Villain Ray- I’ve done Ray's living space BUT, I think Apollo would live in a dilapidated house that has an underground sort of space to live. Sometimes he’ll live with “The Syndicate” for a couple days, especially if they are planning something big.

Villain Ray- has more time on his hands, so, he still likes to cook but I think he is like a sous chef level of cooking. He still loves it. He’ll make homemade things. Adding on to that, Apollo has his own personal garden of veggies and such. Since he has time to take care of them. Like, he’ll get back drenched in blood and take care of his plants as soon as he gets home. The garden is outside behind the eelaltiadate house that’s in the middle of absolutely nowhere.

Apollo & Ray- one thing I’ve noticed about Ray is that he has a certain way of speaking. He speaks intellectually. Full sentences and hardly uses abbreviations like don’t couldn’t, or just things in that ballpark. So, this brings me to a conclusion that both Ray and Apollo are very smart in the sense of verbiage. Using words that you may or may not have to ask what that means. (If I’m being honest, it just makes them hotter. Love a man with a strong vocabulary. 🤭)

Apollo and Ray- they aren’t that different from each other, Apollo is just basically everything that Ray tries to hide. Apollo is all the anger, hate, cruelty, and vengeance all wrapped in one. Ray tries to keep himself in check, especially when you are now here. Sometimes he can’t help it but you love him anyway and he’s grateful for that. Ones just more openly violent and hateful.

Both are in desperate need of therapy, we all know that though.

Apollo- I hate to say it but, Apollo’s MC died a long time ago. (I worn explain now but I will be writing it you’ll learn soon enough)

Apollo and Ray- depending on the circumstances, if they did meet each other, they will either be friends and team up, or legit hate each other. Constantly trying to kill each other, especially if they both like the same MC.

Less SFW ideas

Apollo and Ray- in the sense of flirting and what not, Apollo and Ray are the same in my head. Can dish it out and dish it out well but CAN NOT receive. Ray is touch starved by choice I think to some degree. Didn’t feel the desire to connect with someone in that way until you.

Apollo- he has never wanted to touch another person really. Not that he has zero experience he just chooses not to touch others because they aren’t “worthy” however, when he meets you? A switch flips and he’s never felt so hungry in his life. Man will jump those bones of yours.

Ray- you touch him kindly, giving him a massage after a long day and you suddenly just kiss up his spine, man is done in. He will melt like putty in your very hands. He wouldn’t even know what to do. (Man would probably beg you for more. 😰 what? Who said that? Not me? Don’t look at me like that! Get outta here!) If you flirt, he’ll be a little caught off guard at first but he’ll lay it on much stronger, flirting is his thing.

Apollo- he is equally if not more starved of you. Kissing him softly on the cheek, he’s done. He’s never felt so high in his life. Who needs drugs when he has you to make his heart skyrocket. Even with gentle intentions, even if you aren’t trying to start something, it will start anyway because he’s just that desperate for you. It may die down a little after getting used to your kisses. (That’s what he says anyway, he just hates how much control you actually have over him the minute you physically do anything. He is supposed to be better than that.)

Did a silly little thing, the of art is the first one with the other two just chilling there.

Before you read, this is a warning before the warning labels. This is legitimately considered dead dove according to the guidelines of DD. If there are ANY, and I mean ANY labels that you see that you know you CAN NOT handle. DO NOT READ! Take care of yourself. Seriously, heavy material is in this chapter. If you are still here, enjoy this chapter.

⚠️ warning ⚠️ dead dove 🕊️ , death, heavy themes of mental and physical abuse, use of unorthodox methods of punishment, attempted sexual assault (not Ray), manipulation, emotional unease, trauma, underage possession of alcoholic beverages, and alcohol in general.

If you personally need to take a break will reading, do so. The story will still be here. I promise, come back when ready if you need to. Enjoy the read.

“The Star At Night”

Part 3 “Loss”

The mask was held out for him to take. Its colors burned into his brain. FUCKING STEEL SHERIFF?! This had to be some kind of joke. Ray felt himself claw out past the Binary Star façade. Ray was supposed to be buried deep, wrapped up and lost in the light of Binary Star. This made Ray claw to the surface. Thoughts and feelings rushed to the surface like a dam that had broken and left damage as it went.

___________________________________________

14 years ago

Ray enjoyed the sun while he had it. Based on its position it was probably around three in the afternoon. The hottest part of the day but, hey, at least there was a cool breeze for a day in May like this. The brown sack of groceries held in his arm. He had to admit, having super strength was nice. Groceries felt like nothing. After exiting the store he even helped some old lady carry bags of groceries like it was nothing. Felt good. Ray looked down in the bag. The lady had much healthier stuff than he did. I mean, if Ray would choose he wouldn’t be one to drink beer in whiskey. Just an errand for his…dad. He practically gagged at the thought of that man being his father. He shouldn’t even have the title.

Ray was glad he walked instead of drove, that means he gets to be out of the house for longer. After all, he doesn’t hardly leave, he schools at home because the NAHA doesn’t want him out among other teens his age. Not sure if he’d get into trouble. Besides, the NAHA knew from a report given to them by the steel sheriff that Ray was still dealing with the repercussions of the southern war. He shivered at the thought. Thank goodness he was only a part time hero right now. He’d be stressed to the max. He liked it well enough. Being a hero. Then again, he was always nervous to do the wrong thing though. To mess up. What if he wasn’t the Hero the people wanted? What if he was a mess up? What if he wasn’t what the people needed.

Finally, Ray had made it to the little house that was a bit out of town. Away from prying eyes. He slow played it, walked at a slower pace, hey, the mail is probably here too. Might as well check that. The mail consisted of fan mail, bills, and other things that Ray didn’t really care about. With a sigh he moseyed on up the path to the door. That when a scream pierced through the air, muffled but for Ray, he heard it clear as day.

His blood ran cold, chest tightened painfully in his chest. Felt a little sweaty as his body grew hot. He knew what this meant, someone was inside fighting for themselves. Trying to get away from the hellish nightmare that was Steel Sheriff’s home. Ray felt stuck to that spot, he’s a hero. He’s done this before? Why did it feel so difficult? He knew the answer. Because when he played hero at home? There were consequences. He shook his head, that didn’t matter. Consequences or not…someone needed his help. The grocery bag dropped to the ground, glass breaking, the bag slowly soaking making the paper soggy. As Ray made bounding leaps to the door.

He burst through the door with fever, hurry. His eyes widened at the sight before him. He would think he’d be prepared for it but it’s still shocking every time. “I SAID ONLY ONE TIME! ONE!” The woman beneath Rick cried out as tears streamed down her face. She cringed as Rick kissed and prodded at her body. Her glossy eyes looked at Ray. Her face was bruised, left eye swollen shut. “H-help me. Please.” The woman whines making his heart drop to the floor. “SHE SAID GET OFF!” Ray screamed, rushing Rick, grabbing him by the shoulder tearing him off the woman. Rick flew through the air landing on the glass coffee table with a crash.

Ray knelt beside the woman. “Can you stand?” He inquired, taking the woman’s hand gently. The woman shook her head no. She was panicking, having a hard time trying to get her up. “YOU FUCKIN’ LITTLE BITCH!” Ticked yelled starting to get up. Making Ray panic a little. “It’s okay Ma’am. I’ll help you up but we have to be fast.” With that Ray stood up taking her hand with him pulling her up, before he pulled her along to the front door, making her stumble a little. The front door was still wide open. He pushed her gently out the door. “GO! GET SOMEWHERE SAFE!” Ray cried out, everything running on high alert. The woman stumbled down the walk way sobbing but still out of harm's way. A breath of relief was short-lived.

Rays felt his leg leave the ground as he felt himself being yanked back by his shirt collar. “Boy what did I fuckin’ say would happen when you get in my way?” Rick’s tone was dangerously low before he stopped eating Ray, throwing him against the ugly cream sofa. Before Ray could even get up Rick sat on him, straddling him, keeping Ray pinned to the floor. “What did I tell you? Say it.” Ray swallowed thickly. He hated this, hated him. He should just kill him. Wait…no. No, Ray shook the thought away. No, hero’s don't think like that right? They shouldn’t. A good hero doesn’t think like that. Ray couldn’t fight back, he had nowhere else to go, Rick had ingrained into Ray's mind that no one would take him either.

A tight grip on Ray’s hair snapped him from his thoughts, making him grimace. . “I’m talking to you. I expect a FUCKIN’ ANSWER!” Ray swallowed the lump in his throat as Rick released his hair and pulled a lighter and cigarette from his button up breast pocket. “You…you said that…if I…” this was humiliating. He didn’t want to do this. Even if he tried to keep his voice even, it didn’t work. “If I intervene I’ll take what’s left.” Rick nodded “Atta boy.” Rick took a inhale of smoke before pushing it back out in Ray’s face, making his nose wrinkle. “You ruin everything.” Rick said slowly. “Say it.”

Ray looked up at him, his eyes widening a little. Really? Why? Why was he like this? Rick suddenly pushed the hot cigarette to the skin on Ray’s upper arm. “SAY IT!” Ray cried out, “I RUIN EVERYTHING!” Rick smiles, “SAY IT AGAIN.” Ray shook his head, “Please I-“ his sentence replaced by a yelp. “I RUIN EVERYTHING!” Ray repeated. “SAY IT FOR ME AGAIN BOY! MAKE ME BELIEVE IT!” Ray yelled out in anger, his teeth gnashing, “I. RUIN. EVERYTHING!” Rick nodded, taking another drag. “That’s right. You do ruin everything. Now. Where is my whiskey?” Ray felt his heart sink. A numb feeling coursing through his body. “I…I dropped it.” He mumbled. “What was that boy?” Rick inquired credulously. “I dropped it.” Rick let out a humorless laugh. “Well, today isn’t your lucky day, is it Sun Ray.” Rick reared his fist back.

______________________________________

Present moment

The memory stopped, the horrid movie in his mind halted. This is it. Sure he lied, he wasn’t going to let these people go. However, he doesn’t remember one thing. Hershel’s special request. Crime rate was going up again. There was an example needed. To be made. He knew he could use Red Diamond to cut them down like he wanted to. After all, there will need to be a cover story so…needs to make sure to leave as little recognition of him as possible. Maybe killing them slowly won’t be too bad. A good release. Binary Star is put up for the next little bit of time. Leaving Ray, and ONLY Ray. He killed the man in his grip gruesomely before the group's very eyes. Just so they can see what’s coming to them. Ray smiled, “I’ll give you a head start. Fair enough? 10…9…get running, 8…” The countdown of the beginning of his hunt.

The countdown felt like a threat, no, worse than that. A promise of impending suffering. Carol and Sam ran at your side down the hall, the countdown of Binary Star feeling as if it was racing with you. “We have to get out of here somehow!” Sam cried out, breath ragged. “The front door is a no go.” Carol commented. That’s when the image of the map flashes into your mind. That’s right, that's it! “I got it! There is an employee exit in the locker room that leads outside! That’s our way out!” You say to the women running beside you. “Perfect, we’ll head-“ Carol stopped talking, only leaving labored breath and the ending of the countdown. “Zero. Countdown is up.” Binary Star called in a teasing tone down the hall.

“We need to hide, we have to separate. We’ll meet in the locker room.” That sounded like a terrible idea. Carol continued on, “One of us has to make it to the locker room.” The way Carol said it left a pit in your stomach. What? One? But what about everyone else? We can- no, I can’t leave anyone behind. You think to yourself. You love these people, they have been here for you for the longest time. You couldn't leave them. They were your family. “Hide!” Carol called.

You push forward, turning down the hall into the Greek exhibit. The room's lights were dim, white marble statues stood tall, historic gods and goddesses stood tall, some of the walls were lined with shields and weapons of all kinds, and stands with vases intercity designed. Footsteps scared you out of your short admiration, practically making you dive for cover behind the large “Venus De Milo” statue. That’s when he started talking. “You know. When I was younger, in my teen years. I used to imagine that people would make statues of me. Would treat me like a god.”

You peek your head around The corner of the statue, there he stood looking up at a statue you went familiar with. He wiped some dust off of it. “And they do. They just don’t tell you how…difficult it really is to be treated as such. The more you are seen. The less you are heard. Well, the fact is that, no one truly sees me. Not really anyways.” Binary Star chuckled a little. “Enough about me. I’d rather talk about you. You and your little “family” as you put it. I have to admit, you have an interesting family trade you have going on.” What? Family, how did he even know that? You never said anything about it? “I can read minds. Just how out of the loop are you?” He jests. That made this so much worse.

Binary Star took a deep breath. “Do you want to know something else? I have great hearing too. I can hear the sound of your heart. The fear. It is funny, two hearts almost beating at the same pace.” What did that even mean?! His words only made your heart beat faster, sweat forming on your brow. He knew you were there, so why did you keep hidden? Your thoughts suddenly were interrupted by the sound of a case breaking. That…wasn’t you. “Ah, someone made the first move. I was waiting for that.” He cooed.

Looking around the statue there stood Sam. Frozen in place, the vase broke to bits on the floor. She looked at you. Her eyes were not even trained on the figure stepping towards her. In a flash he ate up the distance snatching her up by her throat. “What to do with you hm?” He inquired to himself. “What do you think, (you)?” He was calling you out. He must have read her mind or something to get your name. “Ah, creative-“ he looks back at you. Who was now standing away from the statue, Afraid.

He looks back at sam. “Your friend here has quite the wild imagination. She’s thinking of all the possible things I could do to her. Only thing she didn’t account for is that I would use her imagination to think of something. Worse.” In that time of talking you panicked, you could just let Sam die like this. Not if you were there. Your eyes scanned the wall, there wasn’t much but you saw it. The metal throwing disk on the wall. With a tug it came off, you swung it around to throw it at him, hoping he’d drop Sam giving her time to escape. He caught it just before it reached his head. His head slowly turned to face you, a huge unsettling smile on it. “I like the way you think. (You).”

Those words made your heart drop to the floor. “NO!” You screamed as he took the disk and slammed it right into her face once. Just one hit and teeth fell to the floor, drop falling in droplets. She moaned in pain, eyes wide in shock. “SAM! STOP! PUT HER DOWN YOU BASTARD!” You scream, grabbing another weapon, a spear. It’s what you got. You’d use it. Just as you turned around to face him. It was as if he was waiting just for you to look. Sam was gagging, the disk set in her jaw. “Don’t be angry with me, you picked how she dies. Gave me the weapon with your own hands sweetheart.” With a sharp jerk of his gloved hand, Sam’s has fell to the floor with a sickening splatter. Making you drop your spear.

Another scream of horror escaped your lips. Binary star set her down gently, Adam took two wobbling steps toward you, reaching out. Her tongue hung from the absence of her lower jaw. Blood soaking her dark clothing and skin. Sam gurgled and choked before dropping to the floor with a thud. You could stop the tears that began to fall, that quickly turned into sobbing, the sobbing turned into throwing up. “Awww, don’t feel too bad. Her death was decently quick. Besides, kudos to you, you gave me some good entertainment so far.” You couldn’t stay. You couldn’t, you’d be next.

As fast as your legs could carry you, you ran down the hall with fever. Sobs are still wracking your body. The locker room was just up ahead. Not too far. Just as you passed the dinosaur exhibit, Carol came barreling out at the same time. Slamming into you. Her eyes widened. “(you)? Hey, it’s alright. Come here.” Carol grabbed you, pulling you back into the Dino exhibit, cradling you close. “No it’s not alright,” you cried. “I tired to save Sam and he fucking killed her with the disk I threw at him.” Carol attempted to sooth you. “Shhh, you did what you could. We can’t stay here though. We have to leave. Come on. Get yourself together.” With a nod. You follow her out your hand in hers.

Just as you two left the dinosaur exhibit, Binary Star was waiting right there for you with a smile. “Ah, funny running into you here.” Carol and you paused, before she shoved you right into his arms before making a mad dash down the hall. Leaving you in his arms in shock. She just…she just left you. She actually left you! “Mmm, maybe you aren’t really family.” You try to move from his grip, only for his grip to tighten on you. His head turning from Carol's disappearing figure to you. “How does that make you feel? (You)?”

It honestly made you feel disgusted. She was like your mother when you separated from yours. You trusted her. “Say it.” He said giving you a tight squeeze making you yelp. “DISGUSTED! IT MAKES ME FEEL ANGRY!” You cry out. “That’s what I thought. Let’s go pay her a little visit shall we? Maybe even have a little, heart warming chat.” His tone was anything but warm as he dragged you down the hall with him after Carol. Your fighting means nothing against him.

-to Start, I think the only difference between the villain Rat au and regular Ray’s story would be when Ray left Steel Sheriff’s in my head, either that or it only took a year before he crashed out on being a hero at the ripe age of 19. Disappeared. Only to later pop up as a part of “The Syndicate” villain crew a bit later.

-during the years between 19-28 he had spent his time marinating in hate, processing all the horrors he’s committed, the horrors he’s seen. That’s what settled him on the idea. Who would stop him from being a villain? He hates Heros. He HATES the NAHA. He has the power to destroy them one by one. Each hero, every base. That’s why he was just able to waltz into the villain base and fit right in. (No one dared to stop him away, besides, villains still have bases and stuff)

-yes he is part of “The syndicate” he is their trump card, an unstoppable force for them. A serious upper hand. He doesn’t socialize with the others but, he’ll indulge in small conversation from time to time to keep a decent connection, to feign the idea of trust.

-he doesn’t care to take over the world. He just wants chaos.

-when he wants to kill someone, he absolutely loves tearing people apart piece by piece. Legitimately. Whether with his hands or his telekinetic abilities. Sometimes he’ll just throw you around. After years of practice at this point, he knows what would kill you and what would just break your bones. Yes, he’ll still use the “Red Diamond” stare for convenience. Otherwise, he will make your death slow. One way or another.

Now Headcanons with MC/ hero you!

-he has a favorite pet name for you, that being…”Little hero” not because it’s cute per say, it’s more of a belittling thing. Calling you little, insignificant next to the likes of him.

-he is absolutely cocky and arrogant but in a chill way. The worst part is, he can back up this cocky and arrogant behavior. Example: “No Little hero…you know I will outmatch you in every way there is. There is no place, no thing, no time, where that will ever change. I will always be more than you.”

-when he first saw you, a hero, he saw how bright you shined, how heroic who you seemed to be. Untainted. A fresh hero. New. He absolutely HATED that. So, there began the Obsession. The utter desire to break you. In every way possible. Moreover, he wanted to be the one to do it.

-so, he stalks you, does all the little things to learn as much as he can about you. Learning your schedule was impossible since each day was never the same. Listened to every interview. You sounded so genuine. Disgusting.

-if and when he kidnaps you, if he asks you to do something, you will one way or another. Whether he makes you do it, or if he makes you do it by promise of violence that he will absolutely fall through on because he will hurt you.

-his favorite thing about you is your eyes, not in a “oh, they are so pretty” kind of way. More of, he can see you slowly break down in the eyes. The brightness leaves eyes and becomes more and more hopeless.

Hello! Officially making an introduction for myself here!

Welcome, I am not-evenhere, if you like, you can call me Not. I am 24. What I have to offer you is fanarts, writings, blurbs, fanfictions, headcanons, and you can make requests. (Please ask me...please. give me things to write, scenarios, questions, I'll take em.) And voice acting tidbits. If ya know ya know. This post will be updated as I continue to write.

For others and myself, this blog will be +18 because of dark themes that have happened, which will be written. I WILL be checking bios for age. It's just highly important to protect others and myself.

Current fandoms: Binary Star Hero, Resident Evil, and Daigo.

Writings for BSH

The Star At Night series

Part 1: Setting up https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/779230113397178368/alright-here-is-part-one-of-the-horror-binary?source=share

Part 2: Dark Turn https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/781028471393681409/the-star-at-night

Part 3: Loss https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/781658873744506880/the-star-at-night

Part 4: you before me https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/782549079787012096/the-star-at-night

https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/782549079787012096/the-star-at-night

Villain Ray writings

Headccannons https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/780490230550659072/from-what-i-understand-apollo-would-be-rays?source=share

Intro and headcanos https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/780311276552372224/alrighty-content-time-this-is-going-to-be-a?source=share

Vampire Ray Series

Coming to your local convenience store...eventually.

Blurbs/short writings

Anything for her https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/778379135691128832/i-have-been-on-a-trip-and-apparently-downing-some?source=share

I Just Care About You https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/782759873129611264/i-just-care-about-you

https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/782759873129611264/i-just-care-about-you

Lurking for Love

https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/773709423221899264/here-is-that-jacob-alden-fix-thats-just-been?source=share

Daigo

Head canons https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/799311174428655616/first-daigo-written-content-from-me-so-this-is?source=share

Head canons https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/805692587699732480/headcanons-for-daigo-2?source=share

very small headcanon https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/816355089595891712/i-need-more-daigo-content-on-here-solets-get-it?source=share

One shot https://www.tumblr.com/n0t-evenhere/818999641308872704/what-the-poets-write?source=share

Kendo

⚠️ warning ⚠️ blood, death, gore, emotional turmoil, manipulations, and I think that’s it.

“The Star At Night”

Finale “Last stand + Epilogue” 

Ray

You cradled the body so close to you. The warmth slowly leaves Joe’s body. Heartbreaking, even the sight of it made Ray pause. He hung on to the final thoughts of Joe. A dying wish. “A painless death. Quick” The heaving screams and crying of agony came to a pause, you had turned to face him. Brows furrowed upwards, a mix of anguish and anger. “Why?! Why would you do this?!” You scream at him. “You and your team were committing a crime.” Ray responded flatly. “A crime! A crime met with death?! Not even a kind death, you have tortured every. Single. Person here! How could you?! The- the government won’t let you get away with this. The NAHA will get you and you’ll be done for!”

The words echo in his mind, good questions. He’s willing to answer since they are marked by death.

You pov

After getting it all off of your chest. The questions, the small threat at the end, you lay your head back down on Joe’s chest. You couldn’t bring yourself to pull away. To move. To even make a run off the exit. Everyone you truly loved was here. You could never leave them. “(You).” Binary Star said softly, softly enough it could fool anyone into believing that he didn’t just massacre a whole group of people in such a cruel way. You didn’t look, you didn’t want to. You couldn’t. “You are a fool. Naive. Ignorant even.” He started to say. “The government, the NAHA, they don't care about you. Only on a surface level.” He paused, you still listened though. He had more to say. Besides, this is the first time in a bit that you actually have gotten to slow down. To really realize everything you had. Was gone.

“Crime is crime. Punishable. You open yourself up to it the moment you step into this place. As for the NAHA…who do you think sent me? Called me during my shift. Lead me to you. Even before that, I was called last night. Said cri was on the rise again. Fear was losing its grip on the criminals. He said to make an example out of someone. To bring that percentage down. That just so happens to be you.” You looked up, really? The NAHA had sent him, and told him to make an example out of criminals to scare the others? You thought it was a choice. As if reading your mind he responded. “Yes; I was sent but I chose you. You and your team were to be the example. That’s why I made it so messy. Party anyway. I’ll admit, I’m angry. Not directly at you necessarily.”

Binary Star paused, seeming to consider something. “Maybe it's general anger. I didn’t want to be here. It was supposed to be my day off. I’m tired. I feel like everyday I get closer and closer to a ledge I can’t even see, but I want it. I long for it but…I keep distant ma because part of me feels…hope. A small sliver but it’s still there. I’m tired. (You.) I’m lost…empty it feels like.” He started sauntering over to you, in reflex you scoot back to try and get to your feet. It was too late, he was much faster, not that you didn’t already know that. In a flash Binary Star was by your side before reaching out and taking a hold of your throat. Not to cut off the air, but as if just to hold you.

Your feet lifted from the ground, he too left the ground. “I can’t get behind your crime. I can’t find it within myself to say that what you are doing is okay. No matter why you do it. I grieve your loss. (You.) I know it hurts to lose the people you love. More than you know.” His words dropped with a deep ache that was in the past. Way before even tonight had been planned. Went past anything you could possibly know. “I guess there is a spot of light. You’ll see them soon. Your loved ones. I’ll even grant Joe’s final wish.”

You brows furrow, “wha-“ your words cut off by a sharp painful sensation. Blood bubbled up in your throat before you threw up the coppery substance. Then came the wet coughs, blood staining your lips and chin, the pain lessened quickly. Ray wasn’t holding you anymore but you were still suspended in the air. He was watching you. Your eyes began to get fuzzy, your vision going dark. Your head feels heavy, your head falls forward without much strength to fight it. Your eyes see a marble spear once pristine now covered in blood, protruding through the left center of your chest. Your heart. It’s through your heart. You had never really given too much thought to how you would die. This felt good though. It felt like letting go.

“(You.)” a voice? “(You) come on.” Looking up you see a familiar face. “Joe?” You asked confused as Joe’s hand reached out to you. “Yea, come on kiddo. Can’t stay here.” Taking his hand you nod. “Where is everyone else?”

Joe smiled warmly. “Waiting for you.”

The star at night

“Epilogue”

The museum was now quiet. No crying. No screaming. Just complete and utter silence. Ray took a deep breath. Slow and deliberate. No time to rest, it’s right back to it. The biggest part was over. Now just to clean up. A shower, a shower to wash off the blood. Mmmm, no. He needed to call Hershel, so he did.

Hershel: “Yes?”

Ray: “Hershel, it’s done. Dive dead at the museum.”

Hershel: “Were you smart about it? Did you use-“

Ray: “No. I didn’t use Red Diamond. I’ve done this before Hershel. I know how this works.”

Hershel: “Alright, great. We’ll get a cover up. Clean up, and be back in 20 minutes.”

Ray: “Fine.”

With that call done, Ray took a quick fly home. He still needed to wear the suit, so he hopped into the shower with it on, scrubbed away what he could, cleaned his face, and hair. All of it. The NAHA had all hero suits made in a way that you could shower with to get blood off for situations like this. Part of his 20 minutes was him trying to dry his hair as quickly as possible. “Shit.” He didn’t think about how he would wash out the blonde spray. “No, no, it’s fine.” People will notice but, it’ll be fine in the grand scheme of things. He figured he’d just dry on the way there with his flight. With five minutes to get back. Leaving the bathroom and going to his balcony, he leaped off and flew back to the museum.

The place was buzzing with life, a stark contrast to what was before. Hershel was talking to someone, a PR worker of some sort. Oh, and his PR handler who was really just Hershel’s assistant is what it felt like. “Hershel.” Ray called out to let him know of his presence. Hershel turned slightly to meet his gaze, his body relaxed, hands in his pockets. “Ah, Ray. We were waiting for you. There is one last thing we need you to do to get the story right.” Ray sighed. “And that is?” Hershel whistled, a group of men pulled a tied down villain known as Canadian Strong man. Ironically, his brother, Strong man, was a hero. Yet lacked canadian in the name. A stupid name in his opinion but, whatever. “Let me go you bastards!” He shouted trying to break the locked metal around his torso and arms.

Hershel continued on, “based on everything here, Canadian strong man is the perfect fit to be used for the cover up. So, we need you to mess this place up, make it a battlefield. Then kill him. Do it quickly.” Hershel demanded. “WHAT?! KILL ME?!” Hershel looked at the Canadian strong man. “Oh please, death will be the best thing you ever get.” With that Day bust through walls, lasered objects and walls before coming back to the small group, he stood before the villain held down, his eyes glowing a sharp brilliant red before a short beam went straight through his head. “Good, now, let’s get the police involved. Get them down here. Ray, you stick around. Keep to the story as usual.” Yes, of course. As usual. He thought.

Adrianna POV

It sucked that the museum was across town. Adrianna had been working as a journalist for a while, she worked for a small company. “The Now” was its name. Honestly she was lucky she even got the job. She’d loved to work for a bigger company but that required experience and so far, she’s only had two years. Either way, tonight was a mix of job and hobby. On the side, for personal reasons, she did hero specific journalism on the side. She had a blog called “the truth bringer” , a blog where she exposed hero’s. Exposed them for what they really were. The idea that hero’s were clean and untainted was unfathomable. Sometimes hero’s become powerful and become different people.

Make no mistake, it wasn’t out of hate for hero’s. It was out of her love to protect the citizens. To open their eyes to what the reality is. To take off the rose tinted glasses. Even so, she also knew that heros were a necessary evil. Especially with the alien attacks that have been happening more frequently. There were still other reasons as to why she did this, she knew there were but, she’s just never really thought about them.

Pulling up her in her car had slowed, the place was crawling with officers and yellow tape. Great, just great. She wished she could have been notified earlier than she was. Adrianan had an outside source. Someone online named “speckle-067” whoever they were, they tended to notify her of these kinds of things. Even at 2:30 in the morning. Turning off the lights and taking the key out of the ignition she grabbed her mini recorder and shelved it into her back pocket while clipping the microphone onto her bra, keeping the wire hidden in her t-shirt that had a Deftones logo.

Looking around she found the coast to be clear for now. So without tiem to waist, she ducked under the yellow tape and entered the premises. She kept her head on a swivel as she walked through, at least everyone seemed occupied. Adrianna didn’t know the details of what happened inside, she just knew from Speckle-067 that something went down. Just as she reached the opening of the museum, a hand gripped her shoulder and yanked her back spinning her around making her yelp in surprise. There he was…the golden man of heros. He had a smile on his face, but his eyes looked up and down with suspicion. “I’m certain you aren’t supposed to be here Ms. nosey. I also believe it’s past your bedtime.”

Adrianna scoffed, “Well, I’m a night owl for one, and technically I am on work so…I can be here. Mr. Star. Besides, it’s a race. Gotta get here before other people do.” He cocked his head to the side. “Right.” Adrianna’s silvery green eyes wandered to the window. Her heart stopped, she saw at least two dead bodies. One pierced through the heart on a tall statue, and the Canadian StrongMan hunched over, his head burned through. Adrianna looked up at Mr. Star. “Would you-“ he sighed. “Let me guess. You want me to tell you what happend? Of course you do. Fine. I’ll bite.” He said with his usual smile.

“I had the night shift tonight, I was notified of a burglary gone wrong. Cameras picked it up. The NAHA has eyes everywhere so they sent me here. When I arrived, Canadian StrongMan had gotten greedy, killed his team and…well,” Binary Star looked through the window. “I had to stop him. I couldn’t let him get away, he put up a good fight.” Adrianna’s brows furrow. “Right, but…Canadian strong men aren't like that. He is not the type to work with other people. He’s a “El solo lobo” as he put it back a few months ago when he tried to destroy a police station.” His red eyes looked down at her and blinked once or twice. “People can be unpredictable, Adrianna. You can’t put all your ideas in one basket.”

Ray’s Pov

Adrianna gears were turning in her head, Ray knew that much. He could even read her mind. Questioning his story. Adrianna’s eyes wandered down and paused. Her hand reached out and slid down his slide. His body tenses, what the hell? He had half a mind not to zap her right then and there. Break her neck. Then again, in her mind, there was no sexual intent behind the touch. Before he could dig further she spoke. “Your suit is damp.” She noted out loud. She began to think. If he had fought with Canadian strongman…why was he so…clean? This woman doesn’t miss a beat does she. Her brows furrowed even more. “What?” Ray asked, trying to keep the irritation out of his voice.

“You're bleeding.” She stated. “What?” Adrianna circled about him, he was bleeding? When did- oh. Fuck. Adrianna was already looking at the wound. “A stab wound?” She questioned. Ray turned around. “I’ve had a busy night. I’ve felt more than just this you know. She nodded. “Yea…dealt with is definitely a word I would use.” A double meaning, suspicion. “You know, Mr. Reporter, I’m starting to think you are stalking me.” Ray noted, a distraction. “What?” She asked, great. It worked. “Well, every time I have an event, or arrive at a crime scene, you seem to always be there. Obsession is not a healthy thing Ms. Nosey.” She blinked a few times in bewilderment.

Before she could even respond a commotion came from behind the two. Adrianna looked past Ray, before he too turned around. A woman. A young woman at the door, tearing herself away from the cops. “LET ME GO! I-I HAVE TO SEE THEM!” The woman looked just like the two older people he had just killed. A few short seconds passed before the frantic words turned into screams of anguish. Adrianan stood there for a moment. It was clear that we both knew that she must be family. “Camila! Come back!” The officer shouted only to be ignored, a bit late for that.

Adrianan tried to step past Ray but he gripped her arm. “And where are you going?” He questioned. “To go see that woman.” Ray frowned. “I don’t think now is the time for an interview.” Adrianna shook her head in disgust. “Wow, you really think that low of me. No, you jerk. She needs someone. She is clearly by herself.” Adrianan huffed, jerking her arm away. Before rushing inside. Well, that was a surprise. Usually journalists practically jump on this kind of stuff. Ray walked into the doorway to watch it all unfold.

Adrianna held the woman tenderly, in a motherly way. Camilla didn’t pull away. In fact, she clinged to Adrianna like a lifeline. He didn’t have to be close to hear what she was saying. “Carmilla? Is that your name?” Carmilla nods sobbing uncontrollably. “Okay, okay.” Adrianna nodded, brushing the hair out of Carmilla’s face. “I’m right here, I’ll stay here as long as you need me. I won’t leave your side.” Carmilla just hung onto her as Adrianna comforted Carmilla. A strange sensation flooded his chest. She’s not what he thought she was. Not at all. How strange. She couldn’t really be that different. Hershel sidedly came up out of seemingly nowhere and put a hand on his shoulder. “Make sure to send Mrs. Carmilla some flowers at some point. From Binary Star.” Ray sighed. “I’ll do that.”

⚠️ warning: manipulation⚠️ (the list will grow later on in the future chapters.)

The star at night

Part one: Setting up

The “warehouse” hummed with chatter and plotting as you entered the familiar confined space. You always called it the warehouse but it wasn’t really a grand warehouse that most would imagine. It was just a storage unit. A place where old cameras didn’t work as the signs say they did, low pay, and few people. In short, calling it the warehouse felt like an inside joke. The orange shutter slid down with ease as you lowered it to the ground softly. “Well look what the cat drug in.” A familiar voice expressed with joy. Without turning around you knew it was Joe. Turning around he was already waiting for you to embrace and so you did. “You’re late Snat.” Snat was a code name he gave you. Short for snatcher. Joe pulled away with a hardened stare. Chastising you with his eyes. “You can’t keep being late. I expect better from you.” He definitely was getting on to you. “Joe, lay off my love.” The voice of Carol carried in the space. “I’m sure work didn’t let you go early with all the sick people you told me about. Especially having to deal with that traffic after.” She stated with a smile and a wink making you smile.

Carol and Joe were older, Joe being 63 and Carol being 65. Joe had silver hair cut into an undercut with spiked hair on top, he maintained his physique well, wrinkles, crows feet, laugh lines, the whole bit. He definitely has good genes and takes good care of himself. Thick hair, all the good stuff. Carol had a very similar circumstance, good genes. Her hair was grey, a bob that curled at the ends, framing her thin face nicely. She was just as fit too. It was amazing how well they rubbed off of each other, been married for about 43 years. Met young through friends, been together since then. Almost a fantasy in this day and dating pool.

Joe and Carol were like your second parents. About three years ago, you moved to the city for reasons you still didn’t really want to acknowledge. You didn’t want to remember nor share. Money was hard to come by but the new start was worth it to you. Desperately needed. You don’t even remember how you met them, you just remember how safe they made you feel. Cared for when you had no one else. The married couple invited you to dinner, movies, and eventually bringing in the people who were part of the group as hangouts. Then after a few months, you were told about the heist group. What they did behind the scenes. At first, you were upset, they were such nice people. A good group of people but they stole some serious things of high value. Jewels, paintings, all of it. Eventually, you were convinced to join it. Offering to make your life better, have money to pay rent and have what you want in life. Slowly, you eased into the role of being the snatcher. Moreover, eventually you felt a thrill from it. An adrenaline rush that made you feel alive. The feeling of getting away with crime made you feel on top of the world to some degree.

“You should take it from her paycheck for her tardiness.” Kent said flatly, earning a glare from you. “Easy there, no need to shoot daggers at me, it’s just a suggestion.” Kent sighed with his hands up feigning innocence. Kent was your worst enemy but also your best friend. Like an older brother that bothered the fire out of you any chance he could get. He’d been here long before you, 36, and his job was the look out. “You are a jerk.” Mary said, punching him in the shoulder, making you laugh in return. Mary was our tech wizard. Smart and sweet. “Come have a seat, we’ve been waiting for you. Even brought a charcuterie board.” Carol beckoned you to the empty seat. The snacking and plan run down beginning.

“This is our biggest project yet.” Joe started with excitement evident in his tone. Looking at Carol, her crowd feels becoming more defined with the smile on his face. As if there was a small secret between them. More than just a loving glance. “Mable’s Museum.” He dropped the title like a bomb shell. Your jaw dropped and you swear you heard Mary gasp audibly. “Seriously?!” Kent exclaimed. “That’s a seriously tall order. That place is popular and there is a lot of valuable stuff there. Like, that’s crazy.” Carol chuckled. “We’ve been planning this one for a while.” Another glance between the two. You can’t help but wonder, if something more was actually happening behind the scenes. It was undeniable that there was something else.

Joe continued on, “tomorrow is the night we execute it.” Mary chirped in, “isn’t that really soon? Too soon?” Joe shook his head. “Of course not, I have full faith in this team. We can do this with ease.” Mary nodded, not seemingly fully convinced. Carol picked up where Joe left off. “This museum had many exhibits, medieval, paintings, statues, and many other valuable things. However, there is only one thing that we are after. In the hero exhibit. The mask of the retired hero, Steel Sheriff is there. Well take it. It sells well.” Brows furrowed, you inquired, “what about the NAHA? Wouldn't they be all over that if it went missing?” It seemed like a very ambitious thing to go after…no. A foolish thing to go after. “We don’t have to worry about that. As soon as we obtain it, we have a buyer who will meet up with us. We'll take it directly to them.” Joe assured you and the rest of the table.

Somehow, that didn’t bring you peace. Just an odd sinking feeling you couldn’t quite explain. “So, Mary, you’ll be in charge of redirecting the cameras.” Carol began speaking as she pulled out the layout of the museum on a large piece of paper. Placing it on the round table. “We’ll stick to this middle hall, directly accessed through the front of the museum. The cameras are here, here, and here.” Carol’s slender finger glided across the paper with ease and confidence. Joe picked up the conversation. “This is the exhibit, there are a total of seven cameras in the room. I’ve circled them for you. You’ll need to hack the severity system and make it a looping video if we can. Covering our tracks. The night guard doesn’t do too good of a job of guarding. Sleeps often. Two very long naps. He’s only awake one hour out of the night. That’s what we’ve observed, so it should be easy. Is your Roel clear?” Mary nodded, “Got it.”

Carol's gaze shifted to settle on Kent. “Okay, you are the look out, you will watch the front and down the hall. That’s it, keep it tight and do not wander.” This was serious, really tight. No room for failure. “Sure thing, don’t wander. Got it.” He gave a smile and thumbs up. Joe spoke up, regarding you. “You, are going

To help Carol get the mask. I will be watching outside, patrolling the outside of the building. We’ll start at 1:30 am sharp. Be. On. Time.” Kent let out a snort. “Better make sure (y/n) can do that. You know…since she’s got a “normal” job and better things to do.” Rolling your eyes you retort. “Well at least she I’m not unemployed and living in my moms spare bedroom cause I blow through my money.” Kent went quiet making you feel a small hint of guilt in your chest. “Please, you aren’t children.” Carol sighed. “Dismissed.”

Just as you got up to leave, so crackers and pepperonis in hand Joe whistled to snatch your attention. “Not you. You stay.” Without missing a beat Kent erupted into a series of ooooohs and aaaaahs as if you were in trouble. Mary giggled in response. “Out you two. We’ll see you tomorrow.” The shutter door slid up and the two left. Once out of earshot, you speak up. “What is this about?” You ask them. The two look at each other before settling their attention on you. Joe began “I wanted to be the one to tell you. Wanted you to be the first to know before the other two.” Brows furrowed in contrition you reply. “Tell me…what exactly.” There was a moment of silence before your world shifted. “Laying all the cars out on the table, this is our last heist. It’s time for us to retire. We are hoping to rekindle our relationship with our daughter and…we think you should take over.”

Your mind drew a blank, sure, it made sense. Quit, retire, try and fix the relationship of their kin. Their daughter, they only spoke of her seldomly. She didn’t agree with their thieving lifestyle. There was a whole screaming fight that ended poorly. So, about four years ago at eighteen their daughter, Carmella, left. As far as you were aware she lived in the same city. That was all fine in your eyes, made sense but you leading? Taking control of the whole group? Planning all future heists? That was a big pill to try and choke down. “Uh, okay…I…me lead? Sure, retire, that's fine but me? Take your place? That’s a huge role to fill. I don’t think I can do that.” You argue your view.

Carol looks at you with a loving gaze. Darling, you have been with us for a while now. We’ve been teaching you everything from the start. Everything that we know. In the past few years you’ve even surprised us with your own skill and quick thinking.” Joe nodded in agreement. “Don’t seek yourself short. You are art, quick, and we know you would do absolutely everything in your power to keep everyone safe. In your care, we just know that you are a leader.” Their words were kind, heck, they made you feel as if you could do anything you wanted but, there was still doubt in your heart and mind. Before you could respond Carol whispered. “I need to see my daughter. My Carmella.” Those words, the pleasing look in her eyes made your heart overcast with guilt. How could you say no? Who are you to deny them what their hearts desire? Pushing down the uncertainty you agree. “Okay. I can do it.” Joe smiled. “Glad to hear it. Don’t worry too much. We won’t throw you to the wolves. We’ll be on call, help with planning if needed.” Carol nodded, In agreement. “We knew you wouldn’t let us down. Dismissed.” She finally dismissed you from the meeting.

As you began your small journey to your car while nibbling on the pepperonis that left a greasy feeling on your fingers, you were left with confliction. Tomorrow was a hefty task, and leading is a huge shift in your world. You l or them though, you owe them right? They gave you so much when you needed it. Of course you would do it. They needed you.

Earlier that day 10:01 pm

Ray slid the sweatpants up his waist and adjusted accordingly. The shower was much needed after todays to-do list and side mission on the way. Interviews, rescuing people from a hostage situation in some bank, and the cherry on top? Hershel was trying to convince him to take another trainee. Long day. Ray didn’t put much effort into dinner. He craved simplicity tonight. What was more simple than a sandwich? The sandwich wasn’t fancy,just spinach, ham, and whatever else he felt like. Wolfed it down and called it good. He felt tired. He craved rest, good thing his day off was tomorrow.

Cleaning up after himself, Ray brushed his teeth and finished up his night routine. Today was done. No more suffering. Ray stilled in the middle of his room. The space was minimal. He never cared to make his home a home. He’s hardly home anyway. Bland was the word he would use to describe it. It was quiet. A sweet contrast to the constant noise of the day. Tonight, everything seems a little quieter outside. Usually off putting but, he’ll take it anyway. Maybe the city does sleep sometimes. However, in the quiet there was something deeper. Loneliness. The kind of loneliness that grip at his very flesh daring to pull him apart if he thought about it too much.

Before Ray could shove the feelings out of his heart and mind, his phone rang. An obnoxious sound that he dreads, more so than usual as of late. “You can’t be serious,” Ray said aloud to himself, his voice and chest filling with annoyance. Grabbing the phone he sat on the edge of his bed, the bed dipping with a small squeak. “Yes?” He already knew. Hershel. “To things, I’m sending you the file on

The trainee for you to look over. I want you to reconsider.” Rats pushed his hand through his hair before resting both of his elbows on his knees. “What else.” If Ray at least pretended he’d look over the file, give it a few days, say no. They would give the trainee to someone else. Hopefully.

Hershel spoke again. “I need you to work tomorrow's night shift.” Anger immediately bubbled up in his chest, burning in his stomach. “No. Tomorrow is my day off. I am not clocking in.” Hershel didn’t miss a beat, “exactly Ray, your day off. Not night.” There was a silence before Ray cursed under his breath at the audacity. Ray could easily snap this old man’s neck like nothing and call it a day. He could help the smirk on his face at the thought before replying. “Why should I Hershel?” He inquired with challenge. “People are getting or comfortable Ray. Crime rate is on the rise again. We need another “accident” to reel it back in.” Ray grimaced, the implications are clear. This is the last thing he wanted to do. It was more work than he wanted to put in. Was it even worth it? What if he wanted to let it all go. Let chaos ensue?

“I’ll give you the next two days off.” Hershel bargained. Ray knew better than to believe that empty promise. “Try again.” Ray felt frustrated, and didn't even try to mask it in his tone. A sigh came from the other side of the phone call. “I won’t put you on night shift for the next two nights and I’ll push your interviews and photoshoots back two days as well. That should be more than fair.” Ray considered for a moment. It was as good as he could get so, might as well take it. “Fine.” With that, he hung. Up and let the device float over or the nightstand as he laid. In his bed. So much for a day off. He thought before drifting to sleep.

(Unshaded)

His face contorted with a soft pain. Her choice was hers and hers alone. Her eyes met his, no expression, just emptiness. Any signs of the bumbling, silly, shy, kind woman he met was no longer there. Not around him. Not as Ray. He was not what she wanted. She wanted the shining golden boy of the stars. If that was what she wanted, so be it. He’d rather live a lie than spend a lifetime without her.

Her hand, warm, reached up to touch his face oh so gently. The gentle touch was only a moment before she gripped at his skin. No remorse as she prodded and pulled mercilessly. His very soul mourned but only one tear fell from his eyes. He can’t remember the last time he cried. Ray felt himself sinking into a dark place, a void, slowly to disappear. To not be seen on the surface again. Ray felt himself slipping, curling in on himself as the flesh set at her from his face. Leaving the void that he had slipped into.

The flesh that she held in her hands now, she looked at fondly. Her fingers molding and shaping it like clay into a familiar face. The face of the one she had desired. A smile, the smile was beautiful, worth giving himself up for her. The new face wore a mask, and had a wide smile that would never falter. Before she placed it over the void she kissed it softly, showing affection that Ray would never have. Her fingers kneaded and smoothed over the edges of his face. Med ign the flesh into place one more. Ray watched her through the eyes of his other half. The half she wanted. All for her. He’d give it all for her

End