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i-am-beckyu · 1 year

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My Monster to Slay

WOOOOOOO! I DID IT! 8K+ WORDS! Here it is! My 100 follower fic special! Thank you all for 100 followers on my blog! I love you all so much and can’t believe we actually hit such a big milestone! You guys all mean so much to me and I love that you guys like what I create! So without further a do, enjoy! cw: abandonment, child abuse, minor gore scene but no one dies (just a rando animal), fear, fear of death, panic and anxiety, fluff, hurt/comfort, and happy endings (you know me ❤️) word count: 8856

Disclaimer! This story is based on the characters of the Dream SMP and not the real life content creators. Anything that occurs in this story is purely fiction and should be treated as such. Thank you.

It was common knowledge that no one was to enter the Forest on the West end gate of the Village. Those who went in, never came out. What was beyond the shadowy cover of thick foliage was unknown, and those who dared enter were considered dead. So of course Tommy took an instant interest, when it was sung by a bard at the Winter Festival.

Within the forest of the dark twisted wood, A place no one can go, or ever should.

Lies a creature of mischief, filled with dire deceit, Who wanders the woods, hunting to eat.

To the people who enter, full of pride and valour, Though they see themself brave, will all hide and cower.

For the creature that lurks knows your presence is near. It finds all who venture, through the smell of their fear.

And as it speaks, hot breathe spilling from their chin, You know you’ve lost from its treacherous grin.

So listen to my tale, I tell all to thee Leave the forest alone, let what’s within just be.

For all who enter have never come out. Each one a strike, in the beast's victim count.

Well if one song could scream ‘danger’ it was this one, and danger was Tommy’s middle name! The boy at 12 years old knew an adventure when he saw one! A strange unknown setting shrouded in mystery with a potential target to slay? Oh what a perfect opportunity to prove himself to the people of the village if he could bring back the head of whatever lived within the Forest. He’s seen many hunters bring back the heads of deadly creatures from beyond the village walls, and be praised for their services and bravery in protecting the village. But to bring back the head of a menacing monster, preventing the village from expanding their assets to the forest would surely result in an entire parade to celebrate his conquest!

The young boy had eagerly gathered his satchel and a wooden sword before rushing to the West end gate. He would prove his worth, he would!!! For no one is greater than the one and only Tommy Danger Kraken Innit! But of course a quest for glory was not one so simple. The West end gate to the Forest was sealed off and had been un-open nor used for a long time. Heavy reinforced iron gates were chained and locked at their operating point, to prevent anyone from venturing out, or anything from getting in. But would this stop the great Tommyinnit? NO! Using all his might, he tried to break the chains, pouring all this strength into breaking the chains with his wooden sword. But after the 13th or 14th try, he decided to spare the chain and look for an alternative exit.

“You win this battle chain…” the young boy had muttered, as he began to search the surrounding walls.

One benefit of the West end gate being so unused was that the walls weren’t attended to or maintained as well as other sections. So it wasn’t long before Tommy had found a gap just big enough for him to squeeze through and onto the otherside. Before him lay the Forest, the tree cover casting an eerie dark shadow. A last chance effort to keep intruders away. Repositioning his satchel, Tommy took a deep breath in and marched forward into the forest's depths, ignoring how his heart pounded as he began to journey deeper into the heart of the Forest. He would find the Beast, and he’d kill it.

After walking for a while, the thick foliage began to even out and soon light was pouring through the treetops, giving its surrounding a soft, almost magical glow. Seeing this himself, Tommy’s heart slowed as he relaxed and found himself enjoying his new found surroundings. What a wonderful place this would be for the villagers to explore when he returned a hero! When he found a wide enough open clearing, only then did he stop. He’d heard hunters say the best place to find creatures or monsters to battle would be to lure them out into a big open space, and create a false sense of security of having their foe in the open, all the while preparing a surprise attack themselves. When he felt he was ready, Tommy raised his hands to cup around his mouth before shouting:

“HEY! BIG UGLY MONSTER!!! HERE I AM! COME FIGHT ME!!!”

He waited a moment, listening intently for the inevitable sound of the monster approaching, but was met with silence. Well that’s okay. They’re probably doing Monster things and are busy. Tommy could wait. He’d be patient if it meant he’d get to make the village proud.

But as the minutes ticked by, Tommy’s calls were all but left unanswered. He didn’t understand. What could a monster possibly be doing that was more important than battling him?

“HELLOOOO! MONSTER?? I’M WAITING FOR YOU TO COME FIGHT ME!” He called again.

Suddenly a crack sounded from behind him, and Tommy whirled around to face the direction of the noise, hands perched on the hilt of his wooden sword prepared to draw it at a moment's notice.

“FINALLY! I’ve been waiting ages for you to show up!” He said in relief before his eyes settled upon a figure.

Before him stood a tall man with curly brown hair in a long worn trench coat. Upon his nose were gold circle framed glasses that highlighted his sharp glimmering amber eyes.

“You’re not a monster.” He stated blankly, as his face crinkled into confusion.

The man gave him a crooked smile. “I’m afraid not.” He said, his voice melodic in a way. “What are you doing in the Forest little one?”

“I’m not a child and I’m here to battle the monster. Isn’t it obvious?” Tommy said huffing, crossing his arms in annoyance. The man looked him up and down before a smirk appeared on their face.

“I’m not sure a wooden sword is going to be very effective then.” they mused. “Unless the monster you plan on battling is a rabbit.”

Tommy gasped in offense.

“You dare underestimate the power of the Great Tommyinnit?”

“Well I’m just not sure it would be very effective on anything else.” The man replied, stepping more into the clearing. Tommy drew his sword and raised it pointed at the annoying man, as he spoke with confidence.

“It’d be pretty effective at beating up a Wrong-un like you.”

The man burst out laughing as he doubled over slightly clutching his middle as he did so.

“What on earth is a wrong-un?”

“People like you thinking amazing people like me are weak. I’ll have you know I’m the strongest man alive d*******.” Tommy squawked in retaliation to the still laughing man as he tried to compose himself.

“Sure sure. You’re definitely the greatest man alive!” The man said as he began to calm down.

“I’m sorry for thinking otherwise.”

“As you should be. No one messes with Tommy and gets away with it.”

Tommy re-sheathed his sword as the man continued. “So why are you in the Forest to battle a supposed monster? I thought no one was allowed in here?”

“If I kill the monster and bring back its head to the village, I’ll be treated as a hero and praised by everyone!” Tommy replied eagerly, striking a heroic pose as he did so.

The strange man's brows furrowed slightly as he looked at Tommy in concern, but Tommy didn’t notice as he continued on. “Then people will like me and I won’t be alone anymore!”

“Did they send you in here?” The man asked.

“Nope! I snuck out here all on my own! I had finished all my chores for the day and I wanted to prove myself!” Tommy said proudly. “Why are you out here though? Wait, are you here to battle the monster too?”

“No, I actually live here.” The man said, raising an arm to scratch the back of his head as he looked away sheepishly.

“You live here???” Tommy replied eagerly, practically bouncing on the balls of his heels. “Have you seen it?”

“Once.” The man began, eyes drifting down to look into the boy's sparkling wide blue eyes. “It’s not safe to be out here, but I’ve lived here a long time and know this area well. The monster does not come to this part of the forest often.”

Tommy’s heart sank. He’d spent so long waiting and the monster barely ever even came to this area? How could he fight them if they never show up? And he couldn’t really journey much further than this either or he would be unable to get back to the Village.

“Oh.” He said flatly, his shoulders deflating at the realization. The man came forward towards Tommy, stopping till he was just in front of him. They towered over the small boy.

“I guess the monster might come back one day..” They sighed. Tommy’s face lit up.

“Really??” he said brightly. “You think so?” The man shrugged his shoulders, giving him a knowing smile.

“Can I keep coming back until it does?” Tommy asked. The man thought for a moment, looking as if they were debating heavily with themself.

“I guess so.” Yes! Success! He still had a chance then. With that answer settled, Tommy gathered himself up and turned to leave.

“I will be back tomorrow then!” He declared proudly, a bright determined smile plastered across his face.

“See you tomorrow then Tommy.” The man said, turning to watch the small boy leave.

“See you tomorrow uh, um. What’s your name?” Tommy asked, embarrassed that he hadn’t asked sooner.

“Wilbur. Wilbur Soot.” The man- Wilbur replied.

“See ya tomorrow Wilbur!”

As promised, Tommy returned to the same clearing upon finishing his chores and waited for the monster to arrive. Just as before he called out for them and waited for them to appear. Nothing. That’s okay. Wilbur said they didn’t come around alot. He could wait. He would slay the monster!

A little while later, Wilbur appeared. Almost a little shocked to see Tommy at all, as if he didn’t expect them to return. But upon seeing the excited young boy, joined him in the clearing to wait.

“Any sign of them?” Wilbur asked.

“Not yet.” Tommy replied, as he scanned the surrounding tree line once more.

“HEY MONSTER! IT’S ME! TOMMYINNIT! COME GET ME!” he yelled once more.

“Ouch. Give a guy a little warning before you do that.” Wilbur yelped, clutching his ears. “I’ve got sensitive ears.”

“Oops. Sorry. I’ll try to remember next time.” Tommy replied sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head.

“So how do you plan to beat this monster?” Wilbur asked inquisitively.

“Well when they get here, I’m gonna cuss them out for taking so long! Then I’ll draw my sword and slice them into tiny little pieces!” Tommy stated proudly, drawing his sword and posing dramatically, his weapon held high in the air. Wilbur laughed at the funny sight before him, as Tommy turned around to face him, stomping his foot in annoyance.

“Oi! Quit laughing ya b****!” he said, as he marched over a little way away from the man, stopping next to a tree to sit on the mossy ground.

“So, what's your favourite colour?” Tommy asked, wanting to change the topic.

“Blue. Yours?”

“Red.” They sat in comfortable silence for a bit.

“You got a favourite animal?” Wilbur asked.

“Cows are pretty cool.”

“Cows? Seriously?” Wilburs face contorted into an amused look.

“Hey cows are pretty intelligent alright? What about you? It’s probably something dumb like a squirrel.”

“Mmm no but I like rabbits. They taste pretty good.” Tommy turned to Wilbur and gasped.

“I meant that you like to look at or find interesting! Not to f***** eat!!!”

“What! I’m just being honest.” The man said at least looking a little guilty. “I’ve gotta eat something out here! Besides, it's not like you don’t eat cows!”

Tommy fake gasped. “I would never eat a sweet innocent cow. They’re so endedible and loveable!”

“I bet you’ve eaten beef in the last week.” Wilbur said, giving Tommy a knowing look as he rested his head into his hand, propped up on his knee.

“No…. I definitely didn’t...” Tommy said looking away, face going slightly red as he fiddled with his hands.

“At least I don’t think it was beef…” Wilbur just grinned.

“Alright alright. How about an animal you dislike? Mine’s an Anteater.”

“What’s wrong with Anteaters?” Tommy questioned.

“Oh Tommy. What’s not wrong with Anteaters?”

(\_(\ (\_/) ? (ง•-•)ง ? (•-• ) ? o/ | | \o ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It continued on like this for several days. Tommy would finish his chores around the village, then journey into the forest clearing and call for the monster where he waited. And not long after calling for the monster, would Wilbur appear and help call for the monster too. When they weren’t doing that, most of their time was spent chatting. Well mostly Tommy, with his rambles as he practiced his sword fighting skills, whilst Wilbur watched the wild child wave his treasured wooden sword around. Sometimes he would relax and nap in the warm sun's rays as the child spoke whatever was on their mind. Occasionally, Wilbur would manage to get Tommy to come sit still with him and would hum a melody or sing and a made up song, whilst running a hand through his blonde curls. The man had a soothing voice and it was almost hypnotic in a way. Tommy wished he could listen to it forever.

Days turned to weeks and soon Tommy was spending almost all his time in the Forest, and while he still called for the monster to fight, he found himself going for a different reason. Wilbur. Tommy had become attached to the man. The man had a gentle presence and treated him in a way that not many in the village did. He treated him with kindness, joy, caring and what could almost be affection, from how often the man insisted they hug before he left after coming to know him. But he couldn’t complain when secretly he loved it. Part of him almost wanted to stay with the man and never leave. But that could not be. He had a mission! Kill the monster and return a hero! That was his mission, his quest! But maybe when he did, Wilbur could come too?

He’d asked the man once before about it, his answer being that the village didn’t really like people like him, so he chose to stay away. Tommy wondered if it was because maybe he’d messed up too many times and the villagers had kicked him out? When Tommy made mistakes, he’d get punished pretty badly. Some nights he’d go to sleep covered in bruises and dried blood. But that’s okay! He’d complete his quest and return as a hero and then never be punished again. But if that was the same reason why the village didn’t like Wilbur, he thought that returning a hero with him would perhaps fix all that? Yes! That would definitely fix everything. How could it possibly not?

It was just another normal day for Tommy, as the young boy made his way to the usual clearing. He'd brought a pastry with him today that the nice baker lady had given him, for him helping her bring the flour bag order into the shop. He set his satchel down and cupped his hands around his mouth as he hollered his challenge to surrounding forest foliage.

“HEY MONSTER!!! IT’S TOMMYINNIT! I’M READY TO FIGHT YOU B****!”

He was about to call again when a rustle of leaves from behind him had him turning on his heels.

“Wilbur!” He called cheerily, not expecting the man to appear so soon.

“You’re here ear-ly…” The words died in the boy's throat as his eyes widened to see not Wilbur stepping into the clearing.

Stood before him huffing in a steaming cloud of rage, was a giant black boar with piercing red eyes. Tommy drew his sword, hands tight around the hilt, trembling slightly at the fierce animal before him. He could do this. He’d been waiting for a monster after all. This was just a uh- a warm up! Yeah a very big, scary looking warm up. But as the boar let out a menacing growl, and Tommy’s fear growing by the second, he took a step back. He-he couldn’t do this. Tommy’s hands loosened on the wooden sword, allowing it to drop to the grass floor below him. The boar taking this moment as its time to charge. Tommy sprinted for dear life. What was he thinking? That he could take on what was supposed to be a terrifying man eating monster alone and win? He’d bought a flippen damn wooden stick to a boss fight! And he wasn’t even trying to escape the supposed monster. It was just some ugly Boar!

Tears began to stream down Tommy’s face. He didn’t know what to do. The Boar was quickly gaining on him and he had no idea where he was going. He didn’t have a decent weapon and he was getting tired quickly. So he did the only thing he could think of and screamed.

“WILBUR! WILBUR HELP!!!” He shouted over and over again, in hopes the man was somewhere nearby and would be able to help.

“SOMEONE?! ANYONE?! PLEASE!!!”

Tommy kept running. He could feel the hot breath of the Boar growing on the back of his neck as the sound of hooves got closer and closer. He was managing to dodge his way out of the approaching jaws of the furious animal, but for how much longer?

Tommy’s luck seemed to have run out, as he soon found himself cornered at the bottom of an overhanging cliffside. He scrambled about looking for a way up, someplace to hide, ANYTHING to help him escape his impending doom, but ultimately was left with nothing. The Boar slowed its approach, knowing its prey had finally been caught.

“WILBUR PLEASE!! WHERE ARE YOU?!?” He shrieked in desperation; one last time.

“Please.” he barely whispered as he backed himself up against the cliffside wall, breathing heavily as he braced his arms against the rocky stone walls. He heard the Boar grunting and scraping the ground, a sign it was about to charge and deliver the final blow. He scrunched his eyes firmly shut and braced for the end. He didn’t want to see it coming.

Suddenly something hit the ground with a heavy thud, creating a small shockwave, causing Tommy to be knocked to the ground from the impact. A blood curdling shriek along with terrified squeals were sent into the air, instantly followed by the sound of several loud cracks and hissing. Tommy lifted his head up and wiped his face of dirt from the ground, slightly dazed from the harsh fall. Tommy’s eyes widened in terror. Before him was a giant brown and yellowish scaled tail. His head followed the scales up, anxiety growing of what was to come as he looked on to where the tail turned to the back of a human torso, of a man with curly brown hair atop of their head. Tommy’s heart stopped as realization struck him.

A Naga.

That was his monster.

But before him is Wilbur.

Wilbur was a Naga.

His Monster is Wilbur.

The monster he’d been calling for and patiently waiting all this time to come, had been Wilbur the entire time.

There was no doubt in his mind that now that the secret about Wilburs’ true form was out, would have them turn tail and devour Tommy alive. After all, that must be why he had come. They probably didn’t want their free meal to be snatched up by some other predator. The Naga had known the entire time why Tommy was in the forest. They knew Tommy wanted his head for the glory it would bring, but had indulged in his wild fantasies. They were probably letting him live till they got bored. That made the most logical sense. Besides, everyone always gets fed up with him eventually. It's how he ended up an orphaned street rat in the first place. People just put up with him till they’re sick of him, then make him get lost. It's why this hurt so much more. Because instead of being abandoned, Tommy knew he was going to be devoured.

Slowly, Tommy struggled to his feet. He had to get out of here. He couldn’t die. He had to escape! He just had too! The Naga was still turned away from Tommy, the now dead Boar hanging limply in its grasp. Ever so quietly, Tommy crept along the side of the cliff wall, around the Naga. He couldn’t afford to be seen. He kept his head and shoulders down and tried to blend in with the wall, doing his best effort to be as unnoticeable as possible. He was almost in the clear when he glanced back at the Naga. He froze in place. Tommy watched as a giant fist raised the dead Boar up in the air, as the Naga opened its giant mouth. Sharp fangs glistened in the sun as he watched them drop the entire dead animal in the awaiting maw, only to snap it shut and swallow the entire thing whole. Tommy watched in horror, as the large bulge of the boar traveled down the Nagas throat. A thin pink tongue slithered out of its mouth and licked its lips in satisfaction. Oh Prime, he needed to leave NOW.

But one wrong step was all it took for a twig to snap sharply beneath Tommy’s foot. The sound rang out loudly in his ears. He didn’t need to look down to realize his mistake. Oh so comically slowly, Tommy turned to face the monster. The Naga’s head had snapped to meet his own, its amber eyes nothing but thin slits. However, upon seeing Tommy, their gaze softened.

“Thank Prime you’re okay.” the Naga said, releasing a heavy sigh.

“I was so worried when I heard you calling that I-” They began to say as they turned to move forward.

Tommy bolted.

“WAIT! TOMMY!” The Naga cried as he lunged for him with an outstretched clawed hand, the small boy just narrowly dodging the giant appendage before the Naga crashed into the cliffside missing.

Tommy booked it for the tree line. He needed to get back to the village. He wasn’t going to just wait to be caught and die!! Wilbur had said he lived in the forest and was the monster.

This was their forest.

Its domain .

He wouldn’t be able to hide anywhere and not be found. It wouldn’t matter if he’d had a 100 meter head start, the monster knew where to go, where to look. Prime! It probably even knew what he smelled like and could track him! Tommy’s only hope of survival was to get back within the Village walls. He took every tight, confusing, twisting path he could take, ducking through small gaps that blocked off openings for larger creatures, praying that somehow this would slow the Naga down. Tommy could hear them approach from the sound of leaves crinkling from beneath the weight of the serpent that was giving chase.

“TOMMY, PLEASE! COME BACK! LET ME EXPLAIN!!!” Tommy heard the Naga plea, as he squeezed through the gaps of several fallen trees, stopping the naga effectively as they were too big to follow.

“COME BACK!”

They were so close. But he couldn’t stop. He had to get to the village. Had to get back home. He just had too!

As Tommy ran through another thicket of bushes, he stumbled into a clearing, tripping over something, falling to the ground harshly and scraping his knees against the rough surface. He cursed to himself as he looked over the now slightly bleeding scrape, eyes narrowing on whatever he tripped on.

It was his wooden sword.

He paused as he processed his surroundings; recognition sparking in his head. It was the same clearing he’d first met Wilbur in. It’s a bit ironic? The sword he wanted to use against the big, bad monster used against him. Tommy felt tears bud at the edge of his eyes. It just wasn’t fair. NONE of this was fair. This was the spot he had met his first real friend. The first time he’d had a real connection. The first time he hadn’t been kicked out for being himself. The first time he had felt like someone actually cared, and it was all a lie.

“Tommy? Are you alright? That must have hurt.”

Tommy whipped his head around to see the now human version of the Naga standing behind him. He turned to run again, but he was no match for the Naga’s speed as they shifted form and snaked around him, effectively trapping him within the giant coil walls. He ran to the edge of the coils and tried to climb out, but the end of the snake's tail trailed its way up the boys torso, wrapping itself around his frail form semi tightly and lifted the boy into the air. “Please Tommy. I just want to talk.” The naga said as Tommy began to thrash in attempts to break free. Instinctually, the tail tightened around him, squeezing the air out of his lungs, causing him to cease his thrashing. Oh Prime! He was going to be squeezed to death! His lungs began to burn from lack of air as the pressure on his ribs slowly constricted tighter.

It hurt .

It hurt so much .

He let out a strangled whine of pain.

“F***!” the Naga spoke above him as the tail immediately loosened, releasing its death hold around the boy, as they greedily gasped for air.

“Oh Prime. Oh S***. I'm so sorry!” The world lurched as Tommy was lifted and placed on a rough, warm surface. He blinked his eyes open, trying to focus on his surroundings between black splotches from the lack of air.

Oh.

He was in it’s hand wasn’t he?

“S***! Tommy! I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to squeeze you like that!!! Are you alright?” concern lacing the giant's voice.

Now didn’t that just make Tommy’s heart ache. The jig was up! He knew what Wilbur was. This sick game or whatever it was was over. He had literally just tried to squeeze him to death. Why were they still pretending to care?

“Tommy? Please talk to me!”

“Don’t eat me!” Tommy pleaded, tears freely dripping down his face.

“Eat you?” the Naga breathed, taken aback.

“I don’t want to die!” Tommy cried, as he curled in tighter on himself. He didn't want to see the hungry look of the predator.

The Nags’s eyes widened in disbelief as a gasp escaped him.

“Tommy! I’m not going to eat you! How could you think such a thing?”

“Because you will! You almost squeezed me to death just then!” Tommy wailed as he began to tremble.

They glanced away. At least they had the decency to look guilty.

“That was an accident. I didn’t mean to and I’m so sorry I did!” he paused. “But I saved you from the Boar. Why would I want to eat you if I did that?”

“Because you lied.” Tommy whispered, the Naga taken aback; hurt by the statement.

“Please… I just- I can’t- I don’t want to die Wilby.”

Why did Wilbur have to keep delaying the inevitable? Why did it have to be the first person he’d come to love like that was to be his demise? Why had he been so foolish in believing he could succeed in defeating a monster like him? In a way he’s lucky he hadn’t been devoured sooner. He’d practically been dancing with death every day for weeks. It's not like anyone would even care if he disappeared. No one had cared when he’d disappeared for hours at a time as it was. No one liked him. No one truly cared for him. No one loved him.

“Tommy, sunshine. Look at me.” The Naga asked softly. Tommy lifted his head slightly as he sniffled more wet tears into his knees.

“Tommy. I’m not going to eat you. You mean so much to me. I could never imagine hurting you on purpose.”

What?

“Sometimes, my instincts get the better of me. I didn’t mean to squeeze you like that, I swear.” The Naga spoke gently.

“I came to save you from the Boar because you needed help. Not because I was afraid he’d eat you before me or anything like that that you might be thinking, but because I was terrified I’d lose you.”

Tommy’s whole body stiffened.

He thought he was going to lose him?

“Yes Tommy, you.” They chuckled almost as if he read the blonde's mind.

“When humans enter my forest, I usually just leave them alone because I know they're afraid of me. But that day you came into the forest, I couldn’t help myself. I’d been alone for so long, and you seemed so determined to battle a monster, I couldn’t help but be intrigued by you.”

Tommy uncurled himself to get a better look at the Naga, them taking it as a cue to continue.

“And when you found out it wasn’t around, I didn’t want to ruin that precious smile across your face. So I lied about the monster.“

He had lied because he would have been upset about no monster?

“I didn’t think you’d come back in all honesty. But when I heard you calling for me the next day and you kept coming back, I couldn’t stay away.” Wilbur lifted his hand up to his face so that Tommy was now at eye level.

“I care about you Tommy.

Tommy lifted his head fully, eyes wide looking at the Naga.

“Really?” voice wobbly, he asked.

“Really.”

Tommy’s breath hitched in his throat, eyes scanning the Naga’s face looking for any sign of they were lying.

But all he saw was the man he had come to love. Despite everything, despite them being a Giant Naga, a Monster: It was still Wilbur. Still his friend.

Tommy let his tears pour as Wilbur began to gently stroke his back up and down with his thumb in reassurance. He was okay. They were okay.

__ /) /) (\ (\ | ♡ > ( ›.‹) (⋅.⋅ ) o( づ♡ ⊂)o ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tommy continued to visit Wilbur even after the incident. The two became closer despite the truth coming out, and they couldn't be happier. Wilbur could be honest about his true self, and Tommy had someone he could depend on. Tommy would still call for the Naga though. While he knew that he didn’t need to (since Wilbur revealed he knew when Tommy entered the forest everytime by his scent and how he walked from his crazy good hearing) he still did it as a sort of tradition. It felt wrong not too.

Although, some of his calls were a little less than polite…

“HEY B****! I’M HERE!!” The 12 year old hollered for the snake.

“Where the heck did you even learn to curse like that?” Wilbur laughed as he slithered into their clearing.

Wilbur didn’t shift to his human form a whole lot anymore either. There was no real need too now that Tommy knew. He would occasionally at Tommy’s request, but the boy rather liked the Naga at his giant size. He’d crawl all over the man’s coils and slid down his tail like a slide. Sometimes he’d laze about in Wilbur’s fluffy hair and ramble on while the Naga lazily dozed in the sun listening. Other time’s when Wilbur was being clingy from instincts, he’d hold Tommy in his hands close to his chest. Tommy would complain, scratch and bite for him to let go, before eventually submitting to hand cuddles in defeat. He’d never actually admit that he loved them though. It’s not like it made him feel completely safe surrounded in the comforting warmth of his hands or anything. Nope! Not big Man Tommy liking some silly hand hugs. Nuh uh. Not him!

“So what are we doing today Sunshine?” Wilbur asked, as he lowered a hand for Tommy to step onto.

“Something awesome.” Tommy grinned mischievously as he stepped on and was lifted to sit on the Naga’s shoulder.

“Awesome or hey-OW! TOMMY!” Squawked Wilbur, as the boy launched himself off of his palm, grabbing onto one of the longer curls of his fringe, tugging it down as Tommy swung around wildly.

“Let go, you Gremlin.”

“NEVER!”

“You are such a little menace.”

“Little??? I’ll have you know I’m the biggest man alive!” The boy pouted, as giant fingers gently pulled him away from the man’s face, dangling him in the air briefly before placing him back on the ground. “Yes, I’m aware Tommy. You’ve said so many times.”

“So you’ll let me back up on your shoulder then?”

“Ha! No.”

It was moments like these that really made Tommy want to stay with the giant snake and never return. But despite the bond he and Wilbur had formed, Tommy couldn’t stay with Wilbur forever. He understood why he couldn’t, but he wanted to stay. Wilbur had told Tommy how much he cared for him and he knew that he did, but despite this, Wilbur still made him go home. The forest wasn’t safe for him even with the Naga’s presence, which was made very clear by the boar attack, and Wilbur voiced that he should stay with people of his own kind, within the Village walls where it was safer. He was still so young and he needed the care human’s provided him. Tommy of course had yet to tell Wilbur that he slept in an alleyway alone and all, but that’s okay. He didn't need to worry him like that. What could the Naga do about it anyways?

Although while he couldn’t stay, Tommy would be in the Forest every chance he could! The villagers, of course, now seemed to take notice of their dear little street rats’ disappearance. They didn’t like how their source of free labor was suddenly not around so much. Didn’t like how they suddenly didn’t have a personal punching bag for when they were upset. Concerned their little orphan wasn’t around to control anymore. So of course, they started to ‘inquire’ about it.

“Where are you off to?” The Fletcher asked him one day, as Tommy was leaving after helping sharpen the flint for the arrow heads. “Just going to practice my sword skills.” He replied simply as he turned and walked off.

“Disappearing to the West End District again rat?” The Butcher provoked. Tommy tried not to pull a face as he walked passed.

He hated that name. “What are you doing down there? Don’t you know what lurks beyond the walls?” “I like that it's quiet sir. Good place to practice my sword skills.” Tommy yelped in surprise, as he was suddenly grabbed by his shoulder. Pointed fingernails dug into his skin, as he was twisted around to meet the Butcher's face and a sharp cleaver poised dangerously close to his neck. “Make sure you stay within the walls, Rat.” Tommy’s eye’s darted from the Butchers knife to their piercing gaze. “When people go into that Forest, they don’t come out. Would hate for something to happen to you.” With a sharp blow to his back, Tommy stumbled forward out of the man’s grip and sprinted for the West End Gate, desperate to get away. He ran all the way to the gap in the wall and crawled through.

He didn’t tell Wilbur why he had run to the clearing that day or what had happened to cause the now-forming bruise between his shoulder blades. Simply lying instead about how a heavy book had fallen off a shelf that morning when he helped the Librarian. Wilbur had given him a concerned look before Tommy changed the subject to talk about cows. Tommy hoped that the odd interaction from the Fletcher and Butcher was a one time thing.

But it continued to happen.

Everyday, a different member of the village would question him about where he was going and why. Some would get a little aggressive like how the Butcher had, but he managed to get away with just a mild bruise or graze. He tried to cover them up best he could before visiting Wilbur. The Naga was beginning to get increasingly worried about how many injuries Tommy was showing up with. “Tommy, are you sure you’re alright?” They had asked him one day, when he’d appeared with a poorly wrapped cut across his forearm (a cut he’d unfortunately been unable to avoid from the Cartographers drawing compass).

“Yeah I’m fine Big Dubs. Just got a little reckless with some of the other kids in the village playing swords.” Wilbur raised a brow. “Just, promise me to try and stay out of trouble Toms? I don’t want to keep seeing you show up covered in fresh injuries.” “I promise.” Tommy promised nervously. He hated that he had to lie about this to Wilbur, but it wasn’t worth worrying them over a little scratch.

~~~

It only seemed to grow worse for Tommy as time went on. He’s not 100% sure, but he swore that he’d seen someone following him. Whenever he started to approach the West End District, it felt like holes were being burned into the back of his head. He had started to take back route alley ways to the gap in the wall after that, trying to avoid whatever had been tailing him. But you can only avoid certain things for so long.

“Haven’t seen you around all that much lately, rat.” The Blacksmith stated, when Tommy was unloading a metal order for him one morning. “What are you up to?”

“Nothing of importance sir.” Tommy replied as he kept his eyes trained down. He knew not to establish eye contact. He’d had too many slaps to the face recently to forget that. “Just keeping to myself till needed.”

“Hmpf. I know you’re up to something rat.” The Blacksmith said, stepping closer to the boy. “We know you’re sneaking off through the West End Gate.”

Tommy’s neck bristled, as a shiver ran down his spine. So he’d been right.

Someone had been watching.

“No sir. I would never do that.”

“DON’T LIE TO ME RAT!” The Blacksmith yelled, grabbing Tommy by the collar and yanking him into the air.

“WHY ARE YOU GOING INTO THE FOREST? WHAT ARE YOU HIDING?”

Tommy grabbed uselessly at the back of his shirt in hopes of getting free, as the Blacksmith held him high dangled in the air.

He couldn’t tell them about Wilbur! If they knew he’d been going in there to see him, they’d go after him! They would hurt him!

“NOTHING SIR!” He cried desperately.

“LIES! NO ONE THAT GOES IN THAT FOREST COMES OUT! HOW IS IT THAT YOU, A USELESS CHILD HAS!?”

The Blacksmith flipped him around and threw him harshly to the ground and into one of the furnaces. Tommy jerked his arm back, hissing in pain as it came into contact with part of the hot metal, the skin on his arm immediately turning an angry red. The Blacksmith trudged forward, pressing a heavy boot onto his frail chest.

“I’ll ask you again. Why are you going in the Forest?” They threatened, venom seeping into every word.

“I’m not sir! I know not to go in! I never do!” Tommy wailed, as tears streamed down his face.

“Fine. Be that way.” they hissed, stepping off his chest.

“We’ll get the truth out of you eventually.” They raised their leg back before kicking him harshly in the stomach winding Tommy, before swiftly walking away.

Tommy didn’t visit Wilbur that day.

Or the next.

For 3 days he stayed huddled up, hiding in the shadows. He was in so much pain that he couldn’t even bring himself to move, let alone leave his little shelter in the alleyway .

But even after he felt fit enough to move again, he didn’t return to the Forest. He was too ashamed of what Wilbur would say if he saw him covered head to toe in bruises and fresh wounds. He’d be so disappointed in him if he did. He was supposed to be looking after himself and staying out of trouble. Being good, and making Wilbur proud. Instead, he’d had to spend the afternoon trying to find a shirt with long sleeves that he could use to cover his arms, and hide the would be scars from the Naga, only managing to find a slightly too small red sleeved shirt that was in semi okay condition.

He was such a disappointment.

~~~

The next morning, Tommy helped the farmer. He didn’t want to go back to the Blacksmith. His arm was wrapped loosely in a makeshift bandage beneath his new shirt and it hurt like hell. He was still finding it slightly difficult to breathe, but the villagers had work for him to do and they wouldn’t take kindly to his ‘excuses’. Especially after vanishing for a few days…

The Farmer wanted him to harvest some of the carrots today. Normally, he’d be allowed to take a few of them when he’d finished the job, but today the Farmer had come as he was finishing up and was holding the small pile of carrots Tommy had set aside for himself in their grasp.

“I hear the Blacksmith had a chat with you the other day.”

Tommy stiffened.

“Yes-yes sir.” He stuttered.

“We don't take too kindly to liars boy.” The farmer threatened. “So make this simple for both of us and tell the truth.” “But I’m n-not going in, sir. There’s n-nothing in the Forest!” He stuttered, taking another step back.

“WE KNOW THAT’S NOT TRUE! WE’VE SEEN YOU SNEAKING THROUGH THE GAP IN THE WALL!” The farmer accused stepping forward, raising their pitch fork up. “YOU EVEN DISAPPEARED AFTER SEVERAL DAYS AND TURN UP ACTING AS IF NOTHING HAPPENED!! TELL THE TRUTH! HOW ARE YOU STILL ALIVE?”

“But-but I-I didn’t go in!!!” Tommy stammered, his voice wavering as he spoke. “I was in my alley trying to rest from my injuries!”

“B*******! You expect me to believe that?” They spat. “Even if you were, that doesn’t explain why you’ve been going in!!!”

“There’s no rules that say I can’t go in! I’m just going there to practice my sword skills with a friend.”

“A friend?” The farmer asked incredulously. “Who on earth would be spending their time with a ratty orphan street kid like you? Stop making things up and tell the truth.”

“BUT IT IS THE TRUTH! ” Tommy pleaded in desperation. “WE JUST HANG OUT AND TALK!”

“B***S***! JUST TELL THE TRUTH!”

Tommy pushed himself up off the ground and away from the Farmer as they made a move to grab him, and high tailed it for the West End Gate. He couldn’t take this anymore. He had to get out of the Village NOW. He had to leave. Had to get out!

Even if Wilbur wouldn’t take him in, he had to get out of there. It wasn’t safe.

He ran through the streets, the sounds of angry villagers emerging from their homes to come after him and bring him back, trailed after him, growing in volume. He knew what they wanted him for. They didn’t love him. They didn’t actually care. They just wanted to have control over him. He hadn’t realized it at first, but after meeting Wilbur, he’d begun to recognise the choke hold they held over him. Making him work for approval. Making him work to prove his worth when it would never be enough. Using fake praise followed by belittling comments to control his feeble mind. He had thought that if he came back a hero, they would finally actually want him, accept him for him; not just claim that they ‘cared’.

Wilbur had shown him what being cared for truly looked like. And he’d take that over the s*** the village dished out any day.

He ran and ran till he reached the gap in the wall but skidded to a halt when he realized what the villagers had done.

They’d sealed the gap.

He pounded on the freshly dried layer of concrete sealing the gap over, desperate to break through before eventually giving up. He turned and sprinted for the West End Gate exit and tried to break the chains once more on the operating point.

But it was futile. The Chains remained locked tight, and despite the little bit of muscle he’d built up by practicing with Wilbur, he still lacked the physical strength to even leave a dent in the chains.

The sounds of angry villagers continued to grow louder as they approached and soon Tommy was surrounded on all sides.

“Awwww. The little rat wants to go into the Forest.” One woman snickered.

“Don’t you know you belong to us!” Another spat.

Tommy turned and ran to the iron gates and began to climb his way up. If he could make it over, he’d risk the broken bones the fall down would cause. “Where do you think you’re going?” The Weaponsmith snapped, grabbing Tommy’s ankle, yanking him back down to the ground.

He tried to climb up again reaching for the iron gates but was torn away with a yelp.

“Uh uh uh. You ain’t going nowhere. Not until you tell us why you’ve been going into the Forest.”

“LET ME GO A******!” Tommy shrieked as he struggled to get out of the Weaponsmith’s hold.

“Oh we’ll let you go alright. Right after you tell us the Truth. No one goes into that Forest and comes out alive. We’ll find out what you’re hiding: even if we have to break you.”

“SOMEONE PLEASE! HELP!!! ANYONE!!!” Tommy thrashed about, desperate to break free. He felt helpless. No one in this damned village would help him no matter how much he pleaded. He didn’t understand why the villagers were treating him this way. They had never cared about him before, but now that he had entered and emerged from the Forest unscathed they cared? What the F*** was wrong with them???

“LET ME GO!!” He screeched in vain, as he was dragged along.

Why won’t anyone help me? He didn’t deserve this. He just wanted- he just wanted…

“WILBUR!” Tommy screamed out of desperation. “WILBUR PLEASE!!! HELP ME!!!”

He knew the Naga wouldn’t be able to hear him, but he wanted his brother. Even if Wilbur didn’t feel the same, he wanted to be swept up in the giant’s gentle hands. He wanted to be held close to their comforting chest. He wanted to hear Wil’s rhythmic heartbeat and soothing voice. He wanted to feel Wilbur’s fingers card through his hair, as he whispered sweet nothings.

He wanted to be with Wilbur.

He wanted to be loved.

“WILBUR! PLEASE!!!”

“Your imaginary friend is going to come save you rat.” The Weaponsmith mocked.

“You belong to us and we will do to you what we see fitting-” The words died in their throat as a thud was heard from behind. A flurry of hushes were sent amongst the crowd, as all turned to face the West End Gate. They watched in anticipation as another loud thud hit the gate’s door causing it to creak, as dust floated down from the upper walls like snow.

Something was trying to break in.

“Oh Prime.” the Weaponsmith whispered, as the sound of hissing began to fill the air.

“Go-go, GO! GO NOW!”

The villagers began to disperse into panic, as the thudding increased and the Gate began to cave in on itself, whatever beyond the entrance desperately trying to break in.

“YOU!”

Tommy tried to fight against the Weaponsmiths hold as they pulled him to their face.

“WHAT DID YOU DO?”

But before he could answer, the Gates flew open, debris flying everywhere. Tommy tried to shield himself best he could, as bits of concrete were flung in his direction. The crowd went deathly silent.

Standing tall menacingly within the rubble, was Wilbur; hissing threateningly.

“Where is he?” The Naga demanded.

“Wilbur. WILBUR!”

“Shut up.” Weaponsmith hissed as they shoved Tommy away from the direction of Wilbur.

“WIL! I’M HERE! I’M MPHF” Tommy tried to call, but a piece of fabric was stuffed into his mouth, muffling his cries.

But the Naga heard it all the same.

“TOMMY! I’M HERE!” Wilbur yelled, as worried amber eyes searched the crowd.

The Naga’s eyes locked onto Tommy’s form, a warning hiss filling the air.

“Give him to me now, and I’ll spare you.”

“Never.” The Farmer spat.

“Have it your way.”

Wilbur slithered forward, not caring for who or what was in their way. The villagers scattered beneath him, screaming in fear to avoid the giant snake's tail, some not being so lucky. Wilbur’s eye’s turned to slits, as they let instinct drive them forward. The Naga bared their fangs and hissed in warning as they approached closer. The Weaponsmith trembled as Wilbur raised his torso up, poising themself to strike. Fear had the Weaponsmith turn tail and run, as they hurled Tommy forward trying to put as much distance between him and the boy. Tommy stumbled forward, Wilbur shooting his hand out beneath him to catch him. The Naga’s eyes dilated as they brought Tommy up to their face, eyes searching every inch of the boy. Their frown deepened at the sight of every new bloodied spot, as Wilbur removed the makeshift gag.

“What did they do to you?” Wilbur whispered, voice tight as he gently ran a finger over Tommy’s forehead, brushing the hair out his eyes.

“Wil. I, I-I’m so sorry.” Tommy whimpered.

“Shh shhh. It’s alright Sunshine. I’ve got you.”

Tommy felt himself being moved as Wilbur began to slither away. He kept the boy close as they moved through the Village and back to the Forest, Tommy clutching onto Wilbur’s giant fingers tightly the whole way.

“I was so worried about you Toms. When you stopped coming, I thought something horrible had happened to you.” Wilbur said, as he stopped to rest in their familiar clearing.

“I’m sorry.” Tommy whimpered softly. “I tried to stay out of trouble like you wanted! Really! I did! But the villagers were so convinced that I was doing something wrong in the Forest because I came back! I didn’t do anything wrong Wil! I swear I didn’t!”

“Oh Tommy sweetheart I know. I never should have sent you back. I thought that it would be better if you remained with your own kind. I thought humans looked after their young. But they hurt you. They hurt my Little Brother.”

Tommy’s whole body stiffened.

Little Brother?

“Yes, Little Brother Tommy.” They chuckled, as if he read the blonde's mind.

“Every time you went to leave, I didn’t want to let you go. I just wanted you to stay with me. It was so hard to not just reach out and pull you back into my arms.”

“I thought you didn’t want me.” Tommy sniffled as he looked up at the Naga in disbelief.

“Oh Tommy! How could I not want you?” I love everything about you! Your smile, your laugh, your personality, EVERYTHING. I want you to come home with me. I want to hold you close, protect you and never let go. I want you to be my little brother.”

Tommy could feel tears budding at the edge of his eyes.

“I love you Tommy.”

And Tommy? He broke. Sobs ripped from his throat as he threw himself at the Giant Nagas nose as Wilbur brought his hand up to hug him back in an awkward way.

He Loved him.

Wilbur actually loved him. Finally, someone really loved him!

“I-I love you too Wilby!” Tommy wept, clinging to the giant's nose. “I love you so so much Wilbur. You’re my big brother! No one has ever cared about me like you do!”

They stayed like that for a while before Wilbur pulled Tommy back from his face, tears threatening to fall from the giant's eyes as a fond smile grew wider across the Naga's face.

“Let’s go home.”

/)/) (\(\ ( . .) (. . ) o( づ 💗⊂ )o ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Within the forest by the West end Gate, Journeyed a boy, led in by fate.

A monster they went a looking for. A monster he found, but was not so sure.

Some say the monster took them to eat, Other’s say the boy still searches to beat.

A once monster, fabled in fear, But not to this boy, who holds them most dear.

For while glory they went, a looking for, Instead they found something worth much more.

Within his forest home, the boy now sleeps, With their monster brother, safe he keeps. There they stay loved, never a part. The boy who claimed the monster's heart. ❤️❤️❤️

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR READING! I KNOW SO MANY WORDS BUT I HOPE YOU ENJOYED!

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patchwork-studio · 2 months

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“I’m tired of you being so dark when I’m so impish and whimsical!”

What if Paul McCartney was a DND style bard innit

I think the reference I used was from Torque Art Studio on deviant art according to Pinterest, but if I am incorrect please help me to find the original artist of this image!

#dnd art #dnd satyr #beatles art #the beatles #bard #dnd homebrew #Beatles

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visenyaism · 7 months

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astarion is literally useless as a rogue you should reclass him into a ranger or a bard otherwise yeah leave him at camp LOL

that’s pookie he lives at camp the one time i let him out he ate a squirrel unprovoked and then when we got back to camp he lied about how he thought i was cool and then i got a cutscene of him running around camp at night doing not much of anything but scrambling. I thought this was an attempt to hit but apparently he is trying to eat me. bit silly innit

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miraakulous-cloud-district · 5 months

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Wednesady? WEDNESDAY!

aka the day where I finally get to tease my readers and see what wonderful things my beloved mutuals are creating!! I'm early with this one, but I finally get to start one of these things, and I have a (very spoilery) chapter 16 snippet of WYGTYA! I know I've neglected Hymn of the High Seas for a while, but after I'm done with this chapter, it will get all my attention <33

Tagging @bougainvillea-and-saltwater @kiir-do-faal-rahhe @dirty-bosmer @thelavenderelf @sheirukitriesfandom @blossom-adventures @illumiera @nerevar-quote-and-star course, as usual, this is not to put pressure on anybody, if you don't want to participate, that is completely okay <3

Actual snippet under the cut, it has spoilers for chapter 15 of wygtya, although, I'm not sure how shocking the spoilers are at this point :))))

“I’m sure the captain can handle it. Besides, sailing through a storm has… beauty in it, doesn’t it?” She raises an eyebrow, still looking in the distant horizon, almost frightened by how such a destructive thing could be the only thing that brings her soul’s peace in times like these. She is met with silence, so she decides to continue, speaking through her reverie. “It’s symbolic, even. Don’t you think?”

“Girl, what?”

“Sailing straight into a storm. Going ahead. Towards the future. Not running anymore. It’s scary as fuck, but also beautiful. Exciting. I was stuck in the past, standing in the stern of the ship, looking back, but now I'm here, at the frontmost part of the ship, looking straight ahead. My past awaits there for me, and perhaps I’ve been too harsh with it, brushing it aside all the time. And there, in Blacklight, my past and future intertwine now. Huh. Life is hilarious sometimes, innit?”

The man was looking at her dumbfounded. He needs a second to gather his thoughts, and after opening and closing his mouth a few times, he manages: “Damn. If ye weren’t wearing fancy mage robes, I could’ve sworn you’re a bard. Yer words be even fancier than yer robes.”

She smiles, she can allow herself this moment of vulnerability because for the first time since that door opened with her blood, she feels as if she wouldn’t crumble. She feels stable, maybe because of the storm, being at sea again or her realization that what comes can be exciting. Coming back home can be good and healing.

“I have bard blood in me. My father is a bard.” She smiles, her eyes forming creases at the corners. She said it so proudly, too, because damn it if it doesn’t feel good. ‘My father. Hjaldir. My mother. Deathbrand herself. Yeah, I could get used to that.’

#tag game #wygtya #miraak x ldb #oc: ravonna #WE'RE GOING TO MORROWIND Y'ALL!!!#oc: hjaldir #tes blacklight #skyrim fanfiction

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the-whatcherof-89 · 2 years

Photo

Tommyinit “The Big man” Thomas Careful Danger Kraken Innit AKA Theseus the Destroyer of Statues and Other Nice Things People Built. (dang that’s a lot of nicknames y’all)

Human Fighter(Mobile fighter)16 XP76800

Chaotic Neutral Medium Humanoid

HP158(16d10+48)

AC33(+4Dex+4Shield+3Deviation+9Armor+3Natural)

BaB+16 CMB+23 CMD+36

FORT+17 REFL+14 WILL+13

Racial traits: Extra feat(Cosmopolitan), +1 Skill point/level

Traits: Reckless, Scarred.

Class abilities: Bonus feats(Weapon focus, Greater weapon focus, Improved shield bash, Shield slam, Shield master, Power attack, Penetrating strike, Greater penetrating strike, Spring attack), Agility+4, Leaping attack+3, Armor training+2, Rapid attack, Fleet footed.

STR24 DEX18 CON14 INT10 WIS14 CHA14

Feats: Mobility, Dodge, Master craftsman, Point blank shot, Precise shot, Weapon specialization, Greater weapon specialization, Quick draw.

Skills: Acrobatics+10, Climb+11, Craft(Alchemy)+4, Handle animal+9, Intimidate+9, Knowledge (Dungeoneering)+4, (Engineering)+4, Perform(Oratory)+10, Perception+15, Ride+12, Swim+15, Survival+10, Use magic device+25.

Languages: Common, Draconic.

Equipment: Amulet of natural armor+3, Ring of protection+3, Balanced mithral breastplate+3, Spiked volcanic shield+2, Adamantine battleaxe, Adamantine longsword of speed+3, Composite longbow(Str+6), 50+1 Arrows, Boots of speed, Cloak of resistance+5, Belt of physical might+4(Str, Dex), Handy haversack, Rod of absorption, Efficient quiver, Manual of war(Signed by Technoblade), Cap of the free thinker, Ring of persuasion, Headband of mental prowess+2(Int, Wis, Use magic device), Bracers of the glib entertainer, 2 Snapleaf, Wand of cure light wounds, Fighter kit, Dungeoneering kit, Combat trained horse with MWK Hide barding, Military saddle, Bit and bridle, War saddle, Military bags, Horse rations for 4 days, 1080gp.

Background: Tommynit is one of the founding members of the land and he is the living definition of a rebellious child (with a lots of PTSD). He and Tubbo have been like brothers ever since the beginning and had a rollercoaster of a life with both of them participating in the war, rebuilding the government, breaking up after his exile, their tearful reunion, the hopeless fight against Dream followed by his imprisonment in Pandora’s vault and then being shoulder-to-shoulder when the Green man escaped the prison to support his mental health. Tommy had lot of help also from Philza whom he considers like a father/mentor figure and had build many relationships with the other members of the land; literally almost EVERYONE knows him(especially for his shenanigans and acts of theft) and he is a literal “face” of the events that transpired across the many places. Name a place, a time and event and Tommy was likely there, for some reason. Recently, he decided to fortify his last safe house (Tubbo’s old house) and allied with Sapnap to devise a plan to end Dream once and for all. One day, Tommy was having a nightmare remembering his long exile in Logstedshire and the tortures that Dream inflicted upon him. He woke up, distraught. When he stood up, he wobbled toward the tiny windows to look outside to check if the green man was around. As he saw that the coast was clear, he decided to go and meet Tubbo to see if he needed any help with Micheal after the death of Ranboo. He was about to open the door when he heard a voice. “Poor kid, so much trampled over by others.” Tommy immediately grabbed his sword. “You are not Dream. Who are you? What do you want?” A giggle was heard behind the door. “Who i am matters only if you hear first what I want. I want to propose a challenge; to you and your friends.” Tommy asked puzzled. “A challenge? And what is the prize?” The mysterious individual tapped on the door a few times. “Find me. Simple as that. And i will grant your wish. ANY wish. A wish limited ONLY by your imagination.” Tommy was stunned by this proposal but he had his share of lies and tricks so he backed a little. “Why should i trust you?” The voice answered: “They have already accepted.” Tommy was staring at the door in disbelief. “The man in green, the pig king, his crow friend… the lover of bees…and the rest.” Disbelief became terror: If Dream was involved… Tubbo was not safe. And Dream could have asked to torture them for all eternity. “The game has already started.” Concluded the voice. Tommy shouted the loudest, most fierce war cry that he had ever done in his life as he opened the door, charging through. The light enveloped him and he found himself in a new place, with new items and… Tubbo! He was in front of him, and there was a giant bee. “Tubbo, there is a bee of the size of a horse behind you.” Tubbo went to cuddle the large creature. “I know, he is my animal companion.” Tommy was stunned. “Your what?”

Tubbo “Mr Cookie gadget” Big Law/Crime the Beloved Bee Boy.

Human Hunter(Verminous hunter)16 XP76800

Lawful Good (With various split personalities/personas) Medium Humanoid

HP140(16d8+48)

AC34(+8Dex+3Shield+2Natural+2Deviation+9Armor)

BaB+16 CMB+13 CMD+31

FORT+16 REFL+21 WILL+11

Racial traits: Extra feat(Weapon finesse), +1 Skill point/level

Traits: Destined diplomat, Scarred.

Class abilities: Verminous companion Giant bee(Use Giant wasp for statistics), Vermin empathy, Vermin focus(Bee +8 Perception), Swarm stride, Nature training, Precise companion (Outflank), Track, Hunter tactics, Teamwork feats, Improved empathic link, Bonus trick(sic’ed, Surprise shift), Second animal focus (Moth), Darkvision 20ft, Blindsense 10ft, Swift tracker, Raise animal companion, Speak with master, Greater emphatic link.

STR10 DEX26 CON16 INT10 WIS16 CHA10

Spellcasting CL16 DC13 Spells per day 5/5/5/4/3/1 Spells known:

6-Dispel magic greater, Ironwood.

5-Cure critical wounds, Tree stride, Sturdy tree fort, Companion transposition.

4-Cure serious wounds, Dispel magic, Repel vermin, Warp metal, Freedom of movement.

3-Water breathing, Protection from energy, Meld into stone, Cure moderate wounds, Magic fang grater.

2-All food, Versatile weapon, Eagle eye, Bearskin, Flame blade, Insect scouts.

1-Air bubble, Burning disarm, Endure elements, Cure light wounds, Hide from animals, Gravity bow.

0-Detect magic, Read magic, Create water, Light, Mending, Resistance.

Feats: Mounted combat, Extended animal focus, Craft wondrous items, Brew potions, Vital strike, Improved vital strike, Divine interference, Spirit’s gift.

Teamwork feats: Coordinated charge, Pack flanking, Distracting charge, Shake it off, Paired opportunist(s).

Skills: Acrobatics+20, Climb+8, Craft(alchemy)+13, Diplomacy+11, Handle animal+16, Heal+10, Intimidate+11, Knowledge (Dungeon)+4, (Geography)+4, (Nature)+8, Perception+16, Profession(Beekeeper)+7, Ride+20, Spellcraft+13, Stealth+20, Survival+12, Swim+10.

Languages: Common, Bee empathy.

Equipment: Amulet of natural armor+2, Ring of protection+2, Scarab breastplate, Tempest shield, Called rapier+3, Short bow+1, 50+1 Arrows, Belt of incredible dexterity+6, Cloak of resistance+3, Circlet of persuasion, Boots of striding and springing, Handy haversack, Eyes of the eagle, Ioun stones: Lavender and green ellipsoid, Pearly white spindle, Pink rhomboid, Bracers of archery, Horn of fog, Page of spell knowledge I, Feather token tree, Ranger kit, Alchemist kit, Grappling hook, Holly&Mistletoe, Signal whistle, Cold weather outfit with Snowchester symbol, Veterinarian kit, 300gp, 5sp.

SPINS - Animal Companion - Large Bee (stats like giant wasp) Initiative+4

Speed 20ft Fly 60ft (Good)

HP13d8+52(110) AC36(+12Natural+4Dex+11Armor-1Size) Sting+19 1d8+10+Poison DC22 1/round for 6rounds 1d4 damage 1 cure DC Con based.

Racial: Darkvision 60ft Immune to mind effects Poison

Class: Improved evasion, Ability score increase (+1Str +1 Dex +1 Wis), Multiattack, Devotion, Share spell, +8 vs trip CMD.

Str 24 Dex 18 Con 18 Int- Wis14 Cha4 BaB9 Saves 11/11/6

Feats: Armor proficiency x3 (light, medium, heavy), Power attack, Improved overrun, Improved bull rush, Improved poison.

Skills: Acrobatics+8, Fly+8, Perception+9, Stealth+11, Survival+6, Swim+12

Tricks: Stay, Guard, Attack, Defend, Seek, Track, Work, Heel, Fetch, Down, Come, Perform, Charge.

Equipment: Amulet of mighty fists+3, Darkwood Spiked Full plate barding+3, Headband of thunderous charging, Pauldron of the bull, Bit and bridle, Military exotic saddle with bags and 5 rations.

Background: Hyperactive, earnest, naive, easygoing, optimistic, loyal. This is what defines Tommy’s best friend, Tubbo. Together they had been through a lot and if he could or would write a book about it, it would be a really LONG saga. Tubbo was a figure of administration that lasted longer than any other did or could. Especially after Schaltt government and the Doomsday. He also founded the Dream Hunters and joined the Butcher army in an attempt to stop Technoblade. After Dream imprisonment he built Snowchester as a colony of survivors and NOT a government to avoid the anger of the Blood God. There he commissioned Foolish to build a mansion for his new lover Ranboo and his adoptive son Micheal. After Dream escaped from prison, both his beloved and his son disappeared and went to search for them along with Techno and Eret. They discovered that it was Awsamdude fault for kidnapping both of them and also for the “accidental” murder of his husband. After punishing the warden, he returned Micheal to the mansion in Snowchester where he met Boo the ghost of Ranboo. One day, Tubbo woke up at the sound of a door opening. He went to check for Micheal, but he was not in his room. Panicking, Tubbo went to search for him only to find him in the main hall with the chandelier, above a cloud. “What? What is that? What are you doing Micheal? How are you…?” He could not believe is eyes, there was a large, fluffy cloud in the main hall and his adoptive son was above it, as if nothing was occurring. “Your child is quite unique. But he doesn’t seem so safe. It has already been proven.” A voice echoed in the room, the owner nowhere to be found. “Release my son! Whoever you are!” Silence was cut short by the mysterious voice “I am not holding him hostage. On the contrary, i am protecting him. For your will i do understand. And i come here with a challenge: I shall grant you a wish. ANY wish. But only if you can find me.” Tubbo was adamant in his next answer “I am going through the five stages of grief, do you mind? Give him back, NOW.” But the voice continued: “They have accepted the challenge. All of them. If they find me first… he will never be safe. But i can grant you, your child and your friends the safety you oh-so look for.” Stairs of smoke formed and Tubbo climbed and reached Micheal for a hug. “I accept. But only if you will grant me that Micheal will stay here in this mansion, safe and sound.” The mysterious individual snapped his fingers. “It is done.” The could shifted and turned into a giant bee with brit, bridle, saddle and other items equipped. “A loyal companion. One that will follow you to the end of the world.” Tubbo looked in disbelief as he somehow recognized the bee: “SPINS? Is that you? HOW…?!” The large creature made a strange buzzing sound. Tubbo re-asserted himself as he gently put Micheal down “Go back to your room, boy. I am going away for a short time.” The Piglin made a snorting sound and walked to his room. “Let’s make this quick, ok?” The figure snapped his fingers again. “Oh that depends entirely by you.” And the world shifted and so did his equipment. He found himself in a new place, he dismounted and saw… Tommy! He was in front of him. “Tubbo, there is a bee of the size of a horse behind you.” He said. Tubbo embraced Spins. “I know, he is my animal companion.” Tommy was stunned. “Your what?”

Link for image: https://at.tumblr.com/periwinklemoonlight/stay-clingy/yku27vq2ff43

Art belongs to the amazing https://www.tumblr.com/periwinklemoonlight

#minecraft #dream smp #tommyinit dsmp #tommyinit fanart #tubbo dsmp #tubbo my beloved #tubbo fanart #Pathfinder Roleplaying Game #tabletop game

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inventors-fair · 1 year

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Extra Turns: Runners-Up ~

Our runners-up this week are @hiygamer, @nine-effing-hells and @spooky-bard!

@hiygamer — Raging Maelstrom

Would mono-red players like this? For sure. Would they play it? Not my business. I think the Izzet Phoenix-like body does it good! It’s strong enough to be repeatable in the right shell and I’m sure there would be ways to cheese it out—like, an enchantment that pinged everyone at upkeep or something. I like how it’s specifically damage. Life loss getting half-phased-out shows where Magic is going, making these kinds of effects more, well, effective. Not bad overall.

I don’t think we need to worry about flavor on this one. It’s not the strongest contender for emotional impact in the world, but it doesn’t want to be and it doesn’t have to be. It’s a storm and it smacks things! No further questions. Big, fast, and a decent enough card to make work in constructed; I don’t think it would see much draft play unless someone’s doing a lot of work to make burn happen.

NOTES: Trample comes before haste in almost every instance, including Ball Lightning, of which this card has direct lineage. C’mon!

@nine-effing-hells — Chimera of Brief Insights

Well this is a weird little rapscallion, innit. I’m uncertain if a three-color Theros set will coem to fruition, and then I remember that Neon Dynasty had a cycle of three-color legends in an ostensibly two-color archetypical format, and I scratch my head, and then I sigh because I miss drafting Kamigawa and getting my rear end handed to me. Anyway, this card. It’s good! It’s really good, actually, if you can land it. For four mana, you’re not getting the absolute most for your body, but you’re getting good enough card advantage to probably make it work. Great idea making it optional, allowing you to get into a position of hand-dumping when you need it rather than when it’s a mistake.

I would have loved to see some art direction, but I can imagine the sun-dappled beast leaping across the polis, sowing inspiration and chaos in equal measure, and that’s really cool. The image of a chimera on Theros with the three abilities of “I’m coming for you!” “I’m gonna run you over,” and “it’s hard to stop an errant thought” is interesting. You could have benefitted from flavor text as well. ‘As fast as lightning and twice as bright.’ That’s a first draft, but you get the picture.

@spooky-bard — Safehold Warmaster

I want this card to be hybrid, and I want it to be without flavor text. Yeah, I’m serious. The rest of this card’s really damn good! The timing especially is the kind of weirdness that I liked; I’m noticing that you were one of the few cards that referenced opponents’ turns as triggers, and that’s a good way to prepare for the turn, which feels like it’s got that specific flavor aspect of its own. I appreciate that. Shadowmoor elves are... Well, I don’t have the time to research them, but they’re really cool, and I like the darkly non-humorous juxtaposition you got here.

Getting the creatures back and then throwing counters on them is pretty awesome, and the fact that it can’t buff itself is probably for the best. I like the higher toughness over power to keep it out of range of your opponents 1-3 drop creatures and burn spells, probably. The fact that it might be at the top of your curve and can recur the aggro cards with an additional mana use is well-designed. Good show.

Commentary as soon as I get back. Be well, folks. `- @abelzumi

#mtg #magic the gathering #custom magic card #runners up #commentary #parts of the turn contest #inventor's fair

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ao3feed-crimeboys · 1 year

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In My Life (Will I Make A Difference?)

by basiliussbullshit

There was a bard in the square.

He had a guitar, knew how to play it skillfully, and he was singing a song about some hero Tommy's never heard of but then again, Tommy had never heard anyone sing before so there has to be a first to everything he supposed.

Following the sound, Tommy—for the first time in a long time—was curious.

~~~~

Or, Tommy had died over a million times by the time he turned two. Maybe that's why he has a hard time living.

Words: 6435, Chapters: 1/1, Language: English

Fandoms: Minecraft (Video Game), Video Blogging RPF

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences

Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings, Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Major Character Death

Characters: TommyInnit (Video Blogging RPF), Wilbur Soot, Kristin Rosales Watson, Clay | Dream (Video Blogging RPF), Eret (Video Blogging RPF)

Relationships: Wilbur Soot & TommyInnit, TommyInnit & Kristin Rosales Watson

Additional Tags: TommyInnit-centric (Video Blogging RPF), Alternate Universe - Medieval, tommy innit dies every 5 seconds but he has the power to come back to life so its fine, wilbur soot is a travelling bard, TommyInnit Needs a Hug (Video Blogging RPF), TommyInnit Gets a Hug (Video Blogging RPF), Angst, Fluff and Angst, BAMF TommyInnit (Video Blogging RPF), Ambiguous/Open Ending, Goddess of Death Kristin Rosales Watson, Parent Kristin Rosales Watson, Insane Wilbur Soot, eventually, beta read but we still die like tommy does every five minutes

#ao3feed #wilbur soot #tommyinnit #crimeboys #crime boys #crimebois #crime bois #mcyt #This is an automated process #If you see any fic that breaks boundaries #or the fic is yours and you don't want it shared send an ask #it will be looked at and removed if need be

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slimepuparibaba · 8 months

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Stars and Asters: Chapter 1.0 - "How to Train Your Drunk Bards' Dragon" Act 1... or something

Ari's Braindead Notes:

guys i know liyue was included in patch 1.0 okay but listen cut me some slack im literally covering all of mondstadt in this fucking chapter kJHAKLDFHAKLJDFHL

also yes characters interacting time, this will be a lot more fun for me

we do be skipping around to get to the more interesting points

if u wanna like make this fully fledged by all means have at it or like do anything with it i rlly dont care plz just end my misery i am like at my computer dying, wondering what ive done with my life

this is so unserious ok im so not sorry

anyway

without further ado:

CHAPTER 1.0 ACT 1: WHO'S READY FOR SOME MOTHA-FLIPPIN TUTORIALS?!

[WORD COUNT: 8.2k words (i am... so sorry)]

Areas of Genshin canon covered: Beginning of Game to End of Four Temples of Mondstadt

Ah, Teyvat. Beautiful, innit? Amazing world full of--

Oh shit, nope, wait. Nevermind. Wake up, bitches, time to run, because the Cataclysm (chat noir??) happened.

So we introduce our two heroes, Aether and Lumine. They wanna escape Teyvat, and then Miss Totally Not Kiana The Unknown God, Asmoday (we think that's her name) shows up, forbidding the Travelers from escaping.

Fun Fact: That Unknown God? That's our corrupted God Program right there, taking the form of the most powerful entity in the world at present to exert control. So far, nothing's gone wrong. Haha. Haha.

Hah.

Anyway, Aether and Lumine decide to fight her, flying towards her, and then just as they dive up and are about to strike, the Unknown God freezes Lumine first.

Panicking, Aether calls out to Lumine before diving at the Unknown God. Yup. Aether is the prota--

Nope. Wait. Hold on. Wh... What's happening with Lumine's prison?

Suddenly, something LITERALLY NO ONE SEES COMING, Lumine breaks out, and through some unknown ability, is able to teleport RIGHT BEHIND THE UNKNOWN GOD, THIS CLOSE to getting a headshot.

Panicked, the Unknown God instead freezes Aether. Lumine calls out his name, then goes to strike again, only to be frozen second, crying out for the Unknown God to give Aether back.

Lumine, in the World System's eyes, has now been fully registered as the Traveler. While Aether, registered as the Abyss Prince.

So, fun fact: according to the "original world seed", that wasn't supposed to happen. Aether was supposed to be the protagonist, not Lumine. Like... something was wrong.

And the God Program? Was pissed.

She kept demanding that the World System reset. Again and again, but the World System refused. The only way the World System would reset was if the God Program reset with it.

God Program: Everything went wrong... you were supposed to be the Abyss Monarch, not your brother...! God Program: No matter... I can simply restart-- World System: Failed to execute deletion due to preexisting condition. God Program: ...Condition? What condition?! The condition claimed that her brother remain the protagonist. If she fails that condition-- World System: Teyvat ver. 5410010 World Console Rule No. 1 - The twin who is first reduced to nothing via the Unknown God is embedded with the Abyssal Monarch spirit data, whereas the leftover twin is embedded with the Traveler Twin spirit data. God Program: But resetting is the only way to get the story to work-- World System: Teyvat ver. 5410010 World Console Rule No. 1 Clause 1 - Once the Traveler and Abyssal Twins have been decided, this decision is permanent and no resetting is allowed. The only options include: deletion of the world console and the Overseer, continue with the storyline. God Program: ...That little bitch... God Program: Show me her data. Now.

The World System pulls up Lumine's data, and something of note is... different about her.

Avatar Name: Female Traveler Nickname: Lumine Model Type: Girl Weapon Type: Sword Element: Changeable Special Condition: Carrier of the Charitas Gene

For simplicity's sake, I'm not gonna explain what the Charitas Gene is. But the God Program is definitely not happy about it, far as I can tell.

(eyo ma'am we get it, youre miguel o'hara but a bitch goddamn--)

And so, Lumine falls asleep for 500 years. And now, we reach Mondstadt's beach, where she talks to Paimon and recaps her on everything that happened.

Paimon is also a literal fish out of water (get it? Because. Because she was fished out? ...okay, I'll see myself out--)

The two became close friends over the past two months and Paimon decides that their first stop should be Mondstadt! Which is. Literally right there. (like c'mon guys, it took you this long to figure it out?)

Also because I like showcasing character moments, please enjoy the two's banter. Please. They're actual sisters.

Lumine: You know... I never really understood how you could've nearly drowned. Paimon: What do you mean by that? Lumine: Oh, nothing... Lumine: I mean, you could've just flown out of the water. Paimon: Hey! J-Just so you know, there's LOTS of other animals that can fly, but they ended up drowning too! Lumine: That's because their wings got damaged and they couldn't fly out the water. And, as far as I'm aware, Paimon? You don't have wings. Paimon: (unconvincingly) W-well... u-uh... it was... Paimon's legs! Yeah, her legs! They were super sore! Lumine: (chuckling) Mhm. Sure, they were.

The two head over to the first Statue of the Seven they find, and Paimon catches Lumine up on some of the "lore" of the world--about the Archons, about the elements, the statues. And then, immediately, Paimon just. Tells Lumine to touch the statue.

Paimon: Hey, maybe you should try touching it! Lumine: Uh, what-- Paimon: You heard Paimon! Touch the statue and pray to it! Lumine: Those are two entirely different things--

And so, Lumine resonates with Anemo...

...and accidentally windblades herself backwards onto the ground.

Paimon reveals that Lumine was likely blessed with Barbatos' blessing, the Anemo Archon, and that Mondstadt City would gladly welcome her in (to Lumine's confusion, because that's like calling the capital of England "England City", but whatever--)

Before they can decide to move there, gigantic-ass dragon flies over. The two go to check it out and see a green bard (we know it's Venti, this is very much obvious by now) talking to a dragon.

As the two peek in, Paimon accidentally floats too close, losing balance and bumping into Lumine, who creates a large blast of Anemo energy, startling the dragon.

The dragon flies off and Venti disappears. When they go to search for it, they find a red teardrop and have. No clue what to do with it. Lumine holds it in her hand.

Lumine: Huh... never seen anything like this before. Paimon: Paimon hasn't either! She can't tell what it is, but looks like we'll just have to take it with us! Lumine: You're saying we have to hold this the entire way? It's not like I have a bag or anything... Paimon: U-uh, m-maybe we...

The crystal randomly dissipates while the two ponder and Lumine and Paimon scream.

Lumine: T-THE CRYSTAL?! Paimon: WHERE'D IT GO?! WHERE'D IT GO?! Lumine: DON'T ASK ME! I WAS JUST HOLDING IT AND THEN ALL OF A SUDDEN--

The crystal reappears in Lumine's held out hands. Paimon and Lumine scream again, Lumine falling backwards as it hovers.

Lumine: It just... a-appeared again. Paimon: M-maybe... perhaps... Paimon: Oh! Maybe you have a psychic storage space that you learned about from another world!

Half-right. It's the World System working in the "game inventory" mechanic.

Lumine: Yeah, no, I don't think that's it.

It's kinda that.

Anyway, Lumine tests it again, concentrating carefully, only for it to dissipate into thin air. She stares at her palms and--yeah, no, it's definitely gone now.

Paimon: And now it's gone again! Lumine: Seems like along with my Anemo prowess, I can summon items and store them at well... Paimon: So it IS a psychic storage space... Lumine: I'd like to think of it as a virtual inventory. Paimon: Haaah, well, if that's really what you think, then Paimon won't correct you...

Virtual Inventory now introduced as an actual living breathing mechanic that Lumine can utilize as hammer space, they trek to the Whispering Woods, where they meet Amber, who is all like "hey you kinda sus"

Paimon and Lumine give Amber some sas, hilarity ensuing

Amber: You don't look like citizens of Mondstadt. Explain yourselves! Paimon: WE'RE NOT DOING ANYTHING ILLEGAL! Lumine: (internally) Only criminals say that kind of thing...?! Lumine: Sorry, ignore her. She's not good under pressure. I'm Lumine, and that's Paimon. We're really not looking for any trouble. Amber: Hmm... Lumine and Paimon, huh? Doesn't sound like any local names to me. Lumine: (internally) Not wrong... Amber: Well, other than your odd clothing style, you're clear, Lumine. Lumine and Paimon: (internally) Like your clothing is anymore conventional?!

No more time for chit chat, girls, because we got an issue with Hilichurs! Lumine feels like she can hear some sort of "Amber has joined your party" ringing in the back of her head, but she shakes it off as something she thought of herself.

So they find a Hilichurl Camp, and here is where we immediately start deviating.

Paimon: Whoa…! An entire Hilichurl Camp! Lumine: A Hili-what? Amber: Those. Hilichurls.

Amber points to the Hilichurls eating and dancing around a fire. Some are sharpening their axes, others stringing their bows.

Lumine: ...they look... kinda cute. Amber: Yeah, they seem cute, but they can get aggressive to people like you and me. They're too close to the city, so my task this time is to clear out their camp. Lumine: Wait, why can't we just say 'hi' and ask them politely to leave? Amber: B-Because they don't speak our language--wait, Traveler? Where are you going?!

Lumine then decides it's a smart idea to walk up to one of the hilichurls who's happily eating a Sunsettia. She kneels down and tries to talk to them.

Lumine: Um... Hi there, little fella. Hilichurl: ...? Ya!

The Hilichurl stands up, grabbing the club next to him and ready to hit Lumine. He drops his Sunsettia on the ground, but Lumine holds out her arm as if trying to show she means no harm.

Lumine: H-hey, no... uh... no fight! Paimon: Lumine, they won't listen! Hilichurls aren't-- Lumine: Shh, I think I'm making progress...!

Though she struggles, she tries to reason with the Hilichurl and hands it the Sunsettia, hoping to reason.

Lumine: Here… go on, take it.

The Hilichurl looks at her hand, then to the others in his group. They too seem puzzled, but do nothing. Finally, the Hilichurl takes the Sunsettia into his palms and stares at Lumine, before dancing a bit.

Paimon: …h-he… he seems happy…! Hilichurl: Valo valo! Ya mi tomo!

A flash of recognition appears in Lumine's eyes, as if she understands what the Hilichurl is saying. This shouldn't be normal, but she knows anyway. So, she continues conversing.

Lumine: You're welcome. Hey, do you think you can move the camp a little farther into the forest? Hilichurl: Dala? Lumine: Mm… mostly because the other people might be too scared of you, so they'll try and attack. Hilichurl: Mm…

The Hilichurl turns to his friends and starts speaking, Lumine understanding that he's requesting to move the camp farther from the city. After a bit, he returns to conversing with Lumine. Paimon and Amber look from afar in bewilderment.

Amber (shouting): What did he say? Lumine (shouting): He said that they were told to be stationed here by someone, but since I asked nicely, they'll move!

The Hilichurls seem happy that they were able to communicate, and suddenly, the one friendly Hilichurl runs over to the inside of the main hut, motioning Lumine to come over.

Lumine follows, and in front of the Friendly Hilichurl is a small, common chest. Lumine, in shock, looks at him as if affirming what the Hilichurl is offering. He nods in response, and Lumine opens it. Inside, however, is something uncommon…

Inside of the chest is a sword and a bow. The sword is glowing brightly with an aqua-green hue, while the bow seems to have the same sigil that Amber wears on her outrider outfit.

The Hilichurls wave goodbye to the trio as Lumine hands the bow over to Amber, keeping the sword in her grasp. Paimon and Amber are both astonished, as the Hilichurls fulfill their promise and start to move out further into the forest.

Amber: …How… did you do that? Paimon: Paimon's never seen someone interact with Hilichurls like that before… Lumine: Wait, really? No one's asked nicely? Amber: I mean, we've tried, but they couldn't understand us. It usually led to them getting upset and lashing out at us, so whenever they see a person, they strike first on reflex. Lumine: Well… that one Hilichurl said he'd try putting in a good word for me with the other tribes. So, maybe the issue's solved? Paimon: You understood Hilichurlian! That's amazing! Lumine: Just a bit. I'm more surprised he understood me. He seems like a sweet guy--seems like he's the youngest of the group. Amber: All that information from a single exchange with a Hilichurl… Ella Musk would be impressed…

Aside from me restraining myself from wishing Ella Musk's name was changed, the group then realizes that Amber gained a Favonius Warbow. And, for some reason... Luine has the Aquila Favonia?

No one really knows why, but anyway, the group heads back to Mondstadt. Amber catches 'em up: Stormterror is a big dragon that brings gigantic storms whenever he's near, and so Mondstadt's in a tight spot. The Knights of Favonius also have to deal with Hilichurls moving closer and closer into the city, but Lumine realizes something.

Lumine (internally): It doesn't add up... the Hilichurl I talked to said they were told to be stationed there, like they were told by a tactician. Not to mention the person in green who talked to the dragon… something's not right.

Detective Lumine, who decided to turn into Rosa from Tears of Themis for a good bit, then goes with Paimon and Amber to Mondstadt.

They take a tour around the city, which is pretty empty, and learn about what Mondstadt is like. Lumine makes mental note to never indulge in any of the taverns because she apparently might get too caught up in taste-testing wine to the point where she'll become flat-out drunk. Sasuga Traveler.

And then, Lumine is given a Wind Glider by Amber. She glides around, and suddenly, when she lands, the wind glider dissipates. Amber explains this to Lumine. More mechanics.

Amber: Wow, you did pretty well! And it seems like the Wind Glider recognized you as it's owner. Paimon: "Recognized"? What's that mean? Amber: : Some of the items in this world have a will imbedded in them, like my new bow! Amber summons the bow in her hands, which seems to come out of nowhere. This surprises Paimon and Lumine. Amber: See, if an item recognizes you as it's owner and synchronizes with you, you can summon it at will! Practically appears and disappears when you ask it to. Cool trick, right? Paimon: So that's what it is! Amber: Though it's a bit strange. Usually, only Vision holders can achieve this, but… as far as I can see, you don't have a Vision, Traveler. Lumine: …a Vision? Amber: Yeah. A Vision! You see, a Vision is--!

Woops, sorry walking exposition, but we got a dragon to deal with! A tornado begins to form--multiple tornadoes in fact, and as Amber and Paimon run away, Lumine gets Dorothy'd up into the air. Paimon and Amber try to hold her down, but nope.

But, with Venti's help, Lumine remains stable. She's instructed by Venti to "deal with Dvalin".

Venti: You're doing great! Keep it up! Lumine: It'd be nice if you could've introduced yourself before you put me in this situation! Venti: You really want an introduction at a time like this?! Mondstadt needs your help! Lumine: Okay, but when this is all over, I EXPECT answers!

On the ground, Paimon is watching worriedly for Lumine and is this close to flying in, but Amber is busy evacuating citizens.

Amber: Paimon, there's some citizens trying to seek shelter! We have to help! Paimon: B-but…! But what about--? Amber (serious): I know you're worried about your partner, but she looks like she can fend off Mondstadt against the dragon. Right now, these innocent people can't. I need your help.

Paimon seems unsure, looking back up at the sky for Lumine. Amber again asks, but this time, it comes out more as a plea.

Amber: Please…

Paimon then looks at Amber, nodding. Amber runs off, trying to help out innocents. Paimon hesitates, looking up at the sky one last time.

Paimon: …please be okay, Lumine…!

She then flies off in Amber's direction, assisting as best as she can.

Meanwhile, there's this guy... a guy with an eyepatch awtching from afar. He's doing that "cool guy" pose, leaning against the support beam of a building. Congratulations--we've met Kaeya.

Kaeya: So, an Outlander has come to save us from the big, scary dragon. How amusing…

Lisa, who is actually doing work for once, scolds Kaeya as she escorts a woman and her child to safety

Lisa: Kaeya! A little bit of help would be appreciated. Kaeya: Right. Sorry. Got distracted by the light show. Lisa: Kaeya, not now! Kaeya: Alright, alright. I'm coming. No need to worry so much, Lisa.

While he's busy, though, he still is thinking heavily about that person in the sky... wondering about something. But, oh well, whatever.

After some time passes, Lumine successfully shoos Dvalin away and lands on the ground, where Paimon tearfully hugs Lumine tightly, glad she's okay.

Anyway, then Kaeya comes up

Kaeya (clapping): Well, well, well. You've actually got the power to go up against the dragon... Lumine: ? Kaeya: Are you perhaps a new ally... Kaeya: Or a new storm? Lumine and Paimon (staring): ... Paimon (whispering): Is he really a Knight? Lumine (whispering): No, I think he's a pirate. Kaeya (surprised): Huh. That's. Not the reaction I was expecting.

Anyway, we're introduced to Kaeya and the group heads to the Knights of Favonius, where they meet Jean and Lisa and basically go over how fucked the shit is.

Jean: So that's the situation. Stormterror's power sources must be cut off, and we need your help. I promise, we will help you seek out your brother. Lisa: Mhm. That's right, cuties! Lumine: ... Lumine: Okay so... stop THAT. Lisa: Hm? Lumine: And also, how... many Temples are we dealing with? Kaeya: Three of the Four Temples. Lumine: ... Lumine: I'm sorry, what happened to the fourth? Paimon: is it the rule of threes? Lumine: This sounds like the rule of threes. Amber: What are you guys even saying? Kaeya (snickering): Pffft... finally, my kind of crowd. Amber: No. Stop Do not.

So with that out of the way, Lisa and Kaeya join the party and embark on the quest to the Three Temples--I mean, Three of the Four Temples.

No, Paimon, Lumine, and Kaeya will NOT stop joking about it.

Lumine: But if the fourth temple is off-limits, shouldn't you just call it the three temples? Lisa: Well, you see, it's because-- Paimon: Yeah! If you keep saying it's dangerous but it still exists, then people who would want to visit the Temples would try to find the fourth anyway! Because completionism! Kaeya: Ah, see, I brought up that same point as well, but the Acting Grandmaster said otherwise. Amber: Listen, we're visiting THREE TEMPLES. Okay? Just three! No more! Paimon: No four. Lumine: What a bore. Kaeya: Such a chore. Amber: And no rhyming games! Kaeya: What a... Paimon, Lumine, and Kaeya: Shame? Lisa (sighs): A long errand this will be, won't it, Amber? Amber: You're telling me...

I'm not going to go over the stupid Temples, okay? Like. Literally no one remembers them. I'm skipping them. Shush. This is my fic, I do what I want.

Most you'll get is tidbits of what happens in each one.

First up we have the Temple of the Falcon, where we see Amber in action. And, um...

Amber: Oh no, Hilichurls! Lisa: Quickly, we must defeat them! Kaeya: Right. Amber: Oh, there's explosive barrels over there! Maybe if I throw Baron Bunny over-- Lumine: Oh, hey! Is that you, little guy? Friendly Hilichurl (from before): Tomo! Kaeya, Lisa, and Amber: ... All three: What? Lumine: Sorry for intruding. Were you guys stationed here too? Friendly Hilichurl: Dada. Dala si? Lumine: Oh, some friends of mine. Hey, listen, do you know where some sort of... draconic power is? Friendly Hilichurl: Da! Zido, zido! Paimon: Wow, Lumine, your Hilichurlian is really helpful! Lumine: I know, right? Kinda glad about that. Kaeya: ... Kaeya: S... she speaks... Amber: Yup. Lisa: And she negotiated with... Amber: Mhm. Kaeya: ... Kaeya: That's... a new one...

--yeah, so I lied. Remember how Lumine communicated with the Hilichurls earlier? Yeah, it makes things significantly easier for them.

They take out a Dragon's Breath, move onto the next Temple. Here, Lumine learns about Visions... and the group also tries to avoid every single sexual innuendo Lisa makes.

Lisa: So as you can see, when enemies are Wet, I can easily handle them via chain lightning, as they become electro-charged. Lumine: ... Paimon: ... Lia: The electrical discharge caused by friction is only a little less shocking than love at first sight. Lumine, covering Paimon's ears: Paimon, you're too young to hear this. Paimon, covering her eyes: Paimon is too Paimon to see this. Kaeya: Lisa, maybe cut down on the adult erotica you read? Amber: KAEYA! Kaeya, covering Lumine's ears: What? Just sayin'. Not in front of the children. Lumine: I AM 5'2", THAT IS LIKE AVERAGE HEIGHT FOR A FEMALE ADULT! Kaeya: Sure, kiddo. Lumine, squirming: HANDS OFF, HANDS OFF--!

Lisa also gets a new weapon here, but that's neither really here or there. I'm not gonna mention much about weapons, guys, unless the character is like super important.

Anyway, two out of the four three temples left! Kaeya's turn! And. Um. Well.

Kaeya: Luckily, the Hilichurls weren't so much as a problem this time... Kaeya, turning to Lumine, swinging around his new sword he just got cuz he wants to look like a badass: So. You said they were stationed here? Lumine: Yup. That's what they told me. They typically want to be as far out from humans or human-traveled locations as much as possible so they can live peacefully, but they only ever approach if stationed there. Kaeya: Interesting... Then perhaps. Kaeya, to the Hydro Abyss Mage behind him: YOU were behind this! Hydro Abyss Mage: Gohus, Chiso Vo--

And then a gigantic ass flaming claymore bursts in, hitting the Hydro Abyss Mage.

Hydro Abyss Mage: GAH-- Kaeya: ..well, well, look who it is. Diluc: Knights of Favonius. Always so inefficient. Kaeya: Agree to disagree. But, since you got involved, this should be more interesti-- Amber: KAEYA, DILUC, I GET THAT YOU'RE BICKERING, BUT THE THING ISN'T GONE! Kaeya and Diluc: ?! Lisa, busy electrocuting it: Master Diluc, may we remind you the basics of elemental resonation and why fire doesn't work effectively on water? Diluc: ... Kaeya: ...

Kaeya proceeds to freeze the Hydro Abyss Mage.

Diluc: ... Kaeya: So. 'Inefficient', you said? Diluc: ...tch.

Diluc leaves, while Lumine and Paimon just stare.

Lumine: ...was he... trying to be cool? Paimon: That was... the worst first imperssion ever. Kaeya: Pfft. Yup. Knew I liked you two.

So anyhow and anyway, the group returns to Mondstadt and updates Jean on everything, with Lumine and Paimon learning the Fourth Temple was actually Dvalin's. Insert an "ooooooh" here.

Well, actually, before they update Jean, they see her arguing with Fatui diplomats on things.

Jean: That was the Fatui... from Snezhnaya. Lumine: Actually, it's pronounced "Fah-twee". Jean: ...what? Lumine: You're pronouncing it like pah-tooey, like when someone expectorates. Lumine: Anyway, continue. Jean: Oh... kay...? Paimon: Wait, so the Fatui wanted to kill Stormterror? Kaeya: To be fair, the Cryo Archon and the Fatui have always coveted the other Archons' powers... Lumine: Okay, but why? Kaeya: Beats me. Paimon: Aren't you a Knight? Shouldn't you know more about politics? Kaeya: Aren't you the "number one traveling companion"? Shouldn't YOU know more about Teyvat in general? Paimon: D'oh...

Lisa and Jean then take a look at the red crystal, amused by it. They claim that it's impure, and surprising that Lumine isn't affected by it. Then, she is honored with the title.

Jean: Now then, Traveler... The Knights of Favonius have another favor to ask of you. Lumine: You can just call me Lumine... no need to call me Trave-- Jean: Please accept the title of Honorary Knight... and the gratitude of the Acting Grand Master! Lumine: Aaaaand a new title. Awesome. Paimon: Wow, look at that, Lumine! The Honorary Knight of Favonius! Kaeya: And now you're subject to being called Honorary Knight to the end of your days. Lumine: Haha, very funny.

The group disperses, going their seperate ways, only for Lumine and Paimon to ask for lodging! W-well, except, um...

Paimon: Paimon can't BELIEVE it! The Fatui took ALL THE ROOM IN THE GOETHE HOTEL?! Lumine: And to think it's the only hotel in Mondstadt... for the supposed capital of the place, you'd think there'd be more. Paimon: Urgh... those Fatui! And Paimon could've ordered food service. Lumine: Ah, so YOUR main complaint was food service. Paimon: W-well, who are we supposed to call here? Captain Eyepatch?! Lumine: Or Noelle. Apparently she's like the maid here? Paimon: Yeah, but... Paimon would feel bad asking her for room service... Lumine: (laughs) Paimon: So, Amber said that our room was... this one, right?

Lumine and Paimon arrive at their temporary lodging--the Knights of Favonius HQ. Well, specifically, the area where the Knights who live in the HQ stay. Thankfully, there were open spaces due to a large majority of the soldiers being gone with the actual Grandmaster of the Knights.

When Paimon and Lumine open the room, they find it's... pretty quaint. They get a decent view, a comfy bed. Though, there is a LOT of Favonius paraphernalia--from the books, to the carpet. Even the curtains and...

Lumine: Huh. Didn't know that had Favonius-branded napkins. Paimon: And lamps. Lumine: ...interesting...

Lumine and Paimon take the chance to settle down, sitting back and getting comfy.

Paimon: Lumine, you sure are getting comfortable with the Teyvatan language, though! Those two months of practicing were worth it, weren't they? Lumine: I also had to relearn how to walk again... you know, they never talk about how over five hundred years of sleeping can seriously affect your ability to move. Paimon: Mhm! But it was all worth it in the end!

As Lumine and Paimon lie down on their bed, Lumine looks up at the ceiling. It's getting dark out... they've been busy all day. Talk about an action-packed first day properly interacting with Teyvatan locals.

Lumine: ...it's only been a day, huh? Paimon: ... Paimon: Lumine? Lumine: Hm? Paimon: Are you... sad?

Paimon turns around, looking up at Lumine. She's worried.

Paimon: Do you think the Anemo Archon is the one that took your brother? Lumine: ...no. Far from it. If the statue is anything like the god that took him from me? Definitely not her. Paimon: Do you think he'd at least know her? Lumine: Well... I guess we could ask. Paimon: ...Paimon's sorry. Lumine: Hm? For what?

Paimon grows quiet, then whimpers.

Paimon: ...if Paimon could remember, Paimon would tell you, but...

When Lumine found Paimon, Paimon commented that there were things she did and didn't remember.

Lumine: Well, you seemed to remember some things as we made our way here, right? Paimon: Right, but... it only happened when Paimon saw them. It was like Paimon couldn't remember until she had to remember. Lumine: ...then, when the time comes, you'll remember. I know it. Paimon: ...mn. Paimon hopes so.

Paimon lets out a big yawn, and Lumine smiles gently. For the past two months, it's just been her and Paimon against the world. They've practically become inseperable. Attached to the hip.

Lumine: Tired? Paimon: Mn... Lumine: Go to sleep then, Paimon. It's been a long day.

Lumine stands up, gently tucking Paimon into bed. However, Paimon calls out to Lumine.

Paimon: Lumine, what about you? Aren't you sleepy? Lumine: I'll head to bed in a bit. Just want to do some reading practice before anything.

Lumine stands up, grabbing some books from the shelves. With a stack of them in her arms, she makes her way to the bed, flipping through each of them vigorously.

Clues about her brother's whereabouts. Myths about that Unknown God. An unknown location. She'd accept anything at this point.

Book after book, page after page... the light in the room stayed on throughout the night. It was as if hours passed. And yet, nothing.

No mentions of a blond-haired Traveler in search of his sister. No Unknown Gods with flowing white hair that claimed to be the Sustainer of Heavenly Principles. It was all simply tales of Mondstadt, or fairy tales about some oddities.

Lumine's eyes began to droop... she was getting sleepier by the moment. Until finally, the weary girl dozed off.

The first night without her brother. How sad... how unfortunate.

As Lumine dozes off to sleep, she hears a voice resounding... and suddenly, her surroundings change, and she begins to dream.

Once upon a time, there was a one-eyed peacock...

"He came from a long line of creatures that lived in a forest made by their own kind. They despised the gods that lived up above them in the sky, and wished to rule themselves. For they were the superior. That was their belief."

"But the gods were angered by these creatures. How dare they overstep such boundaries set in place? How dare these creatures be greedy and take life into their own hands? In anger, the gods set the creature-made forest ablaze."

"It was Hell on earth. Many cried, many screamed. Beings of shadow emerged from the depths, consuming everyone in it's wake... it was a disaster. No... it was a Cataclysm."

"Despite it being 500 years ago, the one-eyed peacock shared his ancestor's legacy. For his bloodline had been cursed by the gods. What that curse was, he would never say. But all he knew was this: his father had sent him to hide in a beautiful kingdom of dandelions, in hopes that one day, it would perish."

"The peacock, in truth, held a dark secret. His beautiful feathers were nothing but shards of ice. In truth, his true body was afflicted, tainted by his ancestors. And he had to bear that curse for as long as he lived."

"The peacock made his way into the hearts of the Dandelion Kingdom, and soon, he was taken in by an owl and his owlet. The young peacock and owlet grew close, standing side by side, learning and growing together."

"For once, the peacock wondered, 'Is this okay?'. He asked himself, 'could I live like this? Could I spend my days in this Kingdom of Dandelions?' He was comfortable, he was happy... perhaps, he thought, this could be his new home. Perhaps his curse didn't need to be his truth."

"...but the Gods forbade it."

"These Gods weren't the same ones who cursed the peacock's bloodline, not the ones who lived in the clouds. No, they were the ones who determined everyone's fate. The Gods, in their anger, were unsatisfied with the peacock's conclusion."

"You are cursed forevermore. It is your destiny."

"To prove their point, the Gods sent down a 'curse' that tore apart the owl that took the peacock in. Ripping him apart, limb from limb, pucking his feathers until nothing was left, but a mere husk. By the time that the peacock and owlet arrived, it was too late... the owl was no longer himself."

"The owlet watched in horror, his father growing mad and losing himself. No matter what the owlet did, he could only do one last thing:"

"The peacock watched as the owlet cried, curling up against his father's corpse, his beak and talons stained with blood. It had to be him that ended his father's life."

"This was the Gods answer... the peacock understood. There was no father here, no family here. The only thing left was his curse."

"For the first time, the peacock shed his icy feathers, revealing to the blood-stained owlet the truth. In tears, the owlet grew furious--how could the peacock have lied to him? The peacock, this entire time... was he glad that his father died?"

"The owlet clawed at the peacock, and in return, the peacock fought back. It was no longer a friendly duel between brothers. It was a falling out. They fought, and fought, and fought. But what the owlet didn't see were the peacock's tears."

"Ever since that day, the peacock understood. He must never shed his feathers, for he must keep the truth hidden within. The Gods have willed it so. It is, after all, his destiny, to lie."

"He cannot live a happy life in the Dandelion Kingdom. He cannot trust anyone, not even himself."

"And so, the peacock accepted his destiny, doing as the Gods instructed, until his body froze him to the bone, and he took his final breath, cold. Alone. Just as he had been since the beginning."

Lumine immediately bolted up out of bed, her head pounding, ears ringing. What was that dream...? No, really, what WAS that dream?

She looked at Paimon, who was sleeping soundly next to her. A dream about a peacock, an owlet, a dead owl... it was all so vivid, so terrifying, so...

...sad.

Lumine sat up in bed, taking in everything. What sort of dream was that? It was bizarre.

As she felt around for the lamp, her hand rested on a small book. A book she most likely was about to read before falling asleep.

The girl looked outside. Still dark out. Not only that, but her head still ached from such an odd dream--or would it be more appropriate to call it a nightmare?

Either way, she resolved to read the book and find a glass of water. Perhaps that would make it easier on her.

Lumine carefully crept out of the room, ensuring Paimon was fast asleep, before wandering the HQ. It was eerily dead silent in the middle of the night.

She looked around for the kitchen, trying not to make a sound, until at last she found the tap. Setting her book aside and grabbing a glass, she poured herself a drink--

???: "Teyvatan History 101", eh? Lumine: AH!

Nearly spilling her water, Lumine panicked, turning around. Standing there, carrying a lamp, was none other than Kaeya Alberich, dressed down into something she could only assume was his nightwear.

Kaeya: Snooping around in the middle of the night, little miss? Lumine: You scared the heck out of me...! Jeez...! Kaeya: Haha, sorry. Couldn't help myself.

As Kaeya laughed, Lumine held her hand up to her forehead before drinking her glass. Her brows were furrowed, and she seemed to be shaking a bit. At that, Kaeya decided to inquire.

Kaeya: ...hey. Couldn't sleep?

Lumine turned, then looked up at Kaeya.

Kaeya: What? Friend can't ask a friend how she's doing? Lumine: ...we're friends? Kaeya: I'm hurt, Miss Honorary Knight... are you suggesting we aren't?

Lumine laughs at that, before leaning against the counter, sipping her water. Kaeya joins her, leaning against the counter as well. The two are side by side in the quiet of the night.

Lumine: I, uh... yeah. Had a nightmare. Kaeya: Oh? Do tell. Lumine: I just... don't know how to make heads or tails of it? Kaeya: Surprise me. Not only am I devilishly good-looking, but I'm also an expert at interpreting dreams. Lumine: Pfft, that's a lie. Kaeya: You won't know until you try.

The two laugh a bit, until the mood seems to shift in a more... somber way.

Lumine: I, um... I guess I should start by saying I typically don't have nightmares. Kaeya: No? Lumine: Yeah... Aether and I always made sure that we were both at least in the same vicinity when we fell asleep so, I... guess he was like my nightmare repellent. It's... been happening for the past few months. Kaeya: ... Kaeya: I see.

There's a silence in the air, only for Kaeya to try and continue the conversation.

Kaeya: So. You and your brother were close? Lumine: Yeah. Well, are... Lumine: ...hopefully that's the right tense. Kaeya: Hey. I'm sure he's out there. Just gotta look for him is all. I'm sure he's trying to find you too, right? Lumine, quietly: Yeah. I... I hope so too.

Lumine looks into the water in her glass, before she begins to talk about her dream.

Lumine: ...the dream I had this time though was different from most of the other nightmares I've had. Kaeya: Hm? Like what? Lumine: In the past, it was... always about Aether leaving me. Leaving me behind, not letting me follow him, and in the end, I'd end up all alone in a vast, empty void. Lumine: But this one was... about a one-eyed peacock.

When that was mentioned, Kaeya's eye widened.

Kaeya: ...one-eyed... peacock? Lumine: Mhm. Again, a really weird dream, but-- Kaeya: What happened to it? Lumine: Huh? Kaeya: ...t... the peacock, I mean. Did... something happen?

Kaeya hastily tried to correct himself. Lumine couldn't tell if it was the dim lighting or not, but his eye seemed to dart around, refusing to make eye contact with her. Despite this, she continued.

Lumine: Yeah, um... so, the peacock was cursed by the Gods. Something about his bloodline being cursed by defying the creatures that lived in the clouds? It's really confusing. Kaeya: And then? Lumine: Well...

Lumine recounted the story, trying to piece together what she could recall.

Lumine: ...he was accepted into the Dandelion Kingdom. Well, more like sent to infiltrate it by his father to see it's downfall or... something. And he was adopted by an owl and his son. Kaeya: ...

Kaeya grew unexpectedly quiet at this. It was almost uncharacteristic for him.

Lumine: ...Kaeya? Kaeya: Continue.

When he realized how off he sounded, he corrected himself.

Kaeya: Sorry, sorry. I, um... tired. Lumine: O-okay... Lumine: ...well, as time passed, the peacock came to love it in the Dandelion Kingdom, but he questioned if it was alright to stay there or if he had to do what he was "destined" to do. Then, when he hesitated, the Gods got angry. The owl that took care of the peacock went made and his owlet had to be the one to kill him. And the peacock... just watched. Like he was being told "you have to do what you were destined to do now, there is no second option".

Kaeya's hands were shaking, though Lumine couldn't notice it. As if he was reliving a bad memory. A bad dream.

Lumine: ...the peacock decided to try and tell the owlet. I guess he felt bad and at least wanted to put all cards on the table. Shed his feathers, showed the truth and... they fought. And the peacock just... lied for the rest of his life, not questioning his destiny. Kaeya: ...what... happened at the end of the dream? Was... that all?

Lumine grew quiet, before whispering. Ah, so this is why he reacted this way...

Lumine: ...the peacock froze to death.

Kaeya's face darkened. It was like he was hoping for a happier ending deep down, but he knew that it wouldn't end that way.

A few seconds pass, before Lumine draws a conclusion.

Lumine: I don't... want to make assumptions but, I'm guessing from your reaction that... Kaeya: ...that the peacock was me as a kid?

Lumine looked up at Kaeya, who avoided her eyes.

Kaeya: Yeah. From a kid to my teens. Lumine: Then... that owlet was-- Kaeya: The owl was a man named Crepus Ragvindr. And the owlet? His son... Diluc Ragvindr. Lumine: The one who appeared at the Temple of the Wolf? Kaeya: That's right. He and I were close once. But, like you said. I wavered. Instead of being next to him when he had to kill his dad, end Crepus' misery, I just. Watched. Accepted that this was my fate as a descendant of Khaenri'ah.

At that, Lumine became curious.

Lumine: ...Khaenri'ah? Kaeya: An ancient nation made by humans. All Teyvatan nations have been established and run by the Archons, except for Khaenri'ah. Celestia, the big guys up above, hated that. They... wiped out everything. Lumine: I... I-I'm sorry, I-- Kaeya: Don't be. It was centuries ago. Nothing to do with me. Kaeya: Or... well, you know.

Yet another silence between them, only for Kaeya to suddenly chuckle sadly.

Kaeya: Haaah, why... why am I telling you this? Makes no sense. Lumine: Hm? Kaeya: I mean... think about it. We just met today, and suddenly, I'm telling you a secret that I only told one other person, and said person now hates me. I... I must've gone mad.

Kaeya ran his fingers through his hair, continuing to smile sadly.

Kaeya: Ah... that's fine. Just one more person to despise m-- Lumine: I don't despise you.

Kaeya froze in his place. Did... his ears decieve him?

He turned to Lumine, in shock.

Kaeya: What... did you just... Lumine: Why would I hate you for the sins of your father?

The man continued to stare at Lumine, who seemed completely serious. She said it so... matter-of-factly. Was something wrong in her head?

Surely. Surely something was wrong with her. After all, he's a sleeper agent, meant to wait there and watch as Mondstandt burned. So why? Why was she...?

Lumine: If anything, I hate the Gods. Kaeya: ...the... the Gods? Lumine: Mhm. The ones that said that you have to follow your destiny. It's obvious you love Mondstandt, right?

"Obvious"? Please, what does this girl know? Only a day and she's making assumptions on his character.

How could he love Mondstadt when he was to be there someday and watch it all crumble? It was his destiny, his God-given destiny. Written in the stars, unchangeable.

Kaeya: I... hah. I live here, obviously, so-- Lumine: But you love it's people. Kaeya: ... Lumine: I don't know why I got that dream, or why it was so close to your truth. But... what I do know is that every time I saw that peacock, I didn't feel angry. I felt... sad. Lumine: His dad abandoned him to make him fulfill revenge for something that he wasn't involved in, he found a family that was immediately ripped away because he wasn't following his destiny, and he just decides that he has to lie all the time until the day he ends up dying. Lumine: That's such a lonely existence... I couldn't hate a poor creature like that. Lumine: I couldn't hate you like that.

She looks up at Kaeya innocently. Something within Kaeya stirs--it's like she's staring straight into his soul, dissecting everything about him. As she continues to speak, he can't deny her. Like she speaks the truth.

Lumine: If that dream is your reality, then I can't be mad at you. Instead, I'd just be sad. Sad that you wanted to try and be your own person but instead felt like you had to live up to what someone in your past did. That's all, really. Lumine: ...in a way, the Gods never really gave you a chance to grieve at all. Because 'destiny' was more important than you were to them. Lumine: At least, that's just what I'm th--

As Lumine looks up, a strange sight is before her. Kaeya is paralyzed, staring at the ground... and for a moment, she swears she could see something trailing down his cheeks.

A teardrop. A small, tiny teardrop.

Kaeya had lost everything. He didn't want to admit that, but he did. There was nothing for him.

His birth father left him to carry his ancestors' burden. His foster father died in front of his eyes. His best friend, brother, despised him. All the while, he lost the ability to feel like "himself".

He's a liar. A hollow, empty liar.

And instead of falling for his bluff, Lumine, this random stranger from who knows where, shattered that bluff on day one.

Impressive. Scarily impressive. To the point that Kaeya actually felt terrified.

Kaeya: ...hah. Wow. Are... a-are you a therapist? You really should try getting into that. You're, um. You're a very good listene--

Immediately, Lumine sets down her water and hugs Kaeya tightly. She's a lot shorter than him, so her head barely reaches up to his chest, but... for some reason, it's not cold. It's... warm.

Is this a hug?

What kind of hug is it?

A hug of passion and desire?

No. No, Kaeya can tell it isn't... it's too different from that.

A genuine hug from someone that's worried?

...there's no way it could be that, could it?

Lumine: ...you can grieve now. Kaeya: ... Lumine: ...it's long overdue by now, isn't it? I won't get mad at you, so... Lumine: ...I lost something too. We can both grieve together.

...this girl was something else. That much, Kaeya understood.

His hands twitched, not knowing what to do, only to loosely reciprocate the hug. Suddenly, his head moved lower, resting atop hers...

...and tears began to flow.

He choked it back as best he could--oh, how hard he tried. He clenched his teeth, his fists tightening, but he couldn't.

Was this his true feelings? He didn't know. He thought he repressed it a long, long time ago.

But for some reason, Lumine simply saying that she would grieve with him... felt comforting.

Kaeya: ...haha. F-fuck... this is... the worst first impression I've ever made on someone. Lumine, also tearing up: Don't worry. I won't tell. It'll be our little secret.

The two continue to hug, tears flowing. Yet, it felt... freeing. Rejuvenating.

As he wept, as his soul began to thaw, Kaeya asked one question to Lumine. As if seeking this answer his entire life.

Kaeya: Hey, kid? Lumine: Hm? Kaeya: If... if I said I don't want to see Mondstadt suffer... is that okay?

When she heard that question, Lumine squeezed him tighter, nodding.

Lumine: Yes. It has always been okay since the very start.

Someone had listened to him. Someone had listened to his truth... and, for once, someone told him... it was all okay.

Was that all he wished for? A gentle voice to tell him he could do as he wished, feel as he wished?

Was all he wanted an affirmation that... perhaps he could have happiness?

Maybe. Maybe that was all he wanted ever since he was abandoned those years ago. Ever since he was a kid.

And now, finally, someone found him trapped in the ice and helped him break free.

It was almost as if he was reborn anew...

As their tears dried, Kaeya and Lumine took the time to get some fresh air outside of the headquarters. They began to chat over mundane things to ease themselves of the pain. Perhaps it was the stars in the sky, or maybe about some passing cat. Whatever it was, they were at peace.

Then, Kaeya brought up a question.

Kaeya: So. You said you were grieving too. You... were talking about your brother, right? Lumine: Mn. I... don't feel the same without him, so. Kaeya: Right, right. Gotcha.

For a few seconds, there was yet another silence. But then, Kaeya began to speak once more.

Kaeya: ...Diluc was like my brother too. Lumine: Really? Kaeya: Yup. My best friend, my brother-in-arms... but I, um... Kaeya, looking down: I guess I just didn't get the chance to grieve that fact that we couldn't go back to that after he found out the truth. Lumine: ...hey, I'm sure that when the time comes, you could potentially go back to that. Right? Kaeya: ... Kaeya: Pfft. Optimistic, aren't you? Lumine: Haha, I try.

The two chuckle, before looking up at the stars in the night sky. The way they twinkle, the way the clouds roll through the dark indigo hue...

Kaeya: ...what if we try and fill the brother-shaped gap we both have? Lumine: Hm?

Lumine looks up, interested at Kaeya's query. Noticing her puzzled look, he laughs and reiterates.

Kaeya: I mean... you're missing a brother. I'm also just realizing I'm missing a brother. Why don't we both miss a brother together? A pair of siblings without their sibling.

The girl stares at him, then looks down, humming to herself with a smile on her face.

Lumine: So... it's like you'd be my brother and I'd be your sister? Kaeya: Well, if you'll have me. Just know though that, since you know the truth now, I'm not going to go easy on you. Lumine: Haha, wouldn't dream of it.

Right as she says that, she then gets another idea. Her voice has a hint of sincerity to it, a soft look in her eyes.

Lumine: And if you ever go back on your word about "wanting to keep Mondstadt safe", I'll be there personally to punch you back to reality.

Kaeya's stunned at this. To think, instead of being hated, instead, she says she'd be there personally to ensure it wouldn't happen... what an interesting girl.

His lips curl into a smile, and he holds out his hand in front of Lumine.

Kaeya: Sounds like a deal then, little miss Honorary Knight.

Lumine stares at the hand, then up at Kaeya, only to return the smile, firmly shaking his hand.

Lumine: It's my pleasure, Captain Eyepatch. Kaeya: Captain Eyepatch? Lumine: It's the ugly nickname Paimon gave you. Kaeya: Hm... Captain Eyepatch. Hey, maybe I should make that my new working title now that I have no cavalry to captain. Lumine: That... (laughs) that was terrible. Kaeya: You laughed. Lumine: I laughed because it was bad. Kaeya: Aww, come on. Admit it. Lumine: Hahaha!

Their laughter echoed throughout the night. The stars in the night sky shone brightly, the moon watching over the City of Mondstadt. That day, an unbreakable bond was forged.

...and that day, the wheels of fate began to turn.

Kaeya has now joined Lumine's team.

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jesus christ holy shit holy fuck we're done so some lil notes here before we end it off. yes, this is how the fic is gonna look. im so sorry but also i like character dialogue so much. the way they interact helps them grow more naturally, and the way they talk gives you insight as to how theyre changing and how they act and just. AGH. love dialogue. hate descriptions. cant do that. yuck. also some non-story-relevant plot points (like the goddamn temples like srsly no one remembers those) will be skipped in the future, cuz fetch quests are both tedious to play and tedious to write. only major story events will be recorded. also no kaeya and lumine are not romantically attracted guys just cuz two people stand next to each other doesnt mean theyll kiss, they are like brother and sister. theyre besties. shush. lumines husband will show up to save his girlie in liyue okay this was genuinely a lot more fun than i thought it would be but also this was rlly fucking long im so fucking sorry anyway KLSDJHAFKLJHKL thats all i got for u

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rosymorns · 2 years

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my bard. innit. she has feelings for our wizard. he also has feelings for her it’s a whole thing. anyway. she just hit level 6 so she’s getting magical secrets and i was like holy shit wouldn’t it be cute if he helped her learn some wizard spells.

this is NOT a combat focused group but i still can’t shake the feeling like. well we gotta choose these spells carefully because we don’t want useless overlap between them.

#FIREBALL!!!!#carly.txt

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my-jokes-are-my-armour · 9 months

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I know this is a kind of joke there because the tone makes it work that way. But I have the feeling that this is an improv from Mr Batey here and he always lands with words.

Numinous flow is a very precise choice of words, innit ?

I have always connected with Jaskier loving Geralt platonically in the basic dictionary definition: idealistic love, pur, spiritual, without carnal relation (this is just my take of it for this character). And I dissociated Jaskier's muse and him having romantic or sexual attraction, because I found it more coherent, even for the book Jaskier. In the books, he has basically some women with whom he falls in love AND Geralt as muses, without apparent connection.

With the series we have now a pansexual bard who loves people, connects with them and for some special beings that he loves, it becomes something more and it inspires him, having romantic, sexual, or not, relations with them. This is when he muses.

So Geralt falls in that category without effort. And for me Geralt is his biggest muse period ! His love for him is absolute. S3 proves it again. Dear lord !

And then we have this joke, with that word. Numinous... like having a spiritual moment, touching divinity...

But what Jaskier is doing there ? He is musing about Geralt 🙂. It says it all for me.

#jaskier #geraskier #am i analysing too much ?#probably but i don't care #numinous flow and bardic inspiration #(phone screen sorry)

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brokenmoonsongs · 2 years

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Companion!Bard AU Part Three

Summary (wip): Jaskier is a Master of all known and unknown Arts offered at Oxenfurt University. It’s the unknown one that sometimes gets him into trouble, but mostly, allows him to explore the world, fall in love multiple times, and find his purpose in protecting those who protect the world.

Jaskier Centric. Geraskier Main Pairing (slow slow burning), Jaskier/Witchers, Jaskier/Others.

Prologue - Part One - Part Two - Wordcount: ~6.5k (of JASKIER ANGST/Whump) CW For this Part: Dubcon, Bad BDSM practices, caning/whipping, physical abuse, witnessing abuse, gender stereotypes, alcoholism (lightish??) Notes: The CW is for this chapter specifically, and has to do with Jaskier/OMC and other sex workers. I don't go into detailed scenes, but if I need to add other warnings, feel free to let me know.

There's only a little Geraskier interaction at the beginning, and at the end, alas! But they're good scenes. Also, the bulk of this part is when Jaskier's about twenty years old. If the CW is too much for you, you can get a gist of it and the important Geraskier final scene starting at the words "The moment Jaskier", plus this first section under the cut.

I think after this part we'll be fast forwarding to more important events and missions. If anyone wants to see a particular scenario, feel free to message me! (I already know what I'm doing for Eskel, Lambert, and Aiden, and their first meetings with Jaskier, but everyone else is fair game!) Actually, more than likely next part will be a lot of Geraskier moments and then Eskel will show up for some Jaskel!

~ ~ ~

After a few more towns and gory contracts, Jaskier and Geralt's luck run out for a bit where they're very much not welcomed in a farming village. Despite the fact that Geralt took care of their noon wraithe problem or Jaskier proclaiming his various expertise in entertaining a crowd. Nor did his silver tongue help in Geralt getting a fair price, but at least they were paid somewhat.

So they find themselves in the woods, Jaskier doing his best to keep turning the roasting meat evenly so that they don't burn and char as Geralt finishes cleaning his hunting gear. The bard's in the middle of an inspired rant slash tavern song based on the village's attitude when Geralt interrupts with a loud grunt.

It's one of the few grunts that Jaskier has actually learned how to interpret, as this particular one comes some rarely. He slows down the turning and looks towards Geralt, raising an eyebrow.

"What's that? Do you have an opinion on my lyric choices? Or do you think I should go into a trifecta of melodies?" He doesn't have to see Geralt through the firelight to know the Witcher simply rolls his eyes.

"I wonder sometimes, bard, how much of what you boast is actually truth," Geralt says instead.

"Why, everything I say has a modicum of truth! Sometimes even fully! Is there something, beyond of course the ballads I write of you where I am allowed some artistic creativity mind you, that you think I claim falsely?" He asks, not accusingly of course, but genuinely curious to Geralt's opinions. Oh, he certainly stretches the truth a lot, and he knows he has quite a big ego, but short of trying to save his own life from a pissed off husband, he's not much into actually lying.

"You're very quick to mention, and often, being a master of all arts at Oxenfurt. You're what, seventeen?"

"Nineteen and a half, actually! Plus, you should never ask a bard his age," Jaskier says, turning fully towards Geralt and forgetting about the food.

Geralt gives a huff of a laugh. "Humans," he mutters, standing to put away his gear. "Seems unlikely one as young as yourself would have mastered all the Arts."

Jaskier blushes at that implication. Did Witchers even know about the secret Art? It might make sense, since they have much longer lifespans, and Jaskier wasn't sure how long Geralt's been around. He's also more scholarly than one would think, though Jaskier learned quickly that he didn't have a musical ear.

"I'll take that as a no. So how many did you actually master?"

"No, I did! I mastered all of them like you said, I mean like I've been saying." Jaskier jumps up, still flushed but ready to defend himself. He gets halfway through listing the different Arts and disciplines and what he specialized in each when Geralt comments that the meat's burning.

"Shit!" Jaskier manages to save the food, only one side of the hares having a crispy edge to them. He hears Geralt chuckle again, and is glad the man seems to be in such good spirits for whatever reason. At least he doesn't get yelled at for ruining the food.

"Shall I go on?" Jaskier asks as he divides the food into the plates, adding some roughage they had from the previous city. It's not much, but it'll be decently tasty and filling.

Geralt shakes his head. "No, I believe you. Impressive."

Jaskier feels warm at the rare compliment. He hands Geralt his plate and sits across the fire from him. 'Well, the cat's out of the bag. Geralt knows,' he thinks, studying the Witcher as they eat. 'He doesn't seem bothered by my extra services... I wonder...'

"You know, Geralt, if you ever need anything of me, I'm very happy to provide," he says, glad that the firelight covers his intense blush at the idea. It certainly wouldn't be a hardship. "I wouldn't even charge a dime!"

Geralt snorts, tossing a few of the bones into the fire. "What if I paid you to not sing for a few days? Would you do that?"

Jaskier has no idea if Geralt is teasing or complaining, but either way he gasps dramatically, putting a hand to his heart. "You'd dare ask a bard to not do the one thing they live for?"

"Worth a shot," Geralt says into his water skin.

Jaskier, being the young little shit he was, quickly finishes his food so he can "serenade" Geralt all through the night. Or at least until he's threatened to stop.

It never occurs to Jaskier that perhaps, Geralt didn't know of the Eighth hidden Art, having never stayed around nobles longer than he needed to or they tolerated him, and never interested in such gossip.

* * *

That first year, Jaskier didn't take on very many official contracts while he was on the path with Geralt. Most would have had him stay behind and he rather be mucking it up in the wilderness than confined to a boudoir. He did take as many unofficial ones as possible, only charging enough to not offend or accepting whatever they had to barter. They weren't all "first times" ones, some just wanted teachings to improve their skills, or talking through their feelings, or experiment. Still, a lot were secretive and that usually meant having to leave first thing, so Jaskier never dissuaded Geralt of the notion that he was rather promiscuous and bedded many of a half of a married couple.

While he was positive that Geralt knew of his side profession and didn't care, Jaskier didn't really want to push it, flaunting all these "behind closed bedroom" deals when Geralt still preferred his chances at brothels. Plus, technically, Redania didn't approve of unofficial contracts, as it would sully the exclusivity and finery that was an official Companion Consort.

Jaskier was also lucky that he only had to serve one mission for Dijikstra, and it was quite easy and minor. Spreading rumors through a string of small towns was easy for a bard of his talents.

When winter came, Jaskier felt a little uneasy leaving Geralt. They still had a rough companionship, and Jaskier knew that Geralt was only barely maintaining his patience for him. While Geralt didn't promise they'd meet up in the new year, he did wish Jaskier safe travels, so that was something.

Jaskier made the mistake of not returning to Oxenfurt, thinking he'd be stuck doing petty spy shit. So he traveled quickly South to warmer climates and more welcoming courts. He felt like his "Toss a Coin" song could have been a fluke in its popularity, and wanted to keep chasing that high. It wouldn't make sense to retreat for the Winter like Geralt, and see no one. Besides, Jaskier could always compose and write on the road, and felt he was better with that extra challenge than lazying about in one place.

The mistake was this. With no official Courtly Contract that would tie him for the season, Jaskier was one of the few Court Companions who was technically a free agent. Apparently most like him would have secured something half a year in advance. Jaskier didn't want to be tied down, but it meant that Dijikstra would have greater need for him during a time when most of the Upper continent battened down for the season.

He hadn't expected to go down as far as Ebbing, but that's where the Spymaster sent him, to somewhere in Tonnere. There was a Margrave there that had specific proclivities, and was very paranoid. Even to the region's politics the man never divulged his military plans or intentions in court. But he always succeeded in what he did and for the betterment of Nilfgaard, so he was given the freedom to do what he wanted. Jaskier wasn't surprised that Dijikstra was interested or Redania itself, as they've always been wary of Nilfgaard.

He had to at least give it to the spy master, the man was very good at sending the most information in the least amount of words as possible. It wasn't hard to interpret that Jaskier would earn his lumps in this one. Even with all the details, it was plain to see when Jaskier arrived how outdated the intel was.

Jaskier again was grateful that despite being in a wholly different empire, there were some alliances and promises that were never broken or double-crossed. While there was a Nilfgaardian equivalent to what Jaskier was, apparently they were even more rare and only served the upper echelon of nobility. So any Redanian Court Companion willing to take a contract this far South was well regarded.

He'd stay until the week after the new year, and no longer. Another benefit to the magical brand that Jaskier wore, was that it protected him from most grievous injuries while he was under contract. Of course there could also be added stipulations to protect the person wanting the contract, and this Margrave ensured that he was protected from assassinations.

Jaskier stared as his brand glowed and the contract was sealed, still marveling at the innerworkings of such magic. Margrave Kelas Blamore grunted and gave a pointed look at his manservant. "I expect him in under an hour."

"Understood."

The manservant had introduced himself earlier as Alda Fryee, and had a severe kind of look, that reminded Jaskier much like the old tutors he had who more often then not watched over him than educated him. But his voice was much kinder than his appearance.

Alda waited until they were the only two in the room before speaking up.

"Dandelion, correct?"

Jaskier nodded, smiling.

"If you follow my instructions, then you should survive the season mostly unscathed," he began, looking at Jaskier's attire. "At least you were smart enough not to wear Redanian colors, but the Margrave did not request a bard for any sort of entertainment outside of his bedroom."

"Well, that was understood with the contract my good man, and while my musicality is one of my strongest skills, it is of course not my only one," Jaskier said, surprising himself at keeping his nervousness out of his voice. "I assure you I am one of the best suited Companions for the task."

The older man raised an eyebrow at that before giving Jaskier an almost pitying look. "We'll see about that." He turned and started walking to a side door, expecting Jaskier to follow, which he did. "None of your flourishment here, bard. It will be wasted and used against you. You are here because you're trained, and you're pretty."

It was the first time Jaskier was ever called pretty in such a negative light. He frowned but decided to hold his tongue, needing to learn what was expected of him after all. The intel made it seem he'd be stuck to the personal chambers acting like a proper bed mate in secrecy. Jaskier did take note of the route and casually glanced out the few windows, noting where the guards were patrolling.

"You do have the advantage of singing talent, and while I doubt you know any our empire's songs—"

"I do, actually! Maybe nothing recent or what's considered popular down here but I would never come to a country without doing a bit of my—"

Jaskier stopped when Alda turned around and got into his personal space. He held his breath.

"He will not like you speaking out of turn. It will do you no good to talk more than necessary, especially of yourself," Alda responded, voice low as if a warning to him. Jaskier nodded, gulping a bit.

"The Margrave enjoys hearing the more militaristic ballads and soldier songs, especially when the person is indisposed."

They reach a door and to Jaskier's surprise, it opens to a rather lavish looking bathing room. Much more fanciful than the rest of the decor on the estate.

"Clean yourself thoroughly, your new attire will be on the warming bench there. Your original clothes will be handed back to you at the end of your contract. Behind the partition over there are where you'll find any needed healing items."

Jaskier nodded, stepping in and wasting no time to undress. He did jump when he heard a soft groan coming from behind the partition.

"She's resting," Alda explained. "It's rare that you'll be here alone, as there's always a few servants taking their rest or bathing. Don't let them distract you, nor them. Margrave is very strict on punctuality."

Jaskier bit the inside of his lip, his curiosity and concern over the mysterious woman nearly superseding his want to keep on obeying. 'Maybe there'll be time later,' he thought.

"Is there anything else I should know? I appreciate your guidance so far, Alda," Jaskier said, giving a friendly smile to the other man, hoping that he could somehow befriend him. He figured no one would be as difficult as Geralt into getting on someone's good side. Even if it was still debatable whether or not he was on Geralt's good side.

"Margrave Blamore cares not for incompetency. And he does not like repeating himself. I also rather not have to send out more messengers for a replacement Companion."

He turned away from the manservant and frowned, feeling a weight in the pit of his stomach. He got into the baths, hissing in pleasure at the warmth of the water, wishing he could luxuriate here for the entirety of winter. Only taking a moment to relax, Jaskier did get on to cleaning himself head to toe, having been on the road the past week to get here.

He could feel Alda's eyes on him, but again it was more of an assessing kind of look. The man waited a few minutes before continuing.

"Margrave Blamore prefers women, and interested in their... responses. What he enjoys from men is how well they can endure. He will make you watch and sing, and he'll touch you as he pleases. However, he will mostly be testing your mettle, how well you can handle pain physically, mentally and spiritually. He will embarrass you publicly. But as per your King's regulations, you will be masked whenever you are outside of the Margrave's personal wing, to keep your identity secure."

'What in hell have I gotten myself into?' Jaskier can feel the rising panic. How plainly Alda speaks of what's to come does not make Jaskier feel better. He scrubs at his face, wondering how he's to get any sort of intel this way. 'Is this another twisted test?'

"Do your best not to react and only obey. If you can avoid saying your limit word, you will please him more, and he will compensate you in the end, provided you don't wrack up enough punishments before then."

"Is there, ah, any leeway, probationary period? I must confess, as well-trained and experienced I am, I still am but a few decades old."

"Considering that you are a foreigner, yes. You have a few days. You may still get punished but they won't be counted against you in the end." Alda's stoic expression breaks for a moment, looking towards the partition. "Just a boy, really," he whispers.

Jaskier gets out of the bath and quickly dries himself. He hesitates at seeing the shelves of oils and rather be overprepared than under, considering what he's learning of Blamore. Alda continues to not look as Jaskier readies himself.

"When you're dismissed, the chambers to the right of here are for your use. Your lute and other belongings will be locked in a chest there. You are not to wander beyond this wing without instruction or other permission."

Jaskier grunted. There were a few more minutes of silence as he tried to keep simply running as far the fuck away from here as possible, despite being fully naked. He took a few calming breaths and dressed in what seemed to be a sheer peasant dress. It's plain white with grey stays and a short laced hem. The shoes are at least men's shoes and in Jaskier's size.

'Embarrassment indeed,' he thinks. It's not that he hadn't dressed up in feminine clothes before, for theater and drunken fun, and he knows he's young enough to pull it off well. But it's different when the effect is supposed to humiliate. At least it's not garishly done to look like a porcelain doll outfit, but Jaskier's gotten the feeling that Blamore is of simple and wretched tastes.

Alda turns and walks out, again expecting Jaskier to follow. Jaskier only hesitates, as he looks over at the partition again.

"I wish you a full recovery and rest, my dear," he says, softly enough so Alda doesn't hear but hoping it carries over.

Just before he gets to the door, he swears he hears a whisper of thanks and good luck.

* * *

The first night was tolerable. Jaskier was subjected to critiques on his looks and general disdain of being Redanian and a male Companion. The only critiques that irritated him was when he was asked to sing his knowledge of Nilgaardian songs and how he kept missing the mark. Jaskier highly doubted it, but at the same time, he'd never sung these to anyone outside of classes before.

He was pinched and prodded and found wanting, only making a surprised yelp when Blamore grabbed his balls and yanked, wondering aloud if Jaskier's voice would ever sound like a 'man's man.' He was fingered and was commanded to masturbate to completion so that Blamore could assess his virility.

Lastly, he had to be present, not watching, as the Margrave roughly fucked one of his servant women. It wasn't until Blamore passed out that Jaskier relaxed, slumping to a crouch as he continued to keep his panic attack away.

A gentle hand rested on his shoulder and he bit his tongue from startling loudly. It was the servant woman, he'd later would know her name as Mellisette, and she gave him a tired smile. "We're dismissed," she whispered, slipping on the wrap around dress and tying it loosely.

He nodded and followed her out, soon finding them both back into the bathing room. Only then he managed to find his words again.

"A-are you okay? Is there anything I can do? I've tended to bruises and cuts before, or maybe—"

She put a finger onto his lips, the tired smile still there. "I appreciate the sentiment, but being spoiled when it wasn't so bad tonight, would be too much of a luxury. And you are only here for a short time."

Jaskier frowned, wanting to protest, his thoughts going back to whenever Geralt balked at any service or good that wasn't necessary.

"Come, let us wash and then I'll show you which bed is yours and sleep. I fear the Margrave has taking a liking to you."

"How could you tell?" Jaskier snorted, again following her, disrobing and entering the baths.

"He didn't whip you."

'Melitele, help me,' Jaskier prayed, hoping for strength in the coming months.

* * *

Jaskier never thought he'd thank his childhood upbringing for helping him now. It truly was against Jaskier's nature to not talk, not speak out when terrible things were going on, to not snark or stand up against authority, even supposedly good ones. He'd gone to temple school and had been punished a plenty, and backhanded by the Lettenhove staff that was more loyal to his father than anyone else. He had learned even before Oxenfurt, to get through terrible lessons by going into his head a bit and coming up with music and lyrics and wild scenarios. He knew now how tame it was all compared to being under Margrave Kelas Blamore's rule.

But he managed it, barely, so he could be continued to be the favored plaything of the Margrave, so that he could bring back useful intel to Dijikstra and curry some favor and buffer for his sisters. The worst of it, was watching the servant women receive much worse treatment than him, having to pretend it wasn't going on, to sing over their pain.

He could live with the lascivious touches cruel remarks, would prefer if Blamore paid more attention to his body than theirs. Oh, Jaskier did get marked up, from being caned on the ass and back of his thighs, again thanks to temple he had a high tolerance, or whips across his back. They were never horrible enough to warrant a proper healer to visit, but the pain lingered of course.

It took a few weeks before this whole, wild gambit finally paid off, made it moderately worth it. Jaskier was invited more and more to the Margrave's private meetings and political agendas. Again it was to be humiliated, how someone from the North was reduced to being a plaything, a piece of decoration. No one but the Margrave touched him, but they looked and sneered and made their own comments.

He sang on command, barked on command, and crawled to the Margrave's lap on command. Jaskier could easily school his expression into floating away, to not be present, which amused Blamore. It also meant that no one suspected Jaskier to be paying attention to everything that was being said.

Jaskier was no strategist, didn't care for military politics, but he grew up with a father who did. He was sure it was another reason why he was chosen for this contract. Because even if he couldn't fully comprehend what they were talking about, he could remember, and contextualize and understand enough. Most importantly, he could work it into code.

Part of his contract was a check-in halfway through his stay. A letter would be checked over and then portaled through to his contact. Jaskier wrote about being treated well, and of course laying on praise to his host and country. He also included inspired musical ballads, complete with reference notations about servant love, and Southern delicacies, and general folk lore. All but the first page was in code, made up by Jaskier and a few of his fellow Spy Companions before they left Oxenfurt. Only masters in all eight Arts could decipher it.

He couldn't of course give everything in that update, but whatever he thought was more timely and important, and hoped, despite not having a head for any of the discussions, he chose correctly. It was only when he was writing up the songs that would never be sung, did he have enough presence of mind and energy to wonder about Geralt. He didn't know anything about where the Witcher would spend his Winter, only that Jaskier wasn't allowed to follow, which, fair. He hoped Geralt was getting much needed rest and relaxation. He also hoped that maybe Geralt would've spared a stray thought about him. Jaskier doubted it, but it was nice to day dream.

* * *

Despite how everyone was used to the treatment and lifestyle of Margrave Blamore, Jaskier did manage by the end of his contract to make friends and allies. And not just among the ones he entertained with, either. But some of the cook staff, the cleaning staff, and even a few guards. The guards were difficult, having to go through a bit of hazing ritual, them thinking him too soft. He was, truly, but he also could never step down from a challenge.

It was through them that Jaskier managed to keep from losing himself. A smile here, a laugh there, a comforting embrace or teasing peck on the cheek. He created silly limericks to raise their spirits, and regaled others with stories of monsters and curses. Since he was known as Dandelion here, he was sure to keep any songs or stories known by Jaskier from coming out.

While Jaskier had been doing a brilliant job of spying, of almost never leaving Margrave's side, he couldn't quite keep up the façade constantly. Or be on alert all the time. One of the guards took a liking to him, and was soft with him, and Jaskier leached onto that softness almost immediately. He'd forgotten like in his childhood home, a servant's loyalty or friendship was never guaranteed.

The Margrave found out a week before Jaskier was to leave. The guard, Tomne, was ordered to whip Jaskier's back until Jaskier admitted that he was taken advantage of. Of course, Jaskier couldn't do that, couldn't condemn Tomne to exile or worse.

When Jaskier woke up after passing out, he was surprised that it was Alda tending to his back. He made a small pained noise.

"Shh, it'll be okay, my boy, the pain will pass," Alda murmured, using his free hand to gently stroke Jaskier's hair as he finished securing the bandages with the other. "I'm afraid a mark or two may be left, but the healer's already seen to you. I wanted to be the one to finish, in case you did wake up."

Jaskier whined, still a fog of pain and tiredness and confusion. He didn't mind having a scar, minor or not, since he had a few very faint ones from temple. But the whole punishment was more intense than he'd ever had before.

"T-Tomne?" Jaskier asked, voice hoarse.

"He had his own whipping, but he's been seen to, also, and he will only be demoted until he can earn the Margrave's trust again."

There was a hardness in Alda's voice at that, but Jaskier simply focused on the gentle hands. "You did well, Dandelion."

"I was stupid," Jaskier muttered, shifting to sit up once Alda finished. But the older man tutted at him and gently pressed his shoulder down. Jaskier didn't have it in him to protest, so he stayed on his stomach on the bed.

"Yes, you were. But no one could fault you for it. You actually lasted through your contract, dear boy, and only received one punishment. And kept your wits."

"I know certain people would say I have no wits to have stayed," Jaskier mumbled.

Alda made a noise that seemed to be in agreement. "Nonetheless, you are stronger than you look, and while you are as foolish as your age, I believe you will be paid greatly in your life."

Jaskier looked up at Alda, and again the man was surprising him, giving him such a tender look. He didn't know what it meant, not even when Alda kissed him kindly on the forehead before getting up.

"Rest now, food and water will be brought to you in a few hours time. Tomorrow, you'll be portaled back to Oxenfurt."

"But I still have—"

Alda shook his head. "I convinced the Margrave to end your contract early. Do not worry, you will be highly praised for your service."

That didn't leave Jaskier with a pleasant feeling.

* * *

The moment Jaskier entered back into his temporary rooms in Oxenfurt after giving a thorough report to Dijikstra, he crumpled to the floor. He didn't know how long he stayed like that, crying and cursing to all the living and unliving gods he knew.

All he could think about was leaving the rest of the servants there, his friends, to the cruelty of the Margrave. Dijkstra didn't care, of course, since it wasn't "Redanian citizens", never mind that Jaskier was and still suffered through the abuse.

He truly felt in over his head. He didn't want to do this anymore, didn't want to do it in the first place! Mastering the last Art was a lark! It was supposed to be some fun little merit. Maybe this is why they had that thorough test before graduating. Maybe he shouldn't have cheated it. He should have listened to Essi.

It was much later when he picked himself up from the floor and got himself cleaned, disposing of the clothes he traveled to and from Tonnere with. He wanted no more reminder, even as he felt guilt in that want.

Jaskier stayed only a week in Oxenfurt, not in any mind to mingle with old comrades and friends, or former lovers. He did see Essi, once, before he left, to assuage her that he was fine. She knew he wasn't but she didn't push. He knew the next time he'd see her he'd tell her. Some variation of it, as he feared for her safety if she knew any more beyond the contract. But not now, not when it was still too fresh, too raw.

The few songs and poems he had the energy to write while in Tonnere stayed tucked away in his notebooks. It was the only reminders he had left, but his musical nature ensured he wouldn't toss them away. While he didn't use those experiences or notes to create a new song, he did write one based on the feeling of despair at not getting out from under.

It doesn't become a hit, but it is a song that is sometimes requested on dreary days or remembrances of battles lost. That's more than enough for him.

Jaskier knows his love for alcohol comes from his father. It was a worry that his mother had, the servants too. Jaskier wasn't like his father though in the aspects he never became horrible as a drunk. No, he gained the impeccable tolerance for it, and a strong desire for it.

It's mainly why he prefers quality wines when he partakes, since they're rarer and more expensive to obtain. It helps settle him.

But from the edge quarters of Oxenfurt and out into the world again, all there is is piss poor drinks that pack more punch than flavor.

Jaskier doesn't realize how many weeks have gone by, or how dependent he's on drinks to get him to sleep or through a performance, when Geralt finally encounters him.

He'd just finished a short set at the tavern, to a total of five audience members. It was decent enough he wasn't booed off the stage or pelted with food. But the bartender still gave him a displeased look when he plunked down at the bar immediately and spent all of his earned coin on some of the stronger stuff.

Despite his alcohol fueled stupor, and not quite drunk exactly, but a near thing, Jaskier senses the big bulking bulk that sits next to him, smelling again of onion and destiny. He hears a grunt that somehow the bartender interpreted as "your worst ale please" as that's what's presented to the Witcher moments later.

"Did they refuse to let you play, bard?" Geralt asked, and if Jaskier was a little more sober, he would've been able to tell it was a playful jest.

"Worse," the bartender replies instead.

Jaskier scowls at the man. "Oi, they all stayed, innit?"

He feels Geralt's heavy and strong hand on his shoulder, practically interpreting the next "hmm" as "calm down, Jaskier." It nearly has the opposite effect, but with Jaskier's mercurial mood, he sighs instead and slumps down.

"I hope you had a good winter, Witcher?" Jaskier asks, hoping to deflect the topic from himself.

"Hmm, noisier than normal," Geralt responds. When Jaskier turns to look at him, he can see the faint curl of his lips.

"Whassat mean?"

Geralt takes a sip of his ale instead, temporarily making a face at the terribleness of it. "Someday, maybe, I'll tell you."

Jaskier's too into his head again to take the bait, instead resting his forehead on his crossed arms on the bar. Even though Geralt's presence and company should have had him soaring to the skies, it doesn't quite have that effect. Though Jaskier is grateful the other man didn't decide to leave straight away once he saw Jaskier.

There were a few minutes of silence, Jaskier assuming Geralt was still attempting to drink down the swill as he was attempting to keep from panicking anew again.

His thoughts were swirling around the fact that Geralt would've done something. Wouldn't have let the cruel games the Margrave did to go on. Would've saved the girls, risked his life. For all of the short time Jaskier had known Geralt, lesser than he'd even known Essi, Jaskier knew a few things that were ironclad. Witchers had feelings, Geralt cannot not help an innocent when its in his power to, and that Geralt indeed could hurt.

"Do you know if they still have available rooms?" Geralt's voice rumbles as Jaskier hears him stand up.

"I uh, got the last one. They're having the spring festival in a day or two," Jaskier responds, slowly pushing away from the bar. "Lucky you, it's a double."

He stands and turns to head towards the stairs, but he's drunk enough to not be stable, and it takes a quick reflex from Geralt to not fall on his face when he stumbles against a pulled up floorboard.

Jaskier curses while Geralt leads him to the rooms, surprisingly being patient enough with Jaskier to wait until he mumbles "that one".

Immediately, Jaskier goes to the bed by the window and flops down on it, groaning loudly. He can hear Geralt settle on the other side of the room, unpacking his gear and unloading his armor.

Halfway through, Geralt finally asks what's wrong.

Jaskier rolls onto his back to stare at the dilapidated ceiling. It's been near a month now and thousands of miles from Tonnere. It's still eating away at him, but maybe if he can talk to Geralt, and if it means the end of their whatever this is, then at least it would be for a good reason.

"I took a contract... In um, Nilfgaard."

"Hmm...."

"Indeed."

Jaskier both wants to tell him everything in detail, just to get it off his chest, but that was unfair to the Witcher. It wasn't like they were actually friends, and Jaskier knows he's still young and very stupid and naïve to the ways of the world. Maybe it's more common than he thinks, though gods, he very much hopes not.

"I uh... I witnessed some things in the court of this minor noble. His form of entertainment was very gauche. My duty was to just play, a musical background to his activities..."

There was a slowness now in Geralt putting his armor away. He made a slight noise, which Jaskier decided to interpret as "go on".

He gulped and took a few steadying breaths. "They were in pain, Geralt. Constantly in pain, by his hand or others. And I.. I did nothing. I couldn't do anything, otherwise..." He had to be good, it was the only way to get the intel. The fresh marks on his lower back burned a little as he thought about the only thing he did that was to protect another. "It would've been bad, I mean, I was a foreigner after all. But gods, I should've done something, shouldn'tve I? I was a coward, instead."

"Did you enjoy it?"

Jaskier shot up, looking horrified and feeling much more sober. "H-how could you even think—"

"Just answer honestly," Geralt replied, looking at Jaskier. His face was stoic, uninterpretable, and his voice even.

"No. I didn't enjoy a single minute of it."

"Would you have possibly lost your life?"

"N-no, but my livelihood was in danger," Jaskier said, rubbing his wrists, the bruises long gone.

Geralt grunted.

"And you didn't partake at all in their suffering... Nor do you know how to defend yourself or others?"

"You know I didn't, wouldn't, and you know I don't," Jaskier said. It was definitely a point of contention their first year, Jaskier's refusal to learn how to use a weapon for when Geralt wasn't around. He still wasn't sure what this line of questioning was about, and in fact it was making him angry for Geralt to—

"Then you are not at fault, you never were, Jaskier, but there is no reason to blame yourself."

Jaskier stared at Geralt, at a loss for words. Instead he twitched his eyes, silently asking for Geralt to explain himself.

Geralt sighed, setting down the last bit of his armor, clasping his hands together. "You are a bard. A human. A young one at that, don't protest. You are not a trained warrior or even an untrained criminal. You were in a foreign land under a noble's rule. You could have left, broken your contract, but it was winter and you would've been stuck in foreign lands. You did what you could."

While Jaskier did take in everything Geralt said, he was also amazed at how much Geralt actually said to him. That he did so to try and comfort him and relieve him of his guilt. Jaskier wanted to add that he did help a little, by singing to the women and servants after, helping tend to their ailments in the bathing rooms. He has no idea whether what he spied on would do any actual good for Redania, so he didn't count that in the good column.

"So you don't hate me? For being a coward and letting it happen?"

Jaskier couldn't interpret the face Geralt made there, but the Witcher shook his head.

"Hate you for that? No. For causing my brothers to sing 'Toss a Coin' every fucking day during winter? Yes."

Jaskier stared at Geralt, and then started guffawing, bending over. Tears were spilling, both from the relief of Geralt's earlier words, and the ridiculous idea of Geralt being tormented by his song.

"See? I'm a hit! Even your brothers love my singing!"

He feels much lighter now, almost like he felt before being given that damn mission. He silently thanks Geralt for the distraction, and the absolution. It may not be earned, but it's enough.

"Hmm, just proves they're more tone-deaf than your fans."

Jaskier sputters at that and throws the threadbare pillow at Geralt, who catches it without even looking.

"If you're done being dramatic, I have a friend at The Swift Sail so we can get a decent meal."

Geralt stands and walks to the door, pausing for a moment. "You're a good kid, Jaskier. Annoying. But good."

Jaskier stands, only feeling the barest of the alcohol now, feeling indignant again. "Oi, Witcher, and you're the picture perfect example of a good friend?"

"Never said we're friends," Geralt says, opening the door and not waiting this time as he heads on out.

Jaskier mocks the line to himself, before realizing he was left behind. And thinking about the name of the pub.

"Wait, why is it called the The Swift Sail? Geralt? We're nowhere near the ocean! Geralt!" Jaskier calls out, closing the door behind him as he tries to catch up to the surprisingly swift, hulking Witcher.

While Tonnere is never far from his mind, he's able to stop drinking to excess and appreciate himself again, walking the path with Geralt for another year.

#the witcher #jaskier #julian alfred pankratz #witcher fic #geralt #dark chapter #companion bard au #my fics #trigger warning #dubcon #corporal punishment #alcoholism #jaskier x oc #i know jaskier uses 'innit' wrong but he doesn't know that

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