#the flash is eh cuz I found out this whole time I’ve been watching the Wally west flash | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

mersuperwholocked-lowlife · 3 years

Text

Only Temporary

Word Count: 3,289

Characters: Dean Winchester, Sam Winchester, Reader, OC Characters

Pairings: Dean Winchester x Platonic!Reader; Sam Winchester x Platonic!Reader

Warnings: angst, some fluff at the beginning, death; TW: slight panic attack

A/N: okay writing with writer’s block and just writing in general is giving me way more anxiety than before cuz I already know it’s not good but I haven’t posted any content in so long and i feel really really bad, and i know its really long but I just could NOT tie it up n e wayz here it is sorry don’t h8 me plz

Masterlist

You pressed your hand against your stomach, over your bleeding wound as you bit your lip, holding in your cries. You whimpered softly, hearing footsteps, hearing footsteps as clutched your gun tightly, pushing yourself up.

You only counted one vampire, a maximum of two. You never expected a full nest, which surprised you when you first made your plan.

You bent over, holding yourself up as you cocked your gun, shooting at the man who walked in front of you.

“What the hell?!” you heard him yell, watching the bullet go just past his head, hitting the wall behind him.

Damn it

You could see everything getting distorted as the two men ran into the room, both pointing their guns at you.

“Drop your guns,” you pointed your gun at one of them.

“Dean, she’s bleeding,” Sam whispered.

“I said drop them!” you raised your voice, pushing yourself up as your bloodied hand gripped your gun.

“Look, we’re here to help, okay?” Sam started, putting his hands up as he put the gun down next to him, motioning to Dean.

Dean looked at you, then at Sam before nodding, putting his gun down.

You could hear your ears ringing as you scrunched your eyes, falling against the wall next to you.

“You’re gonna bleed out,” Dean said.

“Let us get you help,” Sam gave you a worried expression, as he took a step forward.

“How do I know I can trust you?” you clenched your jaw.

“Either you trust us or you die,” Dean replied.

You could see your vision blurring as your gun slipped through your fingers.

Sam immediately ran to you, before you collapsed.

“You’re bleeding a lot,” Sam pointed out.

“No shit, Sherlock. You’re not that bright, are you…” your voice faded as you closed your eyes, your body going limp.

---

You gasped loudly, jumping up in your bed, startled as you looked around the room. You scrunched your eyes, trying to remember what happened, and where you were.

You found yourself laying on a bed, in a dark, empty room. You stood up, wincing softly, looking down at your stomach, which was covered in bandages.

You grabbed your knife out of your pocket, slowly walking out of the room.

“Who are you guys?” they both looked up, tending slightly as Sam stood up.

“We’re hunters. I’m Sam, and this is my brother, Dean,” he explained.

“Where are we?” you asked.

“A bunker. We live here,” Dean said.

You put your knife back into your pocket, taking a few steps forward.

“Thanks for helping me,” you said.

“(Y/N),” you shook Sam’s hand as you gave him a quick smile.

“Nice to meet you. So, what were you hunting, exactly,” Sam motioned for you to sit in a chair next to him as you nodded.

“Vampires. I thought there were only two, maybe three, but there was a whole nest. And if memory serves, there should only be four left,” you explained.

“Wait, what? That means… how did you go against all of them?” Dean frowned as he turned to you.

“Uhm, I cut their heads off? Look, I gotta get going,” you started.

“Do you need help?” Sam asked.

“Nope,” your voice drifted off as you got a phone call, your face dropping.

“One minute,” you got up from your seat, walking away as you answered it.

“Don’t even think about it,” Sam immediately whisper-yelled, turning to Dean.

“What?!” he whispered back.

“Don't even think about eavesdropping,” Sam said.

“I wasn't going to,” he rolled his eyes.

---

“What the hell? What’s the one rule I have? Don’t call me,” you raised your voice slightly.

“I’m sorry, you haven't called for two days and I was getting worried,” your brother's voice wavered as he spoke.

“I’m sorry, kid, something happened. I’ll see you in a few hours,” you said, crossing your arms.

“Okay, I’ll see you later,” he replied as you hung up the phone.

You ran your fingers through your hair, sighing as you shook your head. Your parents died when you were only 15, leading you into a life with hunting, and taking care of your younger brother, who was only five at the time.

You tried your hardest to keep him safe, meaning keeping him far away at any hotel room you could find. His current home was a hotel in Kansas, seeing that wasn't too far from where you were currently. You felt slight guilt, leaving a 13-year-old on his own, but you made sure to check with him whenever you could.

“Is everything okay?” Dean asked, walking up to you.

“Yeah. Uhm, thanks for all of this, but I have to get going now,” you gave Dean a small smile, about to walk away before he called for you once again.

“Wait, so are you just gonna go after them alone?” Dean asked.

You raised an eyebrow, before nodding.

“Yeah, that’s the plan,” you replied sarcastically.

“Well, if you need backup,” he started.

“I don’t typically work with other hunters,” you interrupted him.

“Neither do we. If you need any help or anything, here are our numbers,” he handed you a sheet of paper before you hesitantly took it.

“Thanks, it was nice to meet you,” you waved to the two of them before leaving.

---

“Jackson? I’m home!” you called out, walking into the hotel room.

Before you had the chance to flip the lights on, he ran to you, wrapping his arms around you tightly as he buried his neck in your arm.

“Hey, I missed you too,” you smiled softly, ruffling his hair.

“Look, I’m almost your height,” he looked up at you.

“In your dreams, kid. Come on, how was this week of school?” you asked, walking with him as the two of you sat down on the small table in the room.

“Same as usual. I hate being the new kid all the time, got bullied a little. Oh, and I made a friend,” he exclaimed.

“A friend? Interesting. By the way, if someone messes with you, just flash them your knife,” you kicked your feet up on the table as you laid back into the chair.

“Uh, no. I’m too scared to do that. That’s how I got my friend, by the way. They picked up my knife after it fell out of my pocket. They were surprisingly chill with it,” he replied.

“Huh,” you shrugged.

“Also, (Y/N), I finished all my homework, so can we watch a movie or something?” he asked.

You looked at the time before sighing, it was only 8. Fine, but, we’re not watching The Untouchables again, okay?” you raised an eyebrow.

“Fine, can we watch Tombstone?” he asked.

“How did you watch that?! It’s rated R!” you scolded.

“It was playing one night,” he shrugged.

You playfully wrapped your arm around his neck, dragging him to the bed as you ran your fingers through his hair, playing with it.

Your brother struggled with anxiety, and you tried to do whatever you could to help him or keep him safe. He felt most at peace when you would play with his hair while he laid his head in your lap.

“I missed you a lot,” his voice was barely above a whisper.

“Yeah, I missed you too, kid,” you sighed.

“I wish things were different,” he looked up at you.

“They will be. This is only-” you started.

“Only temporary, yeah, I know,” Jackson finished your sentence.

You kissed his forehead softly.

“Come on, smart ass, let’s watch.”

---

“Okay, I’ll try to call you when I can. Remember, don’t be dumb. Bye,” you hung up the call from your brother, putting your phone in your bag.

It had been a week since your encounter with the Winchesters, and just like you’d expect, there was another murder, a woman found with her throat ripped out. It was still in Kansas, 3 hours from your hotel room.

“Hey, I’m Agent-” you began.

“Agent Willis, I’m aware, your partners are waiting for you inside,” you frowned, tensing up as you rested your hand on your gun, staying alert as the officer led you in, only to see Sam and Dean in front of you.

You let go of your gun, tensing up as you clenched your jaw.

“Agents, I wasn’t expecting to see you two here,” you controlled your glare at them, not wanting to make a scene.

“Yeah, well, the director sent us to meet you here,” Dean quickly lied.

He stood next to you, whispering.

“Don’t cause a scene,” he said,

“I told you I didn’t need any help,” you smiled, whispering to him from the corner of your mouth.

“Well, I’ll leave you three alone,” the officer walked away from the body, as you turned to Sam and Dean.

“Hijacking my hunt? Seriously?” you glared,

“What? Dean told me you called and asked for help,” Sam frowned, as the two of you turned to Dean.

“I didn’t feel good about you doing this alone,” Dean said.

“I’ve been hunting alone for as long as I can remember, I am fine,” you snapped.

“I’m sorry about Dean’s action. Maybe we’ll just leave,” Sam said.

“Well, now it’s too late. If you two leave now, it’ll look suspicious to the entire department. As much as I hate you, you have to stay and help me,” you rolled your eyes.

Sam’s face dropped slightly, feeling guilty, while Dean tried to hide his joy.

After being almost left for dead by hunters one too many times, you decided you would rather stay on your own. It was also better and safer for Jackson. The fewer people that knew him or knew about him, the less danger he was in.

“You with us?” Dean snapped his fingers in your face as you rolled your eyes.

“Don’t do that ever again,” you glared at Dean.

This was going to be fun

---

“That’s what I call a successful hunt. You’re a great shot, kid,” Dean wrapped his arm around your shoulder, the three of you entering a diner.

You smiled softly, slightly annoyed but dealing with it. The Winchesters were unlike any hunters you'd ever met, they were empathetic, they weren't just machines. They began to grow on you.

You sat down in the booth in front of Sam and Dean, while Dean quickly grabbed the menu.

“How long have you been hunting anyway?” Sam asked.

“Ehhhh, 8 years? Give or take some time,” you shrugged.

“8 years?! I thought you were in your 20’s,” Dean raised an eyebrow.

“My parents died when I was younger. It was a kitsune,” you replied.

“Oh, I’m sorry about that,” Dean’s face dropped slightly.

“Well, I’m fine, I mean it was a long time ago anyway,” you shook your head.

“So you’re just on your own?” Sam asked softly.

“Well, yeah,” you started.

Well, no

“But honestly I prefer being on my own anyway,” you said.

“Well, if you ever need any help or anything at all, don’t be shy to reach out to us.”

Your mind began to race to all the negative outcomes of what could happen if you let people in. You simply nodded your head, keeping your thoughts to yourself. You kept thinking about Jackson, trying to make sure he’d be safe. That was your only priority, to keep him safe.

The three of you went back to eating fries, laughing, and celebrating together before you made your way back to the hotel.

---

Over the course of the next few months, you found yourself getting closer and closer with the Winchesters. You felt slightly bad about lying to them about your brother, but from what you gathered, anyone close to them was in danger, which included yourself. They invited you to live with them multiple times, while you shot them down every single time, thinking about Jackson.

One day he would have to meet them, and they would have to meet him, but that day wasn't going to come soon. Dean reminded you of Jackson a lot, having many similar traits.

You walked into the hotel room, noticing all the lights off as you raised an eyebrow, looking at the time. It was midnight. He was probably asleep.

You walked to the bed, noticing it was empty as you tensed up.

“Jackson?” you called, feeling panic growing in your chest.

“Jackson,” you flipped on the lights, running to the bathroom to look for him, only to find it empty.

“Jackson!” you yelled.

You ran outside, getting into your car quickly as you dialed his number one more time. There were only a few places he would go, and you intended on finding him, no matter what.

---

It’s been over a day since you got back, still receiving no phone call from him, still unable to find him. You went to his school, asking people around, you went to the library, asking anyone if they’d seen him in the last two days.

No one had.

You could feel your heart aching, as you closed your eyes, biting your lip as you held in a cry. You sat in your car, rubbing your fingers through your hair, trying to rack up any place he would possibly be.

You jumped slightly, hearing someone knocking at the window before furrowing your eyes, seeing Dean standing at the window.

You got out of the car, wiping your eyes as you looked at him.

“H-Hey, I didn't know you were in town,” you said.

“Yeah, are you working the case here too?” he asked.

“C-Case? What case?” you tensed up.

“The kitsune case? Are you okay? You don’t look too well,” Dean frowned, as he put his hand on your shoulder.

“I need to tell you and Sam something,” your voice wavered as your eyes watered once more, looking up at Dean.

“O-Okay, come with me then.”

---

“I’m so, so sorry I didn't tell you guys before. I-I just thought the fewer people who knew about him, the safer he would be, b-but now I-I can’t,” you stopped yourself, letting out a shaky breath as you rested your head in your hands, trying to keep yourself from breaking in front of Sam and Dean.

“Hey, it’s okay. We’ll find him, (Y/N),” Sam held your shaking hand, squeezing it gently.

“He’s all I have left,” your voice was barely above a whisper.

“Well, what can you tell us that can help?” Dean asked, sitting in front of you.

“I don’t know. I looked everywhere he goes, and he wasn’t there… wait, Dean. Y-You said there was a kitsune case in town?” your heart stopped slightly.

“Yeah…”

“What if it’s the same kitsune that killed my parents? I-I was never… I could never track her down. W-What if she’s back for him? What if she kills him?” you began to breathe heavily, your vision blurring as you looked to the floor.

“(Y/N),” Dean started, frowning slightly as he gave you a look.

You could feel your chest tightening as you squeezed Sam’s hand tightly, your body shaking. You let go of Sam’s hand, holding your head in your hands as you clenched your jaw, closing your eyes.

“(Y/N)? What is it? What’s wrong?” Sam looked at you worriedly.

“I-I don’t know…” your voice faded out as you inhaled deeply, finding it hard to do so.

“I think you’re having a panic attack. (Y/N), you need to breathe,” Dean squatted down, looking at you softly.

“I-I’m trying,” you wheezed, feeling your tears streaming down your cheek.

“Sam, go get a blanket and some water. (Y/N), look at me,” Dean put his hand on your shoulder, lifting your head.

“I-I…” your voice broke as you opened your eyes, looking at Dean.

“(Y/N), we are going to find him. He is going to be okay,” he stroked your cheek softly, wiping away your tears as you nodded your head softly.

“Come here,” he wrapped his arms around you tightly, rocking you, calming you down.

---

“Where’s (Y/N)?” Dean entered the bunker, looking around.

“In her room. She’s been in there for a week,” Sam sighed, looking up at Dean.

“We need to help her,” Dean sat down in front of Sam, sitting at the table in the war room.

“There’s nothing we can do, Dean. We were too late. We found his body. She just needs some time to process.”

Dean looked at your room, seeing the door closed as he sighed. It was something no one could ever forget. Finally tracking down the kitsune, finding Jackson’s body.

He stood up, walking to your room as he knocked at the door.

“(Y/N)? I’m coming in,” he opened the door, finding you sitting up in your bed, wrapping your arms around your legs as you buried your head in your lap.

“(Y/N),” Dean put his arm around your back, pulling you close to him.

You sighed softly, keeping your tears at bay as you rested your head on his shoulder.

“Is there anything I can do for you?” he asked.

“I just wish I could forget all about it,” you replied, your voice low.

“I know,” he started.

“Can you call Cas?” you asked softly.

“What? Wait, you’re being serious? (Y/N),” Dean warned, giving you a frown.

“I can’t live like this, Dean. I’m trying so hard not to give up,” you whispered.

“Why would you… (Y/N), the only way to deal with this is to deal with it. You can’t just forget about your problems and move on. You need to grieve, you need to process.”

“Not forever, just for now-”

“(Y/N),”

“Dean, please. I need this.”

Dean paused, running his fingers through his hair before exhaling softly.

“Fine, I’ll call him,”

You let out a breath of relief, thanking Dean as you held onto him.

---

You smiled at Sam and Dean, walking down the hallway in the bunker before sitting next to Dean, kicking your feet up.

“(Y/N), my books,” Sam rolled his eyes.

“Then you can move them,” you shrugged innocently.

Sam glared at you, pulling his books away from you before raising an eyebrow to Dean.

Dean only glared back.

“Do grandpa and grandpa need a moment? Seriously, what’s going on? Dean, did you throw away Sam’s smoothie? Sam, did you eat his pie?” you raised an eyebrow, eyeing the two Winchesters.

Sam closed his book, standing up and walking away from the two of you.

You sat up, looking slightly concerned as you looked at Dean.

“I just need to talk to him, give me a minute,” Dean quickly stood up, running towards Sam.

“Hey, what the hell is your problem?” Dean whisper-yelled.

“This is such a dumb idea, Dean. People can’t just forget and move on,” Sam replied.

“It was her choice, and as her friend, we should respect that, okay?” Dean tried to keep his voice down.

“We should've convinced her not to,” Sam shook his head.

“It’s only-” Dean started.

“Only temporary, I know. You keep saying that but it’s been two months, Dean. It's not temporary anymore. Instead of trying to convince her to remember, we just pushed it away. That’s not what we’re supposed to do. We’re supposed to be her friends and we’re supposed to be there for her, not encourage her to push it away,” Sam said, frustrated.

“I know, just give it some more time,” the two of them turned to you, watching you smile softly at yourself, thinking of whatever you thought of.

Dean knew that they had never seen you as happy as you were these past two months. He turned to Sam once more, shaking his head.

“It’s only temporary.”

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is0gild · 4 years

Text

Ice Cream and Fire Oven Pizza - Chapter 14

Pairing: Elsa x Lea/Axel || Side Pairing: Riku x OC

Summary: Modern AU. She's an introvert ball of nerves who works at Ice Palace, a mall food court ice cream shop. He's the outgoing, sassy goofball who works at the Pizza Planet across the way. Hilarity, snark, and fluffy romcom hijinks ensue.

Word Count: 5,299

FIRST CHAPTER || PREVIOUS CHAPTER || NEXT CHAPTER

Credit for super friggin’ cute and super friggin’ amazing cover art goes to the super friggin’ talented ky-jane here on tumblr!

I consider myself a pacifist. A live-and-let-live sort of person. I wouldn't hurt a flea.

"Oh Anna? Precious baby sister of mine, apple of my eye, fruit of my heart… would you come over here for a moment? I want to show you something."

When it comes to Anna however…

"Yes Elsa? Dearest big sis, uh… pop-tart of my soul, chicken nugget of my… nose. Might I first ask what precisely it is that you wish to show me?"

Anna I would hurt. Especially when she royally deserves it.

"My fingers wrapping around your throat and squeezing. Hard."

"Ya know, as fun as that does sound, I think I'll pass."

"Come here, you little-" I snarled, dropping the sugary-sweet facade and making a lunge for her over the couch that she'd been keeping between me and her. She squeaked and jumped backwards out of my reach, nearly toppling over Rayne's coffee table but with a flail of her arms, barely managed to stay upright. I banged my fist against a cushion, narrowing my eyes on her and huffing through my nose. Then I bolted to the left and Anna immediately took off to the right, staying ahead of me as I chased her around the sofa a couple times. From the kitchen, Rayne, Riku, and Lea observed silently from their seats around the dining table as they munched on some popcorn.

The two of us came to a stop after a few laps, still (much to my annoyance) on opposite sides of the couch. Panting to catch her breath, Anna snapped, "I dunno why you're so frigging mad even, I was only trying to help!"

"Help?!" I scoffed, placing my hands on the backrest of the sofa, my fingers crushing the pillows. "You nearly gave Uncle Weselton a heart attack and killed him!"

She looked away, razzing her tongue. "Eh, I woulda been doing the world a favor."

"Anna!"

"What?! The old geezer was fine, wasn't he? Only blacked out for like a minute tops! Then he was back up and marching out of the place in a huff all," she lifted her nose into the air and her voice got deep and snooty in her best impersonation of the Duke as she stabbed an index finger up high, "when your father and mother hear about this, young lady, there will be a reckoning! You hear me? A reckoning! Blah, blah, blah, my nose is too big and my combover looks like hamster roadkill!"

My eyelids drooped. "...his exact words."

"Oh yeah, verbatim."

Growling, I suddenly vaulted over the furniture-turned-barricade in an attempt to catch her off guard, but she was ready for the surprise attack. In the blink of an eye, she'd turned, bounded over the coffee table and darted into the bathroom, slamming the door shut in my face just as I got to it. I jiggled the knob, but it was already locked. Banging both my hands against the wooden surface, I yelled, "Dammit, Anna, you can't hide in there forever!"

"I can and I will!" her voice came back muffled from the other side. "I got running water in here, baby! I can stay hydrated, shower… just you watch, I'll survive in here for years!"

I crossed my arms, scowling at the door. "And what, pray tell, are you going to do for food?"

There was a long pause. Then, "...Floss! That's right! I'll slurp it up like spaghetti! Shampoo will be my sauce and crushed-up toilet paper will be my meatballs!"

Pinching the bridge of my nose, I grumbled, "You can't eat toiletries, Anna."

"Try and stop me!"

I twitched. Then I reeled an arm back, zero-point-two seconds away from breaking the stupid door down through sheer force of will alone, but a hand on my elbow brought me up short. Glancing over my shoulder, I saw it was Rayne. She greeted me with a small, gentle smile, "How 'bout we have a seat and cool off for a second, huh sweetpea?"

Her soft but firm grasp on my arm pulled me towards the kitchen, my feet dragging while I glared back at the bathroom door as I was taken away from it. When we reached the dining table, she put her hands on my shoulders and pushed down, forcing me to take a seat in one of the chairs.

Right next to Lea.

Which had the unfortunate side effect of reminding me of his existence. That he'd been here this whole time, watching me spend the last ten minutes or so trying to murder my own sister.

"Oh gosh, you must think I'm a crazy person," I groaned, burying my face in my hands as Rayne took a seat on my other side.

I heard him chuckle and I peeked out between my fingers to see him flashing me a grin. "Not at all! I actually kind of like seeing this side of you, El. It's fun!"

For a guy who'd just had it sprung on him that he was my boyfriend and one true love, he was taking it with a surprising amount of ease and good humor. That is, once he'd gotten past the initial shock, of course. In fact, now that he knew what was going on, he even seemed to find the whole thing funny. I wished I could laugh so easily at this big mess Anna had put us in.

Speaking of the little brat, as soon as the Duke had stormed out of the mall, she'd made a pretty hasty retreat herself, saying she'd see me back at my apartment. I think she'd hoped Rayne would keep me from slaughtering her. Unfortunately for her, it seemed my roomie was less interested in keeping her alive and more so in just watching the live entertainment unfold in her own living room.

Lea averted his gaze now, rubbing the nape of his neck, "So… a fiancé, huh?"

Oh. Right. Then there was the fact that he was just finding out about all of that too.

Feeling a tiny blush creep up into my face, I quickly hid it by looking down at my fingers fidgeting in my lap. "Uh… no. I mean, yes. I mean, not... anymore, that is. More of an… ex-fiancé now."

"That's good." Even as the words were leaving his mouth, he stiffened and winced, tacking on hastily, "Just cuz… ya know, sounds like a relationship you, er… didn't wanna be in! So it's good you got out of it! That's all, heh!"

"Yeah, I suppose." Sighing, I shook my head, "In any case, I am so sorry Anna dragged you into all of this. I don't know what she was thinking! Only trying to help," I repeated her words with a roll of my eyes, "ha! Her help," air quotes, "was a total disaster. A trainwreck, a catastrophe! We're talking the Titanic meets the Hindenburg! We're talking-"

"Hey, hey, it's okay, really!" Lea placed a comforting hand on my arm. "I don't mind. And I'm sure it's not all that terrible."

With a grimace, I said, "You don't understand. It was already bad enough that this is how my parents found out where I disappeared to and what I've been doing. But now Anna's made things a thousand times worse! I can't put off talking to them anymore. Now I have to go see them and, on top of trying to make them understand why I ran away, I have to explain that Anna was just making things up and-"

"Or," Rayne cut me off, reaching for the bowl of popcorn in the center of the table, "you could just, ya know…" she tossed one into her mouth with a shrug, "...not."

I stared at her blankly. "...I'm sorry, what now?"

"You heard me."

"You want me to lie to them?!" I asked aghast as I tugged at my hair, still in its ponytail from work.

"Well, not so much lie as…" she paused, pursing her lips to one side for a second before her eyes lit up, "as let them believe something that is not wholly true and just not correcting them!"

I gaped at her.

Apparently, Anna's lunacy was contagious now.

"...this is insane. Riku, tell your wife the words that are coming out of her mouth are insane."

He choked on the puffed kernel he'd just popped into his mouth. Coughing and thumping his chest with a fist, he then waved his hands back and forth in front of him, "Oh-ho, no, I'm staying out of this. I'm just here for the snacks." I narrowed my eyes at him and he shrugged. "What, it's not like I'm going to disagree with the future mother of my child."

Lea sniggered and made a whip noise with the accompanying hand motion. Rayne chucked some popcorn at his face while Riku merely raised a glass in his direction, "Damn right, and happily so."

"Come on, this is serious!" I turned my frown on Rayne, "In what possible universe does letting my parents think I ran out on my wedding to be with some random mystery guy help this situation even remotely?"

She smirked, "Think about it, boo. Your uncle has probably already told them by now. The damage is done. In fact, it might do more harm than good at this point if you tried to backtrack and tell them you deceived them by-"

"That I deceived them?!" I shot up to my feet, crisscrossing my arms over my chest and swiping my hands out wide in opposite directions, "No, no, no, this was all Anna! She was the one to make it all up, I had nothing to do with it!"

"Why then didn't you tell your uncle that before he left?" she cocked her head, arching an eyebrow at me.

I blanched before glancing away, my fingers absently drifting up to tangle themselves into the tip of my ponytail once more. "Well, I… that is, he just left so... so quickly! I didn't have time to, uh... a-and he was so mad, I couldn't get a- I mean, I was still getting over the… the shock of what Anna had- and then I was just so relieved the Duke was o-okay that I just didn't even think to-"

"Mm-hm," Rayne's eyelids drooped. "Sweetie, if you can't even explain yourself to me, how do you hope to even have a snowball's chance in hell of making a case to your parents?"

I collapsed back down into the chair with a heavy thud and slumped forward, elbows on the table and fingernails raking into my scalp, "Oh gosh, I'm an accomplice. I'm complicit in Anna's harebrained scheme. This is my nightmare."

I felt Rayne's hand patting me on the head. "There, there. It's not the end of the world. And as… misguided as Anna's attempt to help was, she may have actually done you a bit of a favor."

I looked up at her incredulously. "How?"

"Alright," she propped her chin in her palm, "say you went to your parents right now and told them the truth. There is no other guy. You're just not in love with your ex and don't want to marry him, plain and simple. What would they do? Accept it and be happy for you?"

"Of course they-" my eyes widened as the words died on my tongue. Then I was slowly shaking my head, "...no. No they wouldn't. Actually, they'd probably still try to force me to marry him."

She wrinkled her nose with a frown, "Thought so. Cuz there's no obstacle right now. Nothing standing in the way except a measly thing like your feelings. And in the silver-spooned world you come from, I imagine feelings are a luxury."

A heavy sigh escaped me, "More or less."

"But thanks to Anna, you now have a big mountain of a bad-boy boyfriend-shaped obstacle that makes it a lot harder for them to argue with. Ta-da!" she swept her hands out in a flourish towards Lea, whose head rocked back as he blinked.

Scratching a spot behind his ear with a tiny laugh, he said, "Oh c'mon, Raindrop! Bad boy? I dunno about that. Maybe a year or two ago..."

"Yeah yeah," her hand batted the air dismissively, "you've turned over a new leaf or whatever, but her folks don't know that! And with that wild red mane of yours and all that guyliner, you can still easily look the part. We don't need some nice-guy goody two-shoes who looks like he'll just let Momma and Poppa Fryse walk all over him. We need someone who'll scare 'em and make them back off and let Elsa live her own life."

"Exactly!" Anna's voice suddenly rang out and we all turned in our seats to find she'd crept out of the safety of the bathroom at some point to stealthily eavesdrop from behind the couch. "That's what I was friggin' trying to explain before you so rudely- eep!" she yelped as I stood up from my chair. Then she all but blurred back into the restroom, banging the door closed behind her again.

Damn right, you better run, twerp.

But she couldn't escape my righteous fury for long. The little punk had to be brought to justice. To do that however, I'd need to lure her out of hiding first.

...and I knew just how to do it too.

A wicked smirk tugging at my lips now, I turned and stomped across the kitchen, calling out loudly, "I'm too angry to keep talking about this right now! I'm taking a walk to clear my head!"

Reaching the front door, I opened it before slamming it shut again with me still inside the apartment. I spun back around to face the others, holding an index finger up to my lips.

Be vewy, vewy quiet. I'm hunting Annas.

My eyes darted over to the bathroom door. It didn't budge. Clever girl, not being so quick to fall for the oldest trick in the book. After a few seconds of zero movement from the target, I then twirled my finger to the other three, gesturing for them to get conversation rolling again as I used my other hand to quietly slip my shoes off.

Taking the cue, Lea's gaze drifted from me over to Rayne, "So, uh… what are we thinking here? Just put on a lil show for Mom and Pop, one and done and we're out?"

"That might not be enough," she replied as I gave them all the thumbs up before swiftly sneaking past them back towards the living room, my bare feet silent against the floor. "Think about it. Sounds like Elsa's deranged grunkle hired someone to follow her for days. For all we know, her shadow might still be keeping tabs on her at the old coot's request. If you two don't look and act like a googly-eyed couple twenty-four seven, then the jig is up. He'll know Anna made up the whole thing. No, I think what we need here is a long con. To sell this, you two are gonna have to be all lovey-dovey out in public, around the mall, everywhere and at all times."

I'm sorry, we have to what now?!

I stumbled, but managed to steady myself and stay upright, thankfully all still without making a sound. I whipped around to glare at Rayne. She grinned and winked back, waggling her fingers at me in a sly little wave.

My murder list now officially had two names on it.

Rayne was just lucky Anna was more of a priority at the moment. I'd just have to deal with my evil roomie and the inane turn to this whole conversation later. Heaving a soft sigh through my nose, I turned my back on them once more and finished stealthing my way towards my bedroom. Once inside, I closed my door most of the way, leaving it open a sliver of a crack for me to peek out through.

And now the deadly hunter hides in wait for her prey to boldly but unwisely venture forth into the open once more.

"I dunno," Lea rubbed a knuckle to his chin, "would people buy that? I mean, we haven't exactly been acting all couply up until now. Wouldn't it be weird if we just started to randomly out of the blue? Especially considering the story's that she apparently ran out on the wedding to be with me."

She shrugged, "Easily explained. Clearly, Elsa was just worried about word of her torrid affair getting back to her ex. She didn't want him to feel like you two were just flaunting your love and rubbing his nose in it. She was trying to keep it on the DL for the sake of his feelings. But now that the cat's out of the bag, there's no reason to sneak around anymore. You two can now sing your love from the rooftops for all the world to see!"

My left eye ticked.

There would be so much killing before this day was done.

I'd paint the walls of this apartment red with the blood of my sister and my best friend.

I was pulled from my homicidal yet decorative thoughts as I heard a tiny, almost inaudible creak beyond my door from somewhere off to the right. I held my breath. Could it be? Had the mouse braved leaving her hidey-hole? Given my sight into the living room was very limited currently, I had no visual on her yet, so all I could do was wait and hope.

Riku chimed in now, "Honestly, I don't even think most people will be all that surprised. Sora and Kairi actually even had a bet going on between them. He thought it wouldn't be long before you two start dating."

"And Kairi didn't think so?"

"No, she thought you already were."

There! Anna slowly tiptoed into view as she made her way towards the kitchen, her back to me and head swishing to and fro with every careful step she took. Probably sensing a trap, but unable to spot me so deciding to risk it.

Little fool.

Silently pulling my own door open just enough for me to slip back out, I started creeping up behind her.

Lea snorted, "Alright, but some people know for a fact we were never dating. Take the kiddos for example. You think we're gonna be able to pull the wool over their eyes? Maybe they should be let in on the secret."

"Nope," Rayne leaned forward, folding her arms together on top of the table. "This shouldn't leave this room. If the wicked grunkle does still have a tail on Elsa, what if they start discreetly asking questions around the mall? Trust me, the less people know you two are only pretend dating, the better. Besides, you so sure that's what Xion and Rox think? Is it really so hard to believe you were keeping your blossoming romance a secret, even from them? I mean, come on, don't forget what happened on Elsa's first day of work now."

I froze mid-step a few scant inches behind Anna now, my eyes growing round.

Fudge.

Lea cleared his throat into his fist, eyes darting about. "I'm... not sure I entirely know what you're referring to."

I sure as heck did. And without a doubt, he did too. He was probably just trying to be a gentleman.

Rayne, on the other hand, had no such decorum.

"Oh really?" she smirked. Feeling the blood draining from my face, I started swiping my hand back and forth across my throat, rapidly shaking my head at her. Rayne either did not see or did not care. My guess? The latter. "Then allow me to refresh your memory." Now I started gesticulating wildly for her to cram it, my arms frantically but silently flailing about like a mime caught in a blender. Still Rayne pressed on, "You. Her. Lip-locked in the food court within ten seconds of first laying eyes on one another. Ring any-"

"They did what?!" Anna screeched out in glee.

Great. Now Anna knew about the Kissadent. Something I hadn't wanted her to find out about. Like, ever.

My fingers curled, strangling the air in Rayne's direction. Then with a muted growl, I stomped my foot against the carpet.

It wasn't loud.

But it was enough.

Anna spun on her heel with a gasp, blanching at the sight of me. Her eyes flicked towards the bathroom before trying to make a break for it, but I jumped in front of her, blocking her escape route. She then held up her hands and started backing away as I slowly stalked towards her. A nervous chuckle escaped her, "Now, now, Sis! J-just remember that-" the back of her leg bumped against the couch and she fell over backwards onto it. Recovering quickly, she scrambled up over its backrest, crash landing to the floor on the other side. Back on her feet in a flash, she continued in reverse towards the kitchen, "-that you love m-me!"

As I climbed over the sofa after her, she took the opportunity to drop down, scrabble under the dining table and pop up on the other side, putting it between me and her. I gave her a sickeningly sweet smile as I leaned forward, placing my hands on top of the table. "I also love piñatas. Love smashing them open and spilling their rainbow, candied guts across the ground."

Anna gulped. "But you… you couldn't really just, ya know… kill me… r-right?"

"Oh no, I couldn't just kill you… first I'd draw and quarter you, flay you alive, dip you in liquid nitrogen, snap every frozen limb off your body one by one, and then I'd kill you."

"Shit, El, remind me never to get on your bad side," Lea laughed.

Right? Who knew I could be so murdery? Crud, do I need to see a therapist?

Whatever, no time to think about my worryingly homicidal tendencies right now. I had a little sister to eradicate.

I charged around the table towards her. She shrieked, booking it and we circled the kitchen a few times. However, I was gaining fast. Soon, sweet sweet vengeance would be mine. Just another few seconds and-

"Alright, that's enough!" Rayne suddenly shouted, rocketing up out of her chair. Anna hid behind her and my feet skidded to a stop in front of my roommate. "Do I have to separate you two? Put you in opposite corners of the room to stare at the wall and think about what you've done?"

"She's the one who started it!" I snapped, glaring at Anna.

Her mature and oh so dignified response was to blow a raspberry at me over Rayne's shoulder.

My nostrils flared and I lunged at her. However, I was brought up short by an abrupt burst of pain in my upper ear. Took me a second to realize Rayne was pinching it with a scowl. And her other hand? Giving one of Anna's ears the same punishment. "Okay, seriously, you both need to stop. Now. Otherwise I'll… I'll send you to your rooms without dinner!"

Anna rolled her eyes, "Pfffft, you can't do that, it's not like you're my- ow, ow, ow!" I took it Rayne had squeezed her ear harder.

"Oooo, busted!" Lea snerked at us.

Rayne's death glare landed on him. "You want a piece of this, Red?!"

He paled, tossing his hands up in surrender.

Mama Bear Rayne had awoken. May whatever divine entity that watched over the universe from up on high have mercy on our poor, wretched souls.

With a huff, she forced us both to sit down, me back in my chair, Anna taking the one Rayne had just vacated. "You two are going to settle this, right here, right now." Anna pouted, crossing her arms and slouching down into her seat while I simply harrumphed and looked away. Rayne sighed, "...Anna, is there something you'd like to say to your sister?"

The silence stretched. Then finally, begrudgingly, "Sorry… for lying to Weaseltown about you and Lea or whatever."

Golly gee, so heartfelt.

Rayne cleared her throat and nudged my shoulder. "Elsa?"

My face scrunched up, but then I inhaled deeply and exhaled slowly, grumbling, "...sorry for trying to kill you or whatever."

"There! Perfect," Rayne happily chirped, bowing to wrap her arms around both our shoulders and hug us close to her. "One big happy family again! So glad that silliness is now all over and done with!"

Oh-ho, this was far from over.

Just you wait, Anna. I will be revenged.

Straightening back up with a single clap of her hands, Rayne went on, "Okay! Now that we've put that dumb lil spat behind us, we can get back to what's important!" She gestured between Lea and me, "You two going make-believe steady!"

Ugh. How quickly she flipped that switch from angry parent scolding children to utter loon spouting off crackpot ideas. I blamed the baby hormones.

"No!" I stated firmly. "Absolutely not! I am not going through with it! It's ridiculous, I refuse!"

"And give me one good reason why not," she said as she walked over to Riku who took her hand and gently pulled her down to sit in his lap, planting a soft kiss on her cheek.

"Because it's the stupidest plan ever!"

She scoffed, "I said a good reason. That's just an opinion, and a wrong one at that."

I frowned, gnawing on my lower lip. "Because… because…"

Because I potentially had the warm fuzzies for Lea and I might just completely short circuit if he and I had to act like boyfriend and girlfriend.

But I couldn't say that.

I glanced at him out of the corner of my eye and another thought struck me. I seized it like a drowning woman clings to a life preserver in a hurricane. "Ah! Because Lea hasn't agreed to any of this either!" I declared triumphantly to her before turning to him. "Listen, thank you, it's been sweet of you to humor the nutty pregnant lady this whole time, really, but you can stop now. You don't have to do this. It's okay, we all know you'd rather not."

He tipped his head to one side. "Whatever gave you that idea?"

My gaze averted and I gave a tiny shrug. "Well, you know… you're focusing on your schoolwork at the moment and have that whole… dating embargo thing going on, girls are a distraction and whatnot... I mean, I know it'd only be pretend, but still-"

"Wait, wait, hang on," he held up a hand, blinking a couple times at me. "How do you know I'm not dating at the moment?"

"What, like it's some big secret?" Rayne snerked. "Please, it's public knowledge."

His eyes darted back and forth between us, his brow furrowing. "You two were talking about it? How'd that even come up?"

Abort! Abort! He asks about that which he must never know!

Rayne brushed off, "Don't flatter yourself, Red, it was just girl talk. We also talked about what a cute butt Ventus has!"

I stiffened and scowled at her. "I most certainly did-" I hissed out in pain as she kicked me under the table.

"See?" Rayne grinned brightly.

Not. That was the word my sentence was supposed to end in. Not. I most certainly had not been talking about Ventus's posterior or anyone else's for that matter!

"You wanna run that by me again?" Riku drawled, eyelids drooping at her.

"Shush now, don't be jelly, you know I'll always think your tush is the cutest!" she cooed, pinching his cheek.

Bleh. TMI. Gross.

Lea seemed to be of the same mind as me, if the look on his face was any clue. Shaking his head and ruffling his fingers through his hair, he glanced back towards me, "Anyway… look, if this gets you out of a tough spot, I wouldn't mind. This… wouldn't be a distraction. This is just helping out a friend. I can always make time for that!"

Both eyebrows shot up my forehead. "...you'd really do that? Go along with this absolutely bonkers plan for who knows how long... all just for my sake?"

"Well yeah," he flashed those heart-stopping dimples of his, "I'd do anything for you, El!"

Good bye, oxygen. My lungs didn't need to do a silly little thing like breathing anyway.

"Cuz you're a friend!" he blurted out quickly, scratching the back of his head as his eyes shifted. "And there isn't anything I wouldn't do for… for my friends! Heh!"

Oh. Right. Of course that's what he'd meant.

At ease, lungs. Feel free to return to your regularly scheduled respiring now.

But see? This is what I was talking about. We weren't even fake dating yet and I was already having total core meltdowns at the littlest things he did or said. How could I possibly even hope to function if we actually went through with this whole screwball plan?

"There ya go!" Rayne beamed at me. "Any other objections, sweetie?"

"I, uh…" I wanted to argue. I really did. But I had nothing. Nothing I could say aloud in Lea's presence anyway. And as totally cuckoo as this whole idea was, I had to reluctantly admit that Rayne had made some halfway decent points. Now that I could no longer delay the inevitable and had to talk to my parents, this... would actually make standing up to them a little easier. And as much as it pained me to say it, I wouldn't put it past the Duke to still have someone keeping an eye on me and reporting back to him. So if I didn't want my parents to find out it was all a sham to get them to back off, pretending to be boyfriend and girlfriend actually kind of, sort of, in a totally absurd way… made sense? Somehow?

Still, I hesitated. Worrying my bottom lip between my teeth, I glanced around the table. Rayne watched me expectantly while Riku reached past her for some more popcorn. Lea just gave me a comforting smile. As for Anna, she was texting on her phone. Tch, typical.

Taking a deep breath, I massaged one temple with a grimace and a sigh. "...okay. I guess… we're doing this."

"Yay!" Rayne cheered, throwing her hands up into the air.

Dear lord, had I really just agreed to this madness? Really just hopped on board the crazy train with Rayne and Anna? What even was my life anymore?

"Perfect timing!" Anna looked up from her phone with a toothy grin.

I frowned suspiciously back. "What do you mean?"

She flipped the mobile around to show me her screen. "Daddy Dearest just can't wait to see you and meet your new boytoy tomorrow!"

"What?!" I grabbed it out of her hands, quickly scanning her text exchange with our father.

"Yup!" Still looking pleased as punch, she planted her elbows on the table and propped her chin up in both hands. "Don't worry, I've arranged everything! Told him you wanted to stop by your old condo after work and pick up a few things, ya know, your phone, some clothes, stuff like that! Dad'll be there to unlock the door for you since you don't have your key. And Lea, being an absolute sweetheart that knows how to treat his bae right, will of course be giving you a ride. What'd I tell ya? Perfect! What better way for you two lovebirds to make your royal debut?"

Oh god. This was it. It was really happening. There was no turning back now.

What on earth had I just gotten myself into?

Author's Note: Yup, it's the ol' "hey look, circumstances have forced us to fake date" situation we all know and love! It took some doing, a lil bending over backwards and acrobatics, but finally our ice queen has been convinced to get on board with the plan as well, albeit reluctantly xD Dunno what she's so worried about, this plan is BRILLIANT and FOOLPROOF, I tell ya! I mean, it's gotta be… just look at the conniving masterminds who cooked it up xD

Next chapter, how will this lil visit with Daddy Dearest go? Will our leading lady and man make a convincing, lovey-dovey couple? Or could the plan possibly start to unravel before it's barely even begun? Just how long WOULD someone survive on a healthy, balanced diet of floss, shampoo, and toilet paper anyway? Stay tuned!

Thanks for reading, I super duper appreciate it! And an extra BIG thank you to those of you who’ve liked, reblogged, and followed so far, seeing those lil notifications always brings the biggest, goofiest smile to my face!

FIRST CHAPTER || PREVIOUS CHAPTER || NEXT CHAPTER

9 notes · View notes

ckret2 · 5 years

Note

Prompt, eh? Hmm, perhaps try a monologue from a character's perspective as they come to the horrible realization that are falling deeper and deeper in love. Bonus points if it starts over something as simple as thinking the individual has a cute sneeze.

So my first thought was “oh Ghidorah” but then I was like “but I’ve basically already done that with Ghidorah in the form of arguing with themselves about Rodan, what other character that we both know could I do that with” and then I was like “oh Gigan?”

And then I was like “well obviously he’s gotta have somebody to be monologuing to” and then it uh turned into a whole fic with a plot arc and a cliffhanger instead of a simple monologue, and also took me like seven hours to write instead of thirty minutes.

I haven’t proofed it because it’s 5 a.m.! Enjoy!!!

###

The Fissures Between Flesh and Metal

###

“The first time I saw them,” Gigan said, turned to take in both the bartender and the robot on the stool next to him, “they’d just stolen a million credit job out from under me.”

The bartender rapped the sharp tip of one tentacle against the bar disapprovingly, and the robot let out a low whistle.

“Yeah,” Gigan said. “I was ready to kill them on the spot. The apocalyptic mercenary market’s already crowded enough—there’s practically more people running around who can destroy planets than there are people who actually want a planet destroyed, you know? I’ll put up with professional rivalry, fine, but I’m not gonna take this from some edgy new guys in town who don’t have enough respect for their fellow professionals not to horn in on someone else’s job. Gimme another hit?”

The robot obligingly picked up the battery that it and Gigan had been sharing and quickly pressed the terminals to the side of Gigan’s metal beak. Electricity jolted straight into his brain. He tipped his head back, letting the rush wash through his circuits, his thoughts popping and static flashing in his optical band.

As the power boost sizzled out and he came back down, for a moment he saw a blurry golden shape with three heads and enormous wings. Then his vision cleared and it was gone.

Gigan shook his head. “But as I’m standing in a freshly-leveled village on this planet that shoulda been my job, watching these jerks who undercut me walk strut around and trying to decide the best angle to attack them from, one of them bends over and licks up this smear made out of one of the locals. The other two screw up their faces in disgust, the one that licked it is scraping his tongue off on a rock, the middle one’s biting his horn in revenge—and then the head on the other side takes a taste too, and they do it all over again.” He threw back his head, squawking in laughter. The bartender rattled a couple of tentacles in amusement. The robot just shook its head.

“Anyway,” Gigan went on, “I figured then either they were too damn stupid to realize they’d stolen someone’s job—heck, maybe they were just wild animals that had been dropped off to make a mess—or, they were the most fun guys I’d ever seen. So I let ‘em live.”

“Did you talk to them?” the robot asked. It wasn’t looking at Gigan anymore; its optic was off. A dozen different open tabs in glowing squares and rectangles floated in front of the bot, projected from the computer plugged into its wrist. The robot groped around blindly for the battery and took another hit; the floating screens sizzled and wavered.

Gigan waited for the static to die down before he replied. “Nah, not then. Had no idea what language to start with. I figured if they really were mercs and not someone’s pet planet squashers, I’d eventually run into them again somewhere like this.”

“This” being the bar around them: an illicit pop-up stop clinging precariously to the surface of an asteroid under a makeshift canopy tent, with a smattering of round tables and stools screwed directly into the asteroid’s surface and a bar made out of a row of coolers. Places like this were a dime a dozen in this arm of the galaxy, appearing in a matter of hours and disappearing just as fast, lasting anywhere from a week to five years. All you needed to make one was a force field to keep out nearby asteroids and to keep in enough air to prevent customers’ heads from popping—but providing gravity and breathable air was the customers’ responsibility. The bartender wore goggles and an air filter that snaked around her head to an air tank strapped between three larger tentacles; Gigan had enough internal air storage and a good enough filter in his throat that he’d be fine for hours as long as he didn’t get in a fight. He kept his tail and one leg curled beneath his seat to keep himself from floating off it.

Bars like this were the best place to find odd jobs and the odd guys to do them: hired killers, hackers, thugs, dealers in contraband of all kind. Gigan couldn’t count how many bars like this he and the triple threat had hung out in—either because they’d run into each other there between jobs, or because they’d come together.

“We crossed paths a lotta times over the next, uh…” he waved a scythe vaguely, “dunno. Few centuries, I guess? It’s hard to keep track of standard galactic time when you spend all your time bouncing between different planets with different year lengths. Sometimes we got hired by two different employers to hit the same world—I usually, y'know, got hired as muscle to extort a ransom, but the only jobs they ever did were full mass extinctions. I got to see them in action—wow. They’re a moving force of nature. On the right planets—wet ones, mainly—they create storms hundreds of miles across just by flying.” To the bartender, he said, “You’re from an aquatic world, right? You look like it.”

Rapping on the makeshift bar top with the tips of half a dozen tentacles, the bartender said, “My ancestral world? Mostly aquatic. About four fifths of the planet, I’m told.”

“Yeah, they’d tear your planet to shreds.“ He didn’t have enough appendages to speak the bartender’s percussive language properly—like the robot, he was speaking it by synthesizing the right raps and taps through his speaker—but he added a scrape with one scythe on the bar top to underscore the sentiment.

She shrugged.

"Fought them a few times, too,” Gigan said. “They’re vicious in close combat. It's kill or be killed, no in between. I’d usually have to cut and run, heh, just take the financial hit, cuz there’s no beating them without getting damaged so bad the victory isn’t worth it. They’re probably the best warriors I’ve ever met, but the worst mercenaries to share a market with.”

He thought his tone was admiring, but the robot said, “I thought you got along with each other?”

“We did,” Gigan insisted, and immediately corrected himself, “We do. It just took a while to get properly introduced to each other, you know? Every time I met them, they were in the middle of a job—and they had that whole... intense, mysterious, aloof loner schtick going on. For the longest time, I didn’t even know whether they could talk.” He hooked one of his wrist spurs through the handle of his drink, took a sip through the straw—hated straws, but a lid with a straw was the cheapest way to keep a drink from floating out of a mug and bars like this were nothing if not cheap—and grimaced. Either his drink had gone off in the past five minutes or that battery was messing with his taste buds. Probably the latter. "When we finally met each other properly, it was in—you know that cruddy little strip of solar systems that ended up under no one’s jurisdiction after the 'Rog turf war? Buncha little lawless hellholes?“

The bartender said, "My ancestral home world was in that strip.”

“Sucks,” Gigan said. “Hope it wasn’t one of the ones the 'Rogs asked me to clear out. Anyway, I crossed paths with them in one of the space port cities near the edge of the contested territory. They’d gotten in a bar fight. And lost.”

They’d been thrown across the bar onto their back, legs kicking uselessly in the air, hissing and spitting in the worst Suneri that Gigan had ever heard. Someone had been mad at them because they’d finished the job they’d been hired for even after they'd been told the world had paid the ransom their employer had demanded; they were mad that they’d been ordered to stop when they’d said from the start that wasn’t how they worked. They were twice the height of anyone else in the bar besides Gigan; but they were fighting completely naked—weaponless and defenseless—and consequently got their tails handed to them.

He’d learned a little bit more about them by then. Over past few centuries, he’d asked around about a three-headed, golden, scaled, winged warrior that spat lightning. He'd eventually stumbled on some sparse info about the prize weapons of a conquering empire in some far-flung corner of the galaxy, a race rather like the local Garogas. Their three-headed warriors were some sort of genetically engineered killing machines.

So was Gigan.

The warriors he’d seen were very, very far from their home.

So was Gigan.

Over time, he'd found enough info on the empire to download its dominant species’ language, so when he’d crossed paths with the warriors again and confirmed that they could, in fact, speak—

“I offered to buy them drinks.” In their home world’s language. “And they kicked me in the chest.” He laughed.

It was his fault. He should’ve known that anyone who’d flown that far to get away from their masters wouldn’t wanna hear a stranger speaking their masters’ language. Would Gigan have?

“And this is when you started making friends?” the bartender asked dubiously.

“Sure! It was the first time they didn’t try to kill me,” Gigan said. “And they did let me buy them that drink. They were flat broke. Get this—this is why I kept running into them everywhere—they were snapping up half the jobs on the market because they were doing them for free.”

The robot made a painful-sounding buzz low in its abdomen that Gigan took for a laugh.

“Yeah! Yeah. Remember what I said about that edgy loner schtick of theirs?” He drummed emphatically on the bar top. “They just wanted to watch worlds burn. No money. No rewards. They didn’t turn down anyone stupid enough to hire them, but they don’t take any orders, either. Get what you pay for, huh?”

“What is their name?” the robot asked.

Gigan’s good cheer immediately disappeared. “They don’t have one,” he said sharply.

“Of course they do.”

“No, they said they don’t. They weren’t given one. They wanna be nameless, I’ll respect that.”

“I am in the Xiliens’ military personnel database.”

Gigan leaned over, trying to see the screens from the robot’s angle. “Yeah? You’ve got a connection to their empire from here?”

“A really slow one,” the robot shot back, “patched into the network via a Xilien spy two star systems away who is connected to the home world with the worst ansible I have ever had the displeasure of interfacing with, so I would like to spend as little time doing unnecessary searches as possible. It looks like they have got hundreds of files on three-headed monsters like your buddies. Once I have cracked the security encryption on them, I do not want to open them one by one.”

For a moment, Gigan was silent. Then he said, “They said their home world didn’t name them—it numbered them.”

“Sympathies,” the robot said. “I have still got a bar code on my ass with my factory serial number. Do you know theirs?”

“He said they’re Zero.” He felt like a traitor. They'd only trusted him with that information because they'd believed him when he swore that he'd never call them by their homeworld's label—and certainly that he'd never tell anyone else.

The robot froze momentarily, processing that. “Easy to remember.” One of the screens changed as the robot started searching.

“Just one 'he’ now?” the bartender asked. “You were talking about all three together earlier.”

“Yeah, uh, he as in—as in the one on the left,” Gigan said. He didn't think of the information as coming from them, but from him—the one who'd persuaded the other two to share it, the one who'd leaned in to whisper it to him in the dark while the other two watched for eavesdroppers. “You’ve got lefty, righty, and front-and-center. Totally different people. Lefty’s… probably my favorite. I like them all about the same, but he—makes himself easiest to like, you know? Great sense of humor—the murderous kind—the kind of guy that can find anything entertaining. From explosions to head wounds. That’s rare.”

Although sometimes Gigan had gotten the impression that, on some level, lefty was forcing himself to feel entertained. The more Gigan got to know him, to see under the aloof façade they all put on, the more he got the sense that lefty had this... desperate fragility about him, like he was crumbling apart and looking for something to latch onto—a weird taste or a unique view or a good fight—something to hold him together.

All three of them gave off that impression, truth be told, just in different ways. Righty looked for stability in his other two heads, ever turned inward, to the point he was all but oblivious to life outside of them. Front-and-center held himself together through sheer force of will, and held back anything from getting close enough to touch him and break him apart.

They were all three so very brittle. They had fissures deep in their body and minds, fissures traced along the paths of the invisible scars where they’d been stitched together into a three-headed monster. And whenever Gigan glimpsed that brittleness—whenever they withdrew into themselves at a question about their past, whenever they tried to pretend they weren’t nervous around employers who paraded about mind-controlled thralls, whenever they hesitated in front of a door that said “No Pets” like they didn’t think they qualified as people instead of animals—he felt the fissures between his flesh and his metal, too.

He didn’t like to talk about his fissures. But they liked to talk about theirs even less, so it all worked out neatly—except that, sometimes, he wished he could talk to them about how he kept his from cracking open, in hopes that it could help them too. He hated their brittleness. He hated how it hurt them.

“But they’re all fun,” he said. “Fighting them especially, once you get them to a place where they’re trying to beat you instead of kill you. They don’t mind losing a few body parts, even—they just regrow them. I even saw them regrow front-and-center’s whole head, once. I didn’t take him off, just saw it happen. Fighting alongside them, though—sometimes we'd get hired for jobs together—watching the way they can work a hurricane, wow…” To think that they didn’t think they were people. Had they never heard themselves sing before? Had they never seen the way they danced through clouds and lightning? Had they never noticed how they effortlessly conducted both rain and minds alike like they were symphonies? Didn’t they know that they were maestros in the sky? Their sheer visionary genius, their unsurpassed grace, the beauty of golden scales gyrating through the cloudless eye of a storm…

“Hit me again,” he asked the robot, and he wasn’t sure whether it was in hopes of pushing the images out of his RAM or in hopes of summoning up another hallucinatory vision of them. The robot flicked on its optic long enough to pick up the battery and lean over.

When Gigan came back down, the robot said, “I am not finding any monsters named Zero. Have you got another name?”

“No—what do you mean 'named’? They don’t have names besides numbers, do they?”

“They do. The Xiliens gave them all code names. They are things like 'Death’ and 'Hyper’ and 'Kaiser.’”

Gigan shouldn’t have been surprised that they’d lied about their name, after everything else. But he was. And it hurt. “Well—keep looking. You’ve got the picture I sent you, right?”

“I will have to look through every file individually to find a visual match.”

“I’m paying you for your time, aren’t I? Come on.”

The robot made an irritated buzzing noise, but snapped, “Fine.”

“Why do you have to track them down anyway?” the bartender asked. “If you’re so close.”

Gigan shrugged. “They went and disappeared on me ages ago. I’m just trying to figure out where they went. I figured their home world might be looking for their lost planet-flatteners, so…” Although they’d never said so, he’d always got the sense that they were terrified of their home world—and terrified that they were being followed. Not the vague paranoia that any escaped weapon felt, but like they knew.

“So why’d they take off? You have a fight?”

“No. We didn’t. In fact, the last time we spoke was—was the opposite of a fight.”

The last time they spoke, Gigan had asked them to come with him. For good. He thought they should market themselves as a package apocalyptic deal, let Gigan handle finessing the employers and victims while the triple threat handled the razing. Give the three of them the opportunity to experience the cushy things you can only get when you’re getting paid for your jobs—fine dining, luxury hotels, resort planets—because they deserved those things all the time, not just when they happened to cross paths with Gigan between jobs. Take them to symphonies and operas—he heard them singing, constantly, any time things were still and they thought no one was listening, in languages he’d never learned. Travel the galaxy together. Get as far away from their pasts as they could.

They said they’d think about it.

He’d never seen them again.

He snatched up his drink and irritably stirred the straw, trying to suck up the last drops floating around inside. He slammed the mug back down. "Just trying to see if they tripped and fell in a black hole or something,“ he muttered. "Get me another. Less blood this time, it tastes funky.” The bartender took back the empty mug and opened one of the coolers.

The robot turned on its optic. “I think we have a match,” it said. Gigan immediately leaned over, squinting at the screens. Something in him sparked and simmered when he saw the photo. That was them—far younger, with a near-feral bloodthirst in their eyes that he’d only ever seen when they were fighting for their lives.

“The Xiliens have a database of AWOL monsters where they document their efforts to track them down. It was a lot faster to go through than all the files,” the robot said. “You were right—they are numbered, and they were assigned zero. I believe your friends were the prototype for the others.” It pointed at small text at the top of their file, Monster #0, and then dragged its finger down to the far larger text underneath: KING. “That is their name.”

Gigan wondered why they would rather claim they’d been named “Zero” than “King.” They deserved to be called King. “Well? What’s it say? Do they know where they are?”

The robot pulled up a map of the galaxy. It showed a cone stretching away from their general neighborhood—like the maps that came from trying to predict the path of a hurricane crossing an ocean. It curved counterclockwise in an arc, a little more than half the galaxy’s radius out from the supermassive black hole. The path was thousands of lightyears long and, at its widest point, hundreds across.

“They found faint psychic traces of King’s interstellar path almost a hundred thousand years ago heading roughly along that arc, assuming they continued on the same trajectory,” the robot said. “But that is the most recent data the Xiliens have.”

“It’ll do,” Gigan said. At least it was a starting point. Even if they’d long moved on, Gigan might be able to pick up the trail again if he knew where they’d been. “What are these 'psychic traces’ the Xiliens are tracking? Any way I can track that too?”

“I can look it up, but it will cost you more.”

“Yeah yeah yeah. That’s fine.”

“Hold on,” the bartender said, setting down Gigan’s new drink. “A hundred thousand years ago? You’re looking for someone who disappeared a hundred thousand years ago?”

Gigan winced. “Technically, no. It was—longer than that, actually.”

“How long ago?”

Gigan opened his mouth. And stuck the straw in it so he wouldn’t have to answer.

The bartender tapped out disapproval on the bar top. “They could be anywhere in the galaxy by now.”

“Yeah, if they had any idea how to hitch rides,” Gigan said. “They fly everywhere. With their own wings. They spend long flights inside these things.” He stamped a hooked foot on the asteroid. “And I don’t mean a ship disguised to look like an asteroid, they travel in rocks!”

“This is gross,” the robot said. “Organic brains are gross. But here. I got the unique psychic frequency that the Xiliens are using to track King and blueprints to a machine to do it with. I do not know if they are good blueprints. I refuse to think about brains any more than that.”

“It’ll do. Beam it over.”

The robot mentally transferred over its exorbitant invoice. The instant Gigan transferred payment, it followed up with the files. “Pleasure,” it said, unplugging from its computer and beginning to pack up. It pointed at the battery. “Do you want more?”

“Keep the rest. Consider it a tip.”

“Nice.” It carefully wrapped the battery in a napkin and stowed it with the computer.

Gigan sucked down the rest of his drink, pulled some physical cash out of a compartment in his calf, and slapped it down on the bar.

The bartender put a tentacle over the money and carefully slid it to the edge of the bar so it wouldn't float away. Several taps dragging out into wry scrapes, she said, "Must be a more impressive lay than they look like.“

If Gigan hadn’t already finished his drink, he would have choked. "We never—! I mean—we're—colleagues. Colleague-friend-…mercenaries.” He shifted the leg he had anchored around the bar stool uncomfortably. “Does it... seem like something else?”

Several tentacles rippled in a shrug. “I don’t know anything about your species,” she said. “But in most, no one spends that kind of money, obsesses that amount of time, and crosses that amount of space unless it's for an offspring, a hive mind hub, a nearly-extinct food source, or a mate of some kind.”

Gigan turned that over. In his head, he called up the photo in the file that the robot had sent him. They were so young, so furious, so bestial—so much more broken than they had been even when Gigan knew them. It was a damn pity that the Xiliens kept visual instead of audial files. He wondered if they had sang back then, too.

“Honestly?” he said. “I don’t know much about my species, either.”

His flesh felt icy and his metal felt numb during the few seconds after exiting the bar’s force field as he crossed the asteroid to where he’d parked his junk heap of a ship. He was warm again by the time he’d powered it up and gotten off the rock. He turned toward the nearest proper spaceport that accommodated people of his size and profession. He had a very long search ahead of him, and he had no idea when he was next going to cross paths with a proper spacefaring planet. He had to stock up on supplies.

He needed to buy a ship that wasn’t falling apart, too. Something built for deep space exploration.

Careful not to cut it, he peeled the one picture he had of the triple threat off of his windshield and stowed it in his calf compartment, to transfer to his new ship later.

###

If you wanna read my other KOTM fics, link’s in the source below. It’s mostly Rodorah, but this fic is canon to that verse.

#gigan #king ghidorah #ghidorah #godzilla #kotm #my writing #fanfic #('hey puff what do you like about kotm?' 'worldbuilding alien societies')#('but there's no alien societies in kotm—' 'WORLDBUILDING ALIEN SOCIETIES')#(gig and ghid need a ship name)#perishablehomosexual #ask

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princesslov27 · 7 years

Text

Heart of Earth Chapter 9

Chapter 9

Hanging Around Gym

Jasoslava then proceeded to give her two things to do while on the couch. She started off easy, purposely taking notes while watching the TV. Tasmin did her best but it was hard. She didn't stop though. The girl had to be able to do this. Tasmin worked hard. She knew that she could do it. She just had to push herself. Jasoslava smiles at that. Back at the garage it was finally lunchtime. Gyeong walked over and took from Donny her bag and a picnic blanket, laying it out and setting out various lunch boxes with each person's name on it. The guys smile and sat down. She grins. She had spent hours making sure all the food was just right. Junhyung and Dongwoon grabbed their special hot sauce and added it to their lunch. She looks at them and shrugs. She'd created a hot sauce for their chili that had melted the spoon when she'd stirred it. But if they were happy, that was all. The guys at the food happily. It was just right. She looks over at the others to see if they were happy. They are eating up the food so it was good. She grins, happy they liked it. Especially Gikwang and Yoseob. Donny had brought his own lunch and was eating it. She smiles. Donny was the first to finish and went back to keeping an eye on things. She ate hers slowly. Gikwang finished and went to go help a customer that had come to pick up his car. She watches him. She would need to help him dress differently sometimes. Wait what was she thinking? After Gikwang was done he returned to the garage to work. She got up and went to him. Gikwang gave her a little smile.

"Need something?"

“No I’m done so what can I do?”

"Do you know how to change the oil in a car?"

“Yoseob just taught me.”

"Aw, then the green camry and the three mini coopers need their oil changed.”

She nods and went over to do so. Gikwang opened up the hood of a Lexus and got to work. She wasn’t super happy but she did it. Gikwang didn't notice. To him it was work. She went over and stuck her oily hands on his back after she was done.

"All done?" He asked.

“Yup. All done.”

“Double check the water on those cars then and make sure they are filled up.”

“Yes S.B.”

He chuckled a little. She walks off, moving her hips enticingly. Gikwang shook his head. She was something else. She checked the water and filled it up. The other guys started to join them. She went back to working with Yoseob. Yoseob grins at her, happy to work with her some more. She knew Gikwang was too busy for her and the other guys didn’t appeal like Yoseob.

“What’s with the change in bodyguard?” Yoseob asked. “Something going on?”

“Nothing I want to believe in.”

“Oh…”

“Someone I don’t know said one of you guys would kill me.”

“Eh? What?”

“Yeah you heard it. And so Hakim threatened to not let me come here unless Donny or him or Maria was watching me.”

“Why would we do such a thing? That is ridiculous.”

“Hakim trusts her apparently.”

“And you don’t?”

“No. As you said, you guys killing me would be ridiculous.”

“It is, but Hakim must have a reason to believe her.”

She shrugs.

“You didn’t ask him?”

“No. He’s not even my bodyguard. He’s Great Grandma’s.”

Yoseob nods. She sighs and went back to learning. He smiles and happily worked with her. She got dirty and didn’t care. Yoseob smiles, not many girls would want to do this job. The next day she came in wearing a completely spotless suit. It looked exactly the same but was spotless which didn’t make sense. Yoseob blinked.

“How’d you get the stain outs?”

She smirks. “Now now, that is... not true at all. Why should I worry about getting out stains that won’t easily come out. I know there are ways to do it, I’ve had dresses cleaned with awful stains, but why do that when I could give away my used outfits at the end of the show?”

“You threw out your outfit?”

“No. I put it in a box for when someone wins it.”

“Oh….”

“But I did consider that option in the beginning,” she replies as she went to grab her work tools.

He nods.

“What are you going to do with the money?”

She blinks. “Oh... yeah I did consider selling them too but... that would get too competitive and crazy expensive fast. I did that once with a pair of shoes I didn’t want to wear anymore and they sold for more than four times as much as I paid for them, and that had been over $25,000 and I heard that at one point the system had shut down with the amount of bids on it. A fair competition to win the outfits is what they get.”

“Aw…”

She smiles.

“That’s pretty ridiculous if your shoes went for over $25,000.”

“Um.... no. They went for over $100,000. I bought them for $25,000.”

“Oh, wow that’s insane. “

She laughs.

"Really, who would spend That much on shoes?"

She tilts her head.

"It just seems like a lot."

"Not to me."

"I guess not."

She smiles at him and then got to work. Yoseob smiles and got back to his own work. She looked at them as Doojoon was talking with the producer. The guys got a message from Doojoon.

“The producer wants us to do things with her out of work too.”

“Cool!” Yoseob sent back.

“Why? That’s gonna be a pain,” Junhyung replied.

“Because if nothing interesting happens we won’t get much screen time.”

“Oh I could make something happen, they just would hate it.” Junhyung said.

“If you hurt the girl I’m going to put you in Russia for an hour.”

“That’s not what I meant.”

“Good.”

“And I’d hide in a volcano before I let you put me in Russia.”

“You’d better stay there if you even think of hurting the girl.”

“Wae? You got a crush on her?”

“No. She’s under my protection the moment I signed the contract that’s wae.”

“Uhuh.”

He switched to a chat with only five of them, without Gikwang. “After all, if you can’t tell the child has a crush on Gikwang, you’d be an idiot.”

“I can tell, everyone gets a crush on him. One look at him in a tank top and they all fall head over heels for him.”

“Only Gikwang never notices.”

“Cuz he’s too into his cars.”

“He can’t marry a car. Or have relations with one.”

“Yes, I know.”

Doojoon went back to the first chat. “Gikwang, where should we go?”

“Coffee I guess. Nothing that would take too long. We still have work to do.”

“What about at night?”

“You know what I do at night. I’m not sacrificing that.”

“Gikwang, one night. You should hang out with humans anyway and going clubbing won’t hurt you. And we’re going, even if I have to drag you. Actually that gives me an idea,” he says and sent a smirking emoticon before putting his phone away and walking over to Gyeong and whispering in her ear and her whole face lit up.

Gikwang groaned. He liked flying high into the sky and getting some nice cleaner air. Down here on the ground it was too stuffy, at least above the clouds it was a little better. Doojoon shot him a glare. Gikwang flashed his eyes at him from under the car. He rolls his eyes.

“You two always fight,” Yoseob said.

“That’s because I look at it as we’re here on Earth, we need to fit in and expand our business and Gikwang sees it as, we’re here till we’re cleared and then we’re out of here and there’s no point in getting to know people because humans have such short lives.”

“That and you know it’s harder on him than the rest of us. We can go to areas that are best for us if we need to. He can’t. It’s too polluted here.”

“Hyunseung doesn’t complain. But yes it’s gotten quite polluted. Although I think it’s ironic that we have a garage since cars are one of the major pollutants.”

“Yes but he likes the mechanics of the cars.”

“That’s true.”

“He’ll come around.”

“Well even if he doesn’t we’ll have a fun bit thanks to our lil protege.”

“True.”

“And lots of video of something that I will laugh at for centuries to come.”

“If we’re here for centuries.”

“We’ve already been so, so why wouldn’t we?”

“Things just seem to be getting more serious back home so we may be able to return when it’s all over.”

Doojoon nodded.

“It would be nice to go home.”

“I suppose.”

“You don’t want to?”

“No. There’s an insane dictator back at home for me.”

“Unless they win the war.”

He gave a half smile.

“It could happen.”

“I hope.”

“We all do.”

He then went back to work. The rest of them did as well. Although Gikwang hadn’t stopped working. Gyeong couldn’t stop grinning the rest of the day. Around five Gikwang took a few phone calls while the others got changed. Gyeong went over and took his hand.

“Need something?”

“You,” she replies and pulls him along to her limo.

Gikwang blinked.

“Me, what for?”

She grins as they drove and then she pulled him out at a high end store.

“Because we’re going shopping.”

“Uh...okay, you weren’t gonna let me change first?”

"Why? You'll be wearing the outfits in the end."

"So I don't ruin whatever I touch."

She looks at him and then took out her kit and found the hand cleaners and began to clean his hands. He took the cleaner and cleaned his own hands.

"Thanks."

"Of course," she replies before pulling him out and into the store beginning to search for the stuff he'd want.

Gikwang looked around a bit. He usually didn't buy high end clothes. He had no use for them. An attendant brought him to the changing room where clothes already were waiting for him. Gikwang could tell he wouldn't win so he started to change. She waited outside excitedly. After a bit he came out wearing the outfit. Gyeong was wearing a sexy dress and looked him over.

"You look nice."

She grins. "Thanks, I think so too."

He laughed a bit.

“Now let’s go have fun.”

"Okay.."

She pulled him along again, only stopping to swipe her card and sign for the entire outfit before she left with him changing into her own outfit in the limo as they drove.

"I can pay for my own."

"So?"

"So...what?"

"Exactly. So what?"

“You didn’t have to pay for me.”

“And I did.”

“Still.”

“Pay me back another time.”

“Okay..”

She put on her strapless dress and then her heels. He smiles at her, she looked nice. She smiles back. This was gonna be so much fun. He sighed a little, well there was no getting out of this now.

“Ah I hear a resigned sigh. Cool.”

He laughed a little. She then took off her bra and thong, before sliding out as the limo stopped. By now the fans had figured out where she was and were eager to snap photos as they got out. She was able to not let them see her private areas and she signed things. Gikwang did his best to stay out of the photos but she knew that her with an unknown man would make the fans curious. She didn’t say anything. Gikwang got into the car while she was signing autographs. She glares and went back and brought him out dragging him into the club. He groaned inwardly but followed her in. The guys and the crew waved to them. Gikwang shot Doojoon a glare. He was gonna pay for making him stay in this stuffy place. Doojoon hands him a drink.

“Be fun.”

“The air is too stuffy,” he grumbled.

“That means you’re doing it right. Ooo, look, some girls checking you out. Go play nice,” Doojoon responds pushing him in the direction.

“No it doesn’t!”

“Shut up.”

Gikwang glowered at him. Doojoon would pay for this. Seriously. The air in here was TERRIBLE. Doojoon left him with the girls and went to go get his own drinks and watch everyone. The other guys were having a blast. Although Hyunseung, like Gikwang, didn’t like the air in the club. It was difficult to deal with. Gyeong was shaking up the club. At the same time, Ilhoon had come in the club to check it out. Gikwang and Hyunseung spotted him and gave him a small polite bow. His eyes lit up and he grins. Alexis showed her ID at the door and stepped into the club. The Midnight Moon was a club that allowed minors until midnight, after that it was exclusively for people nineteen and over. Ilhoon saw her from across the room and tried to find a way to hide. The girl was kinda.... Hard to approach. Alexis smiled at the bar keeper and he gave her the usual non-alcoholic drink she ordered. Ilhoon went over and stood with Gikwang and Hyunseung.

“Exploring the city?” Hyunseung asked.

“And the competition.”

Hyunseung chuckled.

“Wouldn’t that be your brother? Most of the guys here are not looking for a bride, they’re looking for a hook up.”

“Different competition. The business. But yes looking for a bride here might not work out so well.”

“Aw, that competition.”

“All depends on what you’re looking for in a bride. A few girls are just here to have fun and meet people.”

He nods slowly.

"How is your place going" hyunseung asked.

“Nearly finished.”

“Aw, that’s good.”

“It is indeed.”

“Make sure you get a good air purifier, or else it’s gonna be horrible.”

"Seems like it."

“Yeah, that’s the main reason I don’t go to clubs”

"Well I'll search for a good air purifier."

“Good. You wouldn’t be able to stand your own place if you don’t.”

He nods at that.

“And that’s why Gikwang is in such a foul mood.”

“I see...”

“I’m not in a foul mood.”

“I’m sorry friend but it does seem that way.”

Gikwang glared at Hyunseung.

“You’re the one threatening Doojoon.”

“And he’s the one pushing things.”

“You wouldn’t have come if he hadn’t. Even if all of us had asked you nicely or begged you on our knees you wouldn’t have come. And what does that say to all of the people watching? That you aren’t a part of our group. You barely hang out with us at work, you don’t help us or Gyeong, you basically look like a one track mind jerk. You never hear Gyeong when she asks things, you never help us train her, the only time the two of you are together on screen besides when she makes us lunch is the second day when you were giving her orders. And hanging out with us, oh no, that doesn’t happen. Besides lunch. But you eat your lunch, don’t talk with us, and get right back to work.”

“I hang out with you guys, I just prefer not to do it on TV. They always twist things. And need I remind you that she is only at the garage as part of a show. She’ll be gone in a few weeks.”

"I don't think so. She adores us."

“Yeah……”

Hyunseung chuckles.

“So, found anyone you’re interested in yet?” Gikwang asked Ilhoon.

“I’ve found a girl I need to avoid because she hates me.”

“Wow, you’ve only been here a week and you’ve already managed to make someone hate you?”

“Every time she sees me she freaks out.”

“How did you get that reaction out of her?”

“It started off with me trying to be nice by giving her and her friend a jewel each. They shot it down and called me a thief. Then the next time I saw her she called me a thief again. And then the third time she ran screaming away from me after I helped her.”

“You gave her a jewel? No wonder she called you a thief. People don’t just walk around with jewels here. Did you help her while in your true form?”

“No.”

“Aw, well that’s good.”

He sighs. Gikwang gave him a little pat.

“Perhaps her opinion will change.”

“It’d be nice.”

“You interested in her?”

“Uh.... no.... maybe.... I don’t know.”

Gikwang chuckles.

“Well you’ve got time to figure it out.”

“Yeah it probably won’t be her so just make sure to keep staying where you are.”

“What, scared she’ll see you?”

“Yes since she just walked in.”

“You know this is the first time I think that you’ve ever been scared of a girl.”

“On an emotional level, she’s terrifying.”

“Probably cuz she’s the first girl who’s ever said no to you.”

He sighs a little. “Well that is true.”

“It’ll be interesting to see what women you’ll be able to find.”

“I don’t get women here.”

“What don’t ya get?”

“Everything.”

“Okay so give me an example, or ask me a question. I’ve been here long enough to know about the women here.”

“You mean you’ve slept with enough of them,” Hyunseung said.

“I don’t know Gikwang. You’re a great friend but I’ve never heard of you in an actual relationship.”

"That's cuz I don't wanna get attached. Girls cause too much drama."

"Do you like guys then?"

"No!"

Ilhoon slowly nods.

"Jeez, why would you think that?"

"Because you just said you don't like women."

"I'm not interested in any of the women here."

"Ah."

He gave a little smile.

"Anyway you're a good shield so just keep it that way."

Gikwang chuckled a little. He kept an eye on where Alexis was. She chatted with the bartender and then started to mingle. He kept himself at an angle around Gikwang that was not in her view. Gikwang chuckled a little but didn’t say anything. Then he glanced over at who the girl was.

“Wait, it’s Alexis?” He laughed.

“Yeah so?”

“Go figure. She’s a friend and regular at the garage.”

“Eh?”

“That’s true. I always wonder why she never applied to the garage,” Hyunseung replies.

“Cuz she doesn’t know much about cars. She comes in for every little thing,” Gikwang said with a laugh.

Hyunseung nods. “Also true.”

Alexis spotted Hyunseung and Gikwang and grins. She finished her conversation with the guys that she was talking with and headed over. Ilhoon grimaces and tried to slowly get away. Gikwang grabbed his hand.

“Come on, she’s nice. You just got off on the wrong foot.”

“I don’t think so my friend.”

“And what would the others say if they heard you were scared of a seventeen year old girl?”

He sighs and put on a fake smile. Alexis smiles at the guys.

“Fancy meeting you two here. Especially Gikwang oppa. You never come to clubs.”

“Yes well Doojoon dragged me along,” he said with a little chuckle.

“And he’s planning on killing Doojoon for it.”

“He’d have to beat Doojoon first, Doojoon is just as strong.”

“True. Isn’t it Gikwang?” Hyunseung responds with a laugh.

Ilhoon was just glad she wasn’t noticing him. Then she spotted Ilhoon.

“What? Avoiding me now? How do you guys know him?”

“I thought you were avoiding me. You ran away. And hit me. And accused me of being psycho and a thief,” he responds angrily.

“You were following me in the dead of night. How does that not make you a creep?”

“I was not. Someone else did and I defeated him.”

“Huh?”

He rolls his eyes. “Never mind.”

“Ilhoon is an old friend,” Gikwang told her. “He’s new to Korea so he’s not used to the way things are here. He may seem….” Gikwang paused and glanced at Ilhoon. “Well...odd but he’s perfectly harmless.”

Ilhoon sighs. Gikwang gave him a wink.

“He’s Gikwang’s friend. I knew of him but hadn’t really met him before,” Hyunseung replies.

“Aw…”

“How did you guys become friends?”

“I kept going to the garage to get my car fixed. I’m terrible with cars.”

Ilhoon opened his mouth and then saw Hyunseung’s face and closes it giving a little nod. He didn’t know what that was but obviously he was supposed to know.

“Yeah, you can’t even change a flat,” Gikwang teased.

“Not my fault, I’m too busy with my jobs to try and figure it out.”

Ilhoon nods a little.

“You work too much. What is it now? Three, four jobs?”

“Well I got a new one, so four. If it works out well I may be able to only have one.”

Ilhoon looked at her as if she was crazy.

“Well I hope it works out,” Gikwang said.

“Me too. You deserve a break. How do you even manage that with high school?” Hyunseung asks.

“Easy, work early mornings and late nights. Days on the weekend.”

“And when exactly do you sleep?” Ilhoon and Hyunseung asked in unison.

"After work. Sometimes during lunch."

They look at her worried.

“What?”

"That doesn't sound like a lot of sleep time."

“I get enough.”

"Well if you say so."

"I do. Besides I can always get little cat naps here and there."

They give half smiles.

“So what are you all drinking? I can’t wait until I’m twenty and then I get to drink.”

“I haven't gotten a drink yet," Ilhoon admits.

"One of the 'girl drinks' as people call them with all the amazing alcohol content."

“Aw, I hear the casmo is good.”

"It really is."

She nods. A little jealous. Well she didn’t get the drinks yet but she still liked coming to the club. Ilhoon studied her.

“What? Have something on my face?”

"No."

“Uh….okay.”

"Just amazed you are fine with me."

She chuckled.

“If you were up to something Gikwang and Hyunseung would stop you.”

"I've never been up to anything... I'm just looking for my bride."

“Bride? What are you, twenty? You’re either still in college or only got a two year degree. A little early in your life to get married.”

Actually he was 50 cycles but.... “No, I’m not 20.”

“Okay well ya look it.”

Gikwang held back a laugh. Ilhoon was younger than he was by five cycles but in human form they looked the same age. Ilhoon gave a half smile.

“I was under the impression I looked 25.”

“That’s a stretch.”

“Oh.”

“Maybe, maybe twenty-two.”

He gives her a smile.

“Got it.”

“You going to the basketball game on Sunday? Or are you not gonna be able to be on the team this time?”

“Huh?” Ilhoon asks.

“I can make it,” Hyunseung replies. “Gikwang?”

“As long as we get no really old cars I should be able to make it. The other guys aren’t as good as me when it comes to old cars.”

“Then you’d better pray there isn’t any. Once Gikwang sets his eyes on something he doesn’t stop,” Ilhoon replies.

Hyunseung and Alexis chuckled.

“Of course, he’s always like that. And not just with cars. Women too.”

“Yeah he’d have to find a woman.”

“He does all the time.”

“You’re joking right? Oh wait I see.... It’s not a relationship he’s after.... It’s what is supposed to happen in one.”

“Haven’t you heard of a one night stand?”

“It’s quite common amongst warriors and commoners I’ve heard.”

"Commoners?"

He blinks. “Isn’t that what it is?”

"Nobody is a commoner."

He scratches his head. Then what was the word?

“Everyone is just a regular person. Unless you’re a celebrity or something like that.”

“Regular?”

“Yeah, regular.”

“I.... see...”

“I don’t think you do, but whatever.”

He looks down. He couldn’t refute her. She was correct. Gikwang gave him a little pat. Yes Ilhoon had much to learn about Earth but they’d all gone through it. He’d figure it out fast enough. Ilhoon gave him a smile. Alexis glanced at the time.

“Well looks like my break is over. See you Saturday guys.”

Ilhoon and Hyunseung wave. Gikwang ruffled her hair a little and Alexis gave him a slight shove as she left. Ilhoon felt a little jealous but didn’t say it.

“Gikwang was never a playboy around you?” Hyunseung asked.

“No way.”

“Aw, well he is here.”

“Oh wow. Well then Gikwang. I guess you like the challenge without the commitment.”

Gikwang nods.

“And it’s pretty common here.”

“It was pretty common back in Elufma too. Just not for royals.”

“True..”

“You just weren’t like that.”

“Yeah, but here all that is unknown. It’s kinda nice to be a nobody.”

“Yes I suppose that’s true. And you probably aren’t looking for a life partner here.”

“No, I’m not.”

“Is.... making love nice?”

“It’s pretty good. Of course it would be so much better if I could be myself. But at least this way I won’t get the girl pregnant.”

“Oh? Really?”

“I hope you mean you’re using protection. As we’ve found out, our DNA can mix,” Hyunseung responds as he points to Gyeong.

“Of course I do.”

Ilhoon blinks.

“What?”

“Protection? And who is she?”

“Protection as in taking steps to make sure the girl doesn’t get pregnant.”

“You can do such a thing? I thought there was only the constant lovemaking to ensure she got pregnant.”

“I’m not trying to get the girl pregnant.”

“Ah...”

“Yeah.”

He gives a half smile. Gikwang gave a little smile. Doojoon came over and hands Gikwang another drink. It was Gikwang’s favorite and he grinned as he took it. Doojoon chuckles.

“You always know what I like.”

“Indeed, except who you’ll settle down with.”

“Nobody.”

“Oh? Really? You plan on never leaving a legacy of any kind?”

“Not here, if I want to leave one I might consider adopting.”

“I wasn’t talking about her I was talking about in general.”

“If I make it back home then yeah, I’ll settle down.”

Doojoon chuckles. “Well you adopting a child wouldn’t be bad. Would let you look after more than yourself.”

“I look after you guys plenty. Who drives you home when you all get drunk? Mmm? Mmm?”

“Tonight that’ll be Gyeong’s limo driver.”

“Yeah, but not most nights.”

“True.”

Gikwang gave a little smile. Gyeong was enjoying herself, maybe a little too much. Gikwang shook his head. She was trouble. Doojoon looks at him.

“What?”

“Just look at her. She’s gonna get drunk before the night is out.”

“Ah.... yeah I already told the bartender to only give her soda drinks now.”

“Yeah, trouble.”

“You like trouble.”

“What? No.”

“Yes you do. You like the most troublesome cars and women.”

“Cars are completely different.”

“Not really.”

“That’s your opinion.”

“Yes I see. It’s because cars don’t talk back to you.”

“And they don’t have crazy emotions.”

"Oh please. You're more emotional than any woman."

“I am NOT!”

Doojoon laughs at that. Gikwang gave him a little shove. He chuckles and took another sip of his own drink. Gikwang finished his own drink.

"You need another?"

“Nope I’m good.”

“Really?”

“Yes. I don’t drink as much as you.”

Doojoon rolls his eyes. "I drink responsibly."

“For what you are yes, not for a human.”

He chuckles at that.

“Lucky for you no one has pulled you over for DUI.”

"I don't drink and drive."

“You do, just not when you’re drunk by our standards.”

He rolls his eyes. Gikwang gave a little smile.

“If I am not drunk I can drive.”

“Uh huh.”

"You fly drunk."

“No I don’t!”

He laughs.

“It would be way too dangerous to do that.”

He laughs a little.

“I mean it.”

"Really?"

“Of course, it would be like driving while drunk.”

“You really need to relax.”

“I am relax.”

“Not really.”

“It is what it is.”

“I dare you to kiss our female member.”

“That can easily be arranged, but what ya give me for it?”

“I said dare not bet.”

“Oh, it would be so much more fun if it was a bet.”

“Fine we can make it a bet. I bet ya 10 K ya won’t do it. So what do you give me?”

“I’ll bet the same that I will.”

“Fair enough.”

“Then prepare to pay up,” He said as he handed Doojoon his empty glass and walked towards Gyeong.

Gyeong had just finished a dance and was at the bar getting another drink. Gikwang smiled at her.

“Looks like you’re having fun.”

“I am.”

“That’s good. You sure drink a lot though.”

“Not really. I know that Doojoon hasn’t let me have an alcoholic drink since my second one. And you.... What do you want Gikwang?”

“Doojoon is over protective as always,” He said and then gave her a kiss on the lips.

She went a little red and then she got mad and knees him. “I don’t like to be toyed with.”

Gikwang winced slightly but chuckled a little.

“It’s not funny. I will hurt you and I don’t care what powers you have,” she responds angrily.

“You’re here for fun, we’re just having fun.”

“So you think it’s fun to treat me like an easy object,” she responds with a snort.

“I didn’t say you were easy, I just like playing around.”

“Oh. Sure. You’re sooooo nice,” she responds sarcastically her anger activating her powers and water and other liquids shooting at him. She stormed off and outside, where it started to rain. Gikwang couldn’t help but laugh. She was feisty and cute. Doojoon laughs as well.

“That was worth $10,000. Priceless.”

“If you tell her you’ll owe me twice as much.”

“Oh? To pay you $20,000 I’d rather you at least got to third base. But you couldn’t do that with the way she feels about you now unless you raped her. Which I would put you down if she didn’t for. Although I’m sure you’d feel bad about it cuz that’s not you anyway.”

“Of course it’s not. I’d never rape a girl.”

“You are gonna have to apologize at some point though.”

“I will, after she cools off.”

He nods.

“Besides, if I just say that now she’ll still blow up at me. Again.”

“True.”

Gikwang nods. He knew how girls took things. Doojoon hands him back his drink cup. Gikwang smiles a little and took it.

"All transferred."

Gikwang chuckled a little.

"I should be the one who got the laugh, what are you laughing at?"

“Nothing”

He frowns a little.

“I’m fine.”

“That’s good.”

“You should worry about someone else.”

“Oh. Why?”

“Cuz I’m not one to cause trouble.”

“Yeah and?”

“So worry about someone else.”

“I worry about all of you, causing trouble or not.”

“Why? You’re not our dad.”

“Because it’s better than worrying about my son and daughter.”

“Still no word?”

“None.”

“I’m sorry. I know that’s hard.”

He nods.

“I guess I’m the lucky one then.”

“Why?”

“I don’t have anyone waiting for me.”

“That also makes you sad.”

Gikwang shrugged.

“It’s the way things are.”

“Yeah...”

“For now..it’s best not to get attached to Earth.”

“You mean you wouldn’t want to come visit?”

“No, that’s not what I meant.”

“Why can’t we get attached to Earth?”

“Think about it. If we’re able to go home things will be different. Say we come back in a month, our month, over a century will have passed. Everyone we knew will be dead and technology will be completely different.”

“And? That makes it exciting.”

“How is that exciting?”

“The thing I like about Earth is how much it can change in a short amount of time. How much it forces you to learn things and not keep idle. Back home nothing really ever changes.”

“You don’t like our ways?”

“I do. But nothing changes. It’s boring compared to Earth.”

“Well I’m sure you could change things.”

“How could we change anything? We’re just warriors.”

“Okay I could. You’re forgetting that Prince Ilhoon and I are good friends.”

“Point made.”

“But right now that is not the issue. The issue is the war.”

“Yeah...”

“Guess we’ll have to wait and see how it turns out.”

“Since we can’t participate.”

Gikwang nods. He sighs again.

“But it is what it is, we can’t do anything about it.”

“Unfortunately.”

“One day we’ll go back.”

“Thanks.”

“Of course.”

He took a deep breath.

“Well I’m heading back. I can’t stand it in here anymore.”

“Fine.”

Gikwang paid for his drinks and left. She was still standing in the rain.

“You want me to call you a cab?” Gikwang offered.

She looks at him.

“Wae? So you can try to seduce me in it?”

“No, I’m flying back to our place. The cab would just be for you.”

“Lucky...” she finally said.

He chuckled a little.

“It’s the best way to get any breathable air.”

“The air’s perfectly fine,” she responds in confusion.

“You must be joking.”

“Um.... no?”

“The air here is terrible. Very polluted.”

“You sure?”

“Yes, of course I am sure.”

“Oh...”

“That’s what I miss the most from home. Pure, clean, good air.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Not much anyone can do about it.”

“I suppose that’s true.”

“So, would you like a cab?”

“The limo’s over there.”

“Oh..right. Then get in it before you catch a cold.”

She looks at him and slowly did so, though she’d never caught one before. He shut the door for her and then headed down an alley while the limo drove away. She enjoyed it. The club was a good twenty minutes away from the palace and when she arrived back it was passed midnight. She yawns a little and walked inside. Her maid met her just inside and lead her back to the bedroom. She smiles at that and undressed and snuggles up. The maid cleaned up the scattered clothes, put more wood on the fire and turned out the light before she left. She fell asleep quickly, enjoying herself. Gikwang flew high into the sky. Escaping the brightness of the city and the horrible air. She fell asleep wondering how he was doing. Gikwang flew for over an hour. He liked being able to fly. He got to go where most people couldn't. The guys eventually left. When they got back nobody was at the garage, Gikwang was still gone. The rest of them went to bed, Hyunseung went up into the sky like Gikwang. Up above the clouds the air was clear and was much better than the air below the clouds and close to the cities. Even still, while Hyunseung agreed the air was awful, he didn't agree that Earth was awful because of it. Gikwang was heading back when he saw Hyunseung and flew over to join him.

“Evening.”

#princess supernatural stories #Heart of Earth #B2ST #BtoB #highlight

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