ᴜɴғᴀᴛʜᴏᴍᴀʙʟᴇ ᴋɪɴᴅɴᴇss 》Semi-Hiatus

Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there wondering, fearing, doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before; -The Raven, Edgar Allen Poe

[atomic-shipping]

When you remember how much you love a character you hadn’t thought about in a while

[escapewithmeforeverbabe]

[aeternumvxle-blog]

@vicarian

Countless years had passed since his last visit to the City of Golden Towers. To his luck, he still retained some friends within the city. Making it easy to acquire a rather conveniently placed stand, smack dab in the center of the bustling square. The culture and fashion in Nilfgaard vastly differed from that of Novigrad. The coin here flowed like liquor and blood. Not that coin even mattered to Caliban. Everything nearly always went by without a hitch, today was not one of those days. First, it was an angry customer demanding he lowered the prices. Then it was one of his pieces being stolen. While it was irritating he swiftly pushed aside the feelings. Spending the rest of the day blissfully unaware that he was being stalked. Sun sinking deep below the horizon, that was his cue to turn in for the night. Folding resplendent attire into a large case. Whimpering out a yawn as he nimbly clutches his belongings; starting the trek back to his temporary residence.

Strolling, taking his sweet time along the cobblestone path. The only thing on his mind remained that of an old book and hot tea. Before he could act; burning, searing heat hit his back. Magical flame causing pale skin to bubble and crack open as crimson viscous blood gushed from the wounds. The back of his legs and arms splitting open like meat that had been cooked for too long. Pain coursing through every inch of his body. An ear-shattering shriek of horror cut through the once quiet atmosphere. Not bothering to even glance at the attacker. Deducting it was either a mage or hunter from his time away. Perhaps someone had seen him kill. Not that it mattered now.

Face warping into a monstrous form that was less than human. Invisibility pathetically concealing the majority of him, except for the trail of blood. Burning tears welling to the brim, spilling over and coating cold cheeks. In a clawed panic, he bolts towards his residence. Knowing all too well if he would have lingered much longer it very well could have been his demise. Perhaps not forever, but long enough his mortal friends would have perished. Upon arrival, he stumbled over to a cabinet. Frantically searching for medical supplies. Fingers ripping through bags, finding bandages though it was already too late. Weakly collapsing onto the floor in a heap of blood and tears. Gagging, c h o k i n g  on his own fluids. Caliban was well aware that recovering from this giant fuck up would take a huge chunk of time. Eyes fixating upon the ceiling before they fluttered shut. Pondering the errors of his ways. 

Coming to the conclusion that this was his punishment for killing those people.

He   d e s e r v e d   this.

[aeternumvxle-blog]

@bruxha

A pale hue cast by the full moon had draped itself over the landscape. Fabrics spilling out of a black stained leather bag fastened to his side. Soft humming emitting from deep within his chest. Leisurely following the worn dirt path that would bring him back home. He paused for a moment as his attention was caught by that of some fireflies hovering overtop of lavender flowers. Slender digits extending out, not moving a muscle as one of the luminous bugs landed on him. What a beautiful creature. With that, he continued on towards home. As he neared, the sound of drawers being opened and closed caught his attention. 

Cocking his head towards the noise. Every hair on his body prickling, standing on end as if he was trying to defend himself. A stranger skulked within, near silent; but not silent enough. He couldn’t help but wonder why someone would even break into his shop? It wasn’t like there was anything of serious value there, other than his creations. That or the only things he held dear; heirlooms from his parents. Upon the realization, his face contorts into something less than human. Warping into a thick dark purple mist, rushing in a frenzied manner. Seeping in through the cracked window upstairs, reforming into a solid mass. Elongated nails, a mess of teeth and tangled hair. While he wouldn’t hurt the stranger, he fully intended to give them a good scare before altering their memories. Taking hushed steps down cracked oak stairs: prepared for anything.

 As he spun around the corner, fangs bared as a guttural hiss escaped him. “Who are you... Why are you in my shop?” Allowing his claws to rake along the top of a table. A warning, screaming; don’t try anything you might regret. Sauntering behind the intruder as he rather calmly began to add “I will gladly give you anything you need. Just, please, leave the heirlooms in the carved box alone. They aren’t worth much coin, but they hold…immense value to me.” As if to show he,  meant no harm, he clasps his hands together. Eyes  p l e a d i n g  with the stranger to listen.

[monstersofthevoid-deactivated20]

𝑮𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝑳𝒚𝒓𝒊𝒄 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔

𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐚𝐜𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐢𝐭

“You have the power.”

“You are cast out from the heavens to the ground.”

“You will wear your independence like a crown.”

𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐄𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐥

“Can you hear me say your name forever?”

“Can you see me longing for you forever?”

“I know the light grows darker down below.”

“I feel your hands are cold.”

“This is the moment of just letting go.”

𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐜𝐡 𝐈𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐞

“You never want this to be over.”

“What you’ve done you cannot undo.”

“I have always kept you closer than you’ve known.”

“What you’ve sold you cannot unsell.”  

𝐂𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞

“I feel your presence amongst us.”

“You cannot hide in the darkness.”

“I know your soul is not tainted.”

“I can see through the scars inside you.”  

“You and I see eye to eye.”

“Now there is nothing between us.”

“Can’t you see that you’re lost?”

“Can’t you see that you’re lost without me?”

𝐙𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐡

“We counted the stars.”

“We cling to the light.”

“Right will turn to wrong.”

“So help you God.”

“Time will soon be gone.”

[giantmonster]

[syntacked]

“A sky full of stars, and he was staring at her.”

— Unknown

[diimm]

* SHADOW      TAKES      ALL !

private / lovecraftian - based  GAUNTER O'DIMM  of tw3.

[rphaesthetics]

[deseos-de-la-via-lactea]

[rpxmusings]

                                            the 𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑒𝑡                                        ʀᴇᴍɪɴᴅs me that                                          I’m all ALONE

[aeternumvxle-blog]

@thedressmaker

In the midst of summer, the heat was near excruciating most days. Reports of folk dying from the scorching sun or lack of water became a regular occurrence. More often than not, Caliban took to the streets, bringing water and food to those who needed it most. He knew all too well how it felt to go without sustenance during the summer months. To him, it was worth every last coin, knowing that he had eased someone’s suffering even a little bit. As he strolled through the stands he picked up what was needed for the next day or two. Consisting of a wide array of vegetables, fruits, wine and some bread. Sticking to the shadows as much as possible as he journeyed home. As per usual those dark eyes found themselves wandering. Mortals were fascinating; how they scurried about their daily lives. A deep longing to be like them had dug its way into Caliban. The desire to fit in, to feel a sense of belonging instead of existing somewhere in between.

Nearing dusk by the time he had returned home; thankful the chores had been completed earlier in the day. Putting everything away into its place and hidden from the sun’s harmful rays. Opening a cupboard above the dresser and pulling out a mug. Then uncorking the wine with the utmost care and slowly pouring some into the cup. Filled only half way as later on in the evening he planned to finish up a commission. He shifted over to the abundant bookshelf pausing for a moment before pulling his favorite romance novel from the shelf. With the mug and book in hand, it was time to unwind. Venturing outside towards the spot in which he preferred to read fiction. Settling comfortably into the gap between two roots of the massive oak tree. For once reading the book at a leisurely pace instead of an unfathomable speed. He sipped wine from the mug until there wasn’t a drop left. Then closing the book with one hand and holding the empty mug in the other. Now rising from the cool ground as it was time to get to work.

Cleaning up the kitchen would have to wait until later as he always had a one track mind. While he normally made quick work of commissions, this one in particular seemed to be taking extra time. The vest was exceedingly elaborate; fine carmine details sprawled across the porcelain white vest. The final touches consisting of rare cuts of gemstones. Notably, white oval cut diamonds and Asscher cut rubies of top-notch quality. The stones dotted the collar and along the intricate designs tastefully placed along the front. Finally perfected, he backed away to get a good look at it. Everything that was asked for had been done, including a few signature touches. Caliban was more than ready to go to sleep, but first, it was time for a walk along the beach to settle his buzzing brain. With clear skies and a cool breeze, it was the best time to go for a stroll. There was no need to dress up, though he slipped into his favorite obsidian coat.

It was only a jaunt from his place to the seaside. Ashen hands resting in the cashmere lined pockets. Those keen senses allowing him to smell the salt from the sea, the rotting fish along the waterline and the dried seaweed among the rocks. Head angled towards the night sky as he sauntered along, thoroughly enjoying himself. Oh, how he wondered what was out there, what other planets harbored life. Lost within a jumble of thoughts, the time seemed to slip by. The night coming to an end and growing ever closer to sunrise. As he continued along the scent of fresh blood caught him off guard. Focus now snapping towards the east; detecting the source lay just around the bend. Pace quickening due to his inquisitive nature, repeating in his mind that he was in control. 

Upon coming around the corner he witnessed what seemed to be a man with an unknown amount of injuries. Remaining vigilant while approaching, not willing to risk being attacked. Easily detecting that the wounds had been caused by a siren; this was identified by the unmistakable stench. An almost soothing tone calling out to the mysterious stranger “Are you okay? Those wounds look pretty bad- I have some supplies in my shop… If you’d like I can patch you up over a glass of wine.” Taking near silent steps towards him. Truly hoping that the other would agree, even if it was only for some bandages and antiseptic.

[aeternumvxle-blog]

Unfortunately Caliban had not erased a lot of the old patrons’ memories on the fact that many never returned to his shop. Carelessly he assumed he’d be safe. It would have been wise for him to alter his appearance though for some reason he did not. Perhaps it was a fondness for his current state, it worked quite well in his line of work. While his ‘special’ ability could be considered magic, it was not something he was taught. The skill was acquired at birth, though not recognized until later in life. Indeed, the fear of being discovered was a day to day occurrence. Going as far to have a single vertical mirror carefully placed towards the back of the shop. Cautiously declining whenever he was asked to go for a stroll during the day; lest someone notice his lack of a shadow. 

The heat of the day was less than pleasant; drying the insides of his throat. To make the air slightly more bearable; he had fresh lavender and jasmine filled vases throughout the shop. Work was slow, a subpar amount of visitors today. Drumming thin fingers along top of the desk as he sat in thought. Eventually doing what he does best; scooping up a needle and thread. Stitching together cuts of leather as he hummed a light tune. Sporadically huffing in attempt to blow the tangled strands out of his way. Working always soothed his nerves, to a degree it was even therapeutic. Detecting the stranger well before the bell rang out. Too engulfed in his work that he didn’t lift his head for a few moments. 

Pushing thick pins into the leather before lifting from the chair with a welcoming smile. As his eyes settled on Rashiida’s, a pit formed within his twisting innards. Burning yellow eyes, unmistakably a witcher’s. Noticing that her attention was caught by that of a rather elaborate corset. Royal purple pigments with midnight blue details, delicate black lace outlining the cups. Though it was not in his nature to judge he would have been foolish if he had not been apprehensive. Past interactions with witcher’s hadn’t been all too bad. That was only because they remained blissfully unaware of his secret. If things went sideways he was prepared to alter her memory. That was a last resort as he rather disliked using his skill for such things.

 Warmly holding a smile on his alabaster features as he began to approach her.  Hands clasped together anxiously: a friendly tone in his voice as he spoke “If you need anything at all let me know. If you’d like, I can always make some tea.” The offer was genuine, desiring to make everyone who walked through those doors feel comfortable. With that he backed up until he was leaning against a wooden beam. Not wanting to be a bother any longer. He found himself wondering what had brought such an intriguing individual to his little shop. Glancing the odd time at her , avoiding staring for too long as he feared that his curiosity would come off as rude. 

[aeternumvxle-blog]

@ladycarpenoctem

Humid weather rolling in from the sea, mingling with the searing heat; creating a rather disgusting day. Not even a faint breeze to alleviate the intense temperature. With the summer months, there was a staggering influx of clients requesting light attire. Virtually every night spent slaving away; trying his very best to keep up. Even with preparing an assortment of clothing beforehand it just wasn’t enough. Time ticked by slowly, it was a combination of the stifling heat and constant customers. Longing for a break, even for a split second. Relief would not come for quite a while. As the day turned to dusk, the shop was near empty. Taking advantage of the pause to begin sewing more clothing for tomorrow. As the seemingly last person exited the shop he gave a light wave and smile. Putting his nose to the grindstone; picking up the speed considerably. A wave of exhaustion catching him off guard, the needle pricking his fingertip. Continuing on as if nothing had happened, in a way nothing had.

Rising from his work desk and making a beeline towards the cellar. He clumsily missed a step on the way down, his face planting directly into the wall at the bottom of the staircase. Shaking his head at himself before he strode towards a few mannequins. Delicately removing the clothing from them before mindfully ascending the steep stairs. Upon reaching the shop level he folded a few shirts; placing them among the others that had been laid out on the table. Next, he began lacing up a fine dress onto a cloth model. That piece, in particular, cost him a heap of coin just to create. Made from the finest fabrics and cuts of precious stones. Jet black with fine crimson details for the seams and beautiful dark grey floral designs stretching along the front and sides. Rubies of the highest quality lined along the top edges of the sweetheart neckline. Along some of the stems and swirls, very small rubies had been fastened into place. This was hands down one of his favorite creations. Wearily returning to his work-space; beginning the process of tidying up for the night.

[aeternumvxle-blog]

@sanguinesmiles

It was not uncommon for Caliban to wander the streets of Novigrad occasionally; especially under the cover of night. Pausing momentarily to eavesdrop on a nearby by conversation. A family chatting about their days over supper. Smiling to himself as he continued on, it wasn’t often anymore that families were whole and all getting along. A frigid wind swept through the city, it was enough to spur him into tightening his coat. Drawing near a side alley the sound of a commotion caught his attention. Sensitive ears detecting that the group consisted of witch hunters and a woman. Most would have walked away; though not Caliban. 

With a furiously fast pace he made his way towards the noise. The aroma of freshly shed blood hitting him like a brick wall. This only caused his stride to quicken. Digging piercingly sharp nails into his palms, trying to keep himself in check as he turned around the corner. Appalled by the sight of the fact the ‘fight’ consisted of multiple witch hunters, against one. Gritting his teeth as he practically stomped over towards them. It was clear that Caliban’s actions threw them for a loop. Before they could speak or raise their swords in defense, he had already infiltrated their minds.

It was oh so easy for him to alter their memories all at once. Feeling rather irritated, he decided to plant the memory that rabid dogs were out to get them. Of course, also leaving no recollection of the fight or why they were in the area to begin with. The witch hunters vacated the premises in a rather amusing yet clearly fearful way. Scrambling away like the rats they are. A self-satisfied smirk turned into an authentic look of concern as he turned to face the strange woman. Removing his nails from bleeding palms, the small incisions closing over almost instantaneously. Extending a lithe hand out to her. Unsure if she was hurt or not as the smell of blood clouded his senses. 

Calm words ringing out with caring eyes observing her movements “Are you okay? I don’t think they will be back though with the… blood, It would be a wise decision to leave promptly. We could go to my place just outside of Novigrad. If you’d like to accompany me, of course.” There was an uneasiness lurking within. Perhaps it was fear of what could happen if the pair were found here by the wrong sort. Not wishing for any unnecessary violence, Caliban was more than ready to sprint back to the safety of home. While he did not know her in the slightest, he would let her spend the night without a second thought. All of this while remaining in the dark about her secret.

[aeternumvxle-blog]

Even from a young age, he harbored a certain fondness for the many forms of art. Whenever a new event popped up he made sure to attend at least once. Lingering near the back of the crowd in the safety of the shade cast by nearby buildings. It would have been terribly awkward if someone had pointed out his lack of a shadow. Of course, he had heard Dandelion’s ballads, the real question was who hadn’t. Due to his rather romantic ideals, he was a fan of his numerous works. As the performance came to a close he joined in with the others in applauding the bard. Though the moment people began to move about, Caliban found his muscles tightly winding up. 

Running a shaking hand through his chaotic curls. Fixing the collar of his shirt and flattening out his rather tame outfit. Consisting of a white shirt with a black vest and well fitting pants. Forcing himself out of his comfort zone; he proceed in attempting to make brief small talk with a rather excited fan. They chatted for a moment about their favorite ballads before departing. Turning the ring box over in his hand, debating on whether other not he should give it to the bard now or wait until another time. Inside of the box there was a white gold ring with a teardrop cut sapphire containing the deepest hues of blue. Made as a token of sorts, a gift for creating such wonderful pieces of art. Anxiety seeping into his bones as he suddenly gripped onto it with a deep sigh. Perhaps it was best to hand it to the stage manager backstage. Though as he began his path towards the back area he was interrupted by the very person the present was for.

Hands quivering some as he was spoken to. Outside of work he was nervous at the best of times; now he was face to face with one of his favorite authors. Dark brown hues shifting away from Dandelion as he began to speak “We haven’t... Met before, Ah, My name is Caliban.” Instantly afterward he just about shoved the velvet box at him “...For you.” As always he expected nothing in return, this was a gesture of kindness. The underlying purpose was to inspire hope. Hope that there was still some good in this dark era.

[aeternumvxle-blog]

“You should never have approached me. You don’t know who you’re dealing with.”

Words caught in his throat, nearly choking on them. There was hurt within those eyes as he gazed into Lambert’s hues. A few cautious steps forwards, intent on closing the gap between the two. After all the pair had been through he wasn’t about to give up because of a little rough patch. Nearly an eternity later, words finally left trembling lips. Fear rooting itself within his core. “Perhaps, though.. I did. I do not regret it any form. Lambert..-” Part of him wishing to hold back but there was a burning question. Softening his gaze, wanting to reach out and comfort the other, though he did not. “Lambert I know.. You are hiding something.. How you go missing during the moon… Your tense behavior before and distress afterwards…” Caliban didn’t want to guess, it would be terribly rude if he got it wrong, so he left it up to the other. Nervously clasping his hands together to prevent further shaking. “You don’t… Need to hide it from me… I’m… ah- Not what you think I am.” It was very rare he let slip his true nature. Hoping that if he took a risk, perhaps Lambert would too.