#askves

Jack is another case of someone who's already infiltrated your life. So not much would be different. He knows you can protect yourself; he has no worry about it. Well, maybe a little. But overall, he's not suffocating and cares for you a lot, while not being overbearing. The only con is that he does get a little territorial over you. You don't notice it much, but Jack gets a bit huffy with you and Rollo's bond. Of course, he knows he shouldn't worry about you. The main aspect of your relationship is Rollo. He doesn't let it show too much, but he'll scoot a bit closer when someone else is next to you.

Lilia might infect other monsters with the cruel idea that you'd be better off among them than you would humans... Other than the occasional sudden malicious intent to others (humans) and blood on his mouth, he's a pretty chill monster... sort of. You're not too sure how Silver turned out the way he did. Lilia isn't restrictive, but he sometimes suggests others in the domain to be restrictive. A confusing mindset, but then again, he has always taken you out for a loop in your mind... One of the better options, but it feels like there's something more sinister behind that playful facade... It reminds you that you're meant to kill him.

Neige and his angelic persona really don't just stop at his looks. Freedom, affection, love, he can give you it all while never overwhelming you! Weirdly enough though... With his affection for you, you're seeing less and less of everyone else. It's weird, every time you try visiting, taking all the right stops and whatnot, you're met with right where you came from. It might be fine though, because Neige always appears and leads you somewhere safer.

Chenya is the chillest beast there is. In fact, you don't actually see him all that much, even when you are "with" him. When he does appear, he's always doing something... Whether it be to bother you or the other monsters. His tails are always knocking things over or holding you in them. Another one who you can basically do whatever with.

Ruggie will let you do whatever you want if you bribe him. Honestly, he doesn't think what you do outside of him is his business, as long as you're not getting hurt or whatever. It's really the same as how what he does isn't yours, what he eats (or rather who...) shouldn't matter much to you. But, he also has a certain duty to you, he feels. It's weird, he shouldn't care, but he does. Which is why you have to bribe him for certain things... Whether it be looking the other way when he's eating, or pretending his annual feasting isn’t happening right in front of you.

Cater is essentially the equivalent of a best friend who clubs with you. If you're going out, he tags along whenever he wants to! Of course, he's smart enough not to just go out looking "half" dead, so he steals someone's face! Not too hard, even if the process absolutely horrifies you... Though in turn, he has to avoid people who could possibly remember that person's face. Where is this going? Yeah, Cater also does it to sometimes follow you around. Of course, he's not some creep who does it 24/7! That's so not cool! He just does it to make sure you're having fun! Just... don't have too much fun without him, kay? Or else more and more humans wake up one day without a face of their own.

Fellow strings up poor humans he tricks into his shows already. Sometimes, just sometimes, he considers doing it to you. After all, it’s much easier to keep track of a little doll when you're the one controlling it. In fact, he's done it a couple of times before. The issue with you, however... The idea of extinguishing your little light isn't very appealing to him.

Middle

Trey, he's really lenient. Sorta. He does watch over you a lot, though. It comes in handy when a monster tries sneaking up on you while you're asleep. It's immediately scared off by the 8-foot reanimated corpse that's working as your body pillow. He lets you do a lot. The only thing is sometimes it feels really... You're not sure. As if he's easing you into something. You're grateful that he's a part of the more freeing bunch, but why does it feel like there's a motive...? You can tell. He treats you nicely to get something in return. Whether it be to ease you off the monster hunting or something else, you don't know. Whenever you eat his food, though, you're met by a glint of satisfaction. "You're doing a good job. If you need anything," There's still an evident height difference when he sits next to you. "Make sure to always come to me when you need something, okay?" Ah, that's what it is.

Epel, and the part of the thing that makes him the middle ground of the cast, is the fact that he was a human who also wanted freedom. He understands what it's like to be trapped in a single place for so long, the exhaustion and isolation from other people his age still lingering. That's the part that has him thinking of your freedom. The part that has him wanting you to be in view is the newfound knowledge of everything else in the monster universe and his new outlook on mortal life. You know how easily you could lose your life to monsters? You know how much easier you could lose your life to humans? He still lets you do the mortal stuff he used to do, like eating regular food and sleeping, but the moment you step out to do your work, he's watching you. He'll show you... Just how much better it is being a monster!

Sebek doesn't want you. No...! Not at all whatsoever! He should be in the least section because you're the least of his concerns! ... But you unfortunately are of his concerns. No matter how hard he tries to not care about your current dealings, he always finds himself in the nearest body of water, watching you from afar with the greatest of focus. It's not on purpose...! Really, it's not at all! It must be one of your hunting techniques that has him finding himself at your every single location! And yet, the moment you seem in need of true help, like your bedding isn't too comfortable or you're lacking in proper food, you'll see something... close enough to what you need. And you have a good idea who it is by the moss on the materials. The issue, while he doesn't mean to follow you, at the end of the day, he is. And at some point, the constant caretaking becomes a bit overwhelming...

Deuce same as Ace in some respects, only a little turned down. The reason for it isn't anything substantial, just something like... maybe wanting you to prefer him more... He's still always by your side, hiding in the shadows as you wander the public. Or even right by your side as he covers the rot on his skin and the chaos of his fleshless arm. Except, if you get through his hesitancy on letting you talk to another person, he'll allow you to, without impeding on your space. But... He'll get you really worried if you're hanging out with someone who isn't him or Ace a little too much. He asks you if they did something to upset you, and even if you say no, he'll furrow his brows as a sign that he doesn't believe you. The next time you're out, you'll coincidentally bump into him, and he'll ask with a shy smile if you'd spend some time with him. And... you don't have to heart to say no.

Floyd. His moods really shift the way he is. Sometimes he's lax, other times he's in the between, and a lot of times he's questioning you about what other monster/human has you more interested. Even if he is in the previous two moods, the moment you talk about someone else, or rather something boring, he'll start scowling as he flops his heavy body weight on you. You can feel the way he purposefully tries stealing your body heat, his arms wrapped around you as he questions why plankton have your attention. He's here! Jade and Azul, too—But he's here! Shrimpy's making him sad by talking about other monsters and humans. He'll go from a whine to a deep growl in less than a second, his sharp teeth finding their way on your shoulder, not biting, only touching. "I like Shrimpy... Shrimpy should stop likin' everyone else though..." If you occupy him with your full-blown attention, you have a chance at having the more relaxed version of him, slipping away when he sleeps on your lap. When he wakes up, though, he's not too happy.

Leona he remembers what it was like being human, how life was as a prince. So he's a bit more understanding in the fact that you're human. But don't forget, he remembers, but he isn't one. Not anymore. He knows what you need to thrive, but his issue is that he also knows how fragile humans are. He remembers how easily he had gotten scarred back then. Whenever you interact with other people, Ruggie is always accompanying you, or you're met with a cursed bandage on your arm that constricts suffocatingly tight when something unfortunate is bound to happen. What makes it worse is that Leona's always right about it. He'll let you be free, but you're left with doubt whenever Leona tells you about the misfortunes of reality, and he somehow always remains correct. He smiles when he sees you show up to his tomb, your fingers playing with his bandage on your wrist.

Jamil he understands that you're a top-rated hunter for a reason; it's not as if you're a child. Yet, a part of him will always acknowledge the fragility of human life. He lets you have your own autonomy for the most part, but it's really a matter of time before he realizes how much safer you could be in his care. Well, there's a reason Kalim is where he is now. And... he doesn't want that same end for you. Of course, the thought of you being with them for eternity is appealing, but he understands your mortality. He understands how detrimental it is for a human to be alive for that long, especially if that wasn't meant for them. Yet, eventually, he can't help but be selfish, taking something for himself for once. He'll let you be you independent (kinda?), but the gnawing feeling of a paradise he desires, one he always finds in you, lingers in the back of his mind.

Rook is in this section, not because he's the middle ground. Somehow, he's either calm to watch you or extremely suffocating. There is no in between for him. Some days, you're completely fine to tell him you want to talk to someone else and go out on your own, and he'll leave you alone for the most part until he decides to tackle you from the shadows. Other days, you ask and he's staring at you wide-eyed with a smile on his face, nodding a yes, that you know means no. He'll let you out, but you can feel the cold sensation of being watched. The moment a shadow touches you, you can feel Rook's arm hold you in a hug before disappearing just as quickly. In those cases, you have to take extra precautions with whoever you're with, telling them to avoid shadows as much as possible. If it's a monster you're with... You say fair game.

Most

Kalim should be in the least, but he's in the most because his will to be with you is just that strong. Never cruel, never scary, but always happy, whenever he's around you. He tells you it's as if you're a vacuum that sucks all of his pain away. Made your heart melt the first time, but now you're wondering how to turn this supposed power off. It gets a bit tiring being showered with love and gifts at every moment possible. It's to express his affections for you, but it gets to a point where you wonder if it's affection or plain obsession...

Idia mutters curses for anyone who comes near you. Idia is already a pretty isolated bounty in terms of the foundation. No one really sees him unless they die or someone else dies... Being with him means subjecting your life to complete isolation, with no one but Idia. He prefers it that way, which is why if another monster somehow finds you... Sorta ruins it. Y'know, cause some of them are known for being all-powerful beings, maybe even seductive or fearful— Doesn't matter. Normie monsters who don't understand the perils of dealing with death... all they know is causing it...! (Him too sometimes, but he skips over that.) You really don't wanna be with those cocky beasts, right? Humans too. You can agree in the moment, but as soon as he sees any of them appear, death is marked over them, whether it be monster or mortal. The loneliness and guilt are a combo filled with tragedy for you.

Ace should be one of the easier ones, yeah? No. Everyone in this section is bad, but out of all of them, he's the second clingiest, only because he wouldn't accompany you to the bathroom. Not the most territorial, but enough for him to always be by your side. He's a bit more tolerable, as conversation with him is smooth enough that you don't get bored, but it does get a little saddening when you haven't really had the chance to talk to anyone else. When you bring it up, he'll tell you to just talk to them. Your eyes light up when he says so... While they don't go out, your expression can't help but frown a little when he seems to rest himself on your shoulder and stays for a long time. Okay, not a long time, the entire time. The. Doesn't talk much, only a little input here and there. Still... He really does enjoy you a little too much... So much so, he can't stop eating all your human relationships. If they're especially close... he makes sure to portion his meal across several days.

Skully is another case of let's you do whatever you want, just a bit... obsessive with it. While he doesn't cling to you as heavily as the others (still clings though), he's so horribly infatuated with you that it kinda retcons the pro. Simply sitting has him crawling on his spider legs and telling you just how beautiful you are. If he had a camera, he would snap pictures of you and keep them in a photobook strapped to his side. It's a great idea actually... If you don't stop him, he's going to rob his next victim for one. Essentially, just thinks you might be the best thing to happen in his life, and he exudes it so much it scares you a little. Too much...

Jade... There's not much to say. Despite how deep his affections run for you, he can't help but want to play with your heartstrings. It's most definitely the monster in him. Right when you think you don't have to witness any cruel misdeeds by his hand, he's smiling when you notice the completely destroyed ship that floats aimlessly. The issue with him is that he simply takes too much enjoyment in your reactions. He'll never go so far as to have you reeling in fear, no... The moment he does, he's letting you sink back into the safety of his arms with a smile on his face. Clawed hands will pat your head as he tells you everything is okay. "My, you really are so sensitive... There are many bodies in the sea, you know." His arms will wrap around your waist as your legs flail unsteadily in the water. "Worry not, I'm right here." It's unfortunate that the biggest threat to your safety is also the main thing protecting it.

Vil is a bit stricter, insisting your safest option is to limit others. Yes, limit. He's not so unreasonable that he'll tell you to cut off all contact, of course, but it's better to be smart with it. Who knows what other humans or beasts could do? Sometimes, monsters are even better than humans in some instances. He'll take care of you to the point you feel like a display doll. Even when you're supposed to simply sleep next to him, he's preparing you like the whole world will watch you... Tells you that you really shine the best when you're out of that ragged hunting uniform... Being with him is essentially just a course of finding your 'true potential'. It's exhausting, but you think Vil tries to stop you from quitting by giving you different "rewards". You have to ask him for these rewards to be kept private before you get fired. He'll always tell you how bright you'd shine if they went public, but at the end of the day, he likes that sight of you, to be for him only.

Riddle. His insistence on you being with you might be entirely because you feel like the sole free space he has to not be continuously straight-edged. While he personally would prefer to just be a model monster for all of time, the escape you leave him is what draws him in. Which is why he's here. His affection isn't as suffocating as others; rather, it leaves a taste in your mouth you can't get rid of. It's like he's stained you with his troubles. You're always abiding by the rules of Heartslaybul, but if you were to ever break any, you would not be faced with the typical punishment. Instead, your execution is staying by his side, so he knows you're following the law at every moment. He's restrictive if you break the rules. But... It's a bit hard when some of these orders go against your own morality. You're stuck between listening to the heinous commands or being the tyrant's right hand...

Azul has a slight issue with jealousy (or something much worse). It's what makes him one of the more difficult ones to handle. He never does show it to you, though, not directly. You only really notice it in the way a tentacle/hand holds onto you tighter than need be when met with a threat (a human or flirting serpents). He always acts so suave, though, hiding behind a mask of confidence despite knowing full well he might eat three islands of you preferred someone else over his carefully curated facade. It makes him a bit more intense with his affections, to the point you feel a bit suffocated... You're showered with underwater treasure and love, but is it really worth it? You don't know... He'll attempt to erase your doubts with a kiss on your temple as he assures you that you will want for nothing in his grasp. And while you don't doubt it, is a life with everything really living? Especially when some of these treasures look horribly familiar.

Malleus. First place clinger. He has eaten a key or maybe even multiple, just to stop you from leaving Diasmonia's castle. He'll watch the way your expression grimaces, just so he can gentle pat your shoulder with his heavy hand to sit down. He's gentle with it, but if you refuse with a slight attitude, his face will grow a little more monstrous, like actual gargoyles. He'd never cause you direct immense pain, perhaps just a little spark. A part of him thinks it's cute the way you jump at the shock, but it's still meant to be a harsh... Suggestion. "You cannot leave. There's too much danger in the world for your... fragile composition." It's why it would just be better... If you weren't human at all. Staying with him, and honestly, anyone in this category (except for the one below...), spells doom for your mortal body

Rollo becomes a completely different story when you find out the truth about him, though. His attentive nature to your person remains, but it feels as if your freedom, or rather your will to be out of his reach, decreases... Suddenly you feel like you should just stay home... and let this ...... take care of you. Maybe it's the fact that you've known him for years, or the truth that he's not who you thought, that leaves you staying by him. You're not entirely sure... All you really know is that something is different between you two... Whenever you try thinking about it, he suddenly appears and eases any of your worries away.

Just... What is it that you're missing?

Leona glances at it like it's just there. His reaction is sorta apathetic at first, so hesitantly, you're about to leave before he drags you back with bandages.It's only then you realize he doesn't hate it as much as he seems he does.

"Why are you walking away? What? You think I hate it? Thought hunters were supposed to be observant. You should know by now how I feel. Really? Still can't tell? I don't gotta say it, do I?... You're looking at me like you want me to though, so I'm gonna have to, huh? Good job. What? Don't like being praised? That's what your eyes were tellin' me. Quit trying to cut my wrap... You already know how I feel about it."

Ruggie is looking at it all suspiciously. Why are you giving him a gift anyway? But at the same time... free stuff is free stuff.

"Don't know what it's for, but I'm taking it. You're not gonna make me give it back, right? You're not? It's all for me? Okay cool. Wouldn't say I was gonna give it back even if you wanted me to. You sure you meant to be hunting me, though? Everyone's right, you're too soft for the monster hunting gig shishishishi. Don't look at me like that... Fine, sit with me. I'll share."

Jack is another one with a stone face. He gives you mixed signals at first, but the softest smile on his lips tells you he appreciates it.

“Thank you. I have one for you, too. And—… Why…Are you so close? No, you don’t need to be sorry. I don’t mind. But why are you looking at me? Huh? What makes you think I don't like it? Of course I do. It's... my face? Of course I like it—What are you—?... I can smile on my own. Anyways, really... thank you."

Azul wonders if it's an equivalent exchange. He's heard of Christmas through the lost journals of eaten ships, but he's never done it in practice. And so, you open his present expecting something simple only to find lost treasures in a box.

"I hope it is to your liking. I made sure to only give the best quality—W-why are you handing it back to me...?! Did I do it...? Pardon...? I... Gave you too much? I did not know that was a thing. It seems the sailors were misinformed... They weren't? Hm? You're undeserving? That might be the biggest lie you've ever told me. Nothing is too much for you. Not when I have the sea at my disposal."

Jade plays too much with receiving the present. Another one who plays around until he finds the moment to pull out his expertise. Be... cautious of whatever he decides to give you... In the end, it might be a true and genuine gift, but with him, it will always be a gamble.

"Goodness, for me? You're too kind. You really are a little shrimp with how fast you scurry to gift everyone. Oh, don't be mad, it's a compliment. No one could be as insistent as you. Of course, I got you a gift as well. After all, Azul has told us all about this little holiday. Go on, open it. You don't wish to? Why... that's quite sad. And I worked so hard to get it for you... See this wound? Yes yes... I got it all because I wished to make you happy... You'll open it? I'm glad—Away from me...? That is unfortunate..."

Floyd has a similar fashion to Jade, except the likelihood of his present being something nice is actually more likely. He always has to play around and scare you a little though.

"Ehh, like it? Hey, no, you don't. You haven't even opened it yet. Come on, come on, come on, come onnnn. I wanna see how you look when you open it. Huh? Whaaa, you're scared? Aren't you s'posed to be a seasoned hunter? You're not scared? Reaally? Shrimpy's tremblin' a bit though... Don't worry, you'll like it, promise... See? A pretty shell for a pretty shrimpy."

Kalim's present is essentially something he gives you every day. Unlimited wishes. Of course, he tries to do something a little different. Like, unlimited wishes and gold? The issue is you don't wanna use your gift... And he feels bad only having you give him something.

"All the wishes you could ever want! Oh oh oh! And gold too! Maybe even some jewels—Huh? They're meant to stay here? But I really wanna give you more than just wishes... I know you say you can't use them, but how about just one! It's Christmas! I used to give everyone something nice back then! I can't let you give me something and not give anything back. That's sad—Really?! You'll make a wish?! Don't use my...? But then, what do you wish for...? For me to be...? You're so nice...!"

Jamil looks skeptical of your present. It's not that he thinks you're trying to kill him with it, it's just he has no idea what's in there...

"What's in it? I know it's a gift... But what's inside? I'm meant to open it? RIght... Open it with me. I'm using you as protection? Why would I do that...? Just come here. It's not that I don't trust you, it's—Oh. You really... You're smiling a lot right now. Okay, yes... Thank you, I appreciate it. You found something nice for me. Of course, I appreciate it."

Vil has standards in his gifts. Many of the humans he's had dealings with would offer presents around this season for an even better time. Who was he to deny? But after your arrival, he's stopped contact. Who knew he'd still get them despite that?

"A present? No, I'm familiar. Many others have given me one before. Do you think yours will compare? Really? You don't? Have some confidence in yourself... A meek hunter makes for easier prey. Anyways, let's see what you give me. Maybe it'll satisfy this hunger—Oh...? It's... Quite innocent. Thank you. Maybe I should give you a gift as well. Don't look so suspicious, I'll give you one of the same innocent nature. Unless you want something else?

Rook is... Rook. Whatever it is you give him, there's no doubt he'll enjoy it. Whether it be the richest of treasure or trash. And as the designated shadow lurker, of course, he has a present for you as well.

"Magnifique! How beauté! A hunter after my heart. Hm? Why do you look so meek? I am overreacting? Non! You are just quite the gift-giver, Trickster. There is no other way to act but this for a blessing of your hands! Here, I must give you my present as well. I hope you enjoy it. It took many days, many shadows, and many gallons of ink to cultivate my gift!"

Epel actually gives you a gift before you can give him yours. And cause of that, he expectantly waits for what you give him.

"All yers! Costed me time and blood, but I promise you I got it genuine and true. Not more than 5 folks drunk from—! Oh right. A-anyways... I remembered it's Christmas so... I got you something. Had to go out during a night market for it, and you know... I tried my best to not feast on the whole street, but I got something nice, I think. And of course, you got me something too, huh? Knew it. That's why I just had to beat you to it."

Idia doesn't believe you actually got him something at first. You...? Spent time on him...? Yeah, he somehow died, didn't he? Until he remembers that's sort of just the way you are.

"T-This... You really spent time finding this...? Thanks, I guess... Uhm... Are you like for real by the way...? This isn't like you trying to trick me or something, right? I-I'm not gonna turn around and get jumped by like the rest of your monsters, right? Actually...? Good. Cause, they might have... y'know... If they did—Why are you coming closer...?! O-Okay, I get it, you're being genuine! I know you are... You... always are... Thank you."

Malleus feels regretful for not having something prepared for you sooner. He's extremely grateful, of course, but his pouting is very obvious.

"Ah, yes, thank you. It's quite nice. I'm happy you thought about me in such a way. Hm...? I am... Sulking? Why would I be... I am not upset in the least. The storm outside is completely unrelated. Please do believe me, I am joyful for such a present—I... I can still give you one? This gift-giving doesn't have to be confined to one day. Ah. That makes everything much better. Do not worry, you will have multiple presents by tomorrow morning.

Lilia is, of course, very happy. After all, it's a present from the sweetest hunter of all! How could he not be?

"How kind. You know me so well. Maybe even more than that, boss of yours, hm? Oh, don't worry about it. It is all water under the bridge for now. Let's focus on your present. It fits me quite well, doesn't it? Oh, how kind you are. I could just eat you up. Oh, don't look so scared, I'm just kidding, of course. At most, just a little bite should suffice. Will you let that be my second present?

Silver is another with a resting blank face. But his appreciation is more obvious with the slightest smile and a soft tone in his voice, which are the evident clues.

"This is... For me? Thank you, I will—Is... something the matter? Oh. No, I love it. Sorry. I should have shown it better, huh? Don't apologize, it's just my own face. I'll do my best to show you better—Like... this? Well, it makes sense that smiling makes me look more appreciative. Okay, I'll smile every time I see you. I don't have to? But I want to. I appreciate it whenever you're around."

Sebek tells you he could never want a gift from a human hunter like you! But the moment you offer to take it off from his hands, he's vehemently refusing, keeping it close to his chest.

"I could never accept a gift from you! Who knows how many monsters you've bathed this present in! Huh? No, I am not handing it back to you! Why would I?! You gave me this present, and so I shall keep it and treasure it like all other gifts should be treated. Why... Why are you smiling?!

Rollo reacts very calm. Gently thanking you for the gesture and handing you your gift(s). You'd think he was apathetic from his resting tired face, but far from it. He keeps the presents and whatever packaging they came in and takes care of them more than he does himself.

"Yes, thank you very much. I promise to take great care of it. Here are yours. Hm? What do you mean, it's a lot? I don't believe so... It's only enough to fill this sack. Pardon? Nonsense, what you gave me is perfectly enough for me. If anything, I feel I am lacking. And—Why are you crying...?!"

Neige is hugging you with both his wings and his arms. Everywhere you go, even on a cloudy day, it's like the sun purposefully seeks you out to shine.

"You're so nice! Thank you so much! Oh, oh, and you even... and! Wow, you really thought about this, didn't you? I'm so happy to be your angel. Don't worry, don't worry. I'll make sure to protect you with my heart. How could I not? I'll make sure to give you something just as good. After all, I love you!"

Skully genuinely worships your present. Acts as if this is a once-in-a-lifetime blessing and he'll never be as lucky again to receive something from you. Really... he just loves... No, no... he shouldn't say that. But it's the truth.

"You... Wow... You didn't have to...! This is so amazing... You're amazing. Goodness, sorry, sorry! I'm not bothering you with this, right? I am just so overwhelmed with how perfect you are. This gift as well. Please allow me to repay you... Ah, forgive me—You don't mind? I-I can kiss your hand as much as I wish? O-oh! Of course, I won't go overboard... whatever you wish."

Fellow wonders for a brief moment, if there's something else to it. But then again, you're you! He quite honestly has nothing to worry about, and so, he'll gladly accept your spoils.

"For me? All for me? Well, who am I to say no to such generosity! You really are a model of kindness for your foundation. Only the best you are, yes, yes. Why do you look so suspicious of me? Oh, of course, I got your gift properly. I know how much you hate our true monstrosities peaking out. Me? Lie? I could never? Look at me, and you'll see I am quite honest.

Chenya. Uhm. Hm... He's sort of... Hm...

"For me? Or for you? For two? Oh, for whom? Don't look so surprised. Presents are presents, I know what you'll get me, but I don't know what I'll have. Hm, I have something to gift you too. Oh, but you can't see it. It's in here. Mhm... Right in this door, and you'll find the gift I so carefully clawed my heart for.

...?

"Sorry...! It's just, I think I'd be sad if someone else married you." Kalim's hands take yours, intertwining your fingers with a smile. "I wanna be with you!" Something in that sentence is missing, but you remain quiet, and he lets you.

"Kalim." You break the silence, Kalim perking up. "I'm a human."

"I know! I used to be one too you know—"

"I can't marry something that's not human." His smile falls at your words, your hands. In some novels, you're sure that the response to your words would be 'Then I'll be human!'. But of course, despite your attempts at trying to remind Kalim how you even met in the first place... Which was to kill him.

"Then let's make you not human!" Your eyes widen at the way he beams once more. "Don't worry. I'll find someone else to make that wish so you don't have to lift a finger!"

He's burst into a smoke of air, and you can only really hope someone doesn't come across that lamp...

Alt + Bonus info undercut

Lmao, once again, I was working on a piece already for Kalim, so this worked out (˶˃ ᵕ ˂˶). I genuinely didn’t know what colors to make him. Originally, I thought of him being his usual self, but with a smoky bottom, but then I tested out red and blue and couldn't decide >.<.

Oh, but now I say he lowkey just changes his colors to whatever he's feeling 💀. He's usually red, but ig if he's feeling yellow, he'll be yellow?

He can grow human legs. In fact, that’s what you ask him to do. Whenever he’s in that smoky floating form, he always floats so high you have to crane your neck to look at him. When you tell him to grow legs, he loses like 5 feet of height and is back to being regular. That might've been worse though, because now he seems to become a bit clingier…

Turns his skin into his normal tone whenever someone he’s doing wishes for calls him. He wouldn’t want to be caught glowing red now. For you though, it's less disguise and more hangout time, really.

The bounty on his head isn’t actually for hunting like the rest of the monsters are. It’s instructed for hunters to attempt to take the lamp back and ‘return’ to Crowley. In the case someone not a part of the foundation retrieves it, then directions change to exterminate. You have a feeling Crowley just wants to make wishes for himself…

His eyes look normal btw. It's just... Every time he sees you, they dilate so much to the point they take up his whole eye.

Maybe... with more merch? You should start small and sell your most popular beast. But... who on earth would that be—?

"Ace...!" You yelp when a cold chin places itself on your shoulder, looking over at your writing. He hums when going over the numbers. A finger with exposed bone traces over his name, following the prices of each beast.

"Just use me. We're always together so your viewers know me best, yea—"

"And they will know how much of an issue you are the vast majority of them time." Riddle chimes in, Deuce nodding along at the statement. You ignore the curses him and Ace seem to trade with each other behind you. "You should make the right choice to your audience. If they sense you are lacking in quality—"

"What are you implying, Rosehearts?" A mossy wing curves next to you, caging you closer to the gargoyle, and pushing Ace away.

"I am not implying anything. Simply saying the logical solution." Before Malleus can call him out, dozens of bandages take hold of his stone wing, pulling it back so you are no longer in a monsters hold. It doesn't last very long however as even more bandages shoot out and pull you into the mummies arms.

"You're a doctor. Shouldn't you know people don't always follow logic?" Leona's arms are on the cold side, but you instinctually slouch into his arms. "Besides," He rolls his head around, a dull green glowing through the bandages around his yes. "I'm all they talk about in the comments."

"Hah?" A collective thought at the statement.

The group opinion is interrupted when a shoot of water sprays the mummy at the back of his head. When they look at the culprit, the three marine monsters lean over the small indoor pools walls.

They could easily grow in size and dominant, but oh they're just too kind to do that! Seeing you in tears would be an adorable sight, but destroying your home, while beneficial, is just too cruel!

A cold tentacle somehow reaches you, and gently tugs you towards the water despite Leona's strong grasp.

"I don't think that's the case Leona." Azul fixes his glasses as each appendages adjusts your clothes, despite your pajamas being perfectly fine... "But if you don't believe me, we could also check and see."

"I'm good. You'd find a way to turn it into a deal." Leona scoffs. He doesn't fight back from the sudden steal of you in his arms. He glares, however that's as far as he's willing to go, as he knows giving them the reaction they want will just boost their egos.

"Oh?" Jade's nails poke you in the cheek as he smiles. "But is that not what our dear little influencer does every day?" slowly, he scraps gently down, a soft tingle on your skin until he stops at your waist. "All those brand deals... taken just as quickly as they were asked." You frown at Jade. You know what he's about to say. Well not him but—

"Shrimpy's real easy, huh?" It's Floyd's turn to pick up where Jade left. "You reaaally like that money. Wouldn't blame ya though." Floyd's nail starts from your waist, and trails up. "I'd use that money to spoil you good. If I could make more for you."

"Would you really?" you ask. When you take a moment to think, all eyes remaining trained on you.

"Mmmm yeah I would. Jade and Azul too." You think even more at the prospect.

"Goodness," Azul leans over the pools edge, "You're thinking quite hard. Does that mean you wish for us to help you?"

"Well—" Before you can answer, another wispy matter takes hold of you, swinging your out of the trios grasp and into your wall. You don't feel any damage though, as the warm mist cushions the blow and well... The genie hugging you with all his might.

"Oh oh! I can help! You just have to wish for me to be your best seller!" Despite his appearance being similar to a Ghost, Kalim doesn't hold any of the cruel cold the rest of these beasts due. His quite warm, like another human would be. Too distracted by the embrace, you fail to notice the snake who slithers to your side.

"That wish seems to be more in your favor, Kalim." Jamil pries him off of you with his freezing fingers, the difference between the two temperatures being felt on your skin. Kalim frowns at the loss of contact, but he seems even more disappointed at the wish being for him.

"Oh! Well then you can wish for something else instead!" The offer has you immediately perking up. It earns a collective groan from your room mates, as everyone knows what it is you'll ask.

"I want to be—Mmph...!" A freezing palm covers your lips, Jamil glaring at you for the try.

"You should be more cautious when you make wishes." You are! Is what you try to mumble through his skin, but it doesn't seem to work.

"Then may I take the offer?" A tentacle appears back in your hand, a weird attempt at hand holding. "We would just love to be the ones who help you achieve your dreams..." Azul... Wow... Is he sparkling...?

"Goodness, being famous sounds quite nice, doesn't it?" Jade too...?!

"We'll be the ones who reel in viewers don't worry Shrimpy." Your moneymakers...!

"Ashengrotto, I hope you aren't forgetting we are all here in the living room." Since when was Malleus at your side again?

"We all are capable of helping [Name] reach their goals." Riddle crosses his arms as he floats, glaring down at everyone. "Some more than others however..."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Ace sits up from the couch he was slouching in.

"I think you know..." Deuce whispers, fidgeting with his hand.

Before you know it, your living room, which is not built for monster combat, is being used for monster combat. The moment you slip out of everyone's embrace, you are met with another road block.

Someones chest.

"It seems we came at a troublesome time." The sweet aroma the wafts from behind you, is enough to know who it is you hit. However, the twin tails that begin wrapping around your thigh, and well manicured hands that wrap around your waist, or even more so of an indicator. "Shall we go somewhere less chaotic? I know some better choices."

"Do you know somewhere new to film, Vil?" Your eyes remain fixated on the fight in front of you. Your sentence does have him sigh however. You truly are focused on one thing only... His train of thought stops when he notices you not looking at him. Slowly, his nails trace up your body, before taking hold of your chin.

"Indeed. It's quite close." His eyes glance at your bedroom door. You're not quite that oblivious however, and know full well what it is he's implying.

"We can try—"

"Everyone look at Vil!" The sound of what seems to be your translation app's text to speech goes off, and the chaos quickly comes to a halt. But not for very long, as everyone can see the state Vil has wrapped you in.

"Schoenheit." Malleus is the only one to physically voice his annoyance, but you can see it on everyone else's face as well.

One glance at your once closed bedroom door, that's now slightly ajar tells you who your culprit might be... Especially since you can see his flaming blue hair through the crack.

More importantly though–

You quickly duck out of the way fromt he several attacks being aimed at Vil, stone, bone, bandages, tentacles, all sorts of monstrous asssaults are being aimed his way. Except from Kalim, who's too busy planning out your "Wish Sheet". You don't look back to see whether any of them hit Vil.

You're a bit too focused on the reaper who's invaded your bedroom.

...

"Idia?" you close the door, the sounds of conflict still heard loud and clear from beyond it. "... Did you do that? You can come out" Silence. "... The plushies sold out really quickly." More silence. "Thanks for designing them." A shuffle is heard. "They made me a lot of money so far so you know, I really appreciate you for it..." A slight mumble. "You know, so far you're the only one who's directly contributed..." Now you can hear muttering. "Do you wanna go to Comic-Con with me? I would like to sell some more exclusively over there. Maybe... with the designer near me?" The mumbling stopped. He's hiding again. "You don't have to be next to me...!" Silence.

"... We can cosplay that one ship from–" You jump when the Grim Reaper jumps out from your closet.

"How soon are we getting away from these guys?!"

...

"Ah, thank you...! Don't worry, I'll throw them back in the see for you... They're already dead so they wouldn't be any good–"

"Don't worry." The guy looks concerned at the way your hands tighten around the gills of the decomposing eels, both of them flailing around. Yet, not enough for you to kill them. "I'll find a very good use for these two."

...

Unfortunately, they've found a home on you by the time you find Azul. Floyd snugly wrapped around your waist, and Jade finding himself around your neck like a scarf.

and Azul...

Is stalking the vendor you were talking to earlier. The one who had given you free fruit in hopes of a date. You never gave him a reply, though. And yet, here he is...

20 different globs of slime silently spying. Luckily for you, he's a bit more ashamed of the form than Jade and Floyd. The moment he spots you, you don't even have the chance to ask him what's going on with the three of them, before he's tucking tail and turning invisible.

All you know is that he's still there, however. An almost-death-causing tragedy happens every five minutes for the guy. The only reason he's saved each time is because you step in, the unfortunate accident always stopping before it can hit you, too.

————