pencil and allowed your gaze to sweep across the open field. It was teeming with life so all you had to do was choose someone and start sketching. You shook your head and chose a stationary subject first, needing to build up the courage to locate someone you’d consider asking to model for you.

Your eyes settled on a petite young woman who was seated a few yards away, sipping on coffee with her nose in a book. She almost seemed out of place here given how regal she appeared. Her posture was perfect, shoulders squared and back straight, and her hair fell over her shoulders in romantic waves. She was a picturesque beauty.

You began drawing, allowing your pencil to glide along the paper and create a version of the woman that you felt did her justice. It was far from perfect but you were certain no artist could truly capture her beauty so you gave yourself some grace. You were adding more detail when she began to pack up her things. You let out a soft sigh, knowing you’d likely never see the goddess again and this was as far as you’d get with this sketch. You flipped the page and decided to take a different approach as you spotted two men throwing a frisbee. Both were attractive, though one had a more athletic build.

You focused on the athletic one and took mental notes on the way his body moved as you began to draw him. First, you sketched out the general shape of his body as he twisted in preparation to throw the disk, then you began to add more details. You focused on the way his clothing fell and the way the midday sunlight bounced off his caramel brown hair, getting a strange sense of familiarity as you scrawled notes in the margins on the colors you’d incorporate when you got the chance.

You watched him closely as you tried to find another position to sketch him in, perking up instantly when you caught him with his arm outstretched, the frisbee leaving his hand. He was smiling brightly, displaying the most adorable dimples, and your heart sped up for a moment. You quickly began to sketch, memorizing as much detail as possible before he moved too much.

You gulped but drew even more frantically when he lifted his shirt to wipe the beads of sweat rolling down his face, revealing a six pack and prominent v-line. His proportions were perfect and if you weren’t so flustered by how attractive he was, you’d ask him to model for you. He was exactly what you needed for this project.

That strange familiarity came creeping back in as you drew but it was only when you made brief eye contact that you recognized him. He was the owner of the mystery account who’d requested to follow you less than an hour ago. You frantically looked away and continued drawing, praying he wouldn’t have anything to say when he undoubtedly recognized you from your photos.

You thought you were in the clear when he didn’t approach you after about five minutes but just when the thought crossed your mind, your luck ran out and the frisbee came flying at your head. You ducked your head quickly and listened as the disk crashed into the tree behind you.

“Felix, your arm fuckin’ sucks, bro!” Your breath caught in your throat when your unwitting model’s Australian accent reached your ears as he jogged towards you.

“Oh my god, I’m so sorry!” Called the man who’d lobbed the plastic at your head - Felix, as you’d gleaned from hearing the athletic man mocking him. He looked panicked, hands covering his mouth as he watched from where he was frozen in place. He was just as pretty and you certainly wouldn’t mind him modeling for you sometime. He had a wholesome, warm appearance.

“Sorry about him, he’s usually not such a klutz.” Your mystery man flashed a smile as he rounded your chair, taking a glance at your work as he reached down behind you.

“Ah- no, it’s not a problem. I wasn’t paying much attention.” You offered up a shy smile before looking back down to your paper. You didn’t notice him studying your pad as he retrieved the disk so you were startled when he attempted conversation as he righted himself.

“You sure about that?” He chuckled softly as he leaned over your shoulder to get a closer look and you froze. “Looks like you were paying plenty of attention.” He teased as he studied your art. Who was he and why was he so comfortable? Your heart was thumping and you wanted to vanish. “You an art major?” He asked as he stood straight once more and came around the chair to properly look at you. He was still closer to you than a stranger should be but at least you could breathe again.

Your cheeks were flaming red at being caught and you simply nodded as you began to gather your things in a rush. “I am. Sorry, this is probably really weird for you. I should-”

“What? No! This is really flattering. I don’t know a whole lot about art but you did an amazing job. Can I take a look at some of your other stuff sometime?” You froze once more but his blinding smile won against your nerves and you found yourself nodding. “Great! Can I get your number to get in touch? Or is Instagram better?”

“Ah, so you recognized me…” You let out a single huff of air that somewhat resembled a laugh as you closed your book.

“Of course I did. It’s not often I come across such a beautiful woman.” His dimples appeared once more as your cheeks went pink and your jaw dropped slightly, a smile slowly taking over your face. “Here.” He handed you his phone and you took it slowly, trying to collect yourself and remember how to use your thumbs to type your number out. When you passed it back, his fingers ghosted over yours and you retreated quickly as his smile faded into something far more flirtatious. “Thanks, I’ll text you. I’m Chan, by the way.”

“Y/n…” You murmured, enraptured by the man before you. You were dumbfounded at the way he spoke so comfortably and seemed to take an interest in you. This man was Adonis and was looking at you with an unbelievable level of interest.

“Pleased to meet you, y/n.” He began to back away as he pocketed his phone, his carefully crafted confident facade beginning to crumble, revealing a giddy young man who was thrilled to have gotten a girl’s number so easily. “I’ll let you get back to it. But do try and get my left side. That’s my good side.” He winked and you involuntarily rolled your eyes as a smile finally appeared on your lips as he made his way back to his friend with a triumphant grin.

————————————————

Your phone buzzed just after 6pm that night and you froze at the unfamiliar number.

Hi pretty 👋🏻 it’s Chan. How are you?

You quickly saved his number before responding.

hiii i’m good how are you

Much better now that I’m talking to you 😉

You were at a loss for words but he quickly sent another message.

I’d be even better if I could take you to get coffee in the near future. Are you free next weekend? Say Saturday at 11am?

You felt a jolt of anxiety shock your body but shook it off. You’d never grow as a person if you continued to shrink away from people who wanted to get to know you. Plus, he was cute. Which is why we’re anxious, dumbass. This isn’t about human connection, this is about a beautiful man flirting with you. You shook your head and typed out a response.

i think i can manage that 😆

Perfect! I’m thrilled to see you and your amazing work. 😌

————————————————

The coffee date had gone smoothly, with Chan gushing about your work and lighting up like a neon sign when you asked him to model for you. He’d been so flattered and excited that you’d asked and had immediately set up a time for you to draw him. After you’d gotten home, you texted him with more details, including where to meet and what he should wear.

Now, he was standing in your living room and you were circling him with one arm crossed over your middle while you drummed your fingers of the opposite hand against your chin. He was fighting the urge to shift around under your scrutiny and let out a tiny sigh of relief when you stopped in front of him with a smile. “I think I have an idea.”

“Have your way with me.” He grinned, ears going red when you stared at him somewhat surprised by his words. “Uh- I just- h-how do you want me to pose? That’s what I meant…”

You laughed at his flush and shook your head. “Don’t make it weird.” You warned playfully as you pushed him towards your bedroom. You had a daybed with warm-toned sheets and pillows and knew instantly that it was the perfect backdrop. “Come on, I know what I’m gonna do with you.” He seemed to grow more flustered as he processed where you were guiding him and you almost laughed again.

Over the last few weeks, you’d grown quite comfortable with him but he seemed a little less outspoken. He was still very flirtatious but in a more genuine, careful way. He didn’t come on as strong as he did at first. While getting to know each other, you’d come to realize he was a kind man with a lot of love to give the world and a strong sense of self, not just your typical college kid. Most of your late night conversations were deep, thought-provoking, emotional discussions about life where you could see his soul was just as beautiful as his exterior. So while he certainly had his moments of being just some guy, he saved his perverted humor for his friends and kept most things with you pretty PG and entirely sincere.

When you reached your room, you nudged him towards the bed and turned to set up your easel. “Take off your shirt and socks and get on the bed.” He hesitated at first and was on the verge of sputtering some shy response when you turned back with your bottom lip poking out. “Oh come onnnn.” You whined cutely, further exaggerating your pout. “It’s for class.” Your pout was quickly replaced with a little grin as you grabbed your canvas and placed it on the easel. “Plus, it’s not like I haven’t already seen your body before.”

“Right.” He cleared his throat and began to unbutton his shirt. You watched him in your peripheral vision as you continued to set everything up and had an idea.

“Actually, hold on.” You stopped him as he began to slide the linen off his muscular shoulders and he slowly put it back in place. “Just leave it open like that, that’s perfect.” You smiled as your vision fully came to you. “Socks off and get in the middle of the bed.”

He followed your instructions while watching you scurry off to your en suite bathroom to fill a cup with water. When you returned, he was sitting almost awkwardly in the center of your bed and you chuckled softly. You approached him wordlessly and knelt beside him to arrange your pillows so they were nestled in the right corner. You gestured for him to recline and stood back once he was slumped. He wasn’t lying down, he was simply sprawled across your mattress at an angle.

“Okay, bring your right knee up and sort of prop on your left elbow.” You watched as he complied and scrutinized his positioning for a moment before crawling back onto the bed. “I’m gonna make some adjustments.”

You noticed his flush creeping down his neck as you adjusted his open shirt how you wanted it to lay. “Put your hand like this.” You instructed as you demonstrated how you wanted his hand to rest across his bare torso and he complied. “And relax your left leg a bit. I want you to almost lay like Adam in Creation of Adam.”

“I think I get where you’re going with this.” He nodded, a tiny grin settling on his lips. You lifted a brow as you waited for his guess and instantly rolled your eyes when he spoke again. “You’re trying to tell me I’m a classic beauty.”

“Yes, but no.” You laughed softly as you shook your head. “Look over there.” You pointed to where you’d be sitting and made some final adjustments to his shirt as he followed your instructions. You noticed him forcing his breathing to remain steady and his flush reaching his chest as your fingers accidentally brushed against the waistband of his cream colored linen pants.

You didn’t allow yourself to worry over how you’d just touched him or to get flustered at the effect your proximity was having on him and pushed ahead, reaching to fix his hair. You adjusted a single curl and brushed a few strands away from his eyes before your gazes met and you lost the battle to remain calm. Your cheeks went a soft pink as he smiled up at you. “Hi.”

“Hi.” You whispered back, smiling back at him and allowing your fingertips to trail down the side of his face. Seeing him this close made you even more certain of your decision to cast him as your model. His skin was flawless and his bone structure was heavenly. He truly was a god among men. And his lips…

“You’re staring.” He whispered, his smile slipping away as he noticed the way your eyes locked on his full lips.

“I’m not…” You refuted his claim but still couldn’t look away.

“You are.” His face grew redder and you thought he might kiss you but he didn’t dare move after you’d finally gotten him perfectly positioned. It was almost maddening.

“I’m not.” You finally looked towards his eyes and found him staring at your lips as well. “You are.”

“Can’t help it. You have pretty lips.” He slowly met your gaze and something in you snapped. You’d been wanting him to kiss you for a couple weeks and he hadn’t so you took matters into your own hands.

When your lips met his, he hesitated. Not because he wasn’t interested, but because he was surprised that you’d initiated it. You’d given him the impression that you wanted him to take the lead and he wanted to be careful with you so he hadn’t dared to do more than hold your hand. But now your lips were on his and he was in the clouds.

He slowly brought his hand up to cup your face without disturbing the careful placement of his shirt and allowed his lips to move against yours. Your heart was racing at how slow and sweet the moment was. It felt like the stars had aligned and you found yourself smiling against his lips. “I’ve wanted to do that for a little while now.” You whispered and began to pull back.

“Me too. I’ve been trying to take it slow with you though. Didn’t wanna move too fast and risk scaring you off.” He explained quietly, not really letting you move as his hand slipped to the back of your neck. “So come back here, we’ve got a couple weeks of lost time to make up for.” He teased as he chased your lips.

“You did the exact opposite. You were driving me mad wondering what exactly was happening between us.” You laughed softly before allowing him to kiss you again. His lips felt perfect against yours and you knew instantly that you’d quickly become addicted.

It couldn’t have been more than three minutes of sharing chaste kisses but it felt much longer and you frowned a bit when you finally came up for air. “Unfortunately, I’ve got to get to work now or you’ll be stuck waiting here until late into the night.”

“I could wait an eternity for you, babe.” He winked before immediately cringing. You couldn’t help but laugh loudly at the face he pulled and he took a moment to admire your joyful expression before shaking his head. “That was so cheesy, I’m sorry.” He chuckled and settled back into his previous position. “Work your magic.”

“For the record,” you started as you stood and studied him once more. “I love little pet names like that.” You hummed, making your way to your canvas. “So I’d really like it if you continued to use them.”

“Of course, baby girl. But don’t be surprised if I rarely use your real name then.” He grinned and relaxed his hand, allowing his fingers to splay out against his stomach.

“I’ll hold you to that. Now give me an emotionally tortured smolder.” You smiled to yourself at his soft laugh and began to sketch out the god of a man lounging on your bed.

#kpop fic #stray kids #stray kids fic #stray kids fluff #stray kids bang chan #bang chan fluff #bang chan fic #bang chan x reader #alura's works #send help i'm feeling

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