The Four Horsemen

An independent RP blog for the Four Apocalyptic Horsemen with the same mun as @mythiism 🐎 Read rules and about before interacting 🐎 semi-selective 🐎 M!A:-

[failnation]

When you finally got enough money to open your fucking restaurant

[pubertyring]

[duskittycat]

*boy looking at coin* ees.. nanarro..

[drops coin] HOh

[coin rolls into gutter]

AAAAAAAHHGH

[exxemplary-archived]

"Do not be scared, it will all be okay." (From Death to Ronald, if that's okay?)

Gentle Pain Starters

Death, a member of the Four Horsemen, the entity who was essentially in charge of reaper kind as a whole, the man who decided what souls would be collected and what souls would be spared, was telling an injured Ronald that all would be okay.

This, perhaps understandably, did not come as a comfort. 

“I don’t want t’ die,” the junior officer whimpered, attempting to scoot away.

[exxemplary-archived]

@apocalypsiism‘s reply (bolded part below) from here

“Yes, he’ll be completely fine. The cure worked, and once he’s fully rested they’ll both come back to work.” Death liked to see Ronald this happy, and continued to ruffle the lighter part of his two-toned hair gently.

However, he soon noticed the look of concern, and as he wasn’t sure if Ronald knew about the unexplained soul disappearances he chose not to mention it. “No, nothing happened with your friends. There’s just a few things I need to discuss with your supervisor regarding a slight miscommunication between one of my fellow Horsemen and your Dispatch. It’s nothing you need to worry yourself about.”

Death was correct in not mentioning the real issue - Ronald knew nothing of Eric’s illegal collections, and would have been horrified, disappointed, and saddened if he did. After all, was Eric not a mentor? Was he not someone whom Ronald looked up to, someone whom he viewed as a father in some cases and a brother in others, someone whom he’d always considered to be a prime example of how a reaper should fight and work?

But, as it stood now, the blond was, thankfully, oblivious to the truth. “Oh, I’m glad they’re okay! I’m sorry there’s been a misunderstanding; hopefully tha’ kind o’ thing doesn’ happen often! Could y’ imagine if the higher-ups screwed somethin’ up with all four o’ y’ at once?”

Actually, come t’ think o’ it…maybe tha’s how the apocalypse will start? Aren’ those four supposed t’ make tha’ happen eventually? Hopefully not anytime soon…

[apocalypsiism-blog]

“No, this kind of thing is very rare, and it will not happen again, I promise you. Should the Higher-Ups make a mistake with all of us, well…that would be a scenario far too unpleasant to contemplate.”

Unknown to the reaper, the apocalypse would start should the reaper realm’s superiors make such a mistake. The Horsemen would not hesitate to start the end of the world, and would not stop their grisly duty until every human, angel, demon and reaper had been harvested.

It was not a pleasant event, but when the time came it would be what Death would be obliged to carry out. The most he could do was make the reapers’ deaths as painless as possible.

“But enough about that. All you need to focus on is being a good worker so one day I will be able to reward your efforts with redemption.”

[exxemplary-archived]

Ronald, technically unaware of what would truly happen in such a scenario - and not wanting to confirm if his original thought was accurate (it was, evidently) - merely laughed. “I bet! Could y’ imagine how much paperwork we would all have t’ do? We’d probably have overtime for centuries!”

Of course, he was relieved when the conversation switched away from such a topic. No matter how cheerfully his verbal responses to the possibility of that mistake were, he was still internally ruminating on the real potential outcomes of the hypothetical catastrophe he had envisioned.

And they were not pretty.

“Aw, y’ don’ have t’ worry about me! I’m one of the best workers here. I get my work done about as accurately as anyone, and I always finish it early~!” He decided not to mention that he usually showed up late.

[apocalypsiism-blog]

"Haha, yes that would be terrible, wouldn't it?" Death laughed along, playing it off as a joke. "But you do not need to worry about such a scenario. These small miscommunications are very rare, and both your Higher Ups and myself work to ensure that these mistakes are rectified as soon as possible."

Death ruffled the reaper's hair again, wanting to get away from the unpleasant imagery in his mind. He did not want to worry anyone with the idea of the apocalypse, since it hopefully would not occur for millennia to come.

"I know you are, little one. In fact, I may even go so far to say that if you keep up this work, you may be among the the first reapers from your Dispatch to receive redemption. However, if for whatever reason there was someone you would prefer to wait for, for example a significant other or particularly close friend, so you would have company in the afterlife, I would consider offering them an earlier chance at redemption."

[exxemplary-archived]

"Don't push me away, I love you." (From Death to Ronald, because fatherly love Death is the best Death)

Send “Don’t push me away, I love you.” For my character’s reaction.

Did Ronald see Death as a father figure? Of course he did, as a result of the deity’s surprising kindness and patience and understanding. And yet, in the midst of this storm - a storm that had caught him unaware, a storm that had sprung up while he was on a mission, in the middle of a dense dark forest, a forest that was closing in on him and from which there was no escape -

He didn’t want to hear any of this, not in the slightest.

“Stay away from me!” the blond roared, tearing off down the path in a random direction, desperate for escape and a chance to breathe.

[exxemplary-archived]

@apocalypsiism‘s reply (bolded part below) from here

“If that is what you want, then Moxie will protect you and stay by your side until the storm passes. Right, Moxie?” Death watched as the horse lifted one of his front legs, wrapping it around Ronald protectively as he tried to imitate a hug.

Moxie’s eyes were seen by many as shining beacons of hope, like lighthouses beckoning lost souls back to shore. They held promises of kindness, of peace and of protection. The humans who saw that gaze where those who were about to die, but neither Moxie nor Death wanted them to fear. They wanted to comfort them as their life ended, so that they would not cause the reapers any hassle and could pass on quickly.

“All you need to do,” Death instructed, “is tell him where you want him to take you. I will give you the space you want, so you do not need to fear. Moxie will be with you the whole time to keep you safe and offer any comfort you may need.”

Ronald blinked in surprise when the horse put its front leg around him, having not expected the sudden attempt at a hug. However, he soon offered a soft, albeit small, smile, and patted Moxie gently. “He’s so sweet,” the blond murmured. “He’s like a big, protective puppy, but in a horse’s body.”

He was vaguely aware of the pain in his ankle, and as Death instructed him on how to make requests of Moxie, the junior reaper carefully shifted his weight, hoping to place less pressure on his injury.

“Will he be alright t’ walk through the woods? I don’ wan’ him t’ trip over a tree root, too,” he said, then - for if he could get hurt out here, why couldn’t a horse? Especially given the fact that leg injuries tended to be fatal for them…

But, then again, Moxie wasn’t a normal horse by any stretch. He belonged to a Horseman of the Apocalypse, after all. Perhaps such concerns were unfounded, then, merely fragments of Ronald’s over-anxious mind.

[apocalypsiism-blog]

"I have not seem him warm up to someone new this quickly. Of course, he is calm around everyone, but he doesn't often show this much outward affection towards others. He's really taken a shine to you."

Moxie pulled away for a moment, watching as the reaper shifted his weight off of his injured ankle. The horse leant down, trying to persuade Ronald to lewn against him if he needed support to take the weight off of his injury.

"Moxie will be perfectly fine, do not worry. He is very careful when going through places like this, and even more so when carrying people like you around," Death reassured. Even in the unlikely event that Moxie did get injured, Death knew that his fellow Horsemen's Pestilence would be able to heal him up within moments.

[exxemplary-archived]

"Don't push me away, I love you." (From Death to Ronald, because fatherly love Death is the best Death)

Send “Don’t push me away, I love you.” For my character’s reaction.

Did Ronald see Death as a father figure? Of course he did, as a result of the deity’s surprising kindness and patience and understanding. And yet, in the midst of this storm - a storm that had caught him unaware, a storm that had sprung up while he was on a mission, in the middle of a dense dark forest, a forest that was closing in on him and from which there was no escape -

He didn’t want to hear any of this, not in the slightest.

“Stay away from me!” the blond roared, tearing off down the path in a random direction, desperate for escape and a chance to breathe.

[exxemplary-archived]

@apocalypsiism‘s reply (bolded part below) from here

Moxie nuzzled Ronald with his head, staying close to him and trying to offer as much protection from the rain and thunder as he could. The petting was enjoyable, and he didn’t pull away from the hug, letting Ronald break it off once he wanted to.

Death kept his voice the same soothing tone, pleased that the introduction of Moxie seemed to have calmed the reaper down. “You’re welcome. You do not need to apologise, for I understand why you acted the way you did. Moxie will take you back to safety once you are ready to leave. He will also stay with you until the storm passes, if that is what you wish.”

Death planned to follow them, but would be careful to cloak his presence so he wouldn’t accidentally frighten Ronald again. At least if he stayed nearby, he would be able to prevent any harm coming to either his pet or the reaper.

It was really reassuring to know that Death understood the reasons behind Ronald’s behavior. Granted, many of the blond’s friends weren’t the types to get annoyed with him for having issues with his past, and often they would try to help (although, he hated to admit, for it made him feel ungrateful: he usually felt smothered if they tried too hard. To have someone here now who was offering to give him space and understanding…it was nice).

“I…I would be happy if Moxie would stay until the weather clears up,” the reaper said quietly, eyes flicking up towards the deity’s face before they settled contritely on the ground once again. “I feel calmer, somehow, when he’s around…”

Were he of a clearer head right now, it likely would have occurred to Ronald that Moxie’s calming presence was in part due to the fact that he was a horse belonging to Death. As a reaper, the blond knew full well that human souls which weren’t panicking and trying to fight off their fate were easier to collect. Thus, if Death’s horse inspired fear in other beings - it wouldn’t be very helpful to bring along, would it?

[apocalypsiism-blog]

"If that is what you want, then Moxie will protect you and stay by your side until the storm passes. Right, Moxie?" Death watched as the horse lifted one of his front legs, wrapping it around Ronald protectively as he tried to imitate a hug.

Moxie's eyes were seen by many as shining beacons of hope, like lighthouses beckoning lost souls back to shore. They held promises of kindness, of peace and of protection. The humans who saw that gaze where those who were about to die, but neither Moxie nor Death wanted them to fear. They wanted to comfort them as their life ended, so that they would not cause the reapers any hassle and could pass on quickly.

"All you need to do," Death instructed, "is tell him where you want him to take you. I will give you the space you want, so you do not need to fear. Moxie will be with you the whole time to keep you safe and offer any comfort you may need."

[exxemplary-archived]

"Don't push me away, I love you." (From Death to Ronald, because fatherly love Death is the best Death)

Send “Don’t push me away, I love you.” For my character’s reaction.

Did Ronald see Death as a father figure? Of course he did, as a result of the deity’s surprising kindness and patience and understanding. And yet, in the midst of this storm - a storm that had caught him unaware, a storm that had sprung up while he was on a mission, in the middle of a dense dark forest, a forest that was closing in on him and from which there was no escape -

He didn’t want to hear any of this, not in the slightest.

“Stay away from me!” the blond roared, tearing off down the path in a random direction, desperate for escape and a chance to breathe.

[exxemplary-archived]

@apocalypsiism‘s reply (bolded part below) from here

“He is. He’s always been such a gentle creature, and he’s got an amazing sense of direction. He’ll show you the way back to safety, and I’m sure he’ll be careful not to worsen your injury any more.”

Death praised his horse, patting its back gently and watching Ronald carefully in case he panicked again.

“Moxie?” Death questioned. “That has a nice ring to it. Do you like that name, Moxie?”

The name suggestion was very much liked by Moxie, and he stepped closer to the reaper and laid his head on Ronald’s shoulder gently. 

The glow coming from his eyes often did have a calming effect on people, a promise of the peace they would receive once they reached the afterlife.

Ronald felt warmth bubbling up in his heart as the horse’s head came to rest on his shoulder, and he gently wrapped his arms around the creature’s neck. It was interesting, how it took the pet of an apocalyptic god to make the young reaper feel at peace, but - well, who was he to complain?

After all, he may still have been in a state of fear (for even now, the thunder rumbled and the rain fell), but at the least, he felt as if something was here that would protect him -

And isn’t that what he’d always wanted?

“There, see? It’s a cute name for a cute horse,” he said quietly, petting it once again upon releasing it from the hug. “Now y’ can show off t’ all yer other horse friends!”

A thought seemed to occur to him, then, and he turned to Death, eyes downcast. “Th-Thank y’ for your help. I’m sorry I…” His voice trailed away, for he was unsure of what more to say.

[apocalypsiism-blog]

Moxie nuzzled Ronald with his head, staying close to him and trying to offer as much protection from the rain and thunder as he could. The petting was enjoyable, and he didn't pull away from the hug, letting Ronald break it off once he wanted to.

Death kept his voice the same soothing tone, pleased that the introduction of Moxie seemed to have calmed the reaper down. "You're welcome. You do not need to apologise, for I understand why you acted the way you did. Moxie will take you back to safety once you are ready to leave. He will also stay with you until the storm passes, if that is what you wish."

Death planned to follow them, but would be careful to cloak his presence so he wouldn't accidentally frighten Ronald again. At least if he stayed nearby, he would be able to prevent any harm coming to either his pet or the reaper.

[exxemplary-archived]

"Don't push me away, I love you." (From Death to Ronald, because fatherly love Death is the best Death)

Send “Don’t push me away, I love you.” For my character’s reaction.

Did Ronald see Death as a father figure? Of course he did, as a result of the deity’s surprising kindness and patience and understanding. And yet, in the midst of this storm - a storm that had caught him unaware, a storm that had sprung up while he was on a mission, in the middle of a dense dark forest, a forest that was closing in on him and from which there was no escape -

He didn’t want to hear any of this, not in the slightest.

“Stay away from me!” the blond roared, tearing off down the path in a random direction, desperate for escape and a chance to breathe.

[exxemplary-archived]

@apocalypsiism‘s reply (bolded part below) from here

Being the horse of one of the Horsemen meant that the animal had developed some rather unusual physical traits, but had always remained calm and friendly towards others. Its coat was a pale blue, and its eyes emitted a soft, glowing light, so it could easily find its way through darkness.

The horse seemed to like the patting, and it gently butted Ronald’s hand with its nose.

Death watched, pleased to see that his horse was getting on well with the reaper. “A name? Well, I haven’t actually given him a name yet. Would you like to suggest one?”

The deity backed off again, giving Ronald space and hopefully making him feel a little less frightened.

Ronald, although still rather shaken up by all that was occurring, nevertheless offered a wavering smile when the horse pushed its nose into his palm, and he was quick to administer more pats. 

“He seems really sweet,” the blond said quietly. In truth, he was rather intrigued by the horse’s curious coloring and glowing eyes. But, even in his state of panic, he had enough of his wits about him to recall that he was, in fact, a reaper, and so he was not afraid of the creature’s more ethereal properties as a human may have been.

In fact, the glow coming from its eyes seemed almost like a comforting nightlight, a soft beacon of safety.

“Aw, how could this cutie not have a name?” he asked, moving his hand from the horse’s nose to behind its ears. “Y’ know, I bet he can have a bit o’ a spunky side, right? Maybe we should name him Moxie~”

And no, that wasn’t entirely because said name sort of rhymed with “Knox.”

[apocalypsiism-blog]

"He is. He's always been such a gentle creature, and he's got an amazing sense of direction. He'll show you way back to safety, and I'm sure he'll be careful not to worsen your injury any more."

Death praised his horse, patting its back gently and watching Ronald carefully in case he panicked again.

"Moxie?" Death questioned. "That has a nice ring to it. Do you like that name, Moxie?"

The name suggestion was very much liked by Moxie, and he stepped closer to the reaper and laid his head on Ronald's shoulder gently. The glow coming from his eyes often did have a calming effect on people, a promise of the peace they would receive once they reached the afterlife.

[exxemplary-archived]

"Don't push me away, I love you." (From Death to Ronald, because fatherly love Death is the best Death)

Send “Don’t push me away, I love you.” For my character’s reaction.

Did Ronald see Death as a father figure? Of course he did, as a result of the deity’s surprising kindness and patience and understanding. And yet, in the midst of this storm - a storm that had caught him unaware, a storm that had sprung up while he was on a mission, in the middle of a dense dark forest, a forest that was closing in on him and from which there was no escape -

He didn’t want to hear any of this, not in the slightest.

“Stay away from me!” the blond roared, tearing off down the path in a random direction, desperate for escape and a chance to breathe.

[exxemplary-archived]

@apocalypsiism‘s reply (bolded part below) from here

Death stopped a couple of metres away from the tree, his hands clearly visible to show that he was unarmed. “I won’t come any closer if that’s not what you want, but I speak the truth when I say I mean you no harm. I want to get you back to safety, little one, but in order to do that you’re going to have to trust me.”

He had seen Ronald trip, and judging by the whimpers that were escaping him, he seemed to be in pain. Depending on whether or not he could walk, Death knew he may have to summon his horse. “I know you’re not a fool. I understand that you’re frightened right now, but I need you to calm down and try to think straight. I can get you out of here and back inside somewhere where you’ll be safe. Let me help you.”

Trust? What on Earth was trust? In this state of mind, it was mentally impossible for him to trust - it was likely that not even Angela would have been approached without fear, and she knew him better than anyone. Hence why the blond reaper shook his head fiercely, eyes narrowed and brimming with anxious tears.

“I can help myself jus’ fine! Jus’ like I helped myself all those years ago, when I took that-” Ronald’s hand flew to his throat unconsciously, yet another set of dark memories crowding to the front of his mind. With a noise halfway between a whimper and a wail, he forced himself back to his feet, ignoring a twinge in his ankle.

“I jus’ have t’…get away from…here.”

[apocalypsiism-blog]

Death backed away, realising that perhaps Ronald wouldn’t actually be able to calm down while he was in this state. Hesitantly, he backed away a little more, now deciding that perhaps the best tactic here was to leave him alone and cloak his presence once he had finished speaking.

“I am not doubting your independence. I will leave you alone, since that is clearly what you want, and you can find your way out of here on your own. However, it is clear that you will not be able to walk for that long without further injuring yourself.”

However, before he hid himself from view, he summoned his horse and used the reins to lead it closer to the reaper. “This horse is perfectly tame, and he will show the way out of here. You will be safe.”

[exxemplary-archived]

The panicked reaper paused when he saw Death back away. He was stunned, really, for seldom did people give him space when he asked for it, and especially not in times like these, when for whatever reason they thought it would be best to crowd around, to block the flow of air, to hinder any chance of escape he may have had-

Ronald blinked in sudden surprise, watching as the horse materialized. “I-I see…Thank y’,” he said quietly, some of the previous distrust fading from his voice, even as Death drew closer yet again. After all, the deity was simply trying to bring the horse over to him, was he not?

Carefully, the blond reached out a hand, patting the horse on the muzzle. “Y-Y’ said he’s tame?” he asked softly. “What’s his name?” People may not always be trustworthy, but domesticated animals could prove to be wonderful companions, worthy of respect and a lowered guard.

[apocalypsiism-blog]

Being the horse of one of the Horsemen meant that the animal had developed some rather unusual physical traits, but had always remained calm and friendly towards others. Its coat was a pale blue, and its eyes emitted a soft, glowing light, so it could easily find its way through darkness.

The horse seemed to like the patting, and it gently butted Ronald's hand with its nose.

Death watched, pleased to see that his horse was getting on well with the reaper. "A name? Well, I haven't actually given him a name yet. Would you like to suggest one?" The deity backed off again, giving Ronald space and hopefully making him feel a little less frightened.

[exxemplary-archived]

"Don't push me away, I love you." (From Death to Ronald, because fatherly love Death is the best Death)

Send “Don’t push me away, I love you.” For my character’s reaction.

Did Ronald see Death as a father figure? Of course he did, as a result of the deity’s surprising kindness and patience and understanding. And yet, in the midst of this storm - a storm that had caught him unaware, a storm that had sprung up while he was on a mission, in the middle of a dense dark forest, a forest that was closing in on him and from which there was no escape -

He didn’t want to hear any of this, not in the slightest.

“Stay away from me!” the blond roared, tearing off down the path in a random direction, desperate for escape and a chance to breathe.

[exxemplary-archived]

@apocalypsiism‘s reply (bolded part below) from here

Death stopped a couple of metres away from the tree, his hands clearly visible to show that he was unarmed. “I won’t come any closer if that’s not what you want, but I speak the truth when I say I mean you no harm. I want to get you back to safety, little one, but in order to do that you’re going to have to trust me.”

He had seen Ronald trip, and judging by the whimpers that were escaping him, he seemed to be in pain. Depending on whether or not he could walk, Death knew he may have to summon his horse. “I know you’re not a fool. I understand that you’re frightened right now, but I need you to calm down and try to think straight. I can get you out of here and back inside somewhere where you’ll be safe. Let me help you.”

Trust? What on Earth was trust? In this state of mind, it was mentally impossible for him to trust - it was likely that not even Angela would have been approached without fear, and she knew him better than anyone. Hence why the blond reaper shook his head fiercely, eyes narrowed and brimming with anxious tears.

“I can help myself jus’ fine! Jus’ like I helped myself all those years ago, when I took that-” Ronald’s hand flew to his throat unconsciously, yet another set of dark memories crowding to the front of his mind. With a noise halfway between a whimper and a wail, he forced himself back to his feet, ignoring a twinge in his ankle.

“I jus’ have t’…get away from…here.”

[apocalypsiism-blog]

Death backed away, realising that perhaps Ronald wouldn't actually be able to calm down while he was in this state. Hesitantly, he backed away a little more, now deciding that perhaps the best tactic here was to leave him alone and cloak his presence once he had finished speaking.

"I am not doubting your independence. I will leave you alone, since that is clearly what you want, and you can find your way out of here on your own. However, it is clear that you will not be able to walk for that long without further injuring yourself."

However, before he hid himself from view, he summoned his horse and used the reins to lead it closer to the reaper. "This horse is perfectly tame, and he will show the way out of here. You will be safe."

[exxemplary-archived]

"Don't push me away, I love you." (From Death to Ronald, because fatherly love Death is the best Death)

Send “Don’t push me away, I love you.” For my character’s reaction.

Did Ronald see Death as a father figure? Of course he did, as a result of the deity’s surprising kindness and patience and understanding. And yet, in the midst of this storm - a storm that had caught him unaware, a storm that had sprung up while he was on a mission, in the middle of a dense dark forest, a forest that was closing in on him and from which there was no escape -

He didn’t want to hear any of this, not in the slightest.

“Stay away from me!” the blond roared, tearing off down the path in a random direction, desperate for escape and a chance to breathe.

[apocalypsiism-blog]

Worried for Ronald’s safety, Death cloaked his presence so as not to frighten the reaper any more and followed after him. The storm showed no signs of stopping, but he at least hoped to be able to calm Ronald down until it lessened.

It took him a few moments to find the junior, but once he did he materialised nearby and called out to him, the deity’s voice soft and soothing. “Ronald. Listen to me, little one. Take a deep breath and calm down. I can show you the way out of here, but you must calm down first. I mean you no harm, I promise.”

[exxemplary-archived]

Ronald’s running came to a halt when he tripped over an exposed root, and a whimper escaped him as jolts of pain shot up his body. The fact that blindly fleeing might not be the best strategy managed to pierce through the fog of his brain, and he thus opted to sit at the base of the tree, shaking, head pressed to his knees as he tried to will the storm away.

He looked up abruptly at the sound of Death’s voice. “I said t’ stay away from me!” he called out, trembling tone a far cry from the venom that had left his lips previously. "People never mean others no harm! I-I’m not a fool-”

[apocalypsiism-blog]

Death stopped a couple of metres away from the tree, his hands clearly visible to show that he was unarmed. "I won't come any closer if that's not what you want, but I speak the truth when I say I mean you no harm. I want to get you back to safety, little one, but in order to do that you're going to have to trust me."

He had seen Ronald trip, and judging by the whimpers that were escaping him, he seemed to be in pain. Depending on whether or not he could walk, Death knew he may have to summon his horse. "I know you're not a fool. I understand that you're frightened right now, but I need you to calm down and try to think straight. I can get you out of here and back inside somewhere where you'll be safe. Let me help you."

[exxemplary-archived]

"Don't push me away, I love you." (From Death to Ronald, because fatherly love Death is the best Death)

Send “Don’t push me away, I love you.” For my character’s reaction.

Did Ronald see Death as a father figure? Of course he did, as a result of the deity’s surprising kindness and patience and understanding. And yet, in the midst of this storm - a storm that had caught him unaware, a storm that had sprung up while he was on a mission, in the middle of a dense dark forest, a forest that was closing in on him and from which there was no escape -

He didn’t want to hear any of this, not in the slightest.

“Stay away from me!” the blond roared, tearing off down the path in a random direction, desperate for escape and a chance to breathe.

[apocalypsiism-blog]

Worried for Ronald's safety, Death cloaked his presence so as not to frighten the reaper any more and followed after him. The storm showed no signs of stopping, but he at least hoped to be able to calm Ronald down until it lessened.

It took him a few moments to find the junior, but once he did he materialised nearby and called out to him, the deity's voice soft and soothing. "Ronald. Listen to me, little one. Take a deep breath and calm down. I can show you the way out of here, but you must calm down first. I mean you no harm, I promise."

[exxemplary-archived]

"Do not be scared, it will all be okay." (From Death to Ronald, if that's okay?)

Gentle Pain Starters

Death, a member of the Four Horsemen, the entity who was essentially in charge of reaper kind as a whole, the man who decided what souls would be collected and what souls would be spared, was telling an injured Ronald that all would be okay.

This, perhaps understandably, did not come as a comfort. 

“I don’t want t’ die,” the junior officer whimpered, attempting to scoot away.

[exxemplary-archived]

@apocalypsiism‘s reply (bolded part below) from here

“Yes, he’ll be completely fine. The cure worked, and once he’s fully rested they’ll both come back to work.” Death liked to see Ronald this happy, and continued to ruffle the lighter part of his two-toned hair gently.

However, he soon noticed the look of concern, and as he wasn’t sure if Ronald knew about the unexplained soul disappearances he chose not to mention it. “No, nothing happened with your friends. There’s just a few things I need to discuss with your supervisor regarding a slight miscommunication between one of my fellow Horsemen and your Dispatch. It’s nothing you need to worry yourself about.”

Death was correct in not mentioning the real issue - Ronald knew nothing of Eric’s illegal collections, and would have been horrified, disappointed, and saddened if he did. After all, was Eric not a mentor? Was he not someone whom Ronald looked up to, someone whom he viewed as a father in some cases and a brother in others, someone whom he’d always considered to be a prime example of how a reaper should fight and work?

But, as it stood now, the blond was, thankfully, oblivious to the truth. “Oh, I’m glad they’re okay! I’m sorry there’s been a misunderstanding; hopefully tha’ kind o’ thing doesn’ happen often! Could y’ imagine if the higher-ups screwed somethin’ up with all four o’ y’ at once?”

Actually, come t’ think o’ it…maybe tha’s how the apocalypse will start? Aren’ those four supposed t’ make tha’ happen eventually? Hopefully not anytime soon…

[apocalypsiism-blog]

"No, this kind of thing is very rare, and it will not happen again, I promise you. Should the Higher-Ups make a mistake with all of us, well...that would be a scenario far too unpleasant to contemplate."

Unknown to the reaper, the apocalypse would start should the reaper realm's superiors make such a mistake. The Horsemen would not hesitate to start the end of the world, and would not stop their grisly duty until every human, angel, demon and reaper had been harvested.

It was not a pleasant event, but when the time came it would be what Death would be obliged to carry out. The most he could do was make the reapers' deaths as painless as possible.

"But enough about that. All you need to focus on is being a good worker so one day I will be able to reward your efforts with redemption."

[rhosegold]

[exxemplary-archived]

"Do not be scared, it will all be okay." (From Death to Ronald, if that's okay?)

Gentle Pain Starters

Death, a member of the Four Horsemen, the entity who was essentially in charge of reaper kind as a whole, the man who decided what souls would be collected and what souls would be spared, was telling an injured Ronald that all would be okay.

This, perhaps understandably, did not come as a comfort. 

“I don’t want t’ die,” the junior officer whimpered, attempting to scoot away.

[exxemplary-archived]

@apocalypsiism‘s reply (bolded part below) from here

“I will be sure to pass on your message, don’t worry.” Death watched Eric stand up, and slowly glided off to one side so he could leave.

“You’re welcome. I wish you both the best of luck for the future, and if either of you ever need help feel free to ask for my assistance.” The Horseman waited until the couple had been ported back to their home, then cloaked his presence again and went to find Ronald.

He wanted to see how his injuries were healing up, as well as ask him where William would be at this time.

The deity waited in the corner of the infirmary, still hiding his presence. He didn’t want to appear suddenly in case he accidentally frightened him, so he observed silently from the corner.

Ronald would prove to still be asleep after Death had arrived; the battle against the demon and the ensuing injuries really had taken quite the toll on the poor blond, and he needed his rest.

However, he eventually stirred slightly, eyes fluttering open, hand reaching up to his mouth to stifle a yawn. He sat up in the bed, glancing around the room and finding himself to be - as far as he knew, anyway - totally alone.

“Sir Death’s no’ back yet…? I hope things went okay with Eric and Alan,” he said aloud - to no one in particular, of course - reaching his arms above his head and stretching lightly, not wishing to aggravate his wounds. “Maybe he came back when I was still out…?”

[apocalypsiism-blog]

Death waited silently until Ronald had woken up, and only then unveiled his presence and moved closer to the bed. “Do not worry, little one. Pestilence was able to help with your friend’s illness, so you no longer need to worry about his health. His partner has taken him home to rest.”

Gently, he ruffled Ronald’s hair and thought back to everything that had occurred since he’d left Ronald to rest and recover from his earlier fight. “There is an issue I need to sort out, but that can wait for the moment. How are you feeling?”

[exxemplary-archived]

Ronald jumped slightly when Death appeared, although he had gotten used to the deity’s presence by now, and thus calmed quickly. At the announcement, his dual-toned eyes brightened. “Oh, really?! So Alan-senpai will be alright?! Tha’s wonderful! Oh, thank y’! I’m really glad!”

He didn’t mind the hair-ruffling, and likely would have continued to cheerfully ramble, were it not for a comment Death made. A look of concern crossed the blond’s face. “I feel fine, but…did somethin’ happen?” Perhaps the god just needed to tell someone of Alan’s recovery?

[apocalypsiism-blog]

"Yes, he'll be completely fine. The cure worked, and once he's fully rested they'll both come back to work." Death liked to see Ronald this happy, and continued to ruffle the lighter part of his two-toned hair gently.

However, he soon noticed the look of concern, and as he wasn't sure if Ronald knew about the unexplained soul disappearances he chose not to mention it. "No, nothing happened with your friends. There's just a few things I need to discuss with your supervisor regarding a slight miscommunication between one of my fellow Horsemen and your Dispatch. It's nothing you need to worry yourself about."

[exxemplary-archived]

"Do not be scared, it will all be okay." (From Death to Ronald, if that's okay?)

Gentle Pain Starters

Death, a member of the Four Horsemen, the entity who was essentially in charge of reaper kind as a whole, the man who decided what souls would be collected and what souls would be spared, was telling an injured Ronald that all would be okay.

This, perhaps understandably, did not come as a comfort. 

“I don’t want t’ die,” the junior officer whimpered, attempting to scoot away.

[exxemplary-archived]

@apocalypsiism‘s reply (bolded part below) from here

“I will be sure to pass on your message, don’t worry.” Death watched Eric stand up, and slowly glided off to one side so he could leave.

“You’re welcome. I wish you both the best of luck for the future, and if either of you ever need help feel free to ask for my assistance.” The Horseman waited until the couple had been ported back to their home, then cloaked his presence again and went to find Ronald.

He wanted to see how his injuries were healing up, as well as ask him where William would be at this time.

The deity waited in the corner of the infirmary, still hiding his presence. He didn’t want to appear suddenly in case he accidentally frightened him, so he observed silently from the corner.

Ronald would prove to still be asleep after Death had arrived; the battle against the demon and the ensuing injuries really had taken quite the toll on the poor blond, and he needed his rest.

However, he eventually stirred slightly, eyes fluttering open, hand reaching up to his mouth to stifle a yawn. He sat up in the bed, glancing around the room and finding himself to be - as far as he knew, anyway - totally alone.

“Sir Death’s no’ back yet…? I hope things went okay with Eric and Alan,” he said aloud - to no one in particular, of course - reaching his arms above his head and stretching lightly, not wishing to aggravate his wounds. “Maybe he came back when I was still out…?”

[apocalypsiism-blog]

Death waited silently until Ronald had woken up, and only then unveiled his presence and moved closer to the bed. "Do not worry, little one. Pestilence was able to help with your friend's illness, so you no longer need to worry about his health. His partner has taken him home to rest."

Gently, he ruffled Ronald's hair and thought back to everything that had occurred since he'd left Ronald to rest and recover from his earlier fight. "There is an issue I need to sort out, but that can wait for the moment. How are you feeling?"

[exxemplary-archived]

"Do not be scared, it will all be okay." (From Death to Ronald, if that's okay?)

Gentle Pain Starters

Death, a member of the Four Horsemen, the entity who was essentially in charge of reaper kind as a whole, the man who decided what souls would be collected and what souls would be spared, was telling an injured Ronald that all would be okay.

This, perhaps understandably, did not come as a comfort. 

“I don’t want t’ die,” the junior officer whimpered, attempting to scoot away.

[exxemplary-archived]

@apocalypsiism‘s reply (bolded part below) from here

“None of that matters anymore. Yes, they were no doubt upset when they lost you, but while here you were able to find someone who makes you happy. I think that’s all they ever wanted for you, to see you happy.” Death looked down at Alan, glad that they had been able to help him with his disease. Neither Eric nor Alan deserved the suffering that they had been put through, and he was glad that the problems they were facing had been resolved quickly.

“Then it’s settled. Once you reach redemption, you will be reunited not just with your partner and your friends, but with your parents as well. Then you can tell them whatever you’d like.”

Death stood up after a moment, looking down at the couple again. “I think it would be best for your partner to rest at home. The cure must have been very hard on him. Of course, I understand that you would stay with him, so I suggest that you both leave early today.”

“I think that’s all they ever wanted for you, to see you happy.”

So much truth rung in those words, a truth which Eric had always denied out of desperate attempts to keep his parents happy, to work himself to near-exhaustion in the hopes that he would not be a burden, that he could prove to the community that he was worth something.

All Eric could say, however, was a quiet “Thank you,” for although part of him wanted to be that little boy running to his parents’ arms, he had grown and changed so much. Would he even be their son anymore? What would they think, hearing of his desperation, of how many sins he had committed, of how many spirits he had sacrificed for the sake of one life?

He felt Alan stir slightly - the brunet would awaken soon. “Aye, sir, I’ll take him right home sae he can gae tae bed. Thank ye again for yer help, and I…I’m sae, sae sorry for everythin’ I did tae those souls and for losin’ my temper earlier. I…I was wrong tae be sae out o’ line.”

He had apologized earlier, but if he did not do so again, well - it wouldn’t feel right.  

[apocalypsiism-blog]

Death often did not commune with the souls of the deceased, but he would make an exception and listen for any messages Eric’s parents may have. “I do have the ability to speak to the deceased if I wished, so if there was anything you wanted them to know immediately I would be more than happy to pass along your message. You never know, perhaps they might have some for you.”

Death prepared to leave and sort out the issue of the stolen souls, but paused when he heard Eric’s apology.

“You do not need to apologise. You have helped the souls to find peace, and while they may be angry now in time they will come to forgive you. As for your temper, I feel that my words earlier may have been too harsh, so I understand why you got angry.”

He knew that he had been a bit more ruthless with his words than usual earlier, but he had believed at the time that his merciless remarks would be the only way to make the Scotsman see sense.

“Now go and take your partner home. This must have been a tiresome day for you both. I’ll tell your supervisor that you’re going, so don’t worry.”

[exxemplary-archived]

“I…” Eric looked away for a moment, lost in thought. Of course he had a message for his parents. He’d tried to apologize to them for years after his death, would port down to their house on his days off, would try to get them to notice his presence - but, for whatever reason, they couldn’t see him, even if he knew he was no longer invisible, was no longer cloaking himself.

He’d never understood why. Perhaps they were ignoring him, perhaps they thought he was a ghost, perhaps -

He shook his head, trying to rid himself of such thoughts. “If ye could jus’…jus’ tell ‘em I’m sorry…” he said softly. He was relieved that Death seemed to be such an understanding sort, and nodded, murmuring quiet thanks at being forgiven.

Carefully, he lifted Alan into his arms, standing up. “Aye, he’ll be gaein’ right tae bed. I’m sure Spears will understand. Take care, sir, and…thank ye…”

Eric and Alan were gone after that, the former porting them both back to their home.

[apocalypsiism-blog]

"I will be sure to pass on your message, don't worry." Death watched Eric stand up, and slowly glided off to one side so he could leave.

"You're welcome. I wish you both the best of luck for the future, and if either of you ever need help feel free to ask for my assistance." The Horseman waited until the couple had been ported back to their home, then cloaked his presence again and went to find Ronald.

He wanted to see how his injuries were healing up, as well as ask him where William would be at this time.

The deity waited in the corner of the infirmary, still hiding his presence. He didn't want to appear suddenly in case he accidentally frightened him, so he observed silently from the corner.

[exxemplary-archived]

"Do not be scared, it will all be okay." (From Death to Ronald, if that's okay?)

Gentle Pain Starters

Death, a member of the Four Horsemen, the entity who was essentially in charge of reaper kind as a whole, the man who decided what souls would be collected and what souls would be spared, was telling an injured Ronald that all would be okay.

This, perhaps understandably, did not come as a comfort. 

“I don’t want t’ die,” the junior officer whimpered, attempting to scoot away.

[exxemplary-archived]

@apocalypsiism‘s reply (bolded part below) from here

“None of that matters anymore. Yes, they were no doubt upset when they lost you, but while here you were able to find someone who makes you happy. I think that’s all they ever wanted for you, to see you happy.” Death looked down at Alan, glad that they had been able to help him with his disease. Neither Eric nor Alan deserved the suffering that they had been put through, and he was glad that the problems they were facing had been resolved quickly.

“Then it’s settled. Once you reach redemption, you will be reunited not just with your partner and your friends, but with your parents as well. Then you can tell them whatever you’d like.”

Death stood up after a moment, looking down at the couple again. “I think it would be best for your partner to rest at home. The cure must have been very hard on him. Of course, I understand that you would stay with him, so I suggest that you both leave early today.”

“I think that’s all they ever wanted for you, to see you happy.”

So much truth rung in those words, a truth which Eric had always denied out of desperate attempts to keep his parents happy, to work himself to near-exhaustion in the hopes that he would not be a burden, that he could prove to the community that he was worth something.

All Eric could say, however, was a quiet “Thank you,” for although part of him wanted to be that little boy running to his parents’ arms, he had grown and changed so much. Would he even be their son anymore? What would they think, hearing of his desperation, of how many sins he had committed, of how many spirits he had sacrificed for the sake of one life?

He felt Alan stir slightly - the brunet would awaken soon. “Aye, sir, I’ll take him right home sae he can gae tae bed. Thank ye again for yer help, and I…I’m sae, sae sorry for everythin’ I did tae those souls and for losin’ my temper earlier. I…I was wrong tae be sae out o’ line.”

He had apologized earlier, but if he did not do so again, well - it wouldn’t feel right.  

[apocalypsiism-blog]

Death often did not commune with the souls of the deceased, but he would make an exception and listen for any messages Eric’s parents may have. “I do have the ability to speak to the deceased if I wished, so if there was anything you wanted them to know immediately I would be more than happy to pass along your message. You never know, perhaps they might have some for you.”

Death prepared to leave and sort out the issue of the stolen souls, but paused when he heard Eric’s apology.

“You do not need to apologise. You have helped the souls to find peace, and while they may be angry now in time they will come to forgive you. As for your temper, I feel that my words earlier may have been too harsh, so I understand why you got angry.”

He knew that he had been a bit more ruthless with his words than usual earlier, but he had believed at the time that his merciless remarks would be the only way to make the Scotsman see sense.

“Now go and take your partner home. This must have been a tiresome day for you both. I’ll tell your supervisor that you’re going, so don’t worry.”