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081314 · 1 year

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Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss – Chapter 1 (Episodes 6-11)

Following is my translation of episodes 6-11 from Chapter 1 of Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss.

Main storyline spoilers after the cut!!

Episode 6

Leona: Geez, do you guys ever shut up? If you wanna have your little chit-chat, go do it somewhere else. You’re ruining my nap.

Cater: Holy crap, that scared me. Leona-kun, how long have you been there??

Vil: I’m astounded, truly. Even in the middle of our orientation, you went and took up a whole row of seats just to lie down and take a nap.

Rook: One wouldn’t expect anything less from Roi des Lions. He gives off such a regal air even as he slumbers.

Vil: Hmph. Well, I think he needs an attitude adjustment. We have to complete these internships in order to graduate, so can’t you take this at least a bit more seriously?

Leona: I already turned in my application.

Everyone: What..?

Trey: How is that even possible!? They just handed out our paperwork a little while ago…

Leona: I looked over everything while Crowley was up there blabbering and just applied online. We’re talking about our super duper important internships here, so there’s no way I was gonna just sit around twiddlin’ my fingers. Ya’ll know me, I’m a real hardworking guy. I’m always gettin’ things done early.

Trey: Still, you were able to choose a location in the blink of an eye. Did you already have one in mind?

Leona: More or less.

Cater: Can I ask where you applied at?

Leona: Sure. It’s a lab run by a mining and energy company over in Sunset Savannah.

Rook: My, I hadn’t known you were interested in geology.

Vil: People do often say that Sunset Savanah contains a massive amount of natural resources underneath its grasslands. Makes sense.

Cater: Oh, yeah. Leona-kun’s the prince of Sunset Savannah, right? That’s really great you’re wanting to give back to your homeland like that.

Leona: Nah, you got it backwards.

Cater: Huh? Wait, you don’t mean…

Leona: Even if I slack off the whole time, ain’t no way a Sunset Savannah company’d dare give a member of the royal family a failing grade on his internship. Honestly, “Second prince” is a real lousy title and doesn’t really come in handy most of the time, but there ya go. I’m gonna be making sure my homeland gives back to me as muuuch as possible. Ah hah hah ha!

Cater: Whaaaat?!

Leona: Okay, I spilled the beans, so could ya buzz off already? *Yaaawn*

(Leona lies down and goes back to sleep)

Cater: No way, dude…that’s not fair!

Trey: Leona might not have sounded very serious just now, but the type of place he was talking about only allows a very limited number of students to apply for internships there. And only ones with top grades, at that.

Cater: So basically, everything he said doesn’t apply to us… Ahh, talking to him wasn’t much of a help on our end, huh. Ah ha haaa…

Vil: Is Leona cursed or something? Is someone forcing him to always boast about all his faults?

Rook: Heh. Even that side of Roi des Lions is very much like him.

Chapter 7

Cater: Uhh, another person we could probably talk to would be…

Rook: Oh, my! Is that Roi de Ta Chambre I see over there?

Idia: E-eep!! M-my bad, I should go find somewhere else to sit….

Cater: It’s rare for you to show up to class in person. Where’s Ortho-chan?

Idia: Ah, he’s… umm…m-my little brother is…

(Idia pulls out his tablet and starts talking through it instead)

Idia: Since he’s officially enrolled as a 1st year student now, he’s not allowed to come with me to class anymore unless it’s, like, a special multigrade class.

Trey: Now that you mention it, there’s been quite the hubbub amongst our 1st years lately. They’ve all been talking about their new humanoid classmate.

Idia: Ah, yeah…. Okay, so we got a bunch of Pomefiore and Heartslabyul cheerful characters here. Mind telling me what you guys want?

Rook: We were hoping to hear about your plans for your internship. You are quite a gifted and renown engineer, after all! I’m certain you’ve set your sights on an engineering institute, no?

Idia: Geez….that’s private info, dude! You can’t just walk up to somebody and start asking about their hopes and dreams like that.

Trey: Ah, we aren’t trying to force anything out of you. I hope you're not mad.

Idia (whispering to himself): Then don’t come talk to me in the first place!!

Idia: Ugh, there wasn’t even any point in me coming here today. What a waste of time. But the principal was all like, “Just because you’ve already received a tentative offer from your internship location, I’m not going to give you special treatment and let you skip the orientation.”

Cater: Huh, tentative offer?!

Trey: So there was someone even further ahead in the game than Leona…

Idia: After I gave my research presentation at the culture festival, a bunch of companies reached out to me saying they wanted me to do my internship with them. I was planning on turning them all down, but then I noticed one of them was NRC’s business partner, so I decided to take up their offer. Not much else to it than that, really.

Vil: I can’t say I have a problem with it, seeing as the company was the one that reached out to you. So, who was it then? It wasn’t… S.T.Y.X., was it?

Idia: No way. My folks told me not to come back home for a while, anyways. The Island of Grief is already back to normal after that incident I caused, but we’re still getting a lot of outside pressure to take responsibility for what happened. My dad is, I mean.

Cater: Oh, that’s right. When those S.T.Y.X. guys showed up at NRC, all the pictures and videos people were taking of them went trending on Magicam.

Idia: Even though a small glimpse of our operations got leaked, nothing’s changed the fact that S.T.Y.X. is still just some “mysterious institution” to most people. And that’s exactly why mass media has been going nuts to figure out who we are. Are we a benevolent institution that works to protect the world from behind the scenes, or a nefarious group that carries out seedy experiments and threatens to disrupt the peace? Everyone’s just saying whatever they want at this point... Those media guys have way too much free time on their hands. I mean, don’t they have, like, more important things to report on?

Trey: Whenever something is kept a secret, it just makes people want to find out what it is even more. It’s just one of the bad parts about human nature, sadly.

Idia: That’s why my folks thought it’d be best to have me come back here. Since the school’s on a remote island and outsiders can’t come here except for special occasions, it’s just the right place to hide away the true culprit behind this whole mess…so basically they just wanted to get rid of the nuisance.

Rook: Heh heh. Well, I find that just shows how much your parents love you.

Idia: I dunno about that. They totally blew a gasket after they got back home. I haven’t seen them get that mad at me since the time I was 8 and outfitted our old vacuum cleaner robot with a magical beam cannon and turned it into a tracking drone, and it went scorched earth in the living room… I mean, I’m really thankful they agreed to let Ortho enroll in school here and all, but…

Trey: Pfft! So you’ve had your parents go off on you like that before, too.

Idia: Huh? What’s that supposed to mean? Of course I have. They’ve also gone and hid my console's power cables after they said I was playing video games for way too long…

Cater: Seriously? That’s hilarious. It sounds like your family’s actually pretty easy to get along with.

Idia: The heck? You guys can’t be serious… My family’s about as approachable as a brick wall.

Vil: But weren’t they fine with letting Ortho enroll here? And aren’t they also supporting your internship decisions, too?

Idia: Yeah, I guess so. But they did stop me from choosing a place in the hospitality industry ‘cause they said I wasn’t cut out for it, so…

Vil: That’s a completely different story. They were just telling you that for your own good. Regardless, what was the company you ended up taking the internship offer at?

Idia: ……Olympus Inc.

Everyone: WHAT!??

Trey: Isn’t Olympus the search engine development company that makes the number one computer operating system in the world?!

Cater: That’s, like, the hardest company ever to get a job at!

Idia: Y-yeah. I’ll be working as a software engineer at their headquarters in the Kingdom of Heroes.

Cater: Oh my gosh, that’s insane!! I bet the employee café they have at their office is super stylish, yeah? I’m so jealous!

Idia: Uh, I’ve never been there before so no clue… Wait, I wouldn’t even go to a café anyways…

Cater: Maaan, everyone’s got such amazing plans. Gotta say, I’m kinda starting to lose confidence here…

Chapter 8

Lilia: What’s wrong, Cater? Why’re you sitting there looking all glum with your head on your desk?

Cater: Ah, it’s Lilia-Chan and Malleus-Kun.

Trey: We’re trying to pick our internship locations and decided to go around and ask everyone what they’ve got planned.

Lilia: I see, I see. Cater…. How many times have I told you? If you go around gathering as much information as possible, that can make it even harder for you to make a decision. Sometimes, you just have to be decisive about these things! For something like an internship, you could just jot down some company names on a few slips of paper and pull one out of a hat.

Cater: Umm, I think that’s, like, too decisive?

Lilia: You’re still so young, Cater. There’s no need for you to be mulling over all of this so much.

Vil: So, have you two already made your decisions, then?

Malleus: Not yet. To be honest, all of these internship locations look the same to me.

Trey: What do you mean?

Malleus: Well, one season only lasts a mere three months, and I don’t see how we are to gleam anything meaningful during our time there. It'll be over in a moment.

Idia: Hello? An anime cour lasts three months. Watching a really awesome one can change your life forever, dude.

Lilia: Idia’s right. Anyways, this is your one and only chance to attend school and go out into the world as a student, Malleus. I’ve no doubt it will be a wonderful experience for you, so please, make the most of it.

Malleus: I understand. …Hmm, they’ve got some archeological survey locations on here. That does sound a bit interesting. What are you planning to choose for your internship, Lilia?

Lilia: Me? I’m…I’m not choosing any of these.

Cater: Huh?

Trey: Oh, do you mean you’ve already picked one?

Lilia: No….. I’m dropping out of school.

Everyone (Except Malleus): WHAAAAAAAAT!??

Malleus: ………..what?

Episode 9

Epel/Ortho/Jack: Mickey?

Jack: Who’s that?

Grim: Some dude that keeps showing up in the mirror in our bedroom at nighttime. But Yuu’s the only one who can see him. I looked at the mirror one time and didn’t see a darn thing!

Deuce: Oh, yeah. With the culture festival and the whole mess with S.T.Y.X., I’d completely forgotten all about that stuff with Mickey.

Ace: I think we were saying maybe you could try and take a picture of him with the ghost camera, right? Were you able to take one?

(Yuu nods and shows everyone the picture of Mickey)

Ace: So, uhhh…this is Mickey? He doesn’t…look like a beastman. Maybe he’s a monster like Grim?

Deuce: I wasn’t expecting him to look so… charming.

Epel: Yeah. If something like that popped up in my mirror in the middle of the night, I don’t think it’d be all that scary… maybe.

Grim: His ears are even bigger than mine!

Jack: I bet he’s able to pick up sounds from far away.

Ortho: I went ahead and ran a query across some databases of Twisted Wonderland’s known terrestrial species, but I wasn’t able to get a hit based on his silhouette. The databases I’m able to access do not totally cover all fairies and magical beasts, however. Hmmm…. It’s certainly very intriguing, isn’t it?

Ace: The fact that Yuu was able to get a picture of him at all means he really wasn’t just dreaming him up this whole time, I guess.

Deuce: So Grim can’t see this Mickey guy, but he shows up on pictures taken with the Ghost Camera…..

Jack: Prefect, you got any other info on him?

Yuu: Yeah, Mickey’s got some living playing cards and dancing mittens in his room…

Episode 10

Ortho: I see. So if we compile together all the information that Yuu has provided, we’ve learned the following: First, Mickey does not reside in Twisted Wonderland. Second, time passes in Mickey’s world, too. And third, the only time Yuu is able to communicate with him is when Mickey is asleep…This is only my conjecture, but I suspect that Yuu’s mirror might be acting like a dental crown.

Everyone: A dental crown?

Ortho: Ah, my apologies. I’ve gotten a little bit ahead of myself…. Umm, have you guys ever heard of crystal radios before?

Jack: Yeah, we made one before in class when I was in elementary school. It’s a radio receiver that’s just made out of some wire and a piece of crystal. I remember being real surprised as a kid, ‘cause it doesn’t use any batteries or anything, but we were able to listen to music and news broadcasts and stuff with it.

Ortho: Yes, that’s the one! With a crystal radio, as long as the right conditions are met, you can tune it to a specific frequency and pick up surrounding radio waves from the air. In very rare cases, silver dental crowns can meet those very same conditions and will accidently start picking up radio waves, as well.

Epel: Really!? That’s crazy.

Ortho: There’s a number of different parameters that come into play like the size of the crown, how much saliva you have in your mouth, and whether there are any buildings or radio towers in your proximity. With a crystal radio, you meet those conditions I was mentioning before intentionally. But with a dental crown, it’s all by accident. Long ago, people weren’t aware of the receptive nature of dental crowns, and it was a major shock when music would suddenly start playing from their mouths! Apparently, they thought it was the work of a ghost or something.

Ortho: And now, getting back to our main topic at hand…. In Twisted Wonderland, we have numerous forms of magical travel, radio communications, and other such things. I’m sure you all are aware of that already. Now, have you guys ever heard of a Viewglass before?

Epel: I think we learned about it the other day in our history of magic class?

Deuce: There should be a picture of it in our textbooks…. Ah, here it is.

Deuce (reading aloud from the textbook): “In the folklore of the Shaftlands, mention is oft made of an enchanted mirror - one that permits it's beholder to peer at anything from their loved ones, to fearsome beasts that reside deep in the woods. Pictured here is a magical device that was created based off the legends of this enchanted mirror. It is called a Viewglass, and it allows the user to communicate with other people over vast distances.”

Deuce: Trein Sensei said this would be on our test, so I made sure to bookmark the page.

Ortho: Just like with that device there, there's plenty of other magical forms of communication and transportation that make use of mirrors, crystals, or water. Because of that, it made me think there’s a high possibility that Yuu’s mirror just so happened to meet the right conditions and was able to establish a connection with Mickey somehow.

Ace: I think you might be on the right track there, Ortho. If you think about it, the Mirror of Darkness also summoned Yuu into our world on accident, too… Wait a second, does that mean…

Ortho: Mickey exists in a world separate from our own, and Yuu also came from another world. So if we’re able to determine a method that can allow us to form a secure connection with Mickey, that could help us find a way to get Yuu back home!

Yuu: !!!!!

Ortho: We’ve got a really good chance here. Do you guys wanna do an investigation together?

Episode 11

Grim: An investigation?

Ortho: We’re a group comprised of a magical beast, a visitor from another world, a humanoid, humans, and a beastman. We’re like a bunch of different variables, so to speak. And that means if we each go and try to get Micky to appear, we’ll be able to verify if our hypothesis is correct by changing around the variables. That’s why I think that if we work together, it’ll be perfect for trying to uncover the “right conditions” to establish a connection with Mickey!

Deuce: Honestly, I think you’ve got a point there.

Ortho: My big brother is always saying that systematic isolation is important if you want to reliably reproduce a phenomenon. If we all take turns spending the night at Ramshackle Dorm, we’ll be able to gradually increase our chances of reproducing the connection with Mickey.

Ace: Sweet!

Deuce: Great idea, Ortho! If there’s any chance we can find a way to help Yuu get back home, then we gotta take it!

Grim: Ortho’s way more reliable than that lousy principal! All he’s done so far to “help” is just pretend to investigate and go on vacation!!

Epel: I’ll join in, too! …Ahh, but that means I’ll have to think of what to say to our warden so he’ll let me stay over at your guys’ place…

Ace: Dude, just tell him you’re going to a group study session or whatever. Okay, so who’s going on what day?

Jack: Oi, I never said I was gonna help you guys.

Ace: Whaaaat. You’re so cold, Jack-kun. We might be able to find a way to help Yuu get back to his home, man. You really don’t wanna help?

Jack: I-it’s not that, I just… I go to bed pretty early at night so I can wake up in time for my early morning training. There’s no way I can stay up late enough waiting for Mickey to appear.

Grim: You can go to bed early if ya wanna. Yuu will be sure to yell nice and loud at ya so you wake up in time.

Ortho: Great, then that settles it! Jack, you’ll take weekends, since you won’t have to worry about waking up early for your training.

Jack: Oi, you listen here! Don’t just go deciding things on your own. My training doesn’t take holidays!

Epel: Heh heh. Ortho-kun, you’re surprisingly kinda pushy… I guess?

Ortho: Aaah, I wish we could have someone of the fairy race join our investigation… Yuu, do you have such an acquaintance?

(Yuu thinks of Malleus)

Yuu (internally): I wonder if Tsunotaro would help?

Sebek: I ABOSOLUTELY OBJECT TO THAT!!!

Everyone: H-huh!?

Jack: The heck was that? Sounds like a commotion over there.

(They look around and spot the source of all the noise)

Ace: Ah, I know that guy. He’s in my analysis of magic elective class. His name is...

Episodes 1-5

Episodes 12-15

Episodes 16-19

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queer-reader-07 · 7 months

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ok time for me to be an aziraphale apologist / stan on main. because i am tired of how much shit he is getting.

1) i hate hate HATE the amount of people who keep insinuating that crowley is *more* in love with aziraphale than aziraphale is with crowley. did we watch the same show and read the same book??

did you not see aziraphale’s longing gazes that started *checks notes* literally before time? did you note watch as he got himself into precarious situations just so that he could be rescued by crowley and subsequently be asked out on a lunch date? did you not see aziraphale take any and every opportunity to simply touch crowley’s body? to just feel a little more closeness? he literally gave crowley holy water. if that isn’t love i don’t know what is.

yes, crowley shows his love for aziraphale very differently. for crowley it’s acts of service and that loving snark. but that doesn’t mean aziraphale doesn’t love crowley. they both love each other so so deeply and equally. they just love differently.

2) aziraphale is not a bad person for choosing to go to heaven.

i have talked about this in a few contexts before (eg how it makes sense from a religious trauma standpoint) but today i’m talking about it generally.

aziraphale did not choose heaven over crowley. he chose saving the world in the now, so crowley can be safe in the future. so that he and crowley might still have an earth to have a future on.

aziraphale still has faith that heaven can change for the better, and if it can be him doing the change why wouldn’t he want to take the opportunity? i don’t think you have to like his decision, but so many people are screaming “aziraphale bad!!!” and i just don’t get it.

the decision makes sense. it is so completely in character.

look. i understand being distraught or upset about the ending of season 2. i won’t pretend that i was happy about the ending. but i think a lot of people have forgotten how stories are structured. season 2 is the second act in a three act story. the final fifteen are the standard conflict that basically every three act story has.

but it was really shocking to see how many people went from loving aziraphale to just crapping on him because he made an in-character- understandable-in-the-context-of-his-past decision.

idk i just don’t think it makes sense or is fair to boil his decision down to “it’s out of character” or “he doesn’t love crowley as much” (don’t even get me STARTED on coffee theory) just because you didn’t agree with it.

aziraphale has flaws, but so does crowley. that’s what makes them such good and compelling characters. they aren’t black and white, bad and good. that’s the whole point of their characters and dynamic, they exist in the gray space.

#is this polarizing? idk but this has been sitting in my drafts for far too long so here it is #i will go to bat for aziraphale every day because i love him #i am the blue print for Crowley Coded Aziraphale Stan #aziraphale apologist #aziraphale #good omens #aziracrow #ineffable husbands #good omens 2 #good omens meta #gomens meta

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stemwriter · 8 months

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Pursuit of Knowledge - Chapter 1

Finally, the first chapter! Criticism is absolutely welcome here, and I hope you enjoy!

This has a gender neutral reader, and is just the regular sentience au; no cult/creator/imposter stuff. Only main difference, [Y/N] is a lore fanatic.

Word count: ~3.3k

So there you were, sitting in your bedroom waiting for Genshin Impact to download. You had heard that it was a huge game, but for some reason your screen only said that there were only around 10 gigabytes of data. ‘I guess 10 gigabytes is pretty big for a mobile game,’ you thought, as the progress bar slowly made its way to 100%.

The stone doors opened, your screen went white, and the opening cutscene you’ve seen a million times before in all those video essays began to play.

Outlanders, your journey ends here.

You’d thought about which sibling you would pick before. You loved seeing Lumine as the villain, and so without hesitation, picked the boy, named Aether.

You’d seen some gameplay before, and you already thought the graphics were good, but this… This was astounding. It was better than what you’d seen before online. Your character didn’t look exactly realistic so to speak, but everything looked extremely high quality. How was this game free? You guessed the difference between this and what you remember was because you were playing on PS5, and began to move on through the story.

After getting the power of Anemo and seeing the Anemo God himself, you met Amber. You spammed through the dialogue, just wanting to get to Mondstadt.

“Ah! A hilichurl!”

“Quick, get it!”

She said “Get it!” like that hilichurl was no more than a bug in someone’s house, about to be killed for no reason other than being there. That… worried you, considering what hilichurls once were. You knew you had to kill this camp of hilichurls to progress the story, but you told yourself that starting now, you wouldn’t be killing any hilichurls unless you were forced to by the plot or you really needed resources.

After a mildly annoying amount of walking, you entered the city and ran to the Cathedral plaza to get your Wind Glider. Amber gave it to you, and you glided across the city, which seemed different, somehow, although you couldn’t tell what was wrong. You were then promptly thrown into the sky, shooting wind projectiles at a dragon.

“I’m preventing your fall with the power of a thousand winds!”

“HOLY CRAP! It’s God!”

“Concentrate on this! See yourself grasping the wind. Harness its energy.”

You listened to Venti instruct you on this gamemode you didn’t think you’d ever use again, making ‘pew pew pew!’ sounds as Dvalin’s HP bar slowly decreased.

It was the moment you’ve been waiting for. The Traveler lands, and the camera cuts to that blue-haired eyepatch man, one of your favorite characters, Kaeya. You waited until he finished his dramatic introduction, and yelled “WOOOOOOOO!!!!” at the top of your lungs. You thought about playing an audience cheering sound effect, but realized it’s too late now and you don’t even have your soundboard open. You should get that ready in a minute. You’ve already heard this before, so you skip through the dialogue. Well, at least Amber’s lines. You let Kaeya finish everything he has to say.

‘From afar? Is that all we know of them?’

“Surprisingly, yes.” You said, thinking about how you know so much about everyone in Teyvat yet know close to nothing about the main character. You knew they were older than 500, and they had a sibling, but just who were they? You focused back on the game, sighing after hearing Kaeya say he understands being separated from family, feeling your heart growing heavy as you remember his backstory. “You need someone to talk to, man, I’m all ears.” If there was one thing you really knew about his personality, it was that he needed a therapist.

You entered the HQ and listened to the group devise a plan. You still didn’t know why you were only taking care of 3 temples, but you would eventually figure that out, right? Right? You pulled on Noelle’s banner 10 times, only getting her, a sword called… Flute? and some 3 star weapons that you figured wouldn’t help you for long. You equipped The Flute on the Traveler, tested it out a bit, and set off to the three temples.

By the time you were done with Amber’s, you decided that you were absolutely not going to follow any instructions the system gave you. No one can tell you what you can do!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Kaeya was… perplexed, to say the least, when he prepared to walk up to Amber and a traveler she was with. For a split second, he could have sworn he saw everything turn gray, and strange, colorful, circles appeared around everyone’s joints. Already, he wondered if he was hallucinating, but then he heard the sound of someone cheering that felt as if it was coming from the traveler, but he didn’t open his mouth. Amber didn’t seem to react to it, either. That meant either neither of them noticed it, or he was seeing and hearing things. Assuming it was the latter, he continued on, making a mental note to keep watch of it.

“Hold on Amber, are you perhaps forgetting to introduce us?”

“Oh… right. This i- Thes-”

‘From afar? Is that all we know of them?’

“Surprisingly, yes.”

That voice! Again, but this time, it directly replied to his thoughts. Was it not a hallucination? Just what in Teyvat was this? He had a strong feeling that it was connected to the Traveler, but how could it see what he was thinking just then? He needed to investigate this, that’s for sure.

“Long st-”

“I see. Welcome to Mondstadt - though you haven’t arrived at the best of times, I’m afraid.”

The Traveler had been separated from his sister, and came to Mondstadt looking for help finding her. He knew how he felt. When Diluc left Mondstadt for all those years, he spent every day worried, wondering if he would ever return.

“I understand the anguish of being separated from family. I’m not sure why you’re looking for the Anemo God… but everyone has their secrets, right?”

“You need someone to talk to, man, I’m all ears.”

The voice was… comforting him now? Interesting.

Who was this traveler? He certainly wasn’t your average tourist. He’d taken him, his… companion, and Amber to the Knights of Favonius headquarters to see Master Jean, and while that conversation went somewhat normal, the atmosphere quickly became… unnerving as soon as it ended. The others stood still in the room, not saying a word. After a few moments, the Traveler left the room, and Kaeya could swear he saw him swinging a weapon in the main hall, but if he was, why didn’t any of the other Knights stop him?

Waiting at the Temple of the Wolf, he thought about his experience earlier. He realized that Amber never finished a sentence, but somehow he understood everything she said. Amber never told him the Traveler’s story, yet he knew it. Did that have to do with that voice? That strange presence? It didn’t seem like it was intending anything bad by the way it spoke to him, but this whole situation was just so… strange.

Kaeya walked around a bit and cleared the area of any potential threats, and after what felt like an hour, the Traveler finally arrived at the temple. He honestly was expecting him to take longer, considering he likely helped Amber first, but it was a surprise to not have to wait quite as long as he thought. How long did it take him to get there? He was a long way from the city of Mondstadt, yet he couldn’t even remember the journey to get here now. Could everything strange he’d experienced be caused by that presence? Hallucinations, memory issues; just what was going on?

“You’ve arrived,” he said, slightly hoping that voice didn’t respond and that it really was all in his head. “Come closer. Do you smell that?”

Unfortunately, it was not, in fact, all in his head.

“How in the world do you burn a Pyro Slime?”

‘It’s the smell of burnt Pyro Slimes.”

How did it know what the Traveler was going to say before he said it? Could it be… influencing him in some way? He continued on, wanting to get these temples taken care of so he could have time to investigate this, whatever this is. He watched as the Traveler walked up to the doors of the domain, and… teleported through them? ‘This day just keeps getting weirder…’ he thought, before entering the domain himself.

“Let me show you how the Knights of Favonius conquer our adversaries,” he said. Although he was about to fight, his body relaxed, and a chill went down his spine. He tried to snap himself out of it, but he found he couldn’t move. The hell…? After a couple of seconds, his body sprinted forward, as that voice said “Alright, here we go,” with a sigh. It was behind this, too? What was this? His heart pounded. He was powerless. It could do whatever it wanted with him, and he wouldn’t be able to do anything about it. No one would know other than those affected… Why did he not mention this to anyone before? He tried to fight against it, but he still couldn’t move a muscle.

It felt as if he wasn’t fully in his body, as if he was only watching as his body was being puppeteered by some unknown entity. What did it want with him? The Traveler really was being influenced by them, wasn’t he? Was he too, being possessed by it? It seemed the entity could only use one body at a time, but while it was using one, the other completely disappeared.

Forget waiting until this Stormterror crisis was over, he needed to do something as soon as possible, before anyone else was affected by it! It couldn’t keep its hold over him for too long, right? He needed to get back to Mondstadt as soon as possible, to at least tell someone before it takes control of him again. He didn’t want to leave the Traveler like this, but he would have to if he was to do anything about it.

He calmed down a bit, as it didn’t instantly try to harm him, but he started to get concerned for his safety again when the entity made him jump over a pit of spikes in water. The water could very easily be frozen and walked on, avoiding the spikes entirely, and yet it made him jump over the pit. Nothing bad happened, though. Was it that confident in its, and to an extent, his, abilities? Or was it planning something more… violent? After the crystal was destroyed at the end of the temple, he felt like he was back in his body again, the entity no longer having control over him. Still, he didn’t want it to know he was trying to get away, so he started to speak as if nothing out of the expected happened. But why was it laughing?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You knew of a little trick you could do in this next cutscene, the one where Diluc comes out of nowhere and obliterates an Abyss Mage. You chuckle to yourself as you pull up a video.

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Golden Wind OST - Giorno's Theme『il vento d'oro』

03:45 ━━━━━━━⬤──── 05:27

As the Abyss Mage comes out from the shadows, you hit Play on the video and watch as Diluc charges in, the song syncing to his movements. You could swear you saw a confused look on his face, but you assumed you were either seeing things, or that you just misremembered the cutscene. You didn’t remember every single detail, after all.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

…Of course that didn’t work. As soon as he left the temple, he fell into the entity’s control once again. It didn’t help that he never saw Diluc leave the temple. If he did, he might have a chance at getting him to notice something’s wrong. It also appeared that he and the Traveler were not the only people it had decided to use as its puppets. At various times, he would be thrown out of his body completely and watch as it uses another. He noticed not only the Traveler, but Amber, Noelle, and for a short while, Lisa.

It encountered a Ruin Guard at the Thousand Winds Temple. It used Amber to destroy the automaton’s core, stunning it, before using him to counter the Pyro element on it. It got back up again, but it wasn’t up for long before it was defeated, falling to the grou-

*lego breaking noise*

*metal pipe falling*

“*snickering* God, I love having a soundboard…”

What were those noises? Those didn’t come from the Ruin Guard, did they? Were they made by that “soundboard” thing?

After that, there were an abundance of strange noises, almost always accompanied by the entity laughing.

He also realized that it wasn’t killing any monsters; in fact, it even knew some Hilichurlian. Whatever this entity was, it didn’t appear to be intending to harm anything. It wasn’t killing any monsters, and it was giving him equipment that felt like it made him stronger. Did it even know it was controlling him like this? If not, would it continue if it knew?

Regardless of if they knew or not, they continued on, at one point using him to cross the ocean to an island he had never seen mapped before. It took a fair bit of time, considering how far out it was. After a few minutes, what sounded to be a recording of someone’s voice began to play, likely by this entity to prevent boredom.

At the beginning, it brought up what he believed was happening to him now, and went on to say how it might work. How gaining a “character” means the Traveler can now connect to the essence of the person, harnessing their abilities, and how getting more “constellations” gives a deeper connection. He had heard of people having their own constellation, but he couldn’t make any sense of it in this context. While he was very concerned on how people knew any of this, it only further confirmed his theory that whoever this was using his body had not a clue on what they were really doing.

The recording ended up discussing very intriguing things. He was confused on why they were referring to people as “characters” at the beginning, but the whole time, they were referring to Teyvat and its past, present, and future as if it was nothing but a fictional story, constantly mentioning the “plot”, “chapters”, “roles”, and such. Is that what this was to them? The recording mainly focused on the “fate” of Teyvat, and how it could possibly be changed. It had been a topic he had been endlessly thinking about, and this left him with… mixed feelings. On one hand, the Traveler may be the key to changing fate, and it gave him hope that things might actually end well for him. But on the other hand, would he really have to rely on someone else to decide his fate?

They found many chests on the island, and discovered someone’s notebook, which said that something strange happens here in the very early morning hours. The entity seemed confused for a bit, appearing to be looking for something, before sounding disappointed. They did another lap around the island, making sure they collected everything, and then teleported back to near Windrise, still seeming a bit confused.

They went north to the Stormbearer Mountains, and headed towards a watchtower, likely to get a better view of their surroundings. They weren’t about to get up there without a fight, though. Crossbow-armed hilichurls surrounded the place. Instead of taking them out then and there, they tried to just walk by, finding a good time to climb. He could tell they weren’t prepared for this, that they were overwhelmed. They shrieked as a Pyro hilichurl shot at him, trying to run away from the projectile.

This should be common sense, but one thing he knew about combat; when you dodge, don’t go running directly into the attack.

A flaming arrow hit him right in the jugular, and he was met with a world of searing pain. He didn’t know if it was this entity making him do it, but he let out a scream as it hit. The arrow had disappeared. He stood there, now choking, though his body did not react. Would this be how he died? By an arrow shot from a hilichurl he could easily take care of if he could just-

Time seemed to stop for a moment. Suddenly, everything was fine.

No pain, no wound, and he had the taste of chicken in his mouth.

They healed him from what was very easily a fatal wound just like that? That was why they were being so reckless, wasn’t it?

It had seemed like whatever was in control of him had no clue what they were doing, but how? How could they not know? Surely they must notice that something’s off, right?

At one point, they tried to climb up the Knights of Favonius building with Amber and fell, which caused her to disintegrate. He panicked, but soon after, she appeared again as if absolutely nothing had happened. Apparently, they had the power to revive people they were using, as well as heal fatal wounds. Sure, that was great that neither he nor anyone else this was happening to would have to fear dying, but that meant that if they wanted to, they could kill and revive someone under their control over and over again. It was a good thing they seemed to have no intentions of doing such a thing…

They were exploring for hours, during which time Kaeya’s thoughts mostly consisted of reactions to things they were saying or doing, with a little existential dread creeping in every now and then, wondering if he was ever going to gain back control. The sun went down, and soon after that, they said “Alright Teyvat, I’ll be back to conquer you tomorrow! I’m gonna go pass out!” That was a bit… direct, and he wasn’t entirely sure if they were joking by the “conquer” bit due to the events of the last couple of hours, but regardless, it was over. He nearly fell over after they left, not expecting to suddenly gain back control of his body again. Now, the question is, how does he go about solving this? Before he thought about that, he decided he needed a drink since he had some time to spare, and so he headed to Angel’s Share.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

After finishing Lisa’s temple, you were free to explore Teyvat. You spent some time exploring Mondstadt, collecting Anemoculi, before going back to where you started. You knew of that unmapped island, and now that you had the power to ice bridge, you were going to go there. You knew it would take a while, so you put on another video essay explaining a Genshin theory to listen to, and began the journey.

Unfortunately, you couldn’t do everything. You were able to get a bunch of chests, but the quest there needed the time of day to be between 2 and 5 AM to progress. You remembered there being a time skip button, but you looked everywhere and just couldn’t find it. So, you had to go back to the mainland, defeated. Come to think of it, how long was the day/night cycle? It’s been over an hour and the sun’s barely moved. Was the in game time synced to real time? If so, why the hell would they make a quest that can only progress in the middle of the night? You figured that you’re just missing something, and started thinking about something else before you got too stressed out.

You played for a couple of hours, getting used to the combat system. It was fun, but you felt like the enemies did a bit too much damage. Seriously, one arrow from a low-level hilichurl shouldn’t almost one-shot your character! You felt pretty tired, and not wanting to struggle to keep your eyes open, you decided to log out, and continue your Magical Adventure™ tomorrow.

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

And pass out you did, falling asleep as soon as your head hit your pillow. You ended up sleeping for a while, so by the time you got up, it was already pretty late in the morning. You had some errands to run, so you showered, got ready, and took care of them.

You had nothing else to do today, so you decided to open Genshin again and continue your adventure. The world loads in, and there you are, with your team of Aether, Amber, Noelle and- hold on where’s Kaeya? Maybe you removed him for some reason. You were pretty tired. You go to the party select screen, and select hi-

*This character is busy.*

What the hell does that mean?

#sagau #genshin fanfic #baby’s first fanfic #genshin sentience au #ao3 #fanfic #genshin impact #Pursuit of Knowledge

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saline-coelacanth · 22 days

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I'm gonna try my best to formulate my thoughts but this post is probably just gonna be a bunch of rambling

Spoilers for DR season 2 part 1

I LOVE BONZLE SO MUCH HOLY CRAP! I already liked her a lot, she was probably my favorite of the finders besides Cole and Geo, but wow I was not ready for her backstory. I just... my heart can't handle it man, the finders are her family!!!!!

And speaking of Bonzle, HER AND KAI BETTER BE OK! They better find a way out of that prison place or I'm gonna lose my mind!!! I am so emotionally destroyed over Kai right now, I can't. And when Nya was talking to Wyldfyre about how Kai was always her hero, that stabbed me in the feels so hard.

Kai was also just great, I love his relationship with Wyldfyre so much. He's such a dad and I love him for that

I will say that I didn't really enjoy how long the training went on for. Idk it just felt kinda repetitive and I sort of stopped caring after a while. But luckily, we had the plot with Cole, Zane and Bonzle which was probably my favorite part of the season. At the very least, it had my favorite moments. I think it mainly just stems from the fact that I love Cole a lot. And also the magical shenanigans that they got up to with the sorcerer lady (who I don't remember the name of I am so sorry) were really fun.

Also, holy crap Lloyd having full on panic attacks! I was not expecting that, the poor boy. Also poor Arin, I felt so bad for him! And I am not ready for the potential conflict that's gonna come from Sora using her powers and making Arin think he used his object spinjitzu, that is gonna destroy me. I feel like it may be a little too soon to tell, but I will say the pieces are there for Arin to have a villain arc. And even if the show doesn't go there, I'm sure someone will make an au about it.

I like Cinder a lot, I thought he was cool, I just wish we got to see more of him. It's honestly kinda crazy how little of the wolf warriors we saw in general, but we'll probably see more of them in part 2.

So last major thing I wanna scream about, and I saved the best for last, JAY! OMG AAAAAAAAAAAAA WHAT IS GOING ON WITH HIM???????

So we've learned now that he doesn't really care too much about the Administration. I mean, we could have picked that up before, but now it's confirmed. It's also been 100% confirmed that he has lost his memories, so all the people trying to deny it can calm down now. But the thing with Jay that interested me the most was when the sprite thingy was showing him his reflection and revealing his lightning powers, Jay seemed genuinely terrified at the thought of anyone finding out he can control lightning. I feel like it has something to do with the Administration, like they would do something terrible if they found out, but we'll just have to wait and see I guess. Honestly I could scream about Jay for so long with the very little amount of screen time we got of him, but I'll just end things here.

But yeah, that was pretty great. Not sure if I enjoyed it more than season 1, I'm probably gonna have to rewatch it to fully solidify my feelings, but yeah.

#ninjago #lego ninjago #ninjago dragons rising #dragons rising spoilers #ninjago spoilers #ninjago dragons rising season 2

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bnbc · 1 month

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this is a love story

something something Rykad Minoris scene I'm not going to write any time soon:

"You clearly do not think straight at the moment. Which is expected, given the amount of stress you went through this day." "Should I remind Master van Calox, that I, like him, have a sanction of Holy Terra? Which, among other, means I've proven to control my emotions. Do you wish to deny Adeptus Astra Thelepatica the sanity of their actions?" Not giving him time to answer, she kept pressing: "The decision is made. You could stop me with your authority, but it seems you didn't want to take the responsibility..." "Cough-cough." Isabella turned back to see her Seneschal and the other high officers, staring at her, arguing with an Inquisition spy. Crap! Abelard was right, she had no time for this right now. She met eyes with van Calox again and commanded: "Clear the bridge out of outsiders. In three minutes I do not want to see anybody who doesn't have a shift here. Start translation preparation!" A cold snake-like smile twisted van Calox’s lips in the silent promise of consequences before he gave her a mockingly formal bow and went to the elevator. Isabella clenched her fists and made sure there were no glips of fear in her voice when saying: “I need my ship to be ready to jump the moment we take the last shuttle on board. We’re not leaving anyone behind.”

#not sure if I ever write this fully #but let this piece be yeah #Rogue Trader #oc: Isabella von Valancius #heinrix van calox #gigiltrader

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maitaiwiththecorpses · 10 months

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What's In My Bag? With Aiden Acharya.

I promised that I would make this and @burntchickennugget2468 was so ready to draw it, which I love, so

let's get to it.

First, we have stim toys for Aru, for her incessant fidgeting. I know I've mentioned this before but holy CRAP. It is so hard to find supportive and accommodating partners when you have adhd, so hold on to him, Shah.

Tampons, pads. No explanation needed. He's surrounded by menstruators 90% of the time.

Adding onto the point above, he also carries midol and advil around when Aru mentions that she gets incapacitating cramps. @burntchickennugget2468 suggested pamphin for intense cramps, so that too!

cough drops. All the flavours.

Chewy granola bars that he restocks every time he goes out.

Swedish Fish. >:) no explanation needed.

Wire headphones. My boi is a classic man. Sure, he thinks airpods are cool and mighty useful, but something about the physical wire and not having rubber beads falling out of your skull every time you headbang too hard just appeals to him.

A polaroid of his mom and dad, back when they were still happy.

Keys to his mom's house and the museum.

Socks. Idk this is probably just me projecting, but with the amount of shenanigans the potatoes get up to, dry, clean socks seem to be invaluable.

A single purple glitter gel pen.

I don't think Shadowfx counts, since he wears it around his neck, but I think it goes in the bag every once in a while? (someone correct me if I'm wrong, it's been a while since I read tpq)

hairties. So many. Not just for the girls- Rudy went through a shoulder-length hair phase, and Aiden's never recovered.

wet wipes. Do I need to explain? They get into some (a ton of) messes.

Let me know if I missed anything! This was kinda rushed, and I'm SURE there's more he can fit in that bag (stachel (purse)) of his.

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icecreamsocialanxiety · 11 months

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Silly Lily Chronicles!

['Cuz it's not romantic, I swear! I'm not gasping for air!]

A series of small moments in the office and farther on; from Boris and Kamal's lives pre-Habitat starting from the first time they shook one another's hands.

If they only knew how much they'd influence each other in the coming years in "Forsooth", the musty two-story clinic just down the street...

In their small town of hilltops: Columba Hills, Wyoming.

Originally posted on AO3, circa 2022

Volume 1: Prologue (2023 Revision)

Holy cow! I think I've got one here

Now just what I am supposed to do?

I've got a number of irrational fears...

That I'd like to share with you-u-u~

First, there's rules about old goats like me Hanging around with dudes like you

But I do like you and another one:

You say 'like' too much....

['Cuz it's not romantic, I swear! I'm not gasping for air!]

Volume 1: Prologue

A series of small moments in the office and farther on; from Boris and Kamal's lives pre-Habitat starting from the first time they shook one another's hands.

If they only knew how much they'd influence each other in the coming years in "Forsooth", the musty two-story clinic just down the street...

In their small town of hilltops: Columba Hills, Wyoming.

Originally posted on AO3

Holy cow! I think I've got one here

Now just what am I supposed to do?

I've got a number of irrational fears...

That I'd like to share with you-u-u~

First, there's rules about old goats like me

Hanging around with dudes like you

But I do like you and another one:

You say 'like' too much....

October 13, 1988. Bora Residence.

He was late!!

Good gravy, of course he was! You know, for the ONE THING he was studying at least 8 or 10 years at medical school to go to?! He couldn't even remember he was so late! Honestly, man! He'd be late to his own funeral! Stupid, stupid, stupid!

Kamal practically fell out of bed this morning once he opened his eyes to how high the sun was! Did he forget to set the alarm!?!? He went to bed at 11, it wasn't even that late! 8:30 on the alarm clock was burned in his mind as his throat went all cold turning the knob and booking it out the door.

What was he even doing yesterday evening? Surely it wasn't more important than setting his alarm!

He paced around feverishly to look for his hairbrush. Should he brush his teeth? Probably. Ugh, but not before breakfast, he needs SOMETHING or he'll pass out!

"OOF!"

...Oh don't tell him he just passed out already!

No, he actually just tripped over a closed comic book in bursting out of his bedroom door. More specifically, his Doremon manga. Then it came to him. He was rereading this issue again yesterday.

That silly little kid's comic book he kept reading...just to feel some sort of release in the amount of mental preparation in becoming a real doctor. A dentist. Was he ready for this? Considering how much he wasn't aware of the real world? He could hear his old man and ma getting on his case now to "act his age".

He was hugging his knees again. Agh, he was so totally getting ahead of himself. The day hasn't even started yet. Breathe in....breathe out.

Just take a granola, your ritalin, drink a CRAP ton of water and apply your citrusy jasmine scented deodorant.

Geez, he hoped his boss wouldn't be strict. His deodorant only did so much, even while having an asian benefit of genetically not very pungent pits. Wait. How well does that hold up, though?

Was it all a myth? Or is it because he's thin in particular?

Well...not like your family HAS really stinky pits to start with. That he knows of.

(...Okay, enough with that kind of B.O. talk. You're so weird, Kamal. Stop it. This is why you're lonely.)

Either way....the same couldn't be said for his breath. Ew.

GOD, his breath. DO NOT greet your new boss at the dental clinic with bad breath. Golly.

The chocolate in the granola wasn't coffee but it'll do. He downed it as fast as he could.

Maybe it was for the best, not mixing his adhd meds with excessive caffeine. His brain was already wired enough. Shortly after he brushed his teeth. It would be the last time he'd be just brushing his own pearly whites.

Alright...teal polo shirt...unfortunately baggy pants he couldn't stop himself grabbing last minute...transformers watch...magenta accented sneakers....cartoonish rabbit printed lanyard...

He peered over to his brand new couch. Hippity the beanie buddy sat there cutely, with his pleading beaded eyes.

"Kamal, you still have your doll? I-I mean, I guess I'm a little surprised you like 'em still, yanno.

Considering how you've changed, all your changes."

....

Ignoring that memorized, somewhat backhanded judgment from his mother, he stuffed his soft little friend in his jacket pocket.

Ugh. What does she know?

He imagined a triumphant giggle coming from Hippity since Kamal couldn't bring himself to leave him there. Hippity was good moral support. Just for today, he said. Just for luck.

Maybe it'd be okay.

Today's the first day of the rest of his life. If it's too hard in this weird world to feel like smiling, then the least he could do to help is make sure they had healthy teeth, eh?

...

8:58. Forsooth Dentistry Clinic.

Just in time. He carefully swung his car door closed. God, there was so much traffic! It was ridiculous!

Well, no use in complaining. He did manage to make it. He took out Hippity and hugged him for luck, quickly stashing him in his pocket before anyone saw.

Sigh. Sometimes he truly wished to live a domesticated rabbit's life. When given the right care, they just don't have a care in the world. He liked cats too, but bunnies really got him. No one could replace his childhood bunny, Hopscotch...

But this paycheck could help him out. He could get either/or. Anything to fill the void in the house....oh geez. Daydreaming, Bora. You're doing it again.

He eyed his childish-looking watch. It just flipped from 8:59 to 9:00. Yikes, go inside already.

Behind the door, with a bell jingling on it, was a young purple and redheaded woman as the receptionist. She was typing away at her desk, filing papers.

Kamal let the receptionist know he was here all too awkwardly.

K: 'YELLO!

Ack, er, Hi! I'm here!

Re: Hi there! First day, right?

K: H..Hah, yeah! I'm not late am I?

Re: Oh, no trouble. You should be okay.

K: Cool, cool...

Internally Kamal wanted to burst out crying. But he spared her of witnessing that uncomfortable scene.

...

Re: Name, please?

K: Wha?

Re: Er, your name, doc? I gotta know who's assistant you are, heh!

K: OH. Yes, Doctor Kamal Bora.

Re: Ah. How d'ya spell the first name?

K: K-a-m-a-l?

Re: Kay...lemme see here....

...

Kamal stood there for an awkward amount of seconds....

Re: Ah, sorry for that! Here's your boss!

She handed him a paper over the counter.

Re: You're assigned to Doctor Habit. I heard that one's a bit of an oddball, but he's a hard worker.

Oh. Great. He got the weird one.

K: You don't say?

Re: Ah, but I wouldn't worry too much. Other people just call him strange just because he's rather blunt about things.

Oh, GREAT, he got the strict one?

Re: But like I said, no worries. People spread stuff 'round here too much. G'luck, newbie! Get ready to shake a leg! Or...like, a hand. The paper should say what office he's in. Shouldn't be too far from here.

K: Ah, I gotcha. Thank you much.

The receptionist waved.

...

Going by the paper he found his locker and got his doctor's coat on. It was chilly throughout the clinic so he didn't think to take off his jacket.

The clinic seemed a lot more casual than it first let on when he applied here. Well...I can't let my guard down yet. Gotta try to wow my new boss, I guess. He heard a lot of test drilling down the hall. He hoped it wasn't going to be too overwhelming an hour later when it opened at 10 AM.

This looked to be the station. He was intimidated by the pressure of a first impression; so he masked his fear with his professional persona, greeting his new boss and extending an arm once he was through the door. He didn't really pay attention to where his new boss was, and had his eyes closed upon greeting. Oh gosh.

K: Hey, Doctor Habit right? Pleased to meet'cha. I'm your new assistant, starting today. Dr. Bora.

A rather deep voice with a thick foreign accent (Swedish? French?) that he couldn't pinpoint responded.

Ha: Hullo. I am he.

Dr. Habit looked over his shoulder to see someone not even close to 6 foot at the door. Oddly enough, they had a longer hairstyle like he did. With their eyes closed and a hand extended. He wasn't sure what to make of it other than it seemed to be a handshake invitation. Usually he was to initiate it, as their new boss.

They had either come overprepared, or heard the rumors about him and didn't want to look him in the eye. He scowled a bit at the thought, but still was to accept the handshake. He already knew they'd be put off by him either way. Like the other ones that had asked to be re-assigned...he was used to this by now.

Ha: That I was told. Pleased to meet you as well.

As Habit walked over, his heels making a clopping sound; Kamal was prepared to make eye contact. Look him right in the eye and make sure he knows he'll knock his socks off! And not for the life of him slip up or stutter!!

But then he looked up and---

K: Yeah, good to meet y--!

...

You see, a normal person would just say like "Whoa you're tall" to a man like Habit. But when people think tall they think like...6"5, usually.

They don't usually have SEVEN FOOT FOUR INCHES in mind because that's rather uncommon. And that was Doctor Habit.

With waist length auburn curly hair tied back in a large ponytail; a pea green visage, a rosy nose and bright vermillion eyes he stood out even more. He also seemed to have a patterned lanyard that Kamal wasn't so focused on right now. Could he see right through the mask he put on? He couldn't think normal. His bright golden sepia eyes were shot open in disbelief. But not because he was off put by him, no, far from that.

It was far more embarrassing than that.

(t-tall? TaLL? TALL?? TAALLL???)

Maybe it was because Kamal was kind of half awake and his meds hadn't kicked in yet....but nobody told him he'd be working with some kinda ADONIS?? Was it just him or was Doctor Habit SUPER beautiful??? Was that the word?? CHRIST HELP HIM. WHY WAS HIS FACE WARM.

Oh good lord was he blushing a little? Crap, what was happening. This was a disaster already. He hadn't even been here for an hour. Don't crush on the first man you see, dammit!! DEFINITELY NOT YOUR BOSS!!

[Kamal was kind of just frozen there. His olive toned face flushed rosy, staring up at him wordlessly. Mouth agape.]

Every time. Every single time. I'm so exhausted. Habit was quickly uncomfortable as 10 seconds went by. Habit huffed curtly and that snapped Kamal out of his apparent staggered trance.

K: S-Sorry!? I just u-um....didn't expect---

Habit abruptly interrupted Kamal to shake his hand and get it over with. His hand was at least the size of Kamal's face. And it sure was warmer than it looked. Kamal stayed on that thought a little too much as he spoke.

Ha: Ya, ya. I'm abnormally tall, I wear heels, eyeliner, et she-ra....e-et cetera! Whutever. Look, I'm sure it was a rough drive here and we could both use some coffee. So let's do that, ya?

The impatient type, huh? That's what the receptionist meant he supposed.

Usually Kamal despises putting up with this kind of behavior from anyone, be it minimal to overbearing. But what Dr. Habit responded with sounded sympathetic in nature.

K:...Sure? I...I didn't mean to rude, boss....Mind me.

....

Ha:...No, no. That was on me. Most don't expect someone taller than the average doorframe, so. (Sigh)

Let's have some coffee and begin today's prep work, yes?

Kamal nodded back at him slowly. Still a lot of mixed emotions internally. Why was he so awkward?

It did confuse Habit why this Dr. Bora person was rather rosy in the face.

His previous assistants didn't react like this. Sometimes they'd jump up in fear. All of his previous assistants were under a decade younger than him. Perhaps this one was closer to his age?

Habit knew he couldn't afford having another assistant ask to relocate or be re-assigned. It might impact his job.

It kind of annoyed him honestly. Add it to list of things....

Ha: So...what I'm going to ask is outside of today's training.

K: Huh?

Ha: Your name, Kamal...is it a masculine or feminine one? Or is it neither?

K: My...what?

Ha: Sorry, I meant...er...what's the word....'pronouns'. Yes. I want to make sure I don't misgender you. The clinic doesn't care, but I believe the distinction is severely overlooked.

Wait, really? Was he also....?

K: Well, er...thank you for asking! He and Him for me. Also happen to be a guy, yeah. Kamal's a somewhat neutral name where my folks are from, now that you mention it. You?

Kamal didn't expect this either. Habit wanted to bend the rules for his employee's sake?

Ha: Same as you actually.

K: A-Ah, like the receptionist said?

Ha: Oh...yes.

...Let's get you that coffee, hm?

Did...Habit grin a little a him? Kamal caught a glimpse of it, but it happened.

(He also thought it was really charming.)

Was it 'cuz he caught on to the coding so fast? Maybe he wasn't as weird as his reputation upheld. Maybe he was...nice!

...

9:30 AM.

The minutes had gone by... and boy he sure felt weird again. Kamal had sworn he'd seen this Dr. Habit fellow from somewhere. I mean he did live in town, but like....did they go to the same med school? Now that he thought about it...he recalled bumping into a rather tall gentleman with long curly hair a few times in the halls.

He always apologized but the figure kept on walking with no response. That person in question always seemed glum and low energy. He'd never really heard them speak...maybe because he forgot what they sounded like. They always stood out to him.

Being the sap he is, Kamal tried to reach out them once, slipping a note in their locker last year on Valentine's. No, i-it wasn't romantic or anything! No, no! I mean...not to say he didn't like the mysterious types. [Aughh, but it wasn't like that! He didn't even KNOW the guy.] He just wanted them know that he could be their friend.

He wrote: "Hey there, person I wish I knew! If you ever want a friend my name is Kamal Bora! Reach out to me if you want! I think your style is super hip and like...don't let anyone tell you otherwise, y'know! This time of year can get pretty lonely so, us social outcasts should stick together right? Of course, no pressure. Just know I'm around town. Sincerely, Kamal. :]"

He never really thought it'd go anywhere. He just wanted to try to make a friend.

But the weird thing was.... you'd think he wouldn't even get a response; yet the next day that he went to his locker...there was this intricate colored pencil drawing of a yellow rose on a small slip of paper. Was it from the tall stranger? He couldn't know for sure...but he did remember doodling a bit on that letter too. Was it a response? The piece wasn't even signed, but...oh, the anomalies just kept piling up. He'd likely never know who gave that to him. But he kept that yellow rose drawing on his post board at home...still waiting for that person to give him a response in person.

"So the light fixture is a bit broken. Repairs are coming tomorrow but it'll be a doozy to work with. Honestly I don't know why they can't just let us use a spare room but...such is life, I suppose."

Oh god, he spaced out. Again! How much did he miss...! He was still working on the small latte that was offered to him. He knew he couldn't handle it, good lord....It was already bad that Habit's accent was thick. Hearing it more, he now believed it was russian.

...Was he russian?

K: UhH? Oh! Oh no?! That's bad. Sorry to hear! That will make things weird.

Ha: Luckily, I'm prepared for "slappy-dashed" things such as this!

He was?

Dr. Habit proceeds to unearth FOUR flashlights from his white coat pockets. Where did he even....How??

Ha: This world wouldn't survive without people prepared for the worst! So that's what I did, to save us the trouble. We'll take turns holding the flashlights while the other works on the patient's teeth, ya?

K: U-Uh! Yeah! Sure, boss??

Ha: We can't work on the patient and hold the flashlight at the same time, rite? So it only makes sense.

[Just smile and nod Kamal....I mean...yeah it does make enough sense?]

But Kamal was SO confused.

Okay, was this what they meant by odd? As in...pretty intense? This man was just giving him a wave of emotions. He didn't know whether to think he was intense or um?? Charismatic?

...And kinda really super cute?? At the same time?? Kamal, jesus, get a hold of yourself!! This is just another stupid meaningless crush!

Ha: Okay...well. Did you remember all that, Dr. Bora?

SHOOT. Should he lie??

K: U-Uh. UH....

Ha: It's fine if you didn't. It'll make sense in practice, yes. They had me remember the hard stuff for you.

K: I guess so. You're...eheh. The boss. Literally. I mean, yes...I remember what to do, of course. Ahah.

Habit blinks at him blankly. Then...

Ha: Heh. Funny joke. You're a fun one. Come over to this station.

Kamal couldn't help a grin at the compliment.

Yes, I've got to totally wow him in anyway possible. Really show him how talented I am. That I'm not just a dork from down the street.

....

But suddenly, Kamal heard a PLOP against the marble floor as he kept walking. It was resounding to him...it sounded like a stuffed animal?

Wait. WAIT!! OH GOD. HIPPITY THE BUNNY WAS IN HIS JACKET POCKET THAT'S RIGHT!!

Oh my god. OH MY GOD THIS CAN'T BE HAPPENING.

Ha: Hm? Ah...what's...that?

K: I??? diDN'T HEAR AN ANYTHING?

Ha: No, but look...is that a bunny rabbit doll?

Habit paced over to it slowly, pondering the owner.

Ha: Did a patient leave this one behind, or...

Kamal quickly ran back over to the doll, startling Habit as he scooped Hippity back up and attempted to stuffed him back in the inner pocket.

Ha: WH--My goodness, why did you...?

Habit caught sight of his employee's face. Kamal's face was completely red. Was he misty eyed? He looked so ashamed...Why? Habit began to genuinely worry.

K: He...um. Hippity's...he's my bunny. Sorry, this is so unprofessional! Ugh! Don't laugh, okay?! I won't bring him tomorrow, I-I just! Ngh!

No...no...god. He was crying. Right in front of his boss. On the first goddamn DAY.

Weeping while holding his silly little childhood beanie buddy. He probably looked so pathetic right now....

But to his surprise...Habit's tone completely changed.

Ha: Y-You...don't have to embarrassed about this. Don't be sorry.

K: W...Wha?

Ha: Never be sorry for what you cherish, okay? D-Don't let anyone tell you so! Your little Hippity looks very well cared for.

K: I....Thank you?

Habit was looking right at him, genuinely, with not a hint of gruffness in his exterior.

[Was this guy...really just a big softie too?]

This kind of sentimentality was very important to Habit, he learned just now.

Somehow...this helped Kamal recall something, too. He found his train of thought again. He usually can. But this morning has done a number to his stress alone.

About time, really. I guess this coffee's good for something.

He lost sight of his long term goal, why he craved independence in the first place.

And his parents have been nothing but supportive in the long run.

But of course they've had their slip-ups. A LOT. Progress is slow, but gradual.

In truth...His mother, she's actually very considerate of him most of the time. The first person he willingly came out to as trans.

He always unwillingly recalled what she opened with when he was packing up all of his things, when he moved out just a few weeks ago.

"All his changes" meant a guy was strange or a pansy for liking dolls. Right? Is that what you were getting at, mom?

...

Don't you remember? She caught herself. Corrected herself. As she should've.

At least she did that!

...

"I guess I'm a little surprised you like 'em still, yanno. Considering how you've changed, all your changes."

"Wh--MOM! Why the hell would you SAY that??? Seriously?! It's my room, I can keep what ever 'GIRLY' things I want! Ugh! And you call me judgmental?!"

"Ah!? Oh no! Putra, sorry...! I didn't..."

"Didn't WHAT?! Think about what you said! I've had this weird little rabbit doll for like, what, 21 YEARS and this is when you decide to make me insecure about it?!"

"(Huff) Kamal. Listen to me. You know that isn't what I intended. Please let me finish..."

"UGH. Ma, that really smarts you know. I already struggle with my masculinity. Considering it's still pretty much invisible even with my changed voice. What, like am I supposed to pretend my sentiments aren't still attached to the identity that was enforced on me before I could even walk??

Like, I can barely use the needles as is---I...I don't need more insecurity. You and dad are the only ones who KNOW. DON'T make me feel awkward around you guys, too."

"...O-Oh dear, I didn’t realize I struck a nerve so badly. I didn't mean to upset you! No, I...devatas...Sorry. It's just, you know...I'm not you. I can't read your mind. But I'm always here for you. You are my son, my child. I support you no matter what. I made that promise before you were even an idea, you know.

...I lost interest in my dollies, I gave them to your cousins a long while ago.

I mean, if you like them, that's fine! Ignore me, putra.

Me bein' a tomboy shouldn't reflect on you. You are a strong individual at heart, my son. And I'm sorry. This is the beginning of your career. Your own altruism."

...

A strong individual at heart....how did something so important get forgotten so quickly?

Am I really that scatterbrained?

....No, you know that's just the ADHD. You're not "scatter-brained". You are a person, not an untouchable "god".

Mom reminded you of that more times than you could count.

She raised you, ACTUALLY raised you. She gives a damn about you all the time.

Maybe that's why this silly little stuffed bunny holds this much emotional weight. The tears finally caught up to you.

Christ, man.

She nurtured your curiosity and identity, She let you shave half your head in high school and ironically you were the only one who regretted the decision. You thought she just didn't care that day. She's always too insistent and absent-minded when it's time to be busy with stuff like packing and moving.

It did hurt a little. But she cared to correct herself. When it's so normal for an asian family to kick out their queer children. Because that was their one burning "imperfection".

But she actually loves you. Your parents DO care, even in the midst of their ridiculous doting and eggshell walking. Don't they?

"Kamal, I hope you know I love you no matter what. I raised you to know exactly what you want, when it really counts. I'll back off when you need me to, okay? You know how I've been. I never want to be the one to make you feel like garbage. That would mean I've failed you.

So...case in point. You do you, little rabbit."

Heh heh.~

Jayasri Nadella-Bora. She brought you into this world to be happy, ultimately. Right?

This is the same woman who conditioned you with her progressive influence in the first place, as a cisgender woman. She cares too much, and lets her concern consume her at times. Even now, she's still learning.

She fights for your cause everyday, not only as a mom. As a civil rights activist.

[And dad, well, he's okay too. Most times. Not that he isn't a good guy, but he's a real weenie.

He always lets mom do the talking. Meeting your mother was the smartest thing he's ever done. He married mom, so he has to have an actual soul within his body.

He's really ignorant, but you know Mom and Dad love each other more than the earth itself. And....you were a "happy surprise".]

So...can it be more obvious?)

Maybe you're forgetful, too. You aren't invincible or perfect. You are a dentist. You broke down crying in front of your boss.

What's even happening today? Is this humbling?

Or are you humble as is?

Ha: Really, though. Bring anything you need to work as long as it doesn't get in the way, of course. I'm letting you do that, okay?

The overwhelmed blush on Kamal wore down into a soft, calm glow.

K: Uh...heh! Okay..well.

Thank you, doc. You better not regret it, cuz, um...

Ha: Anything if it'll help you feel more productive, right?~ Eheh.

So he wasn't imagining things. Dr. Habit really smiled at him. He was smiling right now!

(This guy had to be as big a sap as him, right? Like...)

K: Sure, ha. Okay. Thanks.

Geez...how was emotionally connecting with this guy so fast?

....

Ha: Would you mind telling me about your lanyard? That has littol bnuuy rabbits on it too. Do you like bnuuys a lot?

K: Uh...you mean...'bun-knees'? Pff...Y-Yes, I do?

Ha: Hah, yes. Bnuuys.

K: Bunnies?

Ha: Bew-nais.

K: Bunnies.

Ha: Boonui? :-D

K:...Now you're just doing this on purpose, doc.

Ha: Maybe so! But it is fun, no?

K: Psh, okay. Well I mostly picked it because I liked the design but I ALSO happen to like bunnies a whole lot. They're two different things, heh.

Ha: But...doesn't that sort of mean same thing?

K: Not necessarily! >:P

Why does yours have those yellow flowers all over it, eh? Did you just pick it out cuz it's nice-looking?

...

But suddenly, Habit went quiet.

Did...Kamal bring up something iffy?

K: I...I wasn't teasing you about it, sorry. I-It's a pretty lanyard! I'm just confused. Did....people laugh at you for liking flowers? I mean 'cuz....some did laugh at me before for bringing Hippity once. And that was middle school.

Habit's gentle tone was now sorrowful as well.

Ha: Indirectly....you could say so.

K: Oh? Well. Y'know. It's like you said, boss. Anyone who makes fun of you for being a nerd is just a freeloader or something, right?

Ha:...Maybe so...

...

Okaaay, maybe it was time to change the subject.

K: Hey, Dr. Habit? Did we....happen to go to the same med school?

Ha: In the exact same area? Well, I went to Geewhiz.

K: No joke?! I went there too!

Ha: Goodness, really?

K: I could've sworn I'd seen you somewhere! Ack...Do you remember me bumping into you at all?

Ha: Eh...I bump into a lot of people shorter than me, so. Though I also thought your voice sounded familiar.

K: Well I ask because...on my last year... coincidentally February 14th, ahem; I slid a note into someone's locker. Asking to be their friend. And they looked an awful lot like you! But I can't be too sure. (sigh) I mean...I never even knew their name.

The realization hit Habit like a truck.

Ha:...K-Kamal Bora?! That was...YOU?! You're HIM???

K: Y-Yeah! It was, man! Oh my god, this is nuts, dude! Does that mean...did you draw that picture of a yellow rose and put in my locker?!

Habit's hands were clasped together. Kamal saw clear as day he was brilliantly flushed in the face. How come? Did it really mean that much to him? He was so smiley!

Ha: W-Well I...didn't know how else to respond to that kind note from someone I didn't even know...so I asked around and, erm. Well...I like drawing. And I saw you drew little rabbits on your note, too.

K: P-Pff, really? I did?

Ha: Hm-hm, yes. That's how I knew it was you.

K: Wowzers! Ehehe...

Ha: Hee...My english writing is no good, so...I poured my thoughts into a little rose drawing. And put it in your locker. I-I didn't know what else to say, eheh...umm.

...Did you like it?

K: Like it? Duuude! I've never seen such a realistically drawn rose! I loved it! I like the pink shading to the yellow you added to it, too!

I still have it on my billboard at home!

Ha: W-wow. I'm...so...ticklish pink, honestly! I..awhaha!

K: Huh? Say again?

Habit had a big sappy smile on, still closed up. As his rosiness in his cheeks tinged that grin, he started twirling his auburn curls a little.

Ha: I'm just....really habby you liked it. I was too chicken to even write my name on it....I, aha. Just wanted to give the drawing to you.

K: Oh, but how come?

Ha: I wasn't really ready to give you my name yet...I've only recently had it changed. And some sources still have me recorded as whoever the other Habit was in the question....

K: Ah...I hear ya. Well...what is your name, doc?

Ha: During business hours, I'm just "Dr. Habit". But to you, Mr. Kamal...I'm Boris. Alright? : - >

K: Mm-hm! Then well...Boris?

Ha: Ya?

"Could I be your friend then?"

"Yes. I'd love to."

Kamal had definitely wowed Boris that morning.

In a chance meeting he never even thought possible.

This would be the start of something exceedingly precious to both in the coming years.

#aroace writer #autistic writer #habismal #kooky's fic #smile for me game #kamal bora #boris habit #dr habit #s4m #smile for me oc #jayasri & kairava #jayasri nadella bora #thank you for all the support on my first s4m fics. I'm gonna post here now too since this is my most recognized fic on ao3. Tysm <3 #they're gay and in love #and trans

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clunelover · 6 months

Text

Dog daycare very generously held Tina’s spot for a month and a half due to Jeremy’s job loss. Tomorrow is the day she’s supposed to go back or we lose our spot. So I went ahead and bought one week, with the hope that by the end of the week we’ll know more whether she can go back permanently or we should just give up the spot. Omg it’s so expensive though, holy crap!! I think it will be a nice luxury for Jeremy though. I’ve seen how his days can just get eaten up, and she’s a big part of that. She needs A LOT of exercise. So it’s like, okay let her out and play fetch or go on a long walk…come home and eat, take care of some kind of house thing like prepping crockpot dinner (which takes him a SHOCKING amount of time due to lack of practice plus ADHD), now it’s time to settle in for some applications…ope, dog needs to go out again!

So anyway, hopefully having her gone for a bit will be win-win.

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palebloodcvrse · 1 month

Text

Heres my fuckin gremlin:

The main event

The creature

His name is Ae, he got turned into a weird demon dragon thing when he was a kid, also some weird shit happened that left him mildly silly shall we say

He isnt part of any particular fandom and is part of his own story :p

Btw his design includes a lot of black and red and lemme just say if youre a black/red hater leave that mentality on deviantart. Fuck that shit

Every day wear:

Monster form:

Armor his adoptive father gave him:

His dad is a giant dracolich man who adopted him when he was 7 and turned him (dont worry, it wasnt forced on him, ae didnt wanna be human anymore due to some bs that happened to him, ill get in depth in another post)

They have a very addams family esque father son dynamic

This is his dad, kvstrathos (he didnt start wearing metal merch til ae did lol)

Heres Ae when he was a kid, he had ultra long hair lmfao

His dad is a few thousand years older than him btw.

Youd think being adopted by a murderous dracolich warlord would mean they have a tumultous dynamic, but no. Kvstrathos loves and spoils Ae and has dad of the year award behavior, always cookin him stuff teachin him life lessons tutoring him going on hunting trips telling him stories, playing games with him etc

So, this gremlin is very skittish and really doesnt like interacting with people much having grown outside of human contact for 90% of his life

His disposition often switches from impish/happy to a complete stormcloud the next

He often has intense mood swings and flipflops from being silly goofy to being not so silly goofy and concerningly... unstable.

(other than the fucked up court wizard his dad has, and even then the dudes an insane warlock and ex surgeon who was made immortal by an evil deity, ill upload him later)

Its left ae pretty much ignorant of how the human world worked other than outdated shit (he still thinks humans have widespread villages and farms like in the middle ages, boy was he wrong) since all his dad had in the archives about human history are all outdated historical texts (oh but all the occult crap? That got saved.)

So he grew up learning how humans tried to bind demons but doesnt know what a stanley cup is.

His dad spent his days training ae in various combat arts, sometimes showing him some weaponry or old siege equipment/medieval torture devices, etc and mr insane warlock was there to tutor him on dark magic if his dad was busy, and also to act as some sort of babysitter

Ae grew up in a castle with nobody but his dad and the court wizard for company so he pretty much doesnt know how to socialize with like... normal people.

Ae likes a lot of things:

Morbid crap, gardening, the woods, (he has an obsession with farms and nature.) Medieval weaponry, the occult, FOOD and the baking and cooking/preparing of said food, animals. Especially cats. And metal. Holy shit he went to the human world very few times but he fucking found some metal records in an abandoned shed and couldnt stop listening to it after.

As a result his dad gave him an enchanted guitar that has destructive properties and now hes some fucked up heavy metal bard on top of being taught by a giant dark knight and warlock on various combat arts.

Gory descriptions under the cut

His body is heavily mutated from the amount of dark magic that seeped into him since the ritual™ and therefore it has weird traits like worsening his vision while increasing his other senses like hearing and smell, regenerating wounds but also randomly forming painful clusters of black nerves, mouths and eyes that sometimes dont go away on their own, sickening him or strengthening him randomly, etc this boy is not normal and doesnt function as such.

As a dracolich (not all undead dragons are azeratean dracoliches, more lore on that later) he consumes the flesh and souls of demons and corrupted humans.

He often needs said blood and flesh to stay and healthy and strong.

He and his father are children of a dark elder god but theyre not wholly evil, its a whole thing that I dont wanna type out in one post for now.

#oc #oc artwork #oc art #oc shit #monster oc #metalhead oc

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haleyboook · 2 years

Text

Past mistakes pt.7

Word count: 2,765

Warnings: mentions of death and a curse word

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

"Excuse me? What tattoo did you get removed?"

He smiles saying "A few, actually. Why do you ask?"

I narrow my eyes at him and Scott says "What grown man keeps a tattoo of his ex-wife's drivers license miniaturized on his chest."

I smile and say "Wow. I'm offended. Thought I was the one in a million, y'know."

Scott says "God, I still remember the argument it caused. Mom was so mad when he came home with that."

I laugh saying "Chris' 18th birthday."

Scott nods saying "You got your license that year, and you both were very drunk."

I smile and Chris nods "I remember. Definitely. We made the guy put Evans as your last name instead as Dylan."

Scott says "Yeah. And the first pool day we had that summer, James pushed Chris into the water and everyone saw the tattoo."

Chris sighs saying "It was definitely a statement. My dad.. god he was so happy when I got it removed."

I smile saying "My drivers license to this day is still my picture from when we went down there together on my 16th birthday to get it. They never changed the photo, even after we went to legally change my name on my license when I was 18 years old."

"God we got married young."

Scott says "I've been saying that since the beginning."

We approach the food table and I smile to him

"I know. It's your heaven in the form of a food table."

I nod and look to him as I look at the huge selection of food. I shake my head saying "They have every type of danish to exist. Oh my god."

"Don't vomit from all the crap you're about to eat."

"I have a very high tolerance to junk food."

"Oh trust me. I remember the amount of pure sugar you consumed a couple months before Jack was born."

I nod and smile saying "I remember you creating this cookie brownie skillet thing for me and oh my god I wanted to marry you all over again in that moment. Especially after you ordered that cheese pizza from Frankie's."

He nods and says "I believe I was rewarded with a really great thank you."

I punch his arm and laugh. "Shut up."

"I remember it!"

"You're so annoying."

I look up while I'm chewing on the way too big of a pastry in my mouth

Chris yanks the pastry from my mouth and I put my finger up while I chew quickly

He says "Just spit it out."

I shake my head no and he says "There's way too much in your mouth."

I laugh while I chew and smile as I cover my face. Scott says "Gross." Chris attempts to suppress a smile and I hear him laugh

I nod as I finish my bite and Scott shakes his head. He says "How did you two even fall into bed together? Do you two have any self control do you?"

"Friends can fuck." Chris says

My eyes widen and I go into a coughing fit. I laugh but cough loudly as I push Chris. Scott says "God no they can't."

Startled by an outside voice, all three of us flinch when we hear the loud “Chris!”

I turn with the other two as my eyes widen with the approach of Robert and Scarlett

Scarlett smiles to Scott saying “Hey Scott.”

“Hi Scarlett. Nice to see you again.” Scott smiles to Scarlett

Robert extends a hand to me saying “Robert. Nice to meet you.”

My eyes widen and I mutter “ohmygod Robert Downey jr..”

Chris chuckles at my momentarily long fan girl moment as I shake Robert’s hand for too long. He pats my shoulder and I say “holy shit. Iron man.”

Chris shakes his head laughing saying “sorry. She doesn’t get out much.”

“Yes I do. Don't embarrass me in front of iron man.” I push his shoulder.

Scarlett says “holy shit."

All of us look to her as she continues "I didn’t think it was you at first but just seeing the two of you together.. y/n, oh my god.”

My eyes widen and Scott says “uh..”

Robert says “I’m out of the loop. Scarlett you know her?”

Scarlett says “Of course I know her she was Chris’..”

Scott clears his throat saying “Oh Jules! You need to meet Paul!” quickly switching the conversation away from the topic of me

I look to Scott as he gives me a look and Chris says “Oh yeah... Paul Rudd.”

I gasp and look to Chris. He smiles and Robert says “What is she doing?”

I shake Chris' arm up and down repeating "No way. No way. No freaking way. You were just not gonna tell me?"

He laughs and says "I guess I have to introduce you to him now."

Scott shakes his head saying "She had a Paul Rudd poster on her wall after Clueless came out. She was obsessed with him."

"I had a clueless poster, that just happened to have him in it. Alright, I wasn't that obsessed."

Scott shakes his head and Chris says "You made me watch the movie at least a hundred times."

Scarlett says "Now that's commitment."

I look past them and I spot a familiar face. I say surprised "Is that Lizzie Olsen?"

Robert says "Elizabeth? Talking to Paul Bettany? Uh, yeah."

I smile and remove my hand from Chris' arm. I begin to walk away and he says "Wait-"

Scott says "I'll go chase after her."

Scarlett gives Chris a look and says "You brought your-"

"Robert, did the Russo's tell you about the update to the script?"

Scarlett looks to him, narrowing her eyes at him as I say "Lizzie!"

She spins on her feet and looks to me confused. She says "y/n?"

I smile and nod. She quickly approaches as she laughs "Oh my god! I haven't seen you in decades!"

I hug her tightly and Scott says "Wait, what?"

She says "Oh my god. How have you been?"

"Good. I've been good. Look at you, oh my god you're so beautiful. And successful!"

She laughs saying "Thank you. I can't believe you're here. How are you here?"

I look to Scott and say "I'm here with Scott and Chris."

"You know Chris?"

Scott scoffs saying "That's saying it lightly."

I glare at him and Paul says "Pardon the intrusion, how exactly do the two of you know each other?"

I look to him and smile. Liz says "Her brother was in most of my sisters movies and shows. They did a lot of acting together growing up. So, off the screens our families got to know each other pretty well. I hung out with her on set while our siblings filmed. And we were in ballet together. God I haven't seen you in forever."

I nod saying "How are your sisters?"

"Good. They're working on their fashion line. They've taken a break from acting. But they're good. How's James?"

"He's good. He quit acting too, he's going to be so interested to know that I ran into you. You know how close he was with Ashley."

She smiles saying "And we always said that we wished they'd get married so we could be sisters."

I laugh and Scott says "Honestly, how did I never know this?"

Paul says "Alright, I've got to know, how do the Evans' know.. I'm sorry, I never got your name miss."

Lizzie says "This is y/n dylan."

Scott mutters "Evans." I cough over his voice and say "I grew up down the street from Chris and Scott."

"Oh really? What a small world!"

Scott says "Yeah. Who knew."

Paul says "I'm Paul Bettany, pleasure to meet you."

I smile and say "Of course. Nice to meet you too."

Scott rolls his eyes and I clear my throat slightly

I am going to slap him if he doesn't lose the attitude.

Lizzie says "What brought you to Atlanta?"

"Oh, just visiting Scott and Chris. Nothing too special."

Scott says "And to get some legal documents signed, right Jules?"

"Oh?" Liz says

I nod, gritting my teeth saying "Yup. Still have some adult things I need to handle. That's apart of being a grown up."

Paul nods and Scott says "Yes, because avoiding or putting things off is very childish. Very high school. Don't you think?"

"Considering some of the things people put off are related to high school. It doesn't seem that odd."

He scoffs and says "Yeah, maybe. High school problems that went on for ten years or more. Right?"

I narrow my eyes at him and then turn back towards Elizabeth. I smile and say "It was so great to see you. We should grab lunch or something soon."

"Yes. Of course. Here, why don't I give you my number?"

I nod and she slides her phone out of her pocket. I slide my phone out of my pocket and we switch phones. She fills in her contact for me as I do the same

Robert steps away from Chris and Scarlett at the directors request as they need to get him to costume and makeup.

Scarlett looks back towards me and Lizzie as we talk. Chris clears his throat as he says "Well I should-"

"Why is your wife that I haven't heard a thing about in a very long time suddenly back here now?"

Chris clears his throat saying "What?"

"Your wife. y/n. I haven't seen her since the filming of nanny diaries."

Chris pauses, he sinks into his shoulders and I look over towards Chris as Paul runs off to go shoot the next scene. Lizzie says "Alright, I've gotta run off. Message me alright?"

I nod and she quickly follows after Paul. Scott says "Alright, I can't believe you knew the Olsen twins and never told me."

I ignore him as I walk forward towards Chris as Scarlett leans into him for answers. "You guys obviously still aren't an item? That doesn't make any sense if you were. You're with Jenny."

I pause as I reach them. Chris just stares at Scarlett blankly as she says "Chris?"

"Hi Scarlett." I chime in

She says "y/n. I was just about to ask Chris where your son was. Last time I saw him he was probably only 5 years old and he had the cutest little buzz lightyear costume on. Helmet and everything."

My eyes widen slightly and Chris tilts his head slightly. We momentarily make eye contact and I falter at the memory as I say "Pretty big movie you guys are shooting." quickly changing the topic off Jack

She looks to me confused and says "Yeah..it is. Where have you been y/n?"

"Oh. I moved to California. Hey, Scarlett I heard you had a daughter. Congratulations."

She smiles and nods "Yeah, Rose, A few months ago. Are you two just going to keep avoiding questions?"

"What questions?" I quip

She narrows her eyes at me saying "Where's Jack?"

I sink into my shoulders and my throat tightens. She says "He should be, what 10 or older?"

My chest tightens and Chris says "Scarlett. That's enough."

"What? I haven't heard a thing about him or-"

My arms wrap around myself as I shake my head. Chris says "It's not exactly a story for today okay? I think you're needed in makeup. Like the others."

She sighs and nods. "Sorry, I didn't mean to be intrusive. It was nice to see you again Jules. Don't be a stranger alright? We used to be friends back in the day you know?" She smiles to me

I nod and slap a fake smile on my face. It drains off my face as she walks away and I stare blankly at the trailer in front of me.

Chris says cautiously "y/n?"

He continues carefully "She didn't know. I haven't told many people. I will make sure to tell her the truth. She won't bring it up again."

I shrug and say, nearly ignoring what he’s saying "He was only five, Chris. Five years old. That's all we got with him." slowly the composure slips away.

He nods saying "I know. He was too young."

"It isn't fair."

"I know. We can't do this here honey."

"I shouldn't have left you. You were in pain just like I was. You lost him too."

He shakes his head saying "y/n. I'm glad you want to talk about this but this is really not the place. I will talk all this over with you, you just need to get out of here. Scott will take you to get some coffee to calm you down and I'll leave set early tonight."

I frown and say "I'm being over emotional."

"You are not. You're being appropriately emotional. Losing a child is difficult."

I nod and step away from him. He says “I’ll get Scott. And you’ll be in good hands with him.”

I frown and he looks over to Scott who picks at the cards on the bulletin board. “Scott?”

Scott walks over saying “Hey..., Jules?”

I glare at the ground clearing my throat saying “Hey Scott. I’m gonna leave my rental car here with Chris. What would you say to accepting Chris’ wishes of getting us off set and grabbing a coffee or something?”

He scoffs and says “we aren’t going to just play buddy buddy all over ag-”

Chris slaps his shoulder, pushing him as I slip my arms over my abdomen. Tightening them as I nod quickly

“Yeah. Sorry. Yes. You’re right. You’re definitely right.”

Quickly I reach for my bag on the table and Scott looks to Chris confused as I fish out my phone in my bag

I hear a quick bicker between the two and Scott says “Aaa fine, I can’t just piss away 25+ years of friendship.”

He grabs my arm and pulls me away. I look to Chris as his sad eyes watch me leave

Scott talks to himself as I pull my attention back to where I’m walking as I can’t see Chris any longer at the distance away we are now

I blurt out “he made you help me. I know he did.”

“What? What are you talking about?”

“You don’t go from yelling and being so incredibly mad at me to this.”

I pull my wrist from his grip as we continue walking.

He says “He didn’t have to say anything. You have that dopey look on your face and I felt guilty. We don’t have to talk about anything but I’m still not leaving you.”

We get in his car and silence sits there as he turns the key in the ignition.

The car starts and he begins driving

My emotions well up within me and the sound of the road isn’t enough to muffle out my quick growing sobs

Scott looks to me confused as I don’t even form cohesive sentences as I blubber about Jack.

About my old life.

How I ruined everything

"That stupid costume he wouldn't take off. It wasn't stupid. He was so cute.."

“I should’ve been a better mother.”

He says “what? Who-”

“They both deserved better than me..”

“y/n. what the hell has gotten into you?”

He pulls off the road so quickly and I shake my head as I pull on the door handle desperate to just escape the Evans family

It’s too much

Years on years of suppressed emotion is drowning me.

I shake my head and he says “here.”

He hands me a ziplock baggie and I push it away saying “I don’t have a sandwich that needs to be bagged leave me alone.”

He laughs and says “For your breathing you goof.”

“I’m- im fine. Just a lot. It is just a lot. A lot of suppressed emotions. A lot of pain. And it’s all floating to the surface.”

“Yeah. Me too. God I haven’t seen you in forever. You haven’t aged a day miss y/n.”

I smile and shake my head

He says “that drowning feeling goes away with time. don’t run. Whatever you do. Don’t run. It doesn’t help.”

I frown and nod slowly.

But there’s nothing more I’d like to do.

I want to run.

I need to run

It’s in my nature. I run from my problems and suppress them until they overwhelm me

He says “just don’t run. he can’t take it, not again.”

I frown and nod slowly. “I won’t.. I won’t run.”

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Meh. Meh. I don't know if I like this or not haha. Opinions?

Anyway, sorry for the late post, finals have started and I got sick. But once they're done I'll be on top of this whole posting thing haha

I have a few drafts of different stories or one shots not related to this "book". I'll be posting those soon!

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