Loud

⭒ Dan Feng x gn!reader ⭒

Summary: Your curse was catching up to you. You knew from the wear in your bones and the pain in your chest. The last person you expected to see showed up in front of you with the face of your past lover.

Warnings: Angst!! With comfort-ish!

w/c: 1.4k

loud notes: I feel like this was one was a little messy but I'm still going to post it just because I can lol.

“After all this time, now you decide to show up?” 

Your voice was cold, laced with a sizzling venom. The expression on your face was nothing short of rage, a fire crackling in your narrowed eyes. Your robes covered your entire body, each movement of yours having a graceful edge.  

You turned away from the edge of the balcony, gliding over to him, staring into his eyes. The same beautiful pale blue that had been ingrained into your mind for centuries. But time had made you hate the colour blue entirely. Even the blue sky you despised because it was all too similar to the pair of eyes piercing your very soul. 

“Now that I am nearing my last breath, you dare show your face and disrupt the peace I have maintained for so long?” You snarled, voice taking on a deadly edge. “I do not get you, Dan Heng. Not you or your decision to journey onto the Express. I do not get why you are so alike to him but all too different.” 

Dan Heng faced you with the face of a man who was already used to the hostile looks he’d been served his entire life. Like he was used to being blamed for the deeds of another person’s crimes. Though, with you, it appeared more difficult to keep his expression straight. 

“I did not mean to cause a fuss,” he began, breathing deeply. “I am truly sorry that you are nearing your end. I figured you would have some answers, but I will not disturb you anymore with my presence.” 

You cursed under your breath, fighting off the urge to smack him upside the head with everything you had. But what he had said made you curious. 

“Wait,” you groaned. “What do you mean by answers?” 

Dan Heng stopped in his tracks, throwing his gaze over his shoulder. “About Dan Feng. I figured that you would know more about him than I do due to the rumours about you two being quite close.” 

“People just don’t know when to shut their mouths,” you said, running a hand through your hair. “But I suppose I can at the least admit that my... relationship, with Dan Feng was complicated.” 

“Complicated how?” Dan Heng urged. 

You shook your head with a sharp click of your tongue. “You are so stubborn. Just like that stupid Vidyadhara himself.” 

Under his curious gaze, you relented. 

“At some point in time, before he was consumed by his ideals, he was my closest comrade. My best friend, I would say. There were days where we would lie beneath the moonlight on the wet sands of the beach, shoulders touching as we watched the stars hang above us.” You rubbed your eyes, feeling nostalgic as you talk about Dan Feng with his reincarnation. “Though most depict him as a cruel, selfish, self-centred scoundrel, he was so much more than that.” 

You took a seat on a nearby bench, your quivering legs unable to keep you upright much longer. 

“There were days where I would feel like the world was meaningless, questioning my place in the universe. I wondered just how long I would have left with him, how I needed to treasure the memories I had with him before my demise,” you recalled. “He would go out of his way to provide me with flowers, unbothered when I lashed out at him for no reason whatsoever. He was considerate, kind, the most amazing man I have ever met in my very long life.” 

Dan Heng had at some point taken a seat beside you, listening with his hands neatly folded in his lap, brows furrowed. It was like he was hearing another version entirely of Dan Feng. He knew all too well of the crimes that Dan Feng committed in his time, but hearing you speak so lovingly about him made him hesitate. 

“You sound as if you were lovers,” Dan Heng spoke softly, lifting his gaze as you locked eyes. 

You smiled wryly, tucking a grey strand behind your ear. “Yes, I suppose we were. Then the selfish scoundrel decided to get himself into trouble, leaving me all alone in this forsaken world.” 

The young Vidyadhara fell silent, lost for words. 

“Dan Feng and I weren’t all that secretive about our intricate relationship. If anything, he dared to look the entirety of the Xianzhou Luofu in the eye and present our love like it was a treasure so priceless that anyone else couldn’t live up to it,” you laughed, wiping a stray tear from your eye. “Even after he was tried, the High Elders thought that he deserved more punishment. That was where I came in.” 

Dan Heng frowned, turning to you with confusion in his beautiful eyes. “Your name wasn’t listed in the Luofu’s records of Dan Feng’s trial though.” 

“Just because it wasn’t listed in history doesn’t mean that I wasn’t present,” you grumbled. “But this was after his trial. After he was sentenced for his so-called crimes. This was when gave me my curse.” 

“You curse?” Dan Heng questioned. 

You smiled lightly, slipping off the delicate white gloves that had been adorning your hands. Your fingers felt the Xianzhou cool air brushing against your bare skin after being hidden for so long. 

“Not a pretty sight, is it?” You hummed, presenting your hand. Purple cracks lined your palm, trailing beneath your sleeves, the skin around it a deep red. This was just one part of your body affected by the curse laid upon you. “This was my price for loving Dan Feng. Despite me not being an accomplice to Dan Feng, I was labelled guilty by the High Elders for having too much love in my heart for a man I knew was the one I wanted to spend my entire life with.” 

Half-way through your speech, you could hear Dan Heng’s ragged gasp. You knew this was a lot for him to take in. The High Elders were never the most truthful, expecting Dan Feng to fold to their whims. But he didn’t, and you couldn’t have been prouder. 

“If it’s easier to label me a liar than accept the truth, do that.” 

Dan Heng’s head turned toward you. “What?” 

“If you need someone to blame until your mind is ready to accept the truth, then please do call me a liar in your head. Sometimes letting yourself blame another person is much easier than accepting who was in the wrong in the first place.” 

You watched Dan Heng’s brows furrow and rise, like he wasn’t able to land on one single expression. You almost felt bad for the boy in that moment, but you doubt he would accept your pity. He was like Dan Feng in too many ways, but entirely different in others. 

“I’m not going to do that,” Dan Heng said finally. “Blaming someone isn’t going to disregard history. Letting my emotions get the best of me is not who I am, and I doubt that blaming you will make any of this better. You’re the one with the curse. I should be apologising to you.” 

“You don’t need to keep apologising for Dan Feng’s actions. I know you’re not the same person. Reincarnation means to lead on a new life. Being blamed for another person’s actions isn’t fair,” you said. “I was hostile at the start of this conversation, wasn’t I? Blaming you for the fact that Dan Feng had to leave me. Not out of his own free will, but because of those narcissistic elders that think they rule the world.” 

You place a hand upon his back, patting it softly. “Go and live a fulfilling life, Dan Heng. The best thing you can do for yourself is continue on your fulfilling journey with your lovely companions. Explore the stars with the fervour and wonder of a starstruck child.” 

Dan Heng almost instinctively jerked at the touch, a familiar shiver going down his spine. He looked at your face, the almost sad smile that rested on your worn skin. Though you didn’t look old in appearance, the heaviness of life lay heavy in the dimness of your eyes. 

“How do you live knowing that you’re dying because of someone else’s actions?” Dan Heng asked, wringing his palms. “Do you not hate Dan Feng for your fate?” 

“No,” you replied. “I don’t think I could ever have it in me to hate him. He will live in my heart until my very last breath. For then, I will count down the days until I can feel his warm embrace again.” 

“Even if he was the reason you’re dying?”  

⭒ Welt Yang x gn!reader ⭒

Summary: You were sick to do death of feeling so utterly useless. Your thoughts kept you up in the middle of the night where you find yourself in the Party Car, drinking coffee. Welt joins you.

Warnings: Angst!!

w/c: 1.1k

loud notes: I don't know if I got his speech right, but please tell me if its OOC!! Also, I just use Caelus as the Trailblazer instead of Stelle as I always use Caelus instead of Stelle. Still love her though! Just a personal preference.

You sat at the bar in the Party Car, your head buried in your hands as you feel exhaustion tugging at your eyelids. Yet no matter how much you wanted to, you just couldn’t sleep. Despite your sluggish limbs and your brain being half turned off, sleep never graced you. 

For hours you had been lying in your bed, staring up at the ceiling, blinking slowly. The sheets were bunched up around, pillow on your chest, your mind running over the recent experiences of past worlds.  

Belobog, the frozen wasteland, where the three youngsters defeated Madam Cocolia. The Xianzhou Luofo, dealing with the Mara-Struck and Phantylia. Penacony, with Sunday trying to revive the fallen Aeon, Ena the Order, where he then came to be on the Express. Amphoreus, a world built on code, a cruel experiment. And now, you’re going to be going Planarcadia, Himeko’s home world. 

Despite the years passing, everything felt like it was going so fast. It was as if you were somehow falling behind, even if you were there for everything. You remember when you first boarded the Express; when it was just Himeko, Welt and Pom Pom.  

You had watched Dan Heng, March and Caelus all board the Express, making it their new home. It was like you had somehow acquired three grown children, with their bickering and childish tendencies, and it felt like you were their parent. 

“Shush, can I have a coffee, please?” You groaned, rubbing at your eyes. “Not the Himeko kind.” 

“Coming right up!” The robot chirped. “Would you like some entertainment while you wait? I update my party playlist, and I also have remote access to the disco ball.” 

“Just coffee,” you said. “No party.” 

“Are you sure don’t want a more mind-numbing option?” Shush suggested. “I promise that I don’t disappoint!” 

“Coffee. Now.” 

Shush let out a huff, the robot, whirring away to go and make your coffee. You could vaguely hear him muttering about how you should have more manners. 

You heard footsteps behind you, but you didn’t look up. You already knew who it was by the lightness of their footsteps, as well as the soft grunt he let out. You raised your hand, gesturing him over. 

“I didn’t expect you to be up this late,” Welt said, sitting in the stool next to you. “Nightmares, I presume?” 

“I didn’t even get the chance to sleep to have a nightmare,” you huffed, grabbing the mug as soon as Shush placed it on the counter, muttering a quick thank you. You took a long sip, feeling the bitter burn on your tongue.  

“Since you suggested me having nightmares, I’m guessing you’re up for your own creepy crawlies,” you said, your spine making an awful popping sound as you straightened out. “Care to share? Or are you going to leave me wondering about whatever your mysterious mind is thinking?” 

“It’s nothing,” Welt said. “Just memories of my past invading my dreams. I’m more than used to it.” 

“That doesn’t mean it’s pleasant,” you snorted. 

You set your mug down, sliding it across to Welt. The man raised a brow, looking at the mug cautiously. 

“Relax. It’s not Himeko’s god-awful coffee,” you chuckled. “This is a perfectly normal brew of coffee with two sugars and a spoonful of coffee. Shush knows exactly how I prefer it. I love her, but I will never drink a sip of that bitter nightmare.” 

Welt cracked a smile, his eyes wrinkling. He picked up the coffee mug, taking a careful sip. You could see the exact moment where he realised that the coffee was normal for once, which he then continued to skulk down the rest of the brew.  

“Thank you, for the coffee,” Welt said politely. “I hope you don’t mind me drinking the rest.” 

You were about to say something when Shush refilled the mug, staring right at you with a look on their robotic face that made you shudder.  

“Not at all,” you muttered. “I never just have one cup anyways. Shush knows that all too well.” 

“Then I suppose that means your late-night thoughts are much more persistent than you first made them out to be.” You looked over to see Welt sipping your mug with that know-it-all look on his face. “Mind telling me what’s troubling you?” 

“Only if you do first.” 

He made a soft sound of agreement, finally setting the mug down. “Deal. How about you go first?” 

“Technically, I was the one to ask you first,” you murmured. “But since you asked so nicely, then I guess I can entertain you.” 

The Party Car’s quiet atmosphere made it almost impossible to breathe without all the attention being directed to whoever was breathing louder. And your breathing was much heavier than you would like to admit. 

“I’m just... worried,” you began. “I know we’ve been through a lot, and I also know that’s what the Trailblaze is all about. But I don’t know how much longer I can just sit by and watch those kids risk their lives on these planets and be useless to assist them.” 

“You’re not useless—” He began but you cut him off abruptly. 

“I know that, Welt, but it feels like I am! Dan Heng had his life sentenced even before his rebirth because of another person’s actions! March, she has no idea who she truly is, and all we know is that somehow, she’s connected to the Remembrance, and she was possessed by Evernight,” you said, your voice raising slightly. “And Caelus, that poor boy. He has a literal bomb in his chest, dumped at the space station where Dan Heng and March found him, and now he’s risking his life every chance he gets! I mean, he’s died, multiple times!” 

You ran a stressed hand through his hair, trying to choke back the tears bubbling in his throat. “They’re so young. I know that I’m being sort of hypocritical, because we’ve been in similar situations, but I can’t stand seeing the people I love in danger. I can’t lose people again, Welt!” 

The Party car fell into complete silence. Not even Shush was making a lame dad joke or rubbing the same glass to be squeaky clean. It was as if all sound had been completely sucked out of the room. All that was left was the soft, muffled sobs you let out as your emotions came through like a wrecking ball. 

Welt didn’t say anything; he didn’t need to. He wrapped an arm around your shoulder, using his hand to guide your face to his shoulder. When your tears soaked through his shirt, he didn’t comment on it. Instead, he smoothed his fingers through your hair, listening to your laboured breaths. 

“They’re stronger than you take them for,” he finally said, voice tinged with gentleness. “They’ll be okay as long as we’re there to support them.” 

⭒ Dan Heng x gn!reader ⭒

Summary:

Warnings: No warnings!!

w/c: 1.1k

loud notes:

The streets bustled with a large crowd, the smells of precious delicacies floating through the air. Children’s excited chatter made itself clear as the lines to festival games stretched far along the street. Everything was so appealing; the thought of food made you drool, the excitement of playing festival games made your heart pound in your chest, and the beauty of it all left you breathless. 

“Stop running ahead. You are going to get separated from the rest of us,” Dan Heng called behind you, having to pick up the pace to catch up with you. He grabbed you by the back of your shirt, tugging you back toward him. “This crowd is easy to get lost in.” 

You had been speeding ahead of the rest of them for a while, so caught up in your excitement that you had forgotten you were also with other people. As soon as you were stopped, you snapped out of it, scratching the back of your neck with a sheepish grin. 

“Whoops. My bad,” you laughed awkwardly. “This planet just has so many unique festivities. I just really wanted to explore them all. I swear I didn’t mean to go off on my own.” 

Dan Heng sighed, his brows already slightly furrowed as he massaged his temples. “No need to apologise. March has already gone off to do her own thing. There was this rabbit plush she saw a while back. She may have gone back to win it.” 

“Sounds like March,” you giggled. You tried to keep walking only to be tugged back again. “Can you like, let me go? I want to explore things too! Just tag along with me, that way you won’t lose me. Besides, Himeko and Mr. Yang have already left.” 

Dan Heng looked back to realise that the remaining Express members had indeed wandered off. He groaned softly, finally releasing you only to cross his arms in exasperation. He should have been used to this by now. 

“I suppose I can tag along. Nothing catches my eye anyway,” he replied, grabbing your sleeve. You raised a brow, and it was almost like you could see the tips of his ears reddening. “As I said before, I don’t want us all separated. There is strength in numbers.” 

“Dan Heng, this is a festival,” you deadpanned. “Let yourself relax a little. Give your emotions some wiggle room.” 

“Some wiggle room?” Dan Heng scoffed. “Just carry on with your exploration. Please. Standing in the middle of the street makes us look more out of place than we already are.” 

“You need to lighten up,” you laughed, dragging him along with you, peering into each stall like it was your personal business.  “I know that cool, aloof act must get old. I want to see a big smile on your face one day without me having to lift your lips myself.” 

Dan Heng scoffed. “I can smile. You just haven’t seen me do it, therefore assuming that I don’t smile at all.” 

“I didn’t say that,” you argued. “I’m just saying you need to do it more. I bet you look real cute showing when you have an expression on your face.” 

“I don’t know why I even bother with you.” 

You ignored his comment, continuing to look around when you suddenly hit the brakes. Dan Heng was an inch away from your back, nearly unable to stop. Then you suddenly turned around, going back to an almost empty stall, which hurt your poor heart to see. 

“Oh my gosh, these are so adorable!” You gushed, inspecting the rabbit keychain on the table. “March would absolutely love this. She really reminds me of a bunny and she loves cute things. The bunny even has a ribbon like her!” 

“Are you going to buy it for her?” Dan Heng asked.  

“Probably. I just want to look around for a little longer,” you hummed. “I want to find something for us too.” 

“For us?” Dan Heng frowned. “I don’t need anything. Besides, I have my own allowance if I want anything. This stall is not really my taste.” 

Rolling your eyes, you picked up two strawberry cake keychains. You held one to your belt loop, pursing your lips. 

“Do you think I’d look weird having this keychain on my pants? I think it’s really cute, but I think I’d look pretty strange putting it on a belt loop. I could just put it on my bag, but I don’t carry that around everywhere I go.” 

“It wouldn’t look any more than strange than we already do. It is already obvious that we are not locals,” Dan Heng commented, looking over his shoulder. “If you want the keychain, then get it. If you don’t, then don’t.” 

“Of course I want it,” you said with a sharp click of your tongue. “Will you wear one on you two? I think it’d be adorable if we were matching.” 

Dan Heng shifted in his spot, like he was entertaining the thought, which was more than you ever expected. His shoulders slumped, a long sigh drawn from his lips. 

“If that’s what you want, then I guess I won’t mind.” 

It was safe to say that was the fastest purchase you’d ever made in your life. You were walking out of there with the strawberry cake keychain on your belt loop, Dan Heng’s on his belt. It was a pop of colour for his outfit, but you thought it looked adorable. As well as the little bunny keychain for March. 

“I wonder what March will say about her new keychain. I think it’s going to go well with her extensive plush collection that she’s building,” you said, inspecting the dangling bunny.  

“She’s more likely to have an opinion about our matching accessories. You know how she is.” Dan Heng walked alongside you, your arm looped through his as you both tried your best to not bump into people in the busy street. “I do think we’ll be able to get away with it for now considering her expected shopping spree. Let’s just hope we don’t have to help in carrying her bags to the Express.” 

“That’s just wishful thinking,” you snorted. 

Dan Heng let out an exasperated sigh. “That is more than true.” 

“Are you sure you want to head back to the Express right away? Can’t we go and have some of delicious looking meat on a stick things?” You whined, jostling his arm. “It’s not even that late.” 

Dan Heng just stared at you blankly while you yawned. 

“Yes, we are heading back. You will get grumpy if you don’t get into bed at a specific time, which will then lead to you going to bed late as your brain will not shut off. Therefore, we should go back now. There are still plenty days of festivities on this planet. We can continue our exploration tomorrow.” 

“You’re such a buzzkill,” you grumbled. 

“Stop complaining and keep walking. I do not want to deal with your bad attitude.” 

⭒ Phainon x gn!reader ⭒

Summary: You were a warrior. That was no exaggeration. You fought against the ruthless black tide, swinging your sword until you were ragged. Injured, you find yourself in an unknown place.

Warnings: No warnings!!

w/c: 1.4k

loud notes: I'm going through another playthrough of HSR for more character study! Wondering if I should do Gepard or Sampo next...

When you reached adulthood, you knew that the world wasn’t going to be any easier. The Black Tide was still as present as ever, the sword you wield becoming worn with age as it sliced through the deformed monsters. Even in childhood, this was your responsibility. 

You were labelled as a warrior, commended by the village folk, ever so reluctant to leave their village, terrified of the world outside. But the swarm was getting overwhelming. You were running on literal fumes, exhaustion clinging to your bones. You knew that you couldn’t keep this up forever, but the weight that sagged on your shoulders made it hard to argue with the people. 

The burn in your side made the breath in your lungs feel like inhaling fire. You stabled yourself with your sword, pulling it from the ground and cutting through the monster, watching as it collapsed back, gurgling on its own blood. 

That was it. That was all of them, for now. 

You collapsed back against the wall of the barn, cupping your side, feeling your fingertips wet. You heard the villagers’ cheers, but they were faint in your ears. It felt like you were underwater; unable to breathe, your hearing muffled, as if you were hearing through headphones. 

Then suddenly, it went quiet. 

You couldn’t hear them anymore. The villagers had gone silent, something that almost never happened. They were loud people; you knew that all too well from the racket you would hear from your house. So, their silence worried you. 

Your head lolled to the side, making out their blurry figures through much effort. All you could think in that moment was that they were okay. Nothing else mattered to you. The fact that they were all alive filled you with relief. 

Vaguely, you heard your name being called, but your tongue felt so heavy it was impossible to respond. Someone took the first step forward, edging toward you, everyone else following. Then you could feel yourself being picked up, their whispers crowding your ears. Your eyes drooped shut without your permission, your consciousness fading away. 

At least they were safe. 

The next time you woke, you were somewhere else. You could tell by the pristine, clean smell filling your nose. The way that you couldn’t hear the familiar chatter of the people in your village. The earthy scent that had become your comfort wasn’t there, and neither was the noise that helped you sleep at night. 

Your eyes snapped open, jolting up from the mattress beneath you. The sudden action had you keeling over in pain, a ragged gasp passing your lips as pain surged from your abdomen. 

“Sitting up like that is not a good idea. I’m saying that from experience.” 

Your head snapped toward the voice, eyes sharp as you instinctively reached for your sword only to find it not there. There stood a man, holding up his hands in a placating gesture, soft smile on his lips. His hair was white, eyes like the sea itself.  

“Who the hell are you?” You demanded, blatantly ignoring his question. Despite his warning, your bare feet stepped onto the cold floor, bracing yourself against the wall. “Where are the villagers? What did you to them?” 

“They’re okay, I swear,” the man assured softly. “They brought you here. They’re very worried about you.” 

You didn’t believe him for one single second. Not without seeing them with your own eyes. You stumbled past him, your vision swimming. Your hand blindly reached out to grab something to hold onto, but you were in the middle of the room. You felt your body tipping, your legs giving out beneath you. You mentally prepared yourself for when you hit the ground, but it never came. 

“I told you to be careful. Walking in the state you’re in is only going to do more harm than good for you,” the man said, holding you against his chest. You struggled in his grasp, trying to escape but he was right. You were in no shape to fight off anyone or anything. 

“Fine, whatever. Just show me how they’re doing,” you grumbled, putting your full weight against him. He didn’t even budge an inch. It just made you more cautious of him. “I’ll only believe they’re okay when I see it with my own eyes.” 

The man seemed surprised, disbelieving even. Then he let out a laugh, right from the chest that made you tense up like a startled cat. 

“You sound just like Mydei after he’s just been stabbed through the heart. He’s going to love hearing that he practically has a mirrored version of himself in Okhema!” The man kept laughing, tears in his eyes as you stood there, dumbfounded. 

Okhema? The city of Eternal Dawn? From what you recalled, that was miles away from the village you lived in. You’d only ever heard stories of the holy city, hearing about the Chrysos Heirs and the Flame-Chase Journey. Though you’d never cared for it enough for your focus to be diverted from protecting the villagers. 

“Why would I be in Okhema?” You gawked, brows furrowed. “I live Byxtrol Falls.” 

“As I was saying beforehand, your villager friends were very worried about you,” the man hummed. “They left the village and made their way to Okhema to find a healer. They almost lost you.” 

You shook your head and scoffed. “There’s not a chance. No matter how much I begged them to move somewhere safer, they would never have abandoned Byxtrol Falls. I don’t believe you.” 

The man laughed. “Well, they did. You’re alive because of their choice to leave.” 

“Who the hell are you?” You questioned harshly. 

“I’m Phainon of Aedes Elysiae,” he introduced. “Now, mind telling me yours?” 

You swallowed harshly, your throat bobbing as your mouth went dry. You were already stuck in a tight spot, literally. There wasn’t much harm that could come if you gave him your name.  

You muttered your name, his eyes gleaming as he guided you back to the bed you had apparently been sleeping in for a while. You only just noticed the flowers beside your bed, along with countless little goodies, seemingly all for you. 

“Where did these come from?” You whispered under your breath. You shuffled over, hands brushing the soft white petals.  

“From your people, of course,” Phainon said with a smile. “I told you, they care a lot about your safety. You caused quite the scare among them. As much as we’ve tried to take care of them, they insist on staying close to your room until you wake up.” 

Guilt nabbed at your gut, an ugly feeling rising in your throat. 

“How long have I been out for?” You asked cautiously. 

“About a week.” 

Your heart lurched in your chest, dread washing over you. A whole week. You had failed to protect them for an entire week. The journey between Byxtrol Falls and Okhema would have been long and treacherous, littered with Black Tide monsters. The villagers couldn’t protect themselves while you were unconscious. 

“No, no, no. That’s impossible,” you breathed shakily, raking a hand through your hair. “They have to be okay. It’s my duty to protect them.” 

“Hey, how about we just breathe for a minute?” Phainon swooped in, placing his hand on your back, rubbing his palm in circles. To your dismay, the gesture was helping, but your mind was still whirling as you tried to grasp the fact that you unconscious for an entire week. “They are all completely fine. Nobody died or got hurt on the way.” 

He placed his other hand over his heart. “I swear to you on my place as a Chrysos Heir, that they are all safe and sound.” 

You rubbed your face, blinking slowly. It felt like your face was melting off, drooping to the side. The drowsiness was getting to you, more than you’d like to admit. You couldn’t remember the last time you had slept for more than an hour or two at a time. 

Your days consisted of having a meal that the villagers made you, fighting off monsters, comforting the children, eating, having a short nap, recycle, repeat. You had moulded yourself into being the protector of your village, only now noticing the toll it had taken on you. 

“They’re all fed, warm, and looked after?” You asked slowly, turning to face him. 

“They’re being treated as any other citizen in Okhema,” he reassured gently.  

“Good,” you breathed. “That’s good.” 

You collapsed into his side, unable to will your body to move.  

“Take care of them for me,” you murmured. “I think I’m going to have a well-deserved nap.” 

⭒ Gepard x gn!reader ⭒

Summary: The seconds ticked by and your husband was still not home. Gepard had been coming home later and later and you had been pushed to your breaking point. You confront him.

Warnings: Little angsty... (not much though)

w/c: 1.4k

loud notes: Might be doing Sampo next!! Depends on what I feel like, or if any requests pop up!

The clock ticked on the wall, telling you exactly just how many seconds had passed without even needing to glance at it. Gepard was supposed be back from patrol 5 hours and 22 minutes ago – or 19,320 seconds ago, at exactly 8pm. You had counted every one of those seconds, your dinner now completely cold. 

It was tradition between you two to eat with the other every night, but lately, Gepard had been taking extra time out on patrol, coming back home at increasingly later hours. You knew that being the captain of the Silvermane Guards was a lot of hard work, and you truly appreciated what he did for Belobog, but sometimes, you just wanted your husband back home on time. 

When you heard the door creak open, you didn’t move to greet him. You sat where you had been for the last five and a half hours, pushing around your cold food. You could hear his worn-out sigh as he locked the door behind him. 

“I’m back,” he called softly, walking into the dining room. “Love?” 

He walked in, peering around the corner. You were there, but you didn’t even look at him. Normally, you would greet him with a hug, asking about his day while running a hand through his hair. Today, there was none of that. Just the cold silence, colder than the planet itself. 

Gepard frowned, walking over to you, draping himself over your shoulders, kissing your head. “What’s the matter? You’re not usually like this.” 

You scoffed, moving his hands from around your neck. “Don’t act like you don’t know. Ignorance is not a good colour for a Silvermane Guard.” 

He winced. The reminder of him being a quarter of a day late had slipped his mind at the worst possible time. By the look on your face, he knew that he was completely and utterly fucked. 

“Right. That makes more sense now,” he awkwardly coughed, removing himself from your body. He sat in the wooden chair next to you, wringing his knuckles. “Fragmentum creatures were swarming the city entrance. I couldn’t just leave my men out on the front lines without their captain. Belobog would have suffered serious casualties if I left without warning.” 

“I’m not upset about the fact that you were protecting the city,” you groaned. “I’m upset because I know that you always stay behind to assist with reparations, making me believe that you’re going to be home on time. I don’t blame you for the fragmentum monsters or anything, because you can’t control their attacks.” 

You ran a hand through your hair, inhaling through your nose sharply. “You’re always out on duty, always assisting the city in any way you can. I love you for how kind and helpful you are, but there are times when I wish you could be a bit more selfish.” 

Gepard frowned. “You want me to be more... selfish?” 

He said it incredulously, like the thought had never even crossed his mind. You knew just how devoted he was to the safety and reconstruction of Belobog, especially after Madam Cocolia’s demise. But sometimes, his selflessness drove you mad. 

“Yes, Gepard! I want you to not always be on duty, as Captain Gepard,” you said, your voice taking on a sharper tone. “I want you to just be Gepard Landau, my husband. It feels like the only time I see him is when we’re sleeping side-by-side. And that’s not enough.” 

You scrubbed at your eyes with the back of your sleeve, tears staining the fabric. You hadn’t wanted to cry, but your body went against you, making you suffer the shame of being the emotional partner of the captain of the Silvermane Guards. 

Gepard stood there, unusually silent for a man commanding a whole army every day. His silence made you look up; you were surprised to see the despair written in his eyes, clear as day for you to see.  

He was guilty, unbelievably so. 

“I’m sorry,” he whispered, the words soft on his lips. “I’m sorry for how I’ve neglected you, your needs, your love. I admit, I’ve been absent, something which I find embarrassing to only be aware of that now. As a captain, I should be more observant. As your husband...” 

He reached out, grabbing your hand. 

“...I should have been more observant of the rift I created. For that, I’m sorry.” 

His thumb rubbed over the back of your palm, like he was trying to not let himself make any more mistakes than he already had. You felt yourself soften slightly. As mad as you were, you knew the type of person he was, and he would never pull away from you on purpose. Not when you know just how important you were to him. 

His hand was trembling; his bottom lip curled beneath his teeth. When he shed the clanky armour, the sword, and the heavy shield, he looked like an actual citizen rather than just a protector.  

His duty as a captain often clouded the thought of him being just like any other Belobogian, but you knew how he was in private. He was soft, treating you with the gentleness you would with an egg. He would get down on one knee and kiss your hand just to make you laugh, dancing around your lounge room as soft melodies guided your feet. Gepard was the type of person to blow on your soup if it was too hot, personally spoon-feeding you if you wanted him to. 

He was as selfless as they came, always thinking of others rather than his own wellbeing. For that, you loved him, but it was also something that made you fear for the worst. You knew he was strong, like the fortress that was Belobog itself, but even you had your worries about his safety when he went out. Maybe that was why you were so upset over something like missing dinner. 

You were terrified of losing him. 

“Why do you have to be such a good husband?” You whispered, choking on a sob. “I just want you to think about yourself for once. I’m sorry for overreacting, but I hate not knowing if you’re going to return to me in pieces or in a casket.” 

Gepard’s hold on your hand tightened, his breath hitching at your words. 

“Is that really what you’re feeling every day?” He pulled your hand to his chest, cradling it like the most precious thing in the world. “Do I really put you through so much pain every time I leave?” 

“Just when you’re late, I do,” you mumbled. “Like tonight. I had no idea where you were, if you were okay, alive. I just never know if you’re okay or not, and that thought scares me. I know you’re strong, capable, intelligent. But I still can’t help how my mind constantly worries for your safety, for the chance that one day, you might not return home.” 

You yelped as you were tugged from your chair, being dragged into his arms. You tensed almost instantly as he buried his face into your shoulder, breathing you in deeply. He had almost never been this vulnerable with you. 

“Please don’t worry for me, my love. I will fight through any foe, no matter how powerful or deadly, and I will always return home to you, right into your loving arms. You are my light, the person who calls me out on my shortcomings, makes me remember why I keep fighting. Because I want you to flourish inside a city that is safe to all who live inside it. I want you to thrive by my side, to see the new dawn of Belobog where it is not just a snowy wasteland.” 

He pressed his lips beneath your ear. 

“I want to be selfish, with you by my side for the rest of our lives. I want to hold you in my arms every chance I can, love you so much that you will never want to let me go again.” He tightened his arms around your waist. “I swear, I will let you know the soonest chance I get if I am expected to be home late. I won’t make you worry ever again.” 

You laughed lightly, wrapping your arms around his shoulders. “I’ll always for you, Gepard. I can’t just stop those emotions. But at least try to ease my worry instead of dissipating it.” 

⭒ Caelus x gn!reader ⭒

Summary: The Astral Express had been your home for a while. You slept alongside Caelus when suddenly, homesickness hit you. Caelus comforts you in his own way.

Warnings: No warnings!!

w/c: 970 words

loud notes: Ughh, this was just short of 1k, but I didn't know what else to do after! I still like this a lot, and I feel like Caelus deserves so much more love. He's so goofy.

The moon hung high in the sky, looming over the world below. A soft breeze shifted leaves on their branches, creating noise in the quiet night. The scent of pollen filled your nostrils, your body lying in a sea of flowers.  

Night had always been your favourite. A time in the 24-hour cycle where the world grew eerily silent, as if no life had even existed in the first place. Where you didn’t have to fret over messing up or saying the wrong thing. Where you had the freedom to dance beneath the stars, to let the moonlight be your spotlight. 

But even you knew that dream wouldn’t last forever. 

When you opened your eyes, there was no morning sun to greet you, no birds chirping outside your window. Just the hollowness of deep, empty space staring back at you. You rolled onto your side, gazing out your window. The stars were there, but space had never settled well in your stomach. Now, you were on a train in space, trailblazing across the galaxy. 

It was a dream, of course it was. A living dream that you got to have as your everyday life. Living on the Astral Express, being one of the Nameless. Travelling across the galaxy, visiting different planets. Though sometimes, homesickness creeps up on you. It just hits you, and when it hits, it hits you hard.  

You could be going about your day, pouring a cup of coffee from a fresh pot, separate from Himeko’s monstrosities, when you think about the coffee shop you visited every Friday. It pools deep in your gut, making your throat and chest swell with emptiness. It’s like after that thought crosses your mind, you can’t breathe properly until it passes; whenever it does. 

Caelus lay beside you, face nestled in the crook of your neck, arms encircled around your waist. From the way he was breathing against your neck, he was just pretending to be asleep. You don’t know when he woke up, but it was sometime recently. 

“Caelus, I know you’re up. You don’t have to keep pretending,” you sighed, petting his hair. Caelus stubbornly kept his eyes shut but you knew he would crack soon. “Fine. Don’t respond to me. I’ll just go and eat the last of your cake in the fridge.” 

“Not my cake!” Caelus shot up in bed, pouting dramatically, grabbing your shoulders and shaking you back and forth. “Anything but my cake!” 

His cry was so loud that you had to physically slap your hand over his mouth to keep him from waking everybody else up. He looked at you behind hurt puppy dog eyes, acting like you just threw him into open space. 

“Darling, I love you, but you need to be aware that there are many people here who would absolutely hate to be woken up right now. Even in another train car, we need to not be so noisy,” you scolded, pinching his nose. That made him gasp loudly. “Just lower your voice. That’s all I need you to do.” 

“You’re always so mean to me,” Caelus grumbled, pushing your hand away from his mouth. “But I really don’t want to face March’s fury when if I interrupt her beauty sleep. Last time did not go well.” 

“Yes, I heard of that. That is why I suggested why you should be more cautious,” you chuckled softly. “Now, can you let me roll over? I need your warmth.” 

Caelus grinned like a kid getting the last piece of candy. He loosened his grip, letting you roll over in his arms, throwing his legs over your body. Most people said he was like a raccoon; you thought he was more like a koala. 

“Wow. I’m just a heater to you, huh?” Caelus joked, wiggling his brows. “I think I’m so warm because of the Stellaron in my chest. It makes me super-heated!” 

“That could be the case,” you agreed with a nod of your head. “Maybe we’ll get the answers to your strange phenomenon another day. I would prefer to just be held.” 

Caelus made a knowing sound, resting his chin atop your head. “Missing home again?” 

“I wouldn’t call it that much of a home anymore,” you mumbled. “I have my true home squeezing me to death right now.” 

“Stop deflecting,” Caelus tutted, sliding his hand beneath your shirt, warming your skin. “I know you love me, but nothing could ever replace your planet. We both know how much it means to you.” 

“I hate how well you know me,” you groan, voice muffled by your face being pressed into his chest.  

“Deal with it.” 

His thick arms tightened around your waist, his lips brushing your hair. His hand rubbed up and down your back, sending a shiver down your spine. You forgot just how comforting your boyfriend’s hugs were, especially when your mind was elsewhere. He made it easy to just focus on him instead of everything else. 

You hadn’t realised when you started crying, your heart picking and your body shaking with your sobs. Caelus held you through it the entire time, holding off one of his stupid jokes that somehow always made you laugh. Even if he wanted to be silly right now, he couldn’t while you were crying in his arms, bestowing your trust in him to comfort you and love you even on your worst days.  

And that’s what he did. 

When your sobs began to fade, your shaking body easing into an occasional shuddered breath, he lifted his head, looking into your eyes. They were red and puffy, swollen so much that you could only open your eyes halfway. How much time had passed? You had no idea. All you knew was that he stayed.  

⭒ Mydei x gn!reader ⭒

Summary: Eating cherry pie in the night was normal for you. When you had your cravings, you ate cherry pie. Though you were very hungry. Mydei emerges from the dark.

Warnings: Mentions of blood.

w/c: 1.4k

loud notes: I think a lot of the stories I'm going to be posting are going to be influenced by certain songs I hear. So, if there's any suggestions, I'm glad to take requests!

Cherry filling coated your lips, your fork scraping against your plate as you brought the pie to your mouth. It was sweet against your tongue, a subtle tart flavour slipping in as the fork becomes spotless. You breathed, taking another bite, filling smearing across the corner of your mouth. 

“You’re eating another cherry pie? Does your hunger ever end?” 

You looked up through half-lidded eyes, staring Mydei straight in the eyes as he stands there with his arms firmly folded over his chest. You pay no mind, only focused on your snack. Mydei’s gaze burned into your skull, but you made no effort to stop what you were doing. If he wanted your attention, he would have would have to say it himself. 

When the seconds ticked by and Mydei still said nothing, you shrugged carelessly, picking up another spoonful of your pie. You didn’t care about the cherry filling sliding down your lips, darting out your tongue to catch it when you wanted. But as it fell back onto your plate, you could hear Mydei’s grunting. 

“Alright, that’s enough,” Mydei said, grabbing your face and turning it up. He wiped away the red from your face, sucking on his thumb to lick it off. “I know you’re a messy eater, but this is ridiculous.” 

You sat still in your chair, obediently allowing him to manhandle you. “You won’t let me have the food I want, so cherry pie is the most similar thing. You cannot blame me for finding an alternative.” 

Mydei stared at you with the look of man who was completely and utterly defeated. 

“You don’t even bother to find something similar unless I introduce it to you. Do you take me for a fool?” 

“You said it, not I,” you replied with a shrug.  

“HKS,” he sighed, shaking his head. “Testing my limits every single moment of your existence. I’ve been putting up with you for far too long.” 

You huff out a laugh, dipping your finger in the pie filling. “And you will continue to. I am not someone that you would easily depart, Mydeimos.” 

Mydei narrowed his eyes. It infuriated him to no ends that he knew you were right. So right in fact that he was habitually dabbing at your face with a handkerchief, smoothing your hair out of your face. He saw the smug grin you brandished at him, but he was too speechless to respond. 

You curled your arm around his bicep, emitting a low hum. “Mydeimos, stop sulking. If you want to cheer up, go and do one of those foolish competitions you verse Phainon in. He will be sure to keep you entertained in your huff.” 

“It is not a competition when I know I have already won,” Mydei bit back. “The Deliverer can’t ever admit his defeat.” 

“If I recall correctly, he beat you in a duel just the other day,” you chuckled. “I remember you complaining about this bruise on your butt that made sitting an impossible challenge. Hence you use my body as your personal cushion even though I know it’s stopped bothering you.” 

Mydei tutted, lips twisting into a frown that was more of a pout. “Don’t start. I have privilege to have you serve as my mattress when I feel like it. It’s not my fault that Phainon does not know when to pull his strikes.” 

“But it is your fault for initiating that duel in the first place,” you point out. “And for not setting any rules for your duel. This is simply the consequences of your foolishness, my dear.” 

You know just what that pet name does to him, yet you wield it against him like an obsidian blade. Every time your tongue lulls those two words paired together his brain grows all fuzzy, like everything has been wrapped in a cotton ball. He was weak against your magnetic tongue. 

“HKS, stop,” he huffed, cheeks burning a hot red. “You know the effect that has on me.” 

“Have you ever stopped and considered that the reaction I seek is related to that adorable little flush on your cheeks?” You cooed, grabbing his warmed cheeks. “It warms my cold heart to know that I can have such a deep impact on my handsome Mydeimos.” 

“Don’t test me,” Mydei said lowly. “You know I’ll only take it away for longer.” 

“Then I’ll go get it elsewhere. You know that I will do anything, when I’m desperate,” you smiled. He narrowed his eyes, letting out a deep rumble. “Oh, hush. You don’t need to get all angsty with me. I just need a little every now and then. Besides, your blood is so much sweeter than anyone else’s.” 

Mydei inhaled a sharp breath, taking a seat across from you. He slid the plate over to his side, away from your greedy hands, right in front of him. You watched with darkened eyes, your upper like twitching, revealing an elongated fang. Mydei didn’t budge, staring you down with challenge in his eyes. 

“Now, I will go to the bakery and politely demand they stop all production of cherry pie,” he began. “You will never get a taste of this delicacy again. Not in either of our lifetimes. Unless you promise that when you have cravings, you will only go to me and not anyone else. None of them will be able to withstand being drained of so often.” 

“I am aware of that,” you grumbled. “That doesn’t mean that I am not feeling rather under the weather at this current moment. I feel quite neglected and rather offended at your lack of concern for me.” 

“We both know that you are only putting on a show to get what you want,” Mydei snorted. 

You pouted, rising to your feet, the chair scraping against the floor. You rounded the table, plopping right into Mydei’s lap, burying your nose into his neck. You could hear his pulse thrumming, loud and forceful, like music to your ears. 

“Just a little bite, Mydeimos,” you murmured into his ear. “Just let me take a little nibble. Then I will be out of your luscious hair.” 

“Put your fangs away. I said no,” he said with finality. 

You let out a loud huff, pulling away from his neck despite the strong pull tugging at you. Despite your desire, you care more for Mydei than you would ever like to admit. For an immortal, he sure didn’t care about the one thing you needed to on keep living alongside him. 

“Fine. Whatever. I don’t care,” you huffed. “Just know that I am past my usual feeding time and if I begin to sleep longer, wrinkle, and have no cravings whatsoever, I will be blaming you for my death.” 

You said it with a blank face, blinking slowly at Mydei who had tensed up completely. That wasn’t exactly your intent, but at least you knew he was guilty. It seemed he took your words too literally. 

“Just shut up and don’t take too much,” Mydei muttered, tilting his head to the side to expose his neck. 

Your eyes lit up, a bright fanged smile on your face, kissing him on the cheek. “Thank you for the meal!” 

You chirped into his ear. Then you buried your face into his neck, sinking your fangs into his skin. You felt his body shudder around you, but the sweet, addicting taste of blood hazed the outside world. Your tongue lapped at his throat; hands tangled in his hair as you suckled up more and more of his blood. 

“Thank you, my love,” you breathed. “Thank you so much.” 

“I think that’s enough.” You didn’t even look up. Mydei’s hand gripped your waist, his breathing laboured, face contorted into a grimace. “HKS. You’ve had enough for now. Get your fangs out of my neck.” 

Your breath shuddered, sliding your tongue around the wound. Your body trembled, the exhilaration of tasting Mydei’s sweet, precious blood sending you into a blissed-out, mindless state. You blinked slowly, eyes refocusing as you slowly peeled away from his neck. 

Mydei was red all the way up to the tips of his ears, expression matching yours as you both sit there, breathing heavily. Your eyes lock with his and you smile. Lips cherry red, streaks down your chin.  

“You’re really such a messy eater,” Mydei sighed, but he was unable to hide the affection in his voice. He wiped away the blood off your chin, holding it up for you to suck.  

Still sweet. 

⭒ Sunday x gn!reader ⭒

Summary: Sunday, the former head of the Oak Family, now trailblazing across the galaxy with the Astral Express. You were his follower, a Shadowmite who began living in his shadow after he caught your eye.

Warnings: Slight stalking.

w/c: 2.1k

loud notes: Not really sure what warnings to put here, but I can say that this is the longest one I've done so far!

You never understood Sunday’s vision, not truly. There wasn’t a possibility in your mind where everyone could truly be happy, where the strong wouldn’t crush the weak instead of helping them. You’ve seen your fair share of people in your time, and it was a one in a million where the strong would voluntarily help someone weaker than them. 

You remember Penacony all too well. Where the Harmony was being pushed out by Order, where Sunday was trying to revive the fallen Aeon, Ena. You remembered fighting to stay in reality, to not fall into an eternal dream. Eventually, you succumbed, but your world was wrong. But selfishly, you continued to stay in that peaceful land. To indulge in the dream that would never become reality. As life was unfair, something you knew all too well. 

Like all things, that dream didn’t last. You couldn’t bear to live in that eternally happy place. You couldn’t bear being that selfish. So, you awoke to the aftermath of it all. Where you found out Sunday had been kicked from being the head of the Oak Family, imprisoned and being punished for his crimes. 

While you believed that what he did should be punishable, somewhere in your heart, you believed he should hold onto that dream. That precious motivation to make the world a peaceful and eternally happy place. 

So, you made a few calls with the IPC who owed you a favour, and Mr. Sunday was released. 

While he did try to conceal himself with the power of the Harmony, you saw through it and followed him. Every stop he visited, you were ten steps behind him. When he was talking with a thing he called “Wonweek”, you let neither see you. 

You don’t know when the decision to follow him crossed your mind, but neither did you care. You were curious. You were bored. You were entranced. 

When you learnt that he was boarding the Astral Express, you were bound to follow. Though you were like a shadow. Literally. Sunday’s shadow was the perfect place to stay for the time being. Especially when no person would really be focusing on a person’s shadow. 

So, you waited, and watched, and learned. 

The Astral Express was weary of Sunday at first. Who wouldn’t be? After he tried to put everyone in an eternal dream land against their will, even lying to his sister and all of Penacony. But as time passed, you could see they were becoming less worried.  

Your heart warmed as you could see Sunday slowly beginning to unwind, trying to change from being a control-freak to allowing himself to not always be so sprung up. Yet there was one problem that was constantly on your mind. Your stalker-like tendencies had gotten you put on a journey with the Astral Express with no way out. As well as the fact Sunday had no idea of your existence as you lived in his shadow. 

Though that was a thought for another day, as the trailblazers were preparing to go to a new planet. An unknown planet that hadn’t even been explored by Akavili themself. 

Amphoreus. 

Now that worried you. Going to a place that was completely in the unknown, with Sunday perhaps trekking into a dangerous world. You weren’t going to let him get hurt on this unknown planet.  

While he slept idly, with the rest of the Express having gone to rest, you emerged from his shadow. You wanted to reach out. To touch his skin without just clinging to his shadow. You needed to know what he feels like. But you pulled away as soon as your fingers brushed his skin. 

The most you ever did was take food and water from the Express to keep on living. Even your species needed nourishment to survive. But you were so tired of not having anyone to talk to. Despite being right by his side, you were lonely. So awfully lonely that you couldn’t help but need just a shred of physical touch. 

So, you tried again, and this time, when you touched his hair, you didn’t reel back. 

His hair was unbelievably soft. You never believe someone’s hair could be so soft before, but it was. It was like running your hand over a soft blanket, curling around your hand. You couldn’t stop the soft gasp that left your mouth.  

You kneeled beside him, resting your chin on the edge of his bed, continuing to caress his hair. You vaguely thought that it was a bad idea, letting your guard down in a place like this, in front of a person like him. But the selfish part of you wanted to stay here. To admire Sunday every moment you could. 

“What are you doing?” 

You stumbled back away from the bed, landing on the floor with a dull thud. Your heart raced as those beautiful yellow eyes pierced through the darkness, landing on you. A part of you thought that you should have been more scared about being caught, but all you felt was the rush.  

“Sunday,” you whispered, moving to sit on your knees. 

You had wanted to talk to him for so long. The days you’ve waited to be face-to-face with him, to converse with him, all led up to this. Yet you couldn’t utter anything else but his name. Just like a coward. 

“Who are you?” Sunday demanded. “Why have you infiltrated the Express?” 

“Sunday,” you repeated. “I’m not here to hurt you. I could never you.” 

Your breath was shaky as you crawled towards him, sitting at the edge of the bed. You didn’t dare touch him again. Not while he was awake. You needed his permission to touch, to caress, to feel. 

Sunday stared at you with furrowed brows, expression unsure as he looked like a spring that was about to pop. What surprised you was the calculation in his eyes. Sure, you had seen it before when he studied the Trailblazers, but it had never been directed toward you before. Because until this day, he hadn’t known you existed. 

“So, you’re the little Shadowmite that’s been clinging onto me ever since I departed Penacony.” 

His words broke your illusion, snapping you back to reality. 

Your pupils blew wide, your body feeling rock-solid as you gape at the Halovian man. You couldn’t believe it. Even with the power of the Harmony, it should have been almost impossible to detect you. Even for a man like Sunday. You were sure you had been extremely careful, even for how undetectable your species was. 

“Little mite, I see what’s running through your head: the confusion you feel, the fear that clings to your darkened soul,” Sunday murmured. He reached out, grabbing your chin and pulling you forward until your chest was pressed against the bed’s frame. “Every time you leave my shadow, I can feel it. The loss, how my shadow feels almost empty every time I gaze back at it. It took me longer than I would like to admit deciphering just what was clinging to me. But now, I’ve finally caught you.” 

You’re... speechless. 

It was like one groundbreaking reveal one after another. Still, you can’t stop yourself from gazing into his eyes. They were magnetic; drawing all eyes forward to marvel at his magnificence. No matter what conscious thought crosses your mind, you don’t want to pull away. Not at a time like this. 

“Now that I’m caught,” you trailed off, “what are you going to do with me?”  

You couldn’t help but ask. Your bottom lip quivered slightly, fists pressing into your thighs as Sunday’s thumb traced your jaw. A shaky breath escaped your mouth that you couldn’t control. It was like your body defied you under Sunday’s watchful gaze. 

Sunday canted his head to the side, raising his brows. 

“What am I going to do to you?” He echoed, an edge of amusement in his voice. “Why would I do anything to you? It wounds me to know that you perceive I am cruel and heartless just like Penacony. You’ve stuck to me for so long, I would presume you had judged my character quite thoroughly.” 

“Sunday...” 

You keep repeating his name like a mantra. As if his name was the only thing tying you down to reality, shackling you from falling into the illusory daydream. Though reality seemed too much like a dream come true. 

“Are you going to send me away?” You reiterated, watching his face change as he let out a soft ‘ah’. He almost seemed amused with your question.  

“Why would I send you away?” He muttered. “It would be courteous to let the Astral Express aware of your presence as you boarded without permission, but I would like to be selfish and keep your secret between you and I.” 

“Secret?” You repeated once more. “You shouldn’t do that. It could get you in trouble. I don’t want to have to use up any more favours when you can stay safe and sound by abiding by the rules.” 

“So, that was you, little mite?” Sunday chuckled earnestly. “You contacted the IPC? Though I doubt they wouldn’t have collaborated with you if there wasn’t something they wanted in return...” 

Your breath hitched as he cupped your cheeks, trapping you within his grip. You shut your eyes tightly, preparing yourself for the worst. 

“...I am not going to say that I don’t appreciate your kindness,” he completed. 

Your breath caught in your throat, eyelashes fluttering as you looked into Sunday’s softened eyes. They were so different from when he was in Penacony. They were hard, without light, lifeless behind the mask he brandished to the world. Now, the change was slight. Light made an appearance in his eye, in his smile. Though he still had that desire for complete control, he was making an effort to keep it restrained. 

“Out of all people, why would you risk your freedom to accompany me of all other people across the galaxy?” Sunday questioned. “A wanted criminal. A betrayer of The Family. Of Penacony. Of all people who wanted to be in a sweet dream. Why?” 

The question made you pause. 

“Why wouldn’t I?” You answered, puzzled. “You’re magnificent. Before I started living in your shadow, I couldn’t even imagine a world that has that complete peace. To be honest, I still can’t. But I was entranced by your will, your determination, your heart.” 

Your limbs felt like jelly as you stood, daring to sit beside Sunday on his bed. 

“Most Shadowmites experience the world in complete darkness, unable to see the light. Very rare few of us dare to leave our planet, to see how other worlds work. Because we are not like everyone else,” you explain. “If you were to go Nyx-en, you wouldn’t be able to see your own hand, even if it were right in front of your face. Shadowmites can see, as we’ve adapted to the darkness.  

Sunday continued to silently stare at you. 

“The point I’m trying to get at is that I like how you make me see something other than pain and strife, where the world doesn’t need to be completely dark all the time,” you mumbled. “And I like looking at you. I can’t help it, but I do. I just can’t take my eyes off you.” 

“Is that so?” Sunday nodded, settling his hands in his lap. “How curious.” 

You sat beside him, like a devoted follower, waiting for his next words. Yet as time seemed to stretch on, you grew anxious at his lack of response. He seemed to be deep in thought, but you didn’t want to interrupt him. So, you sat there obediently, hands placed in your lap as you waited for his response. 

“Do you really desire to live in my shadow for the entire time you are on the Express?” Sunday suddenly asked.  

You startled, mumbling out a response. “I don’t want to be a shadow all the time, but I can’t be seen by them. I don’t want to be forced to leave. I am an intruder, after all.” 

“Perhaps, while we are alone in this room, you may reveal yourself. Whenever you like,” Sunday proposed. “And when you are ready, you will reveal to the Express of your presence. I will keep you a secret until then.” 

“Why?” You asked softly. “Why keep me around?” 

“Perhaps, I am rather alone, too.” 

“Okay.” 

You sat cautiously still, leaning back against the headboard, Sunday’s shoulder brushing yours. It took everything you had not to shiver at the sensation. You couldn’t help how your heart raced in your chest, even as you heard the passengers of the Astral Express begin to wake up. 

With that, you retreated to his shadow, appearing on the wall behind him.  

⭒ Phainon x gn!reader ⭒

Summary: Your childhood had never been an exciting thing for you. Your parents had made sure to put that into your skull, expressing their grievances about your so-called "neediness". Then, you find an expected friend in the land of Okhema.

Warnings: No Warnings!!

w/c: 1.1k

loud notes: I know these are kind of short at the moment, but I'm working on getting to know the characters better. Kind of hard when I want to play through Amphoreus again already lol.

Childhood was fickle. You had learned that ever since you could understand every cursed word that your parents uttered about your failures. You laughed too loudly. Cried too much. Wanted too much affection from them. They said that you were tiring to be around. That maybe having you wasn’t worth it. 

Despite being just a toddler, you did not shed a single tear as you listened. Their complaints extended to more things that you had thought were possible to hate. But you refused to let the memories be seared into your mind. So, you dragged yourself back to your bed, ignoring it all. That may have been the day where the impenetrable shell had formed itself around your heart. 

At the age of six, you had skinned your knee only to see you were leaking golden blood. 

Your parents did not expect for you to be a Chrysos Heir. For you to bear golden blood in your body. Yet they still did nothing to ease your pain. Instead, they shipped you off to Okhema with matching grins on their faces, relieved to be rid of your presence. 

When you first came before Lady Aglaea, you were ragged. You bared tattered and dirty clothes, your hair a mop on your head, extending well past your shoulders as it had never been cut. The Goldweaver had moved toward you, heels echoing like booms of thunder. But you looked her straight in the eye, greeting her with silence. 

You had seen her smile slightly, her hand extending before you, beckoning you forward. You took it carefully, feeling her soft palm against your rough one, leading you forward as you had no choice but to follow. 

When you were about fifteen, you encountered a white-haired boy who went by Phainon. You had just been in the middle of your lesson with Professor Anaxagoras, scribbling down his theories when the boy poked at your back. 

You had turned around with a frown. “Why did you poke me?” 

Phainon had smiled at you, pointing at your hair. “Can I have a pen or a pencil? I accidentally lost mine.” 

Ever prepared, you had given him a pencil before turning back to the lesson. Yet he continued to bother you repeatedly. He poked at your back every few minutes, asking your name, or random questions about your likes and dislikes. You felt your cheeks getting hot as you tried to ignore him, but he was annoyingly persistent. 

Even when class ended, he continued to bother you. He talked in your ear, not awaiting a response as Phainon went on and on about things you could not care less for. Even when going to get food, he persisted. Little by little, you were losing it. 

“Did you get those clothes from Aglaea? Did she personally weave them for you?” Phainon asked, grabbing at the fabric of your shirt. He was leaning in far too close far too quickly.  

You turned your head away in hopes for him to take the hint and distance himself. Instead, he did the utter opposite. He continued leaning in further until you could feel his breath on your neck. That was when you had finally had enough. 

“Get away from me!” You yelled, pushing him away.  

It barely did anything to him. He stumbled back a step, catching him quickly, but was clearly surprised from your outburst. He stood there, blinking his big blue eyes, white hair shagging over his forehead. Yet he didn’t look offended or hurt in any way. Instead, he looked apologetic. 

Big round puppy eyes, the slight dimples in his cheek. The way his skin shined in the golden sunlight, almost like he was the dawn itself. He held his hand to his chest, fist curling around the fabric of his shirt.  

“I’m sorry. I was being uncaring of your feelings,” Phainon said quietly.  

For some mysterious reason, your heart leaped in your chest. Maybe it was because of the way Phainon was looking at you, like a kicked puppy. Or maybe it was the desperation of wanting an actual friend. In the entire time you’ve been in Okhema, you’ve been completely and utterly alone. Other than the other Chrysos Heirs, you’ve found yourself quite lonely. Maybe this was the chance for you to make an actual friend, no matter how overwhelming it was. 

“It’s fine,” you mumbled, tugging at the hem of your shirt. “It was just too much too fast.” 

Phainon nodded, still looking like a wounded animal.  

“Yeah, I understand. Sometimes it all gets too much.” 

You found yourself nodding in agreeance, biting the inside of your cheek as your brain tried to figure out what to say next. Luckily, you didn’t have to. 

“I’m Phainon from Aedes Elysiae,” he introduced. He extended his hand. “It’s nice to formally meet you.” 

You nodded slowly, offering your name by showing where it was carved into your pencil. All your pencils had your name on it. The one Phainon borrowed and had still been no different than any of the others. 

“I’ve lived in Okhema for most of my life. It’s more my home than any other place.” You whispered the last part. 

If Phainon heard you, he didn’t comment on it. Instead, he took your hand, giving it a light shake. For some unknown reason, you let him.  

“We can totally become friends, right?” Phainon asked. “I think we’d be the best of friends if you let me bother you.” 

You covered your face, unable to will it in you to take your hand back. Not when you realised his hands had the same roughness that life had given you both. And if you were to take your hand away from your face, you were afraid he would see just how red your cheeks had become. 

“Fine! We’re friends. Happy?” 

“Do you really mean that? Or are you just trying to get me to go away?” A cheeky grin had spread across his face. 

You snatched your hand away, whirling away and stomping off with your back to him. Your ears had become a bright shade of red, your cheeks matching. Your heart was beating erratically in your chest, almost like a thunderstorm in your chest. 

Somehow, you knew that you weren’t going to be let go that easily. That Phainon didn’t seem like the type of person to give up without a fight. Your judgement proved true when you heard footsteps trailing behind you. You could only groan, dragging your hands down your face and praying to the Titans that you were going to be able to keep your sanity after this. 

⭒ Dan Heng x gn!reader ⭒

Summary: Dan Heng is a mystery. Reader has recently boarded the Express and is intrigued on the true nature of Dan Heng and his past. Gets interrupted by a certain pink-haired girl.

Warnings: No Warnings!!

w/c: 1.3k

loud notes: First post on here! Kind of nervous, but HSR has been such an interesting game to get into. I've only recently started playing but all of the characters feel so deep, which I love to see in a game! About to finish main story of Amphoreus.

Boarding the express was one of the best things you had done in your life. 

The Express Crew all had their own mystery around them. Himeko, despite rediscovering the Astral Express and continuing the Trailblazing journey of the Nameless, had her own air of mystery. March 7th had come to the Express without a memory, after having been stuck in a block of six-phased ice. Welt was direct in his words but avoided talking about his home world very often. Caelus had suddenly appeared on Herta Space Station, a Stellaron in his chest, with no recollection of how he came to be there, other than his name. 

But Dan Heng was an anomaly. 

His words flowed smooth like the waters, breathy like the wind. His knowledge was vast, a clear desire for books and logging the new worlds they roamed. Though he truly was strange. He slept on the floor of the Archives, making the room his home as he explored the vast knowledge logged in the Astral Express’s logs, from past Nameless’s journeys.  

Mystery clouded around him like a blanket, keeping his secrets locked away in the depths of his mind. Despite having been on the Express for a couple of weeks now, you had not a single clue about what he was thinking. 

You sat in your room, the place reserved for you and you only, and sigh.  

Dan Heng was like a puzzle where all the pieces were the same colour, with so many missing. Every time you would talk, it felt like there was something lurking in his eyes, something magical. Something mysterious.  

It seemed even the others didn’t know all that much about Dan Heng, despite him being with them far longer than you had. You’d only boarded less than a few weeks ago, where the Astral Express had stopped. 

Your life had changed forever that fated day. Your lost and lonely soul had found a new group of companions, ones who smiled and welcomed you warmly, watching you marvel at the Path of the Trailblaze. 

A knock interrupted your continuing thoughts. 

“Come in!” You called, too comfortable to leave your position on your bed. 

Your door slid open, and Dan Heng hovered by the door with his hand still raised awkwardly before dropping to his side. He was in the same outfit as he always was, while on the other hand, you were sitting there in your pyjamas, a headband pushing your hair out of your face. 

“Sorry to interrupt,” he began. “Were you busy?” 

You startled at the question, sitting up straight against the cushions. 

“Busy? Definitely not me,” you laughed shakily. “Come in. Come in.” 

Dan Heng stepped in, the door closing behind him with a light hiss. 

“Miss Himeko asked me to gain your input on our next destination,” he said, standing in the middle of the doorway. “Since we’re done on this planet, it is time to go to the next.” 

You blinked, puzzled. 

“Judging based off your expression, I am assuming that March didn’t tell you about the options like she was supposed to.” Dan Heng sighed, pressing his hand to his forehead. “Of course. Pom Pom will most likely call a meeting to discuss it any way.” 

You tapped your chin, tilting your head to the side. 

“Oh, I did talk to March earlier. She sounded excited, but then she got distracted by a comet whooshing past the window,” you explained. “She started taking photos of it.” 

Dan Heng shook his head slowly, groaning. “Right. That explains it.” 

“You can sit down, you know?” 

Dan Heng looked up at you curiously. “I am comfortable standing up. Besides, I am already intruding in your space.” 

You sucked in a breath. “I just meant you’re blocking the doorway. March barges in around this time, and I don’t think you’d want to be tackled to the floor by her.” 

Dan Heng silently shuffled to the side, taking a seat in the chair at your desk. Your pride and joy. The softest and most comfortable chair to ever sit in. It was like sitting on a sea of clouds, sinking into peace. 

And Dan Heng was sitting there. 

You looked away, trying to hold yourself back from saying something. Obviously, Dan Heng had no idea what you treasured, since this was the first time in your room. Still, it irked you to no end. 

Perhaps feeling the tension that suddenly appeared in the room, Dan Heng stood up. 

“I should leave. It’s getting late,” he said. “I will make sure to talk to March in the morning.” 

You watched him walked to the door with a frown dragging at the corners of your lips. This had been your chance to know more about him, but you totally blew it. Before you could let that thought drag on anymore, your alarm clock went off. 

“Dan Heng, I think you should move away from the door-” 

He didn’t stand a chance.  

The door flew open and he was being body slammed to the floor as March wailed, both of them tumbling to the floor in a giant heap. You winced at the sound, but a laugh spilled from your lips. You clasped your hand over your mouth to muffle the sound, but that caught March’s attention. 

“Hey!” She whined. “Stop laughing. You’re such a big meanie!” 

Yet you just continued to laugh in her face, unable to contain the glee on your face. For a moment, you forgot all about Dan Heng, and apparently so did March as she was still sitting on his back as he lay there with his head resting on his arms. 

“Stop it!” She puffed out her cheeks, crossing her arms. “Ugh, I can’t believe I willingly hang out with someone that’s so mean to me.” 

“Sorry! Sorry!” You said, voice breathy. “How about you go get some nail polish from your room? The polish is quite chipped on your fingers.” 

“Free appointment? Count me in!” She grinned, scrambling out of the room. 

Dan Heng pushed himself up from the floor, rubbing his back. He frowned at the closed door before taking a seat beside you on the bed.  

“Sometimes I think she’s too excitable,” he commented. 

“That’s March for you,” you replied. “Never a grey day with her around.” 

Dan Heng let out a low hum. “I suppose that’s true. She is always there when the place needs livening up.” 

You lied back against the pillows, a gentle smile touching your lips.  

Ever since boarding the Express, March had been the first person you had truly connected to. Her bubbly personality, the way her eyes shined so brightly, how her passions were never hidden. It had made the thin shell around your heart part, allowing her in. 

From then on, you would hang out every night. Sometimes it would be painting each other’s nails, doing fashion shows with you taking pictures of her strutting around the room, or watching romance shows that made you both burst into tears. She truly was the light that parted the clouds, illuminating the world with a gentle glow. 

“You said it,” you chuckled.  

You grabbed Dan Heng’s collar, tugging him down to lie down beside you. The bed bounced as he let out a startled sound, joining you in staring up at the ceiling which you had decorated with glow in the dark stars. 

“I want to know more about you, Dan Heng,” you spoke. “You are truly a wonderful mystery.”