This takes place in Rapunzel’s Return after “We need him.” before stopping the Saporians. Hope you enjoy! (Updated)
Trust and a Quick Snack
Varian walked with Rapunzel who was holding his hand. He was so happy their friends again. So happy that if he were a dog, his tail would be wagging like crazy. The alchemist realize how much he missed her cheerful fiery personality. Rapunzel gave him a second chance. Eugene, Lance and Maximus….not so much yet. Varian can feel them glaring skeptically as they made their way through one of the castle halls to stop the Saporians.
No one appears to be in the castle, not even the maids. Varian knows their probably hiding from him and the Saporians, but he was not on their side anymore. Varian chose to go back on the right side of history.
And very glad he did. He just hoped everyone in Corona will learn to trust him again.
Suddenly, a loud growling noise broke the silence. It echoed throughout the hall. Everyone jolted at the noise. Max let out an alarmed neigh and Pascal hid in Rapunzel’s hair. Varian gasped, clutching his stomach. He hadn’t been eating ever since him and the Saporians took over the kingdom. The regret and guilt was tearing him apart so much that he stopped eating. Why did his stomach chose this moment to make noise? Rapunzel looked at him confused to which Varian grinned sheepishly at her. She glanced down at the alchemist’s hands on his stomach.
“Was that your stomach growling?” The princess whispered to him.
“Y-yeah.” Varian whispered back, blushing.
“Whoa!” Lance said, glancing around the hall. “What’s that?”
Eugene rolled his eyes. “You.” he said like it’s obvious.
“That wasn’t me!”
Rapunzel spoke up. “He’s right. It wasn’t him.”
The two ex thieves plus horse turned their attention to her.
She placed her hand on the boy’s shoulder. “It was Varian’s stomach.” she told them.
The trio looked like they didn’t believe her. As if to prove it, his stomach rumbled again. The alchemist ducked his head down in embarrassment. “Sorry.” Pascal came out, giving a relieved sigh.
Eugene stared at Varian confusion written on his face. “Oh…are you hungry, kid?” The alchemist averted his gaze. “Yeah.” he sighed. “I uh, haven’t been eating much lately.”
That surprised everyone.
Rapunzel gasped. “Really? Why?”
“I don’t know. I-I was so shut down. Didn’t have much of an appetite anyway.”
The princess felt very sorry for him. She wanted to do something to make him feel better. While there’s still time. “Varian,” Rapunzel gave a warm smile. “I’m getting you something to eat.”
The alchemist looked at her surprised. “Now? But we don’t have time! Besides, I-I can wait.”
“It won’t take long.” insisted Rapunzel.
“Yeah, I have to agree with Hairstripe on this one, Sunshine.” Eugene said.
The princess glanced at him sadly before returning back to Varian. “Please, Varian. Your starving.” The alchemist hesitated. He couldn’t understand why Rapunzel wanted to get some food for him when they needed to stop the Saporians from destroying the city. But then he remembered Andrew saying about they need to get the Quirineon on the ship. Hunger clawed his stomach. Yeah, he really needs to eat something.
Varian sighed again, giving her a thankful smile. “Okay.”
Rapunzel made to leave, but felt the alchemist grab her arm. Varian didn’t say anything, only gave a pleading look. He doesn’t want to be left alone with…..
Rapunzel got the message. “Pascal,” she turned to the chameleon on her shoulder. “Can you stay with Varian while I go get a quick snack for him?”
Pascal chirped. He crawled from Rapunzel to Varian. The alchemist let out a tiny squeak of surprise before calming back down. The chameleon sat on his right shoulder then patted his face gently with a claw. Varian smiled at him.
He missed Ruddiger very much.
The princess went off to the royal kitchen. The alchemist suddenly felt eyes staring at him. He knew Eugene, Lance and Maximus still don’t trust him. Varian gulped, turning to face them. They seem to loom over him and never felt so small.
Eugene stepped forward. Suddenly, the ex-thief grabbed him by the shoulders, startling both Varian and Pascal. Eugene was glaring at him with distrust. Varian felt himself beginning to panic.
He gulped again. What’s he going to do? Is this man who was once his idol gonna hurt him? He opened his mouth but was cut off by Varian.
“Look, I’m not up to something, I swear!” he cried, raising his hands up defensively.
Eugene lets go of the alchemist, alarmed.The two ex thieves exchanged surprised looks. Max huffed, raising an eyebrow. Eugene hadn’t meant to scare him, he was just going to give him a stern warning.
“Relax, kid. We’re not gonna hurt you.” Eugene told him.
Lance added, “But your right about us for thinking that.”
The alchemist felt tears welling up his eyes. He looked away, his hand rubbing his left arm. This is too much to handle. “I’m n-not. Really.“ Don’t cry, Varian. Don’t cry.
“Are you sure?” Eugene asked, narrowing his eyes.
The alchemist let out a choked sob, causing Eugene and Lance to reel back caught off guard. Even the horse is startled.
Varian looked up at them, tears rolled down his cheeks. “DOES IT LOOK LIKE I’M LYING?!”With that, collapsed on his knees, sobbing. Pascal comfort him the same way he did to Rapunzel.
As he was doing it, he glared up at Eugene and Lance. The two ex thieves plus horse glanced at one another. Eugene trusted Rapunzel and her decisions. So if she can trust Varian, then he’ll trust him as well. He reminded himself that Varian is still a child.
Eugene got down on one knee. He gently put his hand on Varian’s shoulder. “Hey…Varian?” The alchemist flinched slightly when he felt Eugene touching him. “It’s okay. We’re sorry for being too hard on you.” he said.
Varian gasped. Did he just apologized to him? The alchemist wipes his eyes. “H-huh? But….you have every right to not trust me.”
“That is true, but me and my friend here also did bad things. It all started when we was about your age.” Varian didn’t get what Eugene was implying. “You stealing doesn’t compare to what I’ve done.” he countered.
Eugene gave a warm smile. “What we have is a fresh start. To become a better person.” He looked into the alchemist’s blue eyes. “And you choose to redeem yourself.” Varian glanced at Lance and Max who nodded, smiling at him. He shift his gaze over to Pascal. The chameleon squeaked in approval. With a small smile, Varian looked at Eugene and said, “Thanks.”
Eugene helped him up. The alchemist stared at the large man. He never seen him before. Varian cocked his head at Lance.
“Um. I-I don’t think we met…before.” Lance puffed himself up with pride. “I’m Lance Strongbow!” he said, rolling the “r” in Strongbow. Max shakes his head in annoyance.
“Oh, like from the Flynn Rider books! Uh, n-nice to meet you. Heh, you already know my name.” Varian responded nervously.
Lance chuckled. “Yeah, Eugene told me about you.” Eugene clears his throat to get his attention. “I-I mean the good things about you.” Lance rephrased.
Varian didn’t get upset this time. He knew the large man didn’t mean any harm since they hadn’t met. He then turned to Maximus. “I’m sorry for blinding you with my light bomb by the way.” he apologized to the horse. Varian lift his hand up silently asking Max to pet him to which the horse accepted, lowering his head for the alchemist. Varian petted Maximus with a calm smile on his face. He was starting to feel less nervous around them now.
His stomach growled, Varian abruptly stopped petting Maximus to clutch his belly.
"Ohhhh, there it goes again.” he moaned.
Lance noticed how upset he is. “Hang in there, Varian. I’m sure Rapunzel has gotten something to settle your stomach.” The alchemist suddenly felt a strong twinge of hunger growing in his middle. He froze, his eyes going wide.
“Uh, Var-“
*GROOOWWWLLL*
The alchemist winced. His legs almost buckled under him of how painful his stomach hurts but luckily Eugene was able to steady him. “Whoa! Kid, are you alright?” he asked as Pascal looked at the boy with concern.
Lance turned to Max, visibly startled. “That is one empty tummy.” The horse nodded.
Varian glanced at Eugene, his face full of discomfort. “Man, I’m starving. I think my stomach is getting impatient.”
“I can tell! That was loud! Have the guards been feeding you? Or the Saporians?”
The alchemist swallowed nervously, fiddling with his bandana. “Um….I-I’d rather not go into detail right now, Eugene.” he said.
Eugene was taken aback when he called him by his name and not Flynn Rider. He wondered what was the cause. Eugene can think about that later, but for now he’s concerned about the alchemist’s state. He exchanged looks with Lance, who’s really worried about the boy.
Varian’s stomach broke the tense silence.
The alchemist let out a nervous laugh before frantically trying to quiet his belly.
“Ok, ok, ok! I-I know you’re hungry, but you have to be patient so settle down!”
Varian rubbed his stomach slightly, an effort to make the hunger pangs go away. He listened to it rumble, basically his stomach realizing that it’s getting food. Another sudden loud growl caused the boy to whimper. Pascal on his shoulder squeaked.
“I’m ok, Pascal. Oh, I’m so hungry, I could eat a….a-a horse!” the alchemist said. Max whinnies in shock. Realizing what he said, Varian chuckled sheepishly. “Heh. No offense, Max.”
He jolted as his stomach growled loudly for the umpteenth time. My stomach’s so loud. I’m surprised no one came out to see what it is.
Then Varian realized something. He looked up at the two men.
“Varian?” Lance said.
“You know, if-if we sneak up on the Saporians now, I’ll give us away. S-so yeah, better to eat first, heh!” Varian grinned nervously. “A-and all that villain stuff sure made me hungry.” He hoped the joke would deflect the situation.
“Yeah, you’re right about that!” Lance laughed.
Pascal and Max noticed Eugene wasn’t laughing. They can sense he suspects that something happened with Varian while the team was away.
Eugene saw Rapunzel walking back to them carrying something. “She’s back, Varian.”
Varian turned around to see her, relieved. Great. The alchemist is starved.
He couldn’t make out what she had so he squinted. When she got closer, Varian can see what she has:
A ham sandwich.
The alchemist’s eyes widened. He didn’t expect her to make his favorite food. What a coincidence!
Varian felt his belly churning angrily. “Oh…my.” he breathed out, holding his stomach tightly.
“What’s wrong, Varian? Is it the food?” Rapunzel asked when she made it to him. “No, it’s just…well, heh.” Varian rubbed the back of his head. “Ham sandwiches are my favorite.”
Rapunzel smirked, amused. “Well, I’m glad I made it for you.” She handed Varian the sandwich. “Eat up. We don’t have much time.”
Varian licked his lips as he was about to eat but stopped, hearing his stomach growling again. The alchemist huffed, raised an eyebrow. “Alright, alright. Quiet down. I’m eating, ok?” Varian said to it.
Rapunzel giggled.
Eugene walked over to her. “What took so long?” he asked as Varian eat his sandwich and pulling her aside. Rapunzel chuckled sheepishly. “I did say it won’t take long and….uh. Let’s just say there wasn’t any choices in the kitchen so I went with a sandwich.” she explained.
Eugene smiled at her. “So what happened while I was gone?” Rapunzel asked.
Eugene paused. He didn’t know whatever it was a good time to bring up Varian’s hunger situation or not. He can tell her later or maybe Varian himself when this is all over.
“Oh. We….decided we’re going to trust Varian.” he told her. The princess hugged him. “Thank you, Eugene.”
Just then, they heard Varian groan. “Are you ok, Varian?” Rapunzel asked as her and Eugene turned around.
The alchemist had finished the sandwich and was now clutching his stomach.
“I-I feel something coming up, I don’t know what-” Varian cut off, letting out a burp. Pascal tried to suppressed his laughter behind his claws.
Rapunzel laughed. “Good sandwich?”
Lance chuckled at Varian who blushed. “Nice one, little man!”
The alchemist covered his mouth. “ Excuse me. I-I couldn’t help it.”
“It’s ok, kid. We understand.” The large man reassured.
Rapunzel went back to the alchemist. “Do you feel better?”
Varian nodded. “Much.” He then patted his belly sheepishly, making Rapunzel giggle.
The princess smiled. “Good. I’m glad.” Pascal returned back to Rapunzel. She took a deep breath, putting on an determined expression.
“Alright. Now let’s stop the Saporians and save the kingdom!” And with that, they moved out.
Varian closed the door to his room in the castle. He and the Saporians had just finished dinner. He pressed himself against the door, then with a sigh, Varian slid down to the floor. The alchemist closed his eyes for a moment before opening them.
He looked down at his stomach. “Alright…go ahead.” Varian said, putting a hand on it. “We’re alone.”
Right on command, Varian’s stomach started growling. The alchemist didn’t eat dinner. Very much said he wasn’t hungry to Andrew and the other Saporians. But he was hungry….starving actually.
He started to not eat due to feeling so guilty for what he’s done to the people of Corona. Varian knew that their struggling because him and the Saporians. Also being the king’s ‘advisor’ doesn’t help.
Varian groaned. “I know. I’m hungry too, but I just can’t eat anything. Everyone is suffering from the orders of the king. ‘Course I have access to food in this castle but knowing the citizens don’t have much going around isn’t fair to me.”
The voice in his head told him it would be better that he doesn’t eat. Varian had trouble finding food during trying to free his father on his own. Then in prison, he couldn’t stomach the gruel so Queen Arianna arranged a special food plan so Varian can get good food. The teen liked that…until King Frederic put a stop to it.
And finally, the first thing Varian did when he and the Saporians took over the kingdom is get something to eat.
It’s been long since he had a good meal in his belly.
Another deep growl emitted from his stomach. Varian began rubbing it in effort to soothe his ravenous stomach. “I appreciate you keeping quiet around Andrew though. I know it must’ve been hard.”
The alchemist felt silly talking to his stomach but he doesn’t have Ruddiger with him to talk to. Well, he had been talking to his stomach before, just not as much as after the kingdom got taken over.
Varian sighed again. “Well, time for bed I guess.”
The alchemist set down a glass of water on his nightstand. Water seemed to help stop his stomach from growling. It makes him feel full even though he’s not.
There were many times he gave in to his hunger only for the voice in his head to stop him. Forced to put down whatever food he was going to eat. He hated this punishment he put upon himself but it’s for his own good. After all, he is a traitor. Varian climbed into bed, letting out a yawn.
He took off his goggles and set down on the nightstand. Varian heard his belly rumbling. The teen raised an eyebrow. “What? No, I’m not getting a midnight snack. We’ve been over this.” He didn’t understand what his stomach was going to get every time it ask the same question and expecting a different answer.
His stomach growled loudly, causing Varian to jolt in surprise. He could tell it wasn’t happy with him. “I’m so sorry, stomach. Once I get the formula up and running, then I’ll feed you….okay?”
A low rumble was its response.
Varian rubbed it again. He gotten used to forgetting to eat before the amber incident. He had his dad and Ruddiger to remind him. But this time is different….and he wasn’t quite sure why.
The alchemist winced as he felt pain in his stomach. He clutched it.
Man, I’m starved. Maybe some water will take the pain away.
Varian grabbed the glass from the nightstand. He took a couple sips, the pain went away instantly. The only substance I can have is drinks. he thought. Sure does trick my stomach into thinking it’s full….also makes me go to the bathroom if I drink more, heh!
He put down the glass and blew out the candle. The alchemist got comfortable in his bed. Another day with an empty stomach….I hope I can get this memory formula right so I can eat again. I don’t think I can take this anymore. I’m so hungry…..my stomach’s been growling something fierce. Probably not as loud as everyone who hates me. Oh, Varian…how could you let this get so bad?
He let out a yawn and closed his eyes. Varian had one more thought before drifting off to sleep.
Why was I ever born?
Varian woke up to the sound of birds chirping….and Andrew shouting it’s breakfast time.
His stomach growled at the announcement. “Good morning to you too, stomach.” Varian sighed.
Sitting up in bed, he started to rub his stomach like he did yesterday morning. “Ugh. Much longer do I have to put with this? I mean, it’s not even a week!” The teen grasped at it as another deep growl emitted. “Feels like an angry wild animal roaring inside me. O-okay. Get out what you’ve got to say, cause I’m going to be around my friends. Alright?”
Varian’s stomach immediately went quiet. “Heh. Thanks.”
The alchemist got out of bed to get ready. He missed Rapunzel and hope she’s doing okay compared to his situation. I hope we can be friends again, Rapunzel….when I get my formula right, that is.
“Ah, Varian! Morning!”
The boy sees the Saporians sitting at the table in the dining room. Andrew gestures to an empty seat next to Kai, a plate of food waiting for him.
Varian tenses up seeing the food on the table. He inwardly groaned. It all looked so good. He felt his stomach lurch and he immediately worried it was gonna rumble.
To his relief, it didn’t. Oh..it’s because I’m nervous.
Swallowing, he nervously sits at the table. Calm down, Varian. he thought to himself. You got this.
“Hey, buddy! How did you sleep?” asked Andrew. He and other Saporians fixed the teen with friendly smiles. He picked up his bandana to cover his mouth, not looking at the group. He squirmed a bit in his seat. “Okay, I guess.” he said sadly.
Kai immediately dropped his smile. “What’s wrong, kid? You sound sad.”
“Are you sick?” asked Maisie, whose a doctor. He looked like he’s going to jump out his seat any minute.
Varian shook his head. “No. I just….have a lot of things on my mind.”
Andrew gave a nod. He seemed to understand him the most out of the Saporians. “Perhaps a nice meal would make you feel better. Don’t stress yourself.”
Everyone went back to their meals and Varian put down his bandana.
Varian looked down at his food. The head chef of the royal cooks, Bernardo who he became friends with had prepared a delicious meal for him. He appreciates it as the rest of his friends don’t eat meat.
He really, really wants to eat. Varian’s mouth watered as he took in the smell. Sun, those eggs look delicious.
But…he can’t. Not while everyone in Corona is suffering.
The alchemist sighed, shoving his plate forward.
Varian really hopes his stomach doesn’t decide to growl.
This action caused everyone at the table to look up at him, pausing their eating.
Andrew raised an eyebrow. “You’re not gonna eat? Varian, you need food to survive.” he told him.
Varian laid his head on the table. “No… I’m not hungry.”
“Kid, you keep saying that, but your body needs energy.” said Clementine, rolling her eyes.
Just then, the alchemist felt his stomach about to growl. He clutched it with his hand. Oh, no, no, no don’t you dare! “I’m not-” Varian winced. “I’m not hungry!”
“Varian, you gotta eat something!” cried Juniper.
The alchemist’s stomach growled loudly. “See? Your stomach is telling the truth! You haven’t eaten in five days! You’re obviously starving.” Andrew argued.
Varian took his head off the table to glare down at his belly. My stomach just HAD to make a liar out of me, didn’t it?
He heard it gave a low growl. To him, it sounded like his stomach was being apologetic. Varian put a hand on his hungry belly. Well, it couldn’t help it. The food does smell really good. Oh, I’m starv-No, Varian. You can’t eat!
“Look, I’m fine! I-I just…don’t have the appetite. Can we not make a big deal about it?”
Kai reach over the table to push the teen’s plate back in front of him. “Come on, Varian. Just take one bite.”
Varian looked up at him. The big Saporian was smiling gently. He then looked back down to his food. “Alright.”
His stomach rumbled again. “Good! Shut that belly of yours!” complained Clementine.
Varian frowned at the old woman. “Hey, you leave my belly alone!” he snapped, wrapping his arms around his stomach defensively.
Grabbing the fork, he jabbed the eggs with it. He was about to open his mouth to eat, when his doppelgänger appear to the right side of him. It glared at Varian, arms crossed.
“What do you think you’re doing?” It hissed.
Varian looked at his voice, a look of irritation and annoyance on his face. “What do you mean, ‘what am I’m doing?’ Trying to eat something.”
The Saporians looked at each other confused.
“Uh…who’s he talking to?” asked Jupiter.
Maisie sighed, shaking his head. “Sounds like he’s hallucinating.”
Varian’s voice put its hands on its hips. “I’m trying to help you! Why do you keep giving in?”
“I’m hungry. I can’t keep doing this.”
“You’re not hungry, Varian. It’s all in your head. Resist it! This is your punishment! Okay? Don’t. Eat. Anything.”
Varian closed his eyes. He had to appease the voice in his head. So it won’t scold him anymore. Traitors don’t deserve food. Sorry, stomach. “Fine.” His doppelgänger vanished.
The alchemist put down his fork. He opened his eyes to fixed everyone with the coldest glare he could muster. “ How many times must I say this? I’m….NOT HUNGRY!”
With a big swipe of his arm, Varian knocked his plate off the table. Food went all over the floor and the plate shattered into pieces.
Everyone flinched at his outburst, even Andrew who both shocked and impressed.
He never would’ve thought those baby blue eyes could turn into icy cold slits.
“Don’t even bother calling me to eat.” The alchemist continued, baring his teeth into a snarl. “I’ve got better things to do than think of sundamn food!”
Varian got up and left the room.
He walked down the halls. Varian hadn’t met to cause a scene but he had to make a point. His word is final and that was that.
Varian heard a deep growl coming from his stomach. He froze, eyes widened. Varian stopped in his tracks. “Uh-oh….you’re vvverrryyy mad at me.” The alchemist looked down at his belly.
Another growl echoed from his stomach. Did….did I just saw it…shake? Varian thought in disbelief. Huh. I’m hungrier than I thought.
He then felt a hunger pang in there, causing Varian to wince. “Y-yeah, you’re mad. Let’s go in my room so you can yell at me.”
Varian got to his room. He sat on the bed, rubbing his belly. “ Sun, even my stomach feels empty.” He suddenly felt a strange feeling in his stomach. Varian stopped rubbing, his hand rested on his belly. He didn’t know what was going on with it. “Uh, stomach? Are you okay?”
Then he felt it twisting his stomach, growing stronger and stronger. Varian bit his lip. His stomach was beyond angry and it’s about to tell him how it feels.
“Oh, this is gonna be very loud.”
And he was right.
*GRRRROoooOOWWWwwwLLLLL*
Varian cried out as pain shot in it. The alchemist doubled over, teeth clenched.
“Are you okay, Varian?”
Varian looked up to see his voice standing in front of him. It looked concerned rather than angry which surprised him.
Just then, his vision started to blur. Varian placed a hand to his head while keeping the other on his belly.
“No…ugh, my stomach hurts so b-bad. I-I feel dizzy too. That’s-that’s what I meant when I said need to eat. If I don’t eat for a while, I get really weak.” He groaned.
“Man….I haven’t even thought about the consequences. Your stomach sounded like it was furious!”
“It sure is….That’s got to be the loudest noise I ever heard and- Argh!” The alchemist clutched his stomach as it growled angrily. He slid off the bed, dropping to his knees. Varian waited for the pain to subside, wincing.
Once it’s gone, the teen let out a shaky sigh. “Man, that hurts.” He got up from the floor, his doppelgänger watching him with concern.
Varian let his body flop back on the bed. He puts his hands on his stomach. I can’t go on like this. I gotta get something to eat. He then patted his belly. Something to take away the aching sensation out of my stomach.
He decided to make a deal with his double.
“How about this: when I start to feel dizzy or have excruciating pain, that’s only time I eat.”
The doppelgänger nodded. “That’s good. You need to survive to make that formula.”
“Yeah, yeah. I know.”
Varian was relieved to find the head chef alone in the kitchen.
“Uh, Bernardo?”
The head chef turned around from the stove and smiled at the teen.
His smile faded when he saw him holding his stomach. “What’s wrong, Varian?”
Varian looked at the floor nervously. “Um…you know I haven’t eaten in five days?”
Bernardo nodded.
The teen told him about how he was punishing himself for the actions he caused to everyone in Corona.
Bernardo listened with concern and understanding. When Varian was done, all he said was, “I see.”
He walked to the counter to get an apple and gave it to Varian. The alchemist accepted the fruit greatly. He didn’t eat it right away.
“So…your giving yourself a punishment ‘cause you feel guilty about the citizens suffering in the hands of you and the Saporian’s wrath?”
“Y-yes, sir.”
“I see. Well, I don’t think it’s a good idea to starve yourself but I’m impressed you taking responsibility for your….no-choice actions.”
Varian gave small smile at him. “Thanks, Bernardo.”
“Anytime, brother.”
It was good to open up to someone in the royal staff who doesn’t hate him. Though Bernardo wasn’t there to help him during his time in prison, it’s great knowing there’s someone looking out for him.
The head chef went back to the stove. “So, what will it be?” he asked in a joyful tone.
Varian open his mouth, but was caught off guard by his stomach.
*GGROOOWWLL*
Bernardo jolted in surprise. “Whoa! What was that?”
Varian blushed softly before wrapping his arms around his belly. “Th-that’s my stomach growling, Bernardo. Ehheh…excuse me.”
The head chef turned back to face the hungry teen, blinking. “Your stomach?” he asked. Bernardo raised an eyebrow. “Is that how it normally sounds?”
Varian gave a sheepish grin. “Um, n-no. It uh, just started acting like this. Had no idea stomachs could get so loud, heh!”
“Well, I’ll make sure to take care of that.” Bernardo declared, turning back to the stove.
Varian rubbed his stomach. Finally, I can eat something. Can’t wait to calm this beast.
Suddenly, Varian felt very weak in his legs. He started to sway back and forth. Varian’s vision began to blur again. Oh, no. I feel very dizzy again …gonna pass out! He groaned, getting the head chef’s attention.
Bernardo whipped around as the alchemist started to lose his balance.
He rushed over to him. “Varian!”
Bernardo caught him before he fell. He breathed a sigh of relief.
The head chef grimaced as he heard Varian’s belly rumble again. Thankfully, not so loud. He steady the teen, rubbing his back. “You alright, brother?”
Varian didn’t answer. He took a bite out of the fruit, moaning as he chewed.
After swallowing, he grinned sheepishly at Bernardo and said, “M-my stomach wants that breakfast you made for me.”
Bernardo stared at him for ten minutes then let out a booming laugh.
“Ok, Ok! Coming up!”
“Down, stomach!”
Varian was trying to calm down his furious stomach as he waited for Bernardo to finish cooking his breakfast again. He had finished the apple but it wasn’t enough.
“Bernardo? Hate….hate to be impatient-” He cut off, feeling his belly growling again. The alchemist whimpered. “Is it ready yet?”
“Not yet.”
*GGgRRROOoowWWLllL*
“Gah! I-I know you’re starving, stomach. Just hold on!”
Another angered growl erupted from his stomach.
Varian winced in pain. My stomach’s really growling….I don’t want to pass out from hunger! Varian felt his hands begin to shake. “S-so hungry….”
Varian couldn’t take it anymore and that’s when his legs gave out. He dropped to his knees, one hand on his stomach and the other on the floor to keep him from collapsing. Varian started breathing hard.
The head chef put the stone on simmer, getting a chair so Varian can sit.
Bernardo helped the teen off the floor. He took notice of the tears streaming down his face. “The food’s almost done, brother. Hang in there.” He guided the boy to sit in the chair. Varian sat down with a huff.
Varian wrapped his arms around his stomach. He was shaking and the head chef’s heart broke for the boy. “You okay, Varian?”
The alchemist didn’t answer.
Bernardo placed his hands on Varian’s shoulders.
“Your stomach really hurts cause you’re starving, huh?”
The alchemist nodded.
“I hate this punishment I put on myself!” Varian nearly shouted. He choked back a sob. “I just can’t stand those people are suffering because of me. They’re mining crystals so I can use them to make that formula. I just want things to go back to where they were!”
Bernardo hugged the broken alchemist. Varian hugged him back, whimpering.
He wiped his eyes with the back of his sleeve. “Thank you, Bernardo. I needed that.”
Nodding, he returned to the stove to finish breakfast. Varian realized that the Saporians can’t know he sneaked in the kitchen to eat.
He asked the head chef to keep this a secret from them, especially Andrew. Bernardo gave a firm nod. “Breakfast’s finished.”
Varian clutched his stomach as it let out a deep rumble. “Oh, finally! Uh… that’s my stomach talking by the way. I’m just translating, heh!”
The head chef came over with a plate of food. “I gathered. Try not to wolf it down, will ya? “
“I will! I will! J-just give me the food!” Varian waves his arms around frantically at the plate Bernardo had.
Chuckling, the head chef handed him the plate. He gave him a fork out of his apron pocket. “Enjoy, brother.”
Varian took a bite of the eggs. He smiled blissfully as he savor the taste. “Bernardo, this is delicious!” he exclaimed through a mouthful.
“I made it special just for you, Varian.”
The alchemist closed the door to the advisor’s office. He looked at the pile of papers on the desk. Varian frowned. More paperwork, huh? he thought. Can’t be no different than homework.
He then looked down at his belly, now full and happily churning the food in it. “At least my stomach is satisfied. I don’t feel dizzy anymore.”
Varian walked over to the desk and sat down in the chair. “Now, don’t expect more food for the rest of day, stomach. No matter how much you growl or rumble at me.”
*Gruuugle*
The alchemist blushed to himself. I gotta stop talking to my stomach.
Obsessed with Varian's delivery of "This may be my dad's only hope! This... may be Corona's only hope, Rapunzel, Corona needs our help." Like, he sees her having doubts and immediately blurts out the reason he needs the flower so badly, then catches himself and tries to think of what would make her care about getting it, and then once he comes up with something he repeats it with greater emphasis to make sure she focuses on that and not the other thing he automatically said. You can just see how he like, knows in theory how to manipulate someone but it's his first time actually doing it and he's also trying not to show how desperately he needs to make this plan work and he can't say the wrong thing here because he needs it to work. I really wonder what thoughts he had about this moment throughout the rest of his villain arc, especially once he joined the Separatists.
Please accept this as my humble contribution to Cassandra Appreciation Month.
Despite the nasty behavior that prompted it, it's nice to see the fandom stand together &I too wanted to do something nice for everyone &above all for you Cass fans.𖹭
When I started this drawing, I knew I wanted to draw a dynamic pose fitting for her character &her finale outfit as we saw so little of it. I actually had no idea what to do for the background at first &I struggled like crazy with her sword. But, in all honesty, I am pretty proud of how it came out. >:3
Varian Season 02 Photo Edits - “Beyond the Corona Walls”
(Part 01)
Decided to do some more photo edits of Varian with the gang on their caravan adventures in season 02! I wasn’t quite sure what to do for his adventure gear (as he’s pretty geared up for adventure already in season 01 xP), so I just gave him a cloak that’s meant to be reminiscent of his alchemists overcoat (and also that of a mage’s cloak too, because Varian’s totally a wizard boi, whether he realizes it or not).
Varian Season 02 Photo Edits - “The Return of Quaid” and “Goodbye and Goodwill”
(Part 01) - (Part 02)
Man, it just does my heart good to see Varian sharing a toast with everyone and running into battle with Cass and Eugene! :’D (I also gave him some new boots in addition to his adventure cloak.)
I’d imagine that on the journey in season 2 Varian would still want to do his alchemy, so he has a little lab of his own set up in the caravan that he uses to test the plant life and other things that the gang finds on their journey. I also imagine that if Varian were in the episode “Freebird,” he would pretty much be in the caravan almost the whole time since Raps and Cass go off on their girls’ adventure, and the guys are having a muscle contest and well…Varian’s strengths lie elsewhere. xP
Thus Varian would just be doing his own thing until the guys are like, “Hey Varian, we’re gonna go look for the girls, you coming?” And Varian’s like, “Yeah, ok, let’s go.”
This episode actually had some pretty good opportunities for some funny screenshots. The one with Lance and Varian and their goggles was definitely one of the most fun to do! xD
Bonus alternate scenario edit:
I would kinda consider this one would be something of an alternate scenario screenshot, since the gang never actually fights the kurlock head-on but trick their way out of the problem. Did Varian turn Ruddiger into his giant feral form deliberately and is now siccing Ruddiger on it?? Or did Ruddiger down some of the transformation serum when Varian wasn’t looking and has rushed in for the rescue and Varian’s all like, “NO RUDDIGER, DON’T!” as Ruddiger braces himself for a clash of titans???
Pics 1 & 2 –> “Oh for the love of- would you all just stop it!?” (snatches up the idol from brawling friends, thinking his gloves would protect him from any effects) “What is wrong with you guys? This thing clearly works by some sort of hallucinogens, and you’re all fighting over it!? C'mon, none of that stuff you saw was real! There’s nothing there! And seriously, what could you possibly think is so important that it’s worth fighting-?”
“VARIAN! SON! ARE YOU HERE!?”
“…”
Pic 3 –> “NO! GO AWAY! I WON’T LET YOU TAKE HIM FROM ME AGAIN!”
Pic 4 -7 –> (I’ll leave it up to you guys to fill in the dialogue and exact story details! ^^)
Pic 8 –> Varian attempts to brawl Wolverine style. xP
Pic 9 –> Varian gets at least one moment of actual happiness in this episode.
Varian Season 2 Photo Edits - “Happiness Is…”
See the first two edits from this episode in Part 1!
Got a bit carried away with the angst on this one. Sorry/not sorry!
(Seriously though, it’s probably a good thing that Varian wasn’t actually in this episode. The angst potential for him would’ve been through the roof!)
Pictures 4-7 were inspired by some conversations on the Discord!
I also imagine that when everyone else was first testing the idol, Varian saw their reactions and thought to himself, “…Oh heck no! Clearly some mad alchemy or weird enchantment is going on here. I’m not doing this!” Being the child of the group, Varian doesn’t really feel he can assert himself at first and tell the others to ditch the idol, but this changes when they all start brawling over it and then he’s like, “Whoa ok, that’s enough!” and intervenes, thinking his gloves will protect him and that he could help snap his friends out of their frenzy. Unfortunately, Varian then gets taken in by the idol’s dark enchantment too, and becomes desperate to keep it as it makes him think it’s the only sure way for him to see Quirin again (as his father’s real fate is left in question). Thus he also gets the Gollum disease, and his nightmarish visions involve some of his past wrongs/potential wrongs, depending on how you imagine the story to have gone pre or during “Secret of the Sundrop”.
Also, a bit of an explanation for what’s going on in this sequence of pictures (especially the last one):
So, I’m thinking it’s one thing to be able to translate the words of the two incantations from the scrolls found in the Great Tree…but how does one know the melody to them?
Somehow, I imagine that Varian’s powers allow him to be able to “hear” the melody of the incantations, which for funzies I head canon as being part of the musica universalis - i.e. “the music of the spheres” or the “orbital resonance” between the stars and planets in the universe. And I imagine the experience of suddenly hearing Earth and the stars singing together would be…overwhelming to say the least. So yeah, that’s basically what I imagine happening to Varian here. (Plus with scientists and mathematicians like Pythagoras developing the theory of musica universalis, it kinda seems fitting that a “man of science” like Varian would be one of the crew to “hear” it firsthand.)
Also, the Hurt Incantation doesn’t affect Varian like it does the others. More on that to come!
Edit: For the last picture I also imagine it that Varian’s more in shock and frightened by what’s happening to him than being in physical pain. He’s probably got a headache blossoming right now, but mostly he’s just staggered by suddenly feeling and hearing a very powerful energy around him.
