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marshmallowsqoosh · 11 months

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[Ghost (Band) | Comfort from a Cage]

Fandom: Ghost (Band) Title (AO3 link): Comfort from a Cage Rating: General Audiences CW: No major warnings apply Lesser Warnings: headcanon heavy, hurt/comfort(?) (chronic pain + comfort), headcanon and meta involving Ghoul magick/summonings/"purposes", shift between past events -> present events, platonic cuddle piles (can be romantic if desired) Summary: When Zephyr was summoned, he probably should have been released; but, Papa gave him the choice and he takes his chance. Luckily, he has band mates, including Papa, that are willing to help him.

Extras: Status (and AO3 link): complete Word Count: 7853

♠

When Zephyr was summoned, he was… perhaps expecting to be released immediately.

The second Papa had presented the mask to him, offering a small smile in spite of his own exhaustion, the pain had been nearly crippling. He still remembers collapsing in the aftermath. He remembers alarm around the chamber—Papa being pulled backwards and another Air Ghoul appearing from essentially nowhere to help him lie down in a position that, shockingly, hurt significantly less—even as he called over his shoulder for another pair of Ghouls.

Fire Ghouls. The bigger of the two had looked anxious; but, didn't argue when told to simply heat up the area, gradually. The smaller one hadn't looked anxious so much as annoyed; but, even as he pointed out he wasn't as efficient as another Fire Ghoul, he still helped. A weaker heat, but enough to soothe the pain, between the two of them.

A larger Ghoul had kept his summoner back—a gentle hand on the human's shoulder and a quiet promise that Ifrit and Special can handle this; let them—until the two finally backed away and the Air Ghoul finally made a small gesture to show it was okay to approach.

He remembers Papa gently sitting him up and holding him close, running a light finger over the horn not pressed against to his shoulder. He still remembers a foreign swell of warmth and awe when the human offered to release him.

"I will not force you to endure a pain this severe. If you wish to stay we will find a way to accommodate and assist… but, if you wish to be released, I will comply."

A few protests from the other Ghouls—Special, he later learned, had been particularly incensed about it; more for Papa's health, but it had still been… a bit upsetting in those first few moments of existence, still struggling through confusion and pain.

He still wonders if it would have been easier to give up; but, he had seen it, too. Even during the Ritual, he remembers—vague and foggy and quickly deteriorating as he realised Ghouls weren't meant to remember being summoned, even as that seems to stick to him—how tired Papa had been. His gracious patron had commented on it, as well, even as Zephyr eagerly looked between the pair. Everyone knew about Lucifer's Gifted. Being summoned by one of them—by the one heading the Church—was meant to be an honour.

He still wanted—still wants—that honour. He remembers a swell of pride and the pain letting up, even just a little bit, when he said as much and Papa smiled. When he gestured for the other Air Ghoul to help Zephyr to stand and steady himself, while Special had pulled Papa to his feet and pressed up to his side—a show of clingyness to hide that he was helping the human stay upright, himself.

He could do this.

When the older Air Ghouls had introduced themselves—his predecessor and the one that had helped him, he finally learned was the Era Two keyboardist—Era Three had been… hesitant. Era Two had told him what happened and it was an effort not to shy away from the appraisal of the older pair.

They hadn't been hostile; but, Era Three had looked back at Papa, furrowed expression evident beneath the mask, and pointed out a single concern. Mummy Dust. Zephyr had been worried, too, when they finally explained why it was even a concern to begin with. Papa had simply waved the worries off, even when his Quintessence echoed the concern that it might be too much for Zephyr.

"Zephyr has expressed his wish to stay and I will give him the same opportunity. If he feels confident to stand for the solo, I will allow it. Ifrit and Aether will be close by, as necessary."

"And me!" Mist's tail had wriggled—determined just as much as annoyed she'd been overlooked. She settled, fairly quick, when Papa offered a gentle laugh and hand on her head.

"And Mist, of course." Zephyr hadn't missed the way Papa's smile softened to worry when attention was back on him. "It is at your discretion, Zephyr. Air will show you the solo, but you are of course free to alter it to your desire, provided it is within the limit of the solo and similar in tempo."

He may have worried, early on. Learning his part was engaging and kept his mind off the pain; learning how to use the keytar—wide eyed and enamoured, Air laughing as he offered the new instrument over—had kept his mind off the pain. Long enough he didn't even realise he was walking around without support until Era Two had stopped him from walking off the platform.

"Air Ghoul or no, I'd rather not risk finding out that your powers are incompatible with your form." Despite the dry remark, he did seem… genuinely worried and gently ushered Zephyr back to the standing keyboard. In the same moment, Zephyr had realised the Era Two Ghoul… didn't actually touch the floor. His robes swept the floor to present the illusion he did; but he's definitely floating a few inches from the floor.

He's so focused on that—on the way he quite literally glides to join Era Three—that he almost misses when he finishes his prior thought, in a much more… interested tone. "A fortuitous discovery, however… the little bird will be pleased, I imagine."

Zephyr hadn't understood. Even when Era Three agreed, with absolute delight, the only insight he offered was that he would understand during his first Ritual.

As the Ritual drew closer, the pain came in bursts—some so crippling that he could only twist himself into various positions—a tight ball; nearly fully arched back into a circle; wrapped around himself in any manner that would alleviate the pain even a little bit. Pebble—Papa's Earth Ghoul, a little thing compared to the others but at least bigger than Mist—had taken up with the older Earth Ghouls to learn natural remedies to try helping. Human medicine didn't do much of anything, but… the herbal blends seem to and Pebble was particularly keen on hot stone massages and figuring out how to make a bed of stones that Zephyr could lie on as necessary.

Helpful enough to wander around for a bit, but not enough to quell the pain entirely.

When the tour finally starts—everyone anxious and excited and curious—the pain becomes almost bearable. True to his word, Zephyr is allowed to stay seated for the Ritual, unless he feels confident to stand. Ifrit stays close to his platform, taking in the most of the heat that threatened to make him collapse, in exchange for a more subtle heat that helped the pain be that little bit less noticeable. There are bursts where Zephyr can handle standing—short moments between song, where he'll stand to stretch and test his range of motion, even as the others give him worried looks. He makes sure to sit again before the next song starts, but his attention is constantly drifting to the keytar, just out of sight between his and Pebble's platforms, carefully out of the way, just behind the drums.

He finally understands, when Mummy Dust comes into rotation. He knows the cue—Papa made sure he learned it during rehearsals and Era Three had taught him the best way to keep track of the build up. He hadn't noticed during rehearsal, quietly confining himself to his seat so he could focus on learning and polishing… on the stage though, as he counts down, a new feeling washes over him.

Pride. The desire to shine. He feels… he feels normal, for the first time since he was summoned.

He's fairly certain he startles everyone when he takes the keytar up, mere moments before the solo starts. Ifrit stays close by, as promised, and Mist shadows his free side, with Aether a safe distance that he's not in the way but close enough he can help if he needs to.

That moment. Short lived as it is, that moment is a burst of relief. A rush of gleeful pride that rides out the rest of the song and the Ritual itself. He manages to stand for most of it, until they're finally closing out and he feels the ache starting to travel up from the base of his tail and he's forced to sit again.

Ifrit helps him during final bow, arm firm around his waist and offering a soothing heat, just as much as stability during the bow and helping him walk off stage without too noticeable of a limp.

Everyone's glamour drops, the second they're backstage, each Ghoul taking up a different corner of shadow to let their tails stretch out and give their claws a chance to flex before cloaking in a more casual glamour—simply hiding any exposed void beneath human flesh colours, while their tails and ears are allowed to stay out. Still alert to the potential of people approaching and needing to fully glamour again.

Swiss and Ifrit get in trouble, briefly—not even really trouble, so much as Papa being exasperated and quickly turning the look on Special—for using a vape without warning. But, just as quickly, even when he stops to scold Special, his attention is on Zephyr, hands framing his face gently and a smile tugging at his lips, "You did magnificent, tesoro. How are you feeling, though?"

"I'm—" He almost says okay without really considering it, but stops and actually tries to think about it. "I… don't really know what happened, but I feel okay, right now? I felt amazing, though!"

Normal. But… a normal he's forgotten.

He quickly forgets the short burst of disappointment—knowing he's going back to the new normal—when Papa gives him a gentle skritch behind both ears and kisses his forehead.

"I'm glad. Be sure to get plenty of rest." His attention spreads to everyone else—Mist gives a pleased purr when she gets a pat on the head, as well, when Papa passes by. "That extends to the rest of you, as well. You all did wonderful, thank you. Special, Cowbell—if you would see everyone back to the hotel, please, I'll be along, shortly. Once you've returned to your rooms, you may all remove your masks."

Special's ears give a displeased twitch; if any of them are confused by Cowbell being the only one to see them back, no one says anything… but, Zephyr thinks it might be because… he is suddenly having trouble walking again.

The pain starts to set in, more severely, a few minutes into the drive back to the hotel. He does his best not to let it show; but, he must be shifting too much because Mist puts a gentle hand against his back, right above his tail and he feels a cool sensation spreading from her hand; and, a moment later, Ifrit's hand over hers, turning the cool sensation into a soothing steam that spreads through his void and core.

He knows everyone's watching him now and ducks his head, ears flickering anxiously, "I'm—sorry…"

"It's okay, Zeppy." Mist puts her head against his shoulder and her free hand over his, squeezing gently and letting the cool spread from there as well when the pain finally makes its way down his arms and makes the hand tremors begin. He's still not sure if those are connected to the pain or his own misery regarding the situation. "This isn't your fault. We're almost back to the hotel… Special got all of us one room, we'll get through this. Okay?"

He frowns and raises his head a little, glancing between Aether and Pebble. The last he heard, he was only sharing with Ifrit and maybe Special… but, the older Era Three Ghouls had sounded fairly confident that Special would leave all of them to their own devices to focus on Papa. Pebble smiles and gestures to Aether.

"Aether's idea."

"Ah—Omega's… actually. I mean, I asked if he thought it'd be feasible. He brought it to Special and Cowbell, though… I can't help much, since I'm not Papa's… but, I can at least make sure all of you are in a safe place to take care of each other. Swiss having some Fire Ghoul in him should make up for Special and Cowbell seeing to Papa, too."

Swiss raises his hand a little from where he's mostly fallen asleep against Aether's shoulder. The rest of the Ghouls keep talking among themselves; Zephyr just lets his head rest on top of Mist's—careful not to snag her horn under the edge of of his mask—and relaxes as best he can. The steam from the pair on either side of him is definitely helping… but he worries, quietly, that he still feels it, even with their help.

When the limo stops outside of the hotel—the very second Mist and Ifrit pull away—Zephyr nearly throws up as the pain returns. Instant and ten-fold, just from where it was when they left the venue, and it's only just some small awareness he can get in a lot of trouble—or at least get Papa in trouble—that keeps him from digging his claws into the seat cushions; it does not stop his claws from piercing his uniform and into his legs, in his efforts not to claw the limo seats to shreds.

He's only just barely aware of everyone else. He hears Aether telling Cowbell to go get the room keys and Pebble to go with him—something about a diffuser. Mist trying to tell him to lie out on the floor of the limo, the way Era Two usually tells him to when it gets this bad. Ifrit's talking to Swiss and a moment later he feels something put over his head—Ifrit's uniform jacket, he later realises—seconds before someone climbs on the seats to sit above him and he feels cold and then heat and finally steam melding into his void, again, and the pain finally starts to let up even a little bit. Enough he slowly retracts his claws from his legs in the same moment he feels someone move in front of him.

"Zeph?" He tries to make at least some vaguely affirming noise to show he hears Ifrit talking to him and actually understands him. "Swiss and Aether are going to pick you up and help you get up against my back, okay? I don't mind if your claws come out, but we need to get you inside. The pain's going to come back, but I promise… we are going to find something to help as soon as we get to our room. Ready?"

No. He knows he has to straighten out and the curled over position he's in right now is helping, even if it's mostly Swiss heating him up. But… he also knows the sooner he's inside, the better. So he gives a small nod, soon followed by the best verbal answer he can give, despite the way his voice cracks against the aches.

"As ready as I can be—"

Mist has to move away for Aether to actually pick him up; the second his back starts to straighten, his tail lashes out and he knows he caught Swiss and Aether both with the spade. Probably Ifrit, too. He hopes Mist was standing far enough back that he missed her, at least. Swiss is against his back the second Aether has him straightened out enough that the Multi Ghoul can take over holding him and the heat returns, at least.

His tail stops lashing out and instead writhes, even as Swiss' comes around to coil with it to offer some kind of comfort.

The second he feels Ifrit's arms hook under his legs, his own arms and legs are wrapped tight around the Fire Ghoul and he feels Swiss free their tails from each other and move away.

Still too much pain to glamour himself—he finally realises why the jacket was put over him, in a vain attempt to hide his ears and neck. Someone adjusts the jacket, he assumes so it drapes over Ifrit's shoulders to cover Zephyr's hands as best as they can. He can at least pull his tail up around his waist… that is significantly less painful than anything else. Ifrit heating up helps, but the inability to curl into a ball or lie out flat means he still feels a substantial, stabbing pain radiating through most of his core. His fingers curl, tight, into Ifrit's undershirt, in a desperate attempt not to use his claws, despite the Ghoul claiming he's fine with the possibility of getting clawed.

He can tell when they enter the hotel—can hear Cowbell trying to assure the staff everything is fine and Aether hastily goes to assist. Swiss grumbles something about should have dragged Special with us—and goes to try, as well. He's picked up… a little bit of the charm Special could use on humans. Not as efficient, but getting there. But, it also means Zephyr loses the extra bit of secure heat and, by the time they get up to their room—Mist having gotten the extra key from Cowbell while Aether and Swiss were distractions—Zephyr's barely muffling the panicked, pained whimpers and sobs against Ifrit's shoulder.

"Eefs—in here, I already set the mat down and warmed it up!"

"Okay… was really hoping Swiss was going to be here to help with this, but—beggars can't be choosers... just bare with me a little longer, okay, Zeph? I need to sit you down, I can't kneel with you on my back."

The second he feels the back of his legs and feet hit a counter—even just the gentle collision is enough for a shock to go through his entire body and he just cries harder in those seconds—he does manage to let go of Ifrit, just to curl over himself immediately, desperate to tuck himself into a ball or pretzel just for the smallest bit of relief. He knows it makes it harder for Ifrit to pick him up again; but, he's too scared to stretch himself out until he feels himself placed on the floor—specifically on the large, flat stone filled mat that Earth and Pebble had made specifically for Zephyr to sleep on when the pain got this bad.

It still hurts to stretch out, but he does eventually manage and realises Ifrit's warming the stones up further; Swiss managed to escape the lobby at some point and is helping Mist and Pebble get the diffuser going until the entire room smells like lavender and ginger. Until Zephyr's finally able to breathe outside of the shaky sobs and tentatively manages to open his eyes. A high ceiling and… tile. The bathroom? Probably the only safe place to use the mat, that made sense—

"Hey, buddy." Ifrit keeps his voice down; he's not surprised the Fire Ghoul notices he's… "awake", first. "I know it isn't great, but… little better?"

"Yeah… … m'sorry—"

"Don't. This isn't your fault, Zeppy." Mist finally lies down next to him, offering what little comfort she can by helping generate steam. Helping the diffuser fill him quicker. She's careful when she reaches up to remove his mask and he lets out a relieved sigh as the lingering glamour from the mask lets up and his body actually relaxes completely. "We should really tell Papa…"

Zephyr feels dread trying to twist his core; but, before he can protest, Swiss sighs, somewhere above them.

"Hate to say it, but he'll probably know before he gets here. Bell and Aeth did what they could but we did kinda cause a little bit of a scene… but Mist's right, Zeph. This isn't your fault and Papa already knows how bad the pain can get." He still hears the frustration and confusion when Swiss sighs and hears his mask clatter, harmlessly, on one of the counters when he takes it off. "I just… I don't get why it keeps happening. Ghouls—we're… we're supposed to be damn near indestructible… aren't we?"

None of them answer. Zephyr carefully turns onto his side, so he's facing away from as many of them as possible—only facing Mist; he doesn't fight when she strokes his cheek with her thumb, trying to offer even a little bit of comfort. He's too tired to jump when he feels Ifrit lie down behind him, still emitting his own heat and arm hovering over him, waiting for permission and a sign it's safe to actually touch or move Zephyr.

He ends up pulling the Fire Ghoul's arm down over him and just clinging as tight as he can, in some vain, desperate attempt to absorb more of the heat. He doesn't fight being pulled back or Mist snuggling up to his front or Pebble sitting above them to stroke his horns. He's pretty sure he hears Swiss mention he's going to wait for the others and make sure the staff doesn't come in to bother them any.

None of them are sure how long it's been, when Papa and Special get to the hotel. Long enough Cowbell and Aether have come up to the room; Cowbell pacing listlessly, even as Swiss and Aether try to tell him to sit down and try to relax. Long enough that the pile in the bathroom fall asleep to the quiet voices and pacing.

He's pretty sure Mist fell asleep from running too warm, still generating steam from Ifrit heating the area around them. Pebble's settled on the floor, close enough Mist is using his leg as a pillow, Ifrit's on his shoulder, and Zephyr had spent a few seconds trying to figure out if he could just shove his face in the other Ghoul's stomach without his horns causing damage… and eventually just giving up and letting his head rest on Pebble's hip.

They're all woken up—remarkably gently—by a light stroke to their ears, one by one. At least, he assumes as much, because the other three are half awake when he wakes up and finds Papa crouched over them and pulling his hand back from stroking Zephyr's ear. Ifrit whines, quietly, when Zephyr tries to sit up, only to sit up himself when Pebble moves away and his horn hits the bathroom floor as his head falls. Mist simply rolls onto her other side and curls her body around Papa's, as best she can with how he's crouched. He doesn't look put off by any of it, despite a brief warning look towards the Earth and Fire Ghoul.

Normally, Zephyr… might find the scowls between the two endearing. Right now, he just pushes himself up as careful as possible, testing his body's range of motion and warily waiting for the pain to hit him again. He's too scared to relax, in case the moment of a simple, dull ache in his head and shoulders is a lie.

At the very least, he does manage to sit up and looks up to make sure Ifrit's aware of him and okay with him being close, before he lets himself lean into the Fire Ghoul, attention immediately going back to the floor with his ears flat. He's… so positive that Papa's going to send him home—

"I'm sorry, Zephyr."

His ears perk and, when he looks up, Papa looks apologetic. Upset, but… not with any of them. Special's trying to pull Mist upright, or at least uncurl her from Papa's legs, so he can sit properly on the floor with them. He doesn't fight the Water Ghoul collapsing across his lap, little more than a limp noodle when she does, but still solid at least. Zephyr doesn't focus on that for very long, though; he's still trying to process the apology. Shouldn't… shouldn't he be apologising?

Special settles next to Papa, purring and trilling quietly as he rubs his face against their human's shoulder and curls their closest arms together, tightly, offering assurance and support as best he can. "You know, now, Vale. Things can be okay, as long as you do, yeah?"

"I suppose, that's true… I just don't understand why it manifested like this."

It… it almost sounds like they know why Zephyr's in constant pain, even as he's too afraid to ask. He hugs Ifrit's arm a little bit tighter, trying to work up the nerve to ask… just for Ifrit to speak up. Quieter than he normally is, and… almost scared, himself, too.

"It's why Alpha was angry when we left, too, isn't it…?" Zephyr feels the other Ghoul nuzzling down in his hair, looking for comfort, just as much as he's offering it. Judging from the surprised looks, he's probably right. "I don't… really get it, but I heard Omega mention it to Aether. … He was worried about you and Special being alone."

Special rolls his eyes, grumbling what sounds suspiciously like of course he was, despite Papa giving him a gentle hit on the knee in warning. A normal exchange, so far as Zephyr can tell—he's still not positive Special and Omega get along, some days.

"He did try to warn us… I suppose, I should have listened closer." Papa sighs. "The fact all of you were summoned fully mature… was a bit unsettling and it didn't even occur to me how horrible that could affect you. … I'm sorry. All of you. I know Zephyr's weathered the brunt of it, thus far… but I'm certain all of you have had moments, as well. Moments you can't explain an annoyance or imbalance. An inability to stabilize, regardless of a moment earlier." He looks down at Mist, in his lap. "Mist mentioned she sometimes has trouble regulating her internal temperature, even away from Ifrit. Pebble, you've mentioned your coordination and grip weakening, as well?"

Pebble looks just as confused as Zephyr feels; but, he still nods, slowly, twisting his fingers a little, self consciously. "I… I didn't want to be a bother, not when Zeph can't walk, some days…"

"The same days you have troubles, though, yes?"

He frowns and they exchange looks. They hadn't thought about it, but… that does sound right. Papa's attention goes up to Ifrit, in that moment. "And you, tesoro?"

"I… no, I feel fine—I mean. Scared and worried when the others hurt, but… I think I feel fine?" He thinks on it, ears twitching a little as he does. "… Better than Alpha, but I don't… I'm not sure what I'm supposed to compare to…?"

Papa hums and Special's tail taps against the floor, thoughtfully, before it begins a steady, slow swish once more. "Ifrit does make the fourth Fire Ghoul you've summoned… it's possible he's tied to something else, entirely, just like me and Bell. Alpha does make up a bulk of the passion towards the band."

"True enough, I suppose… how unfortunate and fortuitous." He thinks Papa means to reassure them with the smile; but, it's still so… sad. "I'm asking so much of you Ifrit and I am sorry… but if you are the only one so fortified, I will require copious assistance, keeping the others steady, as well."

"… Yeah, I can do that, but… I still don't get what's going on…" He sounds a little guilty with the admission; but, Papa simply offers a quiet laugh.

"I am also grateful you are so willing to express uncertainty. Alpha's terrible about it, you know. … Fratello Primo's Ghouls taught the others and Fratello Secondo's were… special exceptions, to my understanding. We were so rushed to get you caught up for the Rituals and so taken aback by the fact you summoned fully matured, it didn't even occur to me that you weren't like Fratello Secondo's Ghouls." His attention shifts, briefly, to his side. "Special, get Aether and Swiss, please. They should hear this as well. It would be… beneficial. Remind me to call home, later; Copia will need to ensure that Dewdrop is being given the appropriate lessons, too." Special offers a quiet chirp to show he understands and untangles himself from Papa to go back to the main room. Even if the others were eavesdropping, it gives Papa a chance to look down at his lap, smiling as he resumes stroking Mist's ear to try coaxing her awake again. "Mist, carassima, I need you to wake up. You can sleep properly, soon, I promise."

Mist whines a little but does eventually sit up, rubbing irritably at her eyes, "But, Papa… it's hot."

Zephyr's ears droop a little, as Ifrit offers a sheepish apology. Papa simply laughs and pets her hair down. "I know, carassima. Ifrit, it should be alright to let up a little bit." He spares the Ghouls a look, "I promise… you'll be alright, Zephyr. Do you think you can make a breeze?"

As scared as he is of the pain returning, he simply holds onto Ifrit's arm tighter as the soothing heat slowly dissipates. He doesn't feel… too much worse. A dull throb. It's still a concentrated effort to try venting the room even a little bit; but, he must succeed in some capacity because Mist looks a little more awake. Confused; but, awake, at least. Apologetic when she seems to remember why it was hot, "If Zephyr still needs it—"

"I'm okay—I mean… it… it does still hurt, but… more like an ache…?" He still doesn't understand it. His ears twitch when the rest of the Ghouls shuffle into the bathroom, looking around for somewhere to stand or sit. Swiss climbs up on the counter, balanced on the balls of his feet like a gargoyle; Aether simply leans next to him; Special takes up on Papa's side again, his tail coming around to wind up the human's arm in a gesture of comfort; and, Cowbell stands over them, arms folded patiently behind his back and tail resting over Papa's shoulder to offer his own support.

For a long moment, Papa's quiet, fingers listlessly twisting a gold and black ring around his index finger, until he heaves a slow, heavy breath.

"As I'm sure you're all aware, when you formed your contracts, you became bound to your summoner. Most of you, to me; Aether, Swiss, to the Cardinal, of course… and, I suspect, you will have your trials in due time." He spares them a glance to show he is intending to include them in whatever this lesson will entail; but, his attention soon returns to his own Ghouls.

"When Ghouls and humans form contracts, it is an exchange, in hopes of creating a symbiotic relationship. We offer you form in exchange for your skills—whether through music, companionship, or simple attendance around the Ministry. There are… drawbacks, however. Your forms are contained in the manifestations and that does cripple your strength and abilities, even if it does not seem as such. Summoners simply wager souls, offering loyalty and protection, knowing we will be punished should be break our end of the contract. … It is far worse for the Ghouls."

He pauses and looks down at his hands again. "Clergy members summon Ghouls based on needs and their own strengths. Passion, stability, strength, creation, communication… around the Ministry, Ghouls exist to aid. … Among the upper clergy and as Papa… you serve slightly different purposes and I fear I've put you all in unfortunate positions. … Most of you." His attention drifts to Ifrit, uncertainty causing his brow to furrow. "Alpha embodies the passion I held in a much more innocent time. When all I wanted was to Ascend. … I'm sure you've all heard the stories by now. That I summoned your predecessors years before my Ascension. Nearly two decades, even, before it was my turn. I do not know what passion you embody, Ifrit… but I am grateful it has not been tarnished by events beyond your control. … I wish I could say the same for the rest of you. I wish I had noticed sooner."

Another sigh. "Fire Ghouls embody passion—ambitions and the pursuit thereof. Water Ghouls, emotion—empathy, apathy, control. Earth Ghouls, foundations. Confidence and direction. Quintessence… is not something I can explain. Omega would tell you his purpose is to protect. Quinn—ah… Fratello Primo's Ghoul—would tell you his was to guide and nurture. To teach. What you will be to the Cardinal, I am uncertain, but you will hold sway the others do not. It is a dangerous and precious responsibility… I trust you two will respect that power."

His attention finally lands on Zephyr again, expression softening. "Air Ghouls are meant to be freedom. Creative expression. … Something that was stripped from me, when they took your predecessors… and you pay that price. I should have recognised the signs much sooner… there are not enough words to express how sincerely I wish to apologise, Zephyr."

Zephyr just stares, perhaps for too long. Long enough Aether speaks up—cautious and confused—as everyone tries to process the information. "You… pardon, Papa, but you… sound like this has happened before?"

An affirmative hum and his attention shifts back to Special, the hand not clinging to his Ghoul's coming up to stroke his mask, gently. "Not this exact scenario… but in my early years as Papa, I… felt trapped. The reality of my station was not what I had anticipated and the impact it had on me affected all of my Ghouls. … I believe that's why it took me so long to notice. Air was… not in pain. Not the way you are, Zephyr. This is not an excuse; I should have known. Even if I don't… quite understand why it's affected you so horrifically different than it did Air."

Zephyr frowns a little and looks between the rest of the Ghouls—Papa's, mostly. Not that Aether and Swiss don't look confused; but, Ifrit and Pebble and Mist… all look worried as it apparently occurs to them that they could end up in the same situation.

"The others, too?"

"Mmm… Air could barely stay awake, most days, if we weren't on stage. Water only just held himself together, even during Rituals. … And, Alpha, as I recall—"

"—Was an absolute pain in the ass." Special finishes for Papa, despite the annoyed look and warning it gets him. His attention still stays on the floor, even when he leans his head against Papa's. "I get why, though. Bell and I had trouble focusing and we aren't tied to the band, really. Alpha was—is? … Whatever, point was, even if he was more of a dick than usual, we all understood why. Fire Ghouls should illuminate their summoner… but it's also easy to forget how much an uncontrolled flame can devour."

"Wait—what about Omega and Earth, though?" Swiss frowns, ears twitching a little. "We… we didn't mean to eavesdrop, but you said Pebble's being affected, too—? Earth wasn't?"

Pebble makes a tiny, curious noise, to echo the question, even as he huddles closer to the others on the floor.

"Earth was never mine." Papa laughs a little. "While I did—and do—hold his contract, he was never my summon. He is Fratello Primo's. It gave him protection from my bursts of inadequacy. … Omega weathered the ordeal better than the others; but, I think it would be more apt to say that he was simply… used to it. Quintessence will always be connected to their summoner. There are very few things left that will trigger such a visceral reaction in him, I suspect, if any at all."

"Then this is just… this is just how things are going to be?" Mist sounds scared. Her hands are clasped tight against her stomach, wringing and twisting her fingers anxiously as her tail flickers, until Ifrit's comes around to twist with hers and offer what little comfort he can. It at least gets her to take a slow breath. "I want to help… I can help, but… when it hits me… it feels like I'm boiling, from the inside out. Aether already told us he couldn't help… Swiss and Ifrit do what they can, but—? What if it happens on stage?"

"I am of the utmost confidence to assure you it will not happen on stage, carassima." Papa reaches over, gently tilting her head up with the tips of his fingers beneath her chin. As worried as he is, there is still sincerity. He holds eye contact with Mist until she finally starts to relax and lets the look stray over his other three Ghouls in turn. "Rituals will be the one time I can guarantee your safety without fault. In those moments, we are not constrained by expectations except our own. I am confident in your abilities."

"... And your own?" Swiss sounds hesitant, even as he voices the question on everyone's mind, the one they're all too scared to ask. Not because of Papa… but because Special immediately starts to growl, in warning, even when Cowbell and Papa both give him warnings. "If they're reacting to you… are their abilities enough to keep them safe on stage?"

"They will be. Any inadequacy I feel for my own performance will never be a reflection of your performances. Moreover, now that I know… I'm fairly confident I understand what happened to cause this. I'll need to confirm it, but… regardless of if I am correct, I am not one to back down from a challenge."

A chill spreads through the room. Zephyr feels it clawing at his spine and he sees Mist fighting down a shudder and Pebble pushes himself under Ifrit's closest arm. The fact Ifrit reacts—a desperate attempt to shake off and curling his arms tighter around Zephyr and Pebble, both—is… concerning. Almost as concerning as the cold glow that seems to light up Papa's left eye. A gold mirrored in a shine of gold from Special's left eye and emitting beneath Cowbell's uniform, just above his chest. His hand comes up to rest over the spot; Special doesn't bother covering his eye, but Zephyr realises it isn't… just them.

Mist looks down at her torso, surprised to find a matching glow just below her chest. Pebble's left palm. Just below the hollow of Ifrit's throat. The inside of Zephyr's right wrist. They all hastily cover the glows, anxious to protect the areas, even when they know they aren't in danger.

Papa releases a slow breath and the glows slowly diminish until they're melted into their void again.

"Those above me… took your predecessors for… numerous reasons I will not burden you with. What you need to know, is that you were summoned to sate the fear of vultures. That they will be critical of anything you do, because they are convinced that your predecessors—and you, by extension—are the reason I've been successful. Perhaps they are correct. I believed they were when I summoned you and I fear that is what cripples you and makes you more susceptible than the others." A pause. Papa's attention goes to the ground and he pulls and releases a slow, controlled breath to compose himself.

"There will be moments between the Rituals. Moments of weakness. But, now that I know… and I do believe this is what they intended to happen… your safety is my priority. Do you all understand me?" His attention goes up to Swiss and Aether, in that moment. "The two of you as well. You are protected from my doubts. You are not protected from potential reactions suffered by my Ghouls. In saying that. All of your safety is the only thing that matters to me. Now that I know the cause I can address the issues. It will be… a learning process. For all of us. Omega would normally…" He trails off, briefly. Special squeezes his hand a little bit tighter and he breaths deeply again. "Simply another trial to be met and conquered. I ask only for your faith and continued support. But… I do understand if any of you feel unsafe or threatened. If you wish to be released from your contracts, I will make the appropriate accommodations to see that you are returned to your patrons, safely, as quickly as possible."

The air around them is heavy. Zephyr's attention goes to the floor, brows furrowed tightly. The dull, throbbing ache is back. He sees Mist rubbing, gingerly, where her own sigil lit up. Pebble's still cover his left hand, gripping it tightly in his right hand.

"Is… is there anything we can do to make it easier, Papa?" Zephyr's voice feels week. He feels… warmth spreading through him a moment later, when Papa only offers a smile.

"You already are, Zephyr. All of you are. The only thing I can ask of you is your best efforts and you have all done phenomenal. My demons are my own to deal with… and, to ensure all of you can continue your best efforts, they will be bested. One way or another."

He looks surprised when Mist works her tail free of Ifrits and crawls forward into his lap, cuddling up to him with a wide yawn. "You're the best summoner anyone could ask for, Papa. And the best way to slaughter those demons is with sleep. You promised we could sleep."

Special's the one that laughs, even as he works his arm free of Papa's, "You did tell her she could sleep soon and she's not wrong. I've got her."

It doesn't take much for Special to pick Mist up—she easily latches onto him, instead—and Cowbell helps Papa back to his feet. Their human spares them a smile and tip of his head. "It is late… you should all rest. But, please… if you've any further concerns—any of you," he regards Aether and Swiss, "do not hesitate to come to me. If you would prefer to the speak to the Cardinal or one of the older Ghouls, we can arrange that, as well. But for now, I suggest we all follow Mist's example, sì?"

Papa ushers Special out, gently, with quiet instruction to ensure the Ghoulette is tucked into bed, properly. Cowbell follows at his back and Pebble isn't far behind.

Zephyr isn't quite ready to move and, judging by the fact Ifrit simply rests his head on top of Zephyr's… he isn't either. Aether and Swiss don't move, either; even when the hear the quiet good nights called back before the door clicks shut. Aether's arms are crossed, loose, against his stomach as he stares down at the floor, expression furrowed. Swiss is still crouched on the counter, arms tight around his knees and tail flickering next to him in short, agitated bursts.

Aether eventually looks up, expression softening. "Are you alright to move, Zephyr? Ifrit?"

"Mngh? Oh—yeah, I'm… I'm fine." Ifrit shakes his head a little bit and Zephyr feels his ears twitch when he turns his head to look back at the pair. "It's… just kind of a lot, I guess? I'm still… really confused."

Zephyr looks up; he sees the other guitarists looking equally confused.

"Why… why I'm the only one not affected. I know Special and Papa said not to worry about it, but… Alpha feels it. Why don't… why don't I feel anything?"

"Special and Cowbell don't feel it, either." Swiss points out; but, he still hums. "That is weird, though… he summoned all four of you at the same time, right…? You were first. When he would have been the most annoyed—er… sorry, that's probably not helpful…"

Ifrit shakes his head a little—distracted, briefly, by a hasty apology when Zephyr squeaks out a protest that he's being held too tightly. The Fire Ghoul quickly releases him and just rubs, sheepishly, at his own arms. "No, it's. That's just it. I was first. He was annoyed—I mean, he was civil. He was really nice to me, even when I was pestering the older Ghouls, he told them to behave, not me to calm down. I don't… I don't know what I'm supposed to be. I know Alpha thinks I'm not taking it seriously, but I am and I—?"

"I think we're thinking on it too hard." Zephyr doesn't recoil, for once, when the attention turns on him and he just hums in an attempt to resist a yawn. It doesn't stop him from rubbing, tiredly, at his eyes. "We all know you're doing your best. Papa does, too, and so does Special. You know he would say something if he thought any of us weren't giving our best efforts."

Swiss finally hops down from his perch, ruffling a hand through Ifrit's hair and giving him a gentle skritch with his claws, in the process. "Zeppy's right. Special would eat any of us alive if we weren't doing our best. So just keep that up, yeah? We'll figure it out, eventually, and if not… that's cool, too, right? I mean, I'm some weird mash-up, right? I dunno what I'm supposed to be, but it just kinda sounds fun to figure out, don't it? Aeth, too!"

Aether sounds a little less enthusiastic, but he still smiles. "I have a feeling we're gonna be a little confused until we get to spend time with the Cardinal, proper… but, I do agree with Swiss. And with Papa. It's late. We all just learned a lot of stuff we… it feels like stuff we should've known, but I never stopped to think about it, either. Think we all could do with sleep. Look at it fresh in the mornin', yeah? And it's a few hours drive to the next Ritual, we can ask Papa more questions. We'll figure it out."

Zephyr nods in agreement and wriggles around so he can hug Ifrit as tight as possible. Difficult to get his arms around the larger Ghoul; but, he manages and simply snuggles up, already falling back asleep. "Tomorrow's a new day to figure things out. You're always helping me and I'll help you figure this out, Eefs. Promise."

It's a bit of an event, trying to get all the Ghouls on the bed. Mist and Pebble have already hoarded the pillows and Cowbell offers a nervous laugh when the other four finally join and just stare at the King sized bed. Not really enough blankets to nest; but, enough room for all of them to fit, even with Ifrit and Aether being bigger than most of them. Mist immediately abandons her spot to curl up on top of the pair, tucked into a tight ball. Pebble crawls over them so he's snuggled up to Zephyr's back and Swiss cuddled up to him. A softer heat than Ifrit's that just warms Pebble up to release the Earth scents from his core. A gentle blend that helps all of them sleep easy.

Tomorrow will be a new day to conquer.

#ghost band #ghost fanfiction #rating: general #terzo #papa emeritus iii #zephyr ghoul #ifrit ghoul #mist ghoul #pebble ghoul #ghouls era 3 #aether ghoul #swiss ghoul #special ghoul #cowbell ghoul #headcanon heavy #not beta'd

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ansicred · 2 months

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a lifetime & a second (all at once) | valentine’s fluff

Frank & James' final Valentine's Day. setting: Hyde Park in London, February 14th 2023 characters involved: Frank & James warnings: none that i can think of

#ansicredocs #oddfoxesverse #jamesfoxes #frankfoxes #jamesfoxesoneshots #frankfoxesoneshots #jamesxfrank #rating: general #have some soft ass old man yaoi on the special alloro day

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namjinreads · 8 months

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READ ON AO3

#author: capricious_bastard #length: 1 to 5k words #rating: general #au: students #humor #fluff #namjin #namjin au

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himbos-hotline · 1 year

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Name: The things we used to share Prompt: @wrestleprompts [prompt week five: A reluctant trip to the zoo to make their partner happy] Word count: 1329 words Rating: General Audiences Ship: "Hangman" Adam Page/Kenny Omega Characters: Kenny Omega, "Hangman" Adam Page, Mentions of various zoo staff. Triggers: Mentions of Hangmans dead horse, like a line of smut at the end. It's not graphic. Authors note: I thought I'd write the little zoo date from my big sibling's fic 'Voicemail is full, glass is half empty' A short cute little Curly Boyfriends fic where Hangman gets a stuffed horse and falls in love. Kenny is just focused on the animals. Tag list: @ithunderstorm @itsnoosetome @malewifemoxley @kass-the-kitten @melancholycowboy @josiewrites @basil-the-evil-cowboy @ss-trashboat @ambroseasylum @wrestlezaynia @banannabethchase @bellicosebunny @mrsmatt @racerchix21 and @anairbri and @mistress-omega-majesty

Reblogs are appreciated as always. Read on AO3 [Comments and Kudos highly recommended]

Adam makes jokes and Kenny laughs. Adam feels like he’ll never feel sad again. Kenny keeps holding his hand, only letting go when a zoo keeper allows him to hold a koala. He watches Kenny’s face smoothe out; happiness winning over every little ache or pain he must be feeling. Kenny grins brighter through the lens of Adam’s phone camera and he tucks it into the top pocket of his jacket, holding Kenny; bright and carefree and happy in his heart.

It’s a small zoo tucked down a sidestreet in the middle of nowhere. Adam really has no idea how Kenny found it, yet alone purchased tickets which at least look somewhat real when Kenny thrusts them into the middle of Adam’s sleep-blurred eyeline. “Cmon Adam lets go!” Excitement borders his voice perfectly, tugging on his smile until it lays just under his eyes making them shine under the rising sun. Adam presses his face deeper into his pillows, squinting an eye open when Kenny presses the tickets into the curve of his nose. “Cmonnnnn!” Kenny whines, sounding so much like a child Adam’s half expecting him to tug at his wrist.

“Five more minutes, it ain’t even open yet Kenny” Adam mumbles against the soft pillowcases, squirming deeper under the blankets. He keeps his eyes half-lidded, watching Kenny as he pouts, picking at the embroidered roses on Adam’s old blanket. “Fine.” He rolls over, staring up at his boyfriend. It’s the first time Adam has noticed that Kenny’s half dressed; a jacket hanging off his shoulders and one sock. He chuckles, using his feet to kick the blankets away.

He barely has time to shower or get morning coffee before Kenny whisks him out the door, hand resting on the small of his back. Adam blinks through half-damp curls as Kenny rambles through the animals they have, hands flailing in front of him. There’s so much joy flooding his voice that it sucks the last wisps of tiredness from the marrow of Adam's bones. When Kenny smiles, bouncing on his toes in line, Adam’s sure he’s never going to feel tiredness again. The man in the ticket booth scans their tickets, smiling politely when Adam nods and trails behind Kenny, pushing air-dried curls out his face.

“Okay so they have penguins that way-” Kenny has the zoo map practically plastered to his face, using his fingers to dictate what he’s talking about. Adam lingers behind, trying to read the small print over Kenny’s shoulder without his glasses. He feels a tap at his hand and maybe it's a reflex, his fingers close around Kenny’s. “Or…” He’s holding the map at arms length now, digging his nails into the thin paper as he shifts his other hand until his palm presses against Adam’s. Adam feels like he could soar.

“Or?” He prompts, pretending that he isn’t staring at Kenny’s hand against hsi, knuckles looped together like Kenny’s trying to hold Adam close. Like Adam is something that Kenny wants to keep secure.

“We’ll just go that way.” Kenny folds the map the best he can. It ends up becoming a half-folded half-crumpled; lump of paper that Kenny manages to stuff in the back pocket of his shorts. They meander through the people-lined pathways, stopping to gaze into paddocks and enclosures, they run their fingers across the backs of string ways and feed elephants.

They're in the butterfly house when Adam gets chosen. A Monarch butterfly settles on the tip of his nose; wings twitching slowly in the warm air. He stares at it, mouth turned into a surprised smile and Adam almost has to make sure that he’s breathing. Kenny twists slowly at his side, blue eyes wide. “It chose you..” He whispers and Adam, returned to a stunned silence, taps once at his wrist. The butterfly flutters off moments later and Adam turns his green eyes upward towards the canopy of trees and flowers.

“Goodbye lil friend.” He whispers, cheeks flushing an aggressive red when Kenny brushes his lips against his stubble covered cheek. “We should uh..” He whispers, trying to keep his heart trapped in the cage of his ribs when all it wants to do is flutter away, higher than the tops of the green trees and into space. Adam’s sure his heart could kiss the stars with how light Kenny makes it feel.

Cool spring air hits their clammy faces and Adam stares out over the horizon, eyes picking up the perfect mixture of reds and yellows from the sunset. Kenny lays his head on his shoulder, swinging their joined hands slightly. “We should go to the gift shop. Then home.”

Home. The two of them. Kenny thinks he’s home.

“Home. Yeah.” Adam whispers, unable to stop the smile that tugs at his lips. It creases the corner of his eyes and Kenny tugs at his hand. They wander together, Kenny stopping to watch a snake crawl back into the bushes and a tiger pace by the entrance to its home; the heavy metallic smell of blood in the air. Adam buys cotton candy from a small vendor by the aquarium, easily swayed by the turtle shaped container and Kenny rocking on his feet at his side. Adam would buy the entire zoo if Kenny looked at him with those soft eyes again. He would buy Kenny the world for the carefree glow radiating off his face.

They share cotton candy like children; licking the pink floss off their lips, letting the sugar dilate their pupils until the artificial lights of the gift store stab at their eyes, making them chuckle. Adam strolls through the aisles, nose wrinkling at the prices. Everything feels too expensive for what it was, what it is. There’s a wall of soft toys and he spots Kenny easily out of the mass of children, begging and screaming at their parents. He looks so different in his faded shorts and crumpled shirt, mismatched hair dragged back into a fraying half-ponytail. The sunset gathers on the bridge of his shoulders and Adam swears he spots a halo hanging around the crown of Kenny’s head; he looks glorious, cherubin and angelic.

“Adam look!” Kenny’s voice, soft and kind, snaps Adam out of his thoughts. He blinks a few times, head tilting as Kenny pushes something into the middle of his chest. “He looks like Hunter Horse Hemsley. You should have him” Adam’s confused at first, why is Kenny bringing up his dead horse? There's the ever so familiar prickle of pain that creeps under his eyes. He looks down, cups Kenny’s wrist and sighs.

“He does..” He whispers, cupping the stuffed horse between his hands. He stares at it and it stares back. “I can’t, kenny they're so expensive-” He shakes his head, slow and sad and Kenny gets a look on his face.

“But he’ll be all alone.” He whispers, nodding over to the empty place on the shelf. Adam follows his eyeline, gripping the stuffed horse closer. “Will it make your heart hurt less?”

Adam blinks, uses his knuckles to scrub the feeling of tears away from his eyes. It’s been a great day. Adam’s not going to ruin it now with childish tears brought on by mourning and tiredness. Kenny’s head is tilted to the side and Adam glances between him and the horse. He runs his fingers across its brown mane, strokes a finger down the white stripe on its nose.

He stares at Kenny, searching his eyes. “Yes.”

Kenny buys Adam the horse. They go home and Adam smiles, settling the horse snugly in between his pillows. Kenny smiles at him, reaching over the bed to kiss at his temple.

The smile that Kenny gives him is better than any feeling in the world. He takes his hand.

Kenny doesn’t pull away. Even as he buries himself deeply into Adam. He links their fingers and presses soothing kisses across his bottom lip.

Adam feels full. Adam feels happy.

#wrestleprompts #rating: general #hangmega #hangman page #kenny omega #aew fic #all elite wrestling #mouse writes

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sleepsonfutons · 11 months

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Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: The Sandman (Comics), The Sandman (TV 2022) Rating: General Audiences Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Dream of the Endless & Hob Gadling Characters: Dream of the Endless | Morpheus, Dream of the Endless, Hob Gadling Additional Tags: meowpheus, Actual Cat Dream of the Endless | Morpheus, Dreamling Week 2023, Random Encounters, Medieval Hob Gadling Series: Part 1 of Dreamling Week 2023 Summary:

Dreamling Week 2023 - Day 1 "Meowpheus"

A late-night walk home leads to a chance encounter.

#dreamlingweek #dreamlingweek2023 #meowpheus #rating: general #dreamling #the sandman #the sandman fanfic #dreamling fanfic

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harrydracobang · 2 years

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Drarry Art + Fic: If You're Cold He's Cold, Bring Him Inside

Title: If You're Cold He's Cold, Bring Him Inside Author: Dazeventura6 Artist(s): @okay-sky Pairing(s): Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter Other Key Characters: Hermione Granger Rating: General Word Count: 7.8k Art Medium: Digital Art Era: Post-war Content/Warnings: Homelessness, implied/referenced homophobia, abduction Summary: More than a decade after the war and Harry left the magical world for the Muggle one he runs into a down-and-out Draco Malfoy living homeless on the streets and insists on taking him in. Artist Notes: Thank you to the mods for putting together such a fun fest! I had a wonderful time creating this piece and was so thankful for all of the help that my fellow artists provided in tweaks and suggestions. This is one of my first art pieces ever with a detailed background and your input was so valuable for me!

Thank you also to Dazeventura6 for choosing my art to prompt your own writing and for participating in this fest with me! Author Notes: Many thanks to my artist OkaySky for the lovely and inspiring art.

I'd also like to thank my alpha and beta readers for making sure I didn't make too many mistakes or leave any plot holes.

I would also like to thank the mods for the HD Reverse Bang for all their help and feedback.

FIC AND ART POST ON AO3

ART POST ON AO3

#drarry #drarry fic #drarry art #draco x harry #harry x draco #harrydracoreversebang #2022 fest #Dazeventura6 #OkaySky #rating: general

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charlythelee · 1 year

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🥓 Birthday, Bacon & Betrayal (✒︎ on Ao3) (Preview)

MatsuHana | Haikyuu!! | Timeskip/Canon compliant | Rated: Gen | 600 words

Matsukawa Issei is not a morning person and yet he is consistently awake well before 7 am because there is a small, smelly butt depositing itself on his face with an almost innocent, little ‘mrrrow’. A butt that belongs to a cat he most assuredly did not ask for. A cat that hates him. With a grunt and a curse, he shoves at the hell-beast attempting—and somehow succeeding—to steal both his alcove apartment and his lover.

My January piece for the MatsuHana Calendar 2023 (on Twitter) that I wrote for Makki's birthday today ~ I had so much fun working on this project and all the works are absolutely amazing, so please consider giving this a look. Special shoutout to @sleepskie who made the January art piece and worked with me on the fic — their works are nothing short of amazing 💕

#haikyū!!#charleewrites #matsuhana calendar 2023 #matsuhana #hanamaki takahiro #matsukawa issei #hanamaki birthday #rating: general #drabble

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merthurglompfest · 13 days

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Title: A promise to the Future By: Hufflapute / @freedom-in-darkness Gift for: LilyGreen10 / @supernatural-lily Rating: General Audiences Word Count/Medium: Moodboard Warning(s): No Archive Warnings Apply Creator Notes (Optional):

LilyGreen10's prompt: "Court politics and courting. I'd love something where Arthur courts Merlin in a very official way, involving court politics. Perhaps Merlin is a prince from another kingdom and his father and Uther are arranging a marriage between their son's. Or maybe a court ball where Arthur catches Merlin's eye."

Arranged marriage, royal!Merlin, how could I resist? :O Alas! This prompt inspired so much I had too many ideas to manage to put them all in a fic TT Perhaps later in the future? idk ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Still, here is a moodboard that I hope you will be pleased with, LilyGreen10! :)

Art beta: Myoonmii. Thank you so much! ♥️

Summary:

Canon AU: Merlin never went to Camelot, instead he found Balinor who stayed with druids all these years. Arthur learns of Morgana's powers, and helps protect her against Uther's prejudices. Years later, Arthur is King of Camelot and is working with the druids to bring magic back in the kingdom. As the last Dragonlord, Balinor is sent as the head of a druids' delegation and as the voice of Emrys to finalize the treaty. While the elusive Emrys remains hiding (which does not annoy Arthur a little bit, no thank you!), Balinor's only son catches his eyes. Despite all expectations, Arthur decides to court Merlin, even though Merlin seems to hide much from him.

AO3 Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/54450778

#merthur #merlin #merlin graphics #merthur glompfest #merthur glompfest 2024 #type: graphics #type: fanart #rating: general #wc: 0 to 1k #glomper: hufflapute #glompee: lilygreen10

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excelsiorfics · 4 days

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Black Bolt Attends Group Therapy

Date: Nov 11, 2022 Author: thrakaboom Rating: General Word Count/Status: 660, complete Dynamic: N/A Characters: Blackagar Boltagon, Clint Barton, Matt Murdock Tags: DC Crossover, Disability, Poetry

Summary: Black Bolt goes to a support group for disabled superheroes- a poem about disability politics.

#rating: general #uni: 616 #team: inhumans #char: blackagar boltagon #char: clint barton #char: matt murdock #tag: disability #tag: poetry #tag: DC Crossover #length: <1k #status: complete #category: one-shot #rel: gen

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lupines-slash-recs · 11 months

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Rec: Kisses in the Thicket by kaonnette

Title: Kisses in the Thicket Author: kaonnette Canon: The Secret of Moonacre Pairing: Maria Merryweather/Robin de Noir Rating: General [G] Word Count: 1,749 Summary: ❝A chuckle echoed from within the trees. “Come out, come out, wherever you are, Princess,” Robin’s detached

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#author: kaonnette #fanfic rec #Fanfiction Recommendation #het fanfic #het fanfiction #maria merryweather #maria merryweather/robin de noir #maria/robin #rating: general #robin de noir #robin de noir/maria merryweather #robin/maria #robinmaria #straight fanfic #straight fanfiction #the secret of moonacre #word count: 1k - 5k

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tales-and-thoughts · 6 months

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Snippet Sunday #017

from Showtime (Ineffable Husbands, G, <1k)

"I didn't know you own black trousers," Crowley replied.

"They came with the top hat," Aziraphale said, stroking the unusual colour. "And with the coat. Makes for a proper ensemble altogether." He slipped his arms into the black tailcoat and then turned away from Crowley to check his appearance in the mirror once more.

"Mhm," Crowley agreed, his eyes also lingering on Aziraphale's reflection. The warm light of the illuminated dressing room mirror cast soft shadows on the angel's features, making him glow in a way Crowley hadn't seen before. He pulled his sunglasses an inch down his nose, to see it without the obscuring shade.

"Just one last thing missing," Aziraphale said to himself and started rummaging on the make-up table. With a triumphant sound, he pulled out a black pencil. Crowley's eyebrows raised but he didn't comment on it.

As Aziraphale moved closer to the mirror, Crowley got up from the sofa and sauntered towards the costume racks. Letting his fingers travel over the fine silks, satins and cottons, he browsed through the collection of ties. Most of them were black, dark blue or burgundy red. Not quite his angel's colours. Then he found something light, hidden behind yet more dark accessories. He pulled it off the hanger and let it run through his hands, captivated by the golden shimmer it had in the dim light. A perfect match.

#snippet sunday #excerpt #writeblr #fanfiction #good omens #ineffable husbands #crowley #aziraphale #author: becci barnes #rating: general #oneshot

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marshmallowsqoosh · 11 months

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[Ghost (Band) | Chasing Shadows] (Short fic)

Fandom: Ghost (Band) Title (AO3 link): Chasing Shadows Rating: General / Fluff CW: no major warnings Lesser Warnings: Headcanon heavy, author uses Sodo instead of Dew, Phantom and Aurora used, minimal plot, Phantom has anxieties(tm), super short, not beta read Summary: The dynamic’s changed. Sodo isn’t usually the voice of reason; but, he’s probably the one that needs to be in this instance. Aether x Sodo if u squint and also cuddly Ghouls

Extras: Status: complete! Word Count: 1995 (15.06: small typos fixed!)

♥

Sodo starts to wake up to something sharp and pointy nudging at his back—right between his shoulder blades and the shoulder not against the ground—and a soft whining. Nudging that makes him roll onto his back in an attempt to make the nudges stop with gentle swats from his claws. When that doesn't work, he groans and turns back onto his side in a desperate attempt to find Aether or his body pillow, swatting with his tail, this time, "Fuck's sake, Swiss, go away."

He only tries to open his eyes because he hears a sleepy slur from across the nest—Swiss, specifically, going It's not me, dickwad—and finally turns onto his front so he can push up on his forearms, to his elbows, and rubs irritably at his face, "Wh—oh for Leviathan's sake… Phantom, it's late. What's wrong?"Purple eyes stare at him in the pitch black of the room. A dim glowing, but enough he can see the ears drooping and he immediately feels bad for snapping at the other Ghoul.

"I can't sleep…" His ears are almost flat and he kneads, listlessly at the blankets and carpet he can reach between the nest. "Rain said to come ask you…"

Sodo rasises a brow, working through the words a lot slower than he's willing to admit but he finally pushes up to sitting on his knees and looks around Phantom to try finding Rain… eventually spotting the messy bedhead of fluffy hair smothered between Swiss and Mountain. Aurora's still laid out on top of them where she had more or less collapsed as soon as the nest had been made and Mountain initially settled down Cirrus and Cumulus aren't far from her, but the others… are all smushed together pretty thoroughly.

So, probably shooing Phantom off to keep him from waking up the entire group. Or… right. Aether mentioned…

"Another bad dream?" Swift, anxious flickers of his tail that Sodo more hears than sees and he rubs his eyes again. "Right… Aeth said you had them a lot before the tour started. This the first one since it did?"

"No… but I can usually sleep through it. … That wasn't what woke me up—I mean it did, the first time… I can't get back to sleep."

"... Is this about your solo?" He sees Phantom flinch and he's not… too surprised. Hell, he still gets twisted into kindling whenever he messes up. Aether… had been helping him with it. Having to deal with it on his own, now, is… daunting. Having to help someone else—someone he barely knows—is… considerably worse. "Unless Papa says something specific, you don't need to worry about that, okay? … Wait, Rain told you to…" Sodo blinks, finally thinking about the prior answer more thoroughly. He's not awake enough for this. "Ask me what?"

Phantom finally settles from standing on his hands and knees—pulling his legs around so he's sitting cross-legged, but can still get his claws at the blanket. "About… … about Aether…?"

That's… probably a good reason to be nervous. Sodo just keeps staring, waiting for some kind of elaboration. When there's just silence, other than the quietly distressed trills coming from Phantom's throat, Sodo finally prods at him a little to try getting more information.

"About… what about Aeth?"

"Just… him. I saw the old Rituals, the lab teams showed us… it was hard to find footage of Aurora's sister, but… the three of you are up front. There's a lot of him… and… and you and Rain. … This is different, though. Did… am I the one messing things up? I don't want to mess up, I want…"

He trails off, expression pulled into a tight furrow as he thinks about it. Sodo just watches him, one arm propped on his knee so he can rest his chin in the palm of his hand.

"Well… yeah, of course it's different. You're not Aether. You're you and this is new to all of us. It'll take a while. … But, that's not what's bothering you. Aeth already told you not to try and be him." Sodo still doesn't have a great read on the new pair, but… he's confident enough in the observation. His ears twitch a little and he leans to see around Phantom—as best he can—when he hears a quiet whine. Aurora simply turns—hardly bothered when she rolls off of her perch on the other Ghouls—and tucks herself into a ball. Mountain sits up for a split second—just pushed up on his arm, taking a head count of everyone. He stares at Sodo and Phantom for a few seconds longer—clearly still mostly asleep and confused why anyone's awake—before deciding he'd rather go back to sleep and simply blankets himself over Rain and Swiss, with one hand out to rest against Aurora's back for assurance.

Sodo gestures over his shoulder, "C'mon, we're probably disturbing the others. Fresh air will probably do you good, too."

Phantom's ears perk, briefly, and he throws a look back over his shoulder, "Oh, I didn't—right. Of… course."

He shuffles after Sodo and, it's not until they're out on the hotel balcony—Sodo releasing a deep breath that materializes and dissipates as smoke as he stretches out—that he finally realises Phantom… stole Aether's clothes. Not that Sodo can say anything, because he definitely did, too, but it's still alarming in those few seconds. Phantom twists his fingers in the hem of the too big shirt, "I—they left his closet full on the bus… I didn't know it was his until Cirrus told me, I just thought it was like a community thing…? You and Rain kept taking clothes out of it, despite having your own sections and Swiss was hanging stuff up, so…"

Sodo frowns and waves him off, even as he deftly hops up to sitting on the rail around the balcony, ankles crossed and hands gripping the rail between his legs. "It's fine. All of us steal Aether's shit, I just… well, only just realised… you and Aurora don't have your own clothes, do you? Aside from your uniforms and masks?"

Phantom starts to shake his head no, pauses, then tilts his head a little, "We have the cassocks from the ministry… but, no, we don't… have the same kind of clothes any of you do."

"I was counting the cassocks as a uniform," Sodo offers a small smile and gestures for Phantom to sit, too. Or at least lean on the railing. "We could say something to Papa. I'm sure he'd be fine if we went on a day trip for you two, between Rituals. … More importantly, though… what's actually wrong?" He feels his lips trying to tug into a smile when the other Ghoul startles and offers a small shrug, left shoulder ticking upward as he tilts his head. "This isn't about Aeth. So what's wrong?"

"It—it is, but it's… I don't really…" Phantom squirms in his spot for a few seconds before he finally sighs and turns so he can slide down next to Sodo's leg, pulling his own tight to his chest and crossing his arms on top, sulking quietly for a stretch longer. "I told myself… if I do good they can't get rid of me. I mean I'm still worried about that, but everything you've said about Era Three… even if I do good, they could, right?"

Sodo hums a little, stubbornly pushing the memory of the burning garden back to the recesses of his mind. "Yeah… I think we're all just… waiting for it, now. Especially if they've found a way to just… make Ghouls."

Phantom and Aurora have both been a lot more… not necessarily invasive, but curious. Phantom made mention of the patrons to Aurora and—after a lot of pleading from the pair—Aether had finally shown his patron's seal, again, even when Sodo straight refused. Stratus had shown hers, shortly after confirming through Aether's demonstration it was safe to do so. Definitely more worrisome for her, having it in the hollow of her throat, but carefully protected by chokers and her collar on stage, along with largely just being protected within their voids. Aurora had lost interest pretty quickly, once she realised neither of them had one; Phantom, though…

He's looking down at his arm, where Aether's seal is, trying to trace the design from memory. "I don't want to replace him. I—I love this, but I never… I never wanted to be a replacement. I want… I think I want him to be proud of me…? But I can't figure out how to… do that when I keep making things weird. Messing up and just… changing everything."

Sodo blinks, slowly, and leans forward so he can look down. Phantom's attention stays glued, stubbornly, to the balcony flooring, until Sodo finally hops down to sit with him, legs crossed and claws tapping at the ground as he thinks on what he wants to say.

"I think Aeth's already proud of you." He knows he is. Because that was just… Aether. He smiles a little, reaching up to run his claws through his hair a few times; pulling it over his shoulder and using his claws as a comb to keep his hands busy and try to stay focused, even when he knows it makes him look a little embarrassed. Maybe he is. He's not… usually okay with being vulnerable with his emotions; but, he knows Phantom needs the assurance and the person that usually acts as assurance… isn't there.

"I know he is, cuz… that's just Aether. He works hard—harder than he should, sometimes—and he always makes sure we know he's proud of us. Even if we mess up, we're doing the best we can. We're going out there every night, helping Papa shine as bright as possible and helping spread the teachings of the church. Every time he commended you during practice? When he was proud then? It doesn't just magically disappear because he isn't here."

He finally stops messing with his hair and makes himself meet Phantom's eye; finally lets himself smile more than just the small twitch of lips. Still small, maybe a little distracted because… he does miss Aether. He misses the chaos and synergy.

"We just do our best so we have amazing things to tell him when we get home, yeah? You'll figure out how you fit in and me and Rainy will, too. I mean, shit, without Aeth, Rainy's being more aggressive to fill that missing presence. It's great to see, because he doesn't get that chance a lot. Not with Aeth nearby and not off stage, because Swiss just… overshadows everyone. Little scary sometimes, honestly… but, bitch is stuck on his platform."

"... He can absolutely get down."

"Yeah, he ain't supposed to." Sodo laughs and finally leans a little to give Phantom a gentle horn bump. "Regardless. Don't worry about Aeth. Don't worry about making him proud. Focus on you. Focus on what presence you want to bring to the stage. We'll learn and adapt. We always do."

"Adapt… … Is it true you used to play bass?"

Sodo laughs to try covering a yawn; but, the exhaustion is still starting to kick in. He puts his head down on Phantom's shoulder, "That's a story for way later. Remind me next time we're trapped on the bus. … Also, just thought of it, but… if you really wanna know if Aeth's proud of you, we can always just. Steal a phone and call him. … We should actually totally do that. Papa doesn't mind us calling home, we should steal his phone. Politely."

"Stealing is not polite…"

He just hums and lets himself settle in. He feels Phantom relaxing—more so as Sodo starts to heat up a little to his comfortable sleeping temperature—and finally relaxes himself. It's easier than he expects, probably just because he knows he gets to talk to Aether, soon.

… And maybe it's just nice to be cuddled up to someone after sulking on his own for a few days.

#sqooshy writes #ghost band #ghost fanfiction #sodo ghoul #phantom ghoul #dewdrop ghoul #ghouls era 5 #rating: general #fluff #short scribble

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