Hello! It's a pleasure to meet you, thank you for visiting my page or clicking this post hehe...
Online I often go by Amor so feel free to call me that! I'm using this to help myself as since quarantine started, my writing and motivation has been going down the drain. I also lack accountability on my own mental health which is probably also a problem..
But hopefully with your help and my own interests I can get back into what I love, daydreaming and writing stories. Finally start on my script for my webtoon and etc, I'll tag fandoms that I know of and wouldn't mind writing. I'm still trying to work out mechanics and stuff cause I literally don't understand how Tumblr works.
Remember that there is a rainbow after the storm, darlings!
I've been playing Hades II and it's been itching my fingers to do something in the artstyle of the game! so here is my design of Aziraphale as an NPC in HADES!
It was a very slow recovery. Given the strain his body had been under for so long, it was inevitable. It gave the soft-shell too much time to think.
There are many things for Donnie to be angry about, the time wasted, that damn mystic spell that tapped him, the damaged done to not only himself but to his family (though that was all his fault, his fault, his fault). Still Donnie was likely most enraged by the fact that not all of his memories were present.
Listening to the recount as if he wasn't actucally there and only ever to look at half of the full picture, it felt maddening. The unspoken but palpable anguish in Leo's eyes, the hollow hiss of Mikey's reassurance tinged with the subtlety of his own invisible suffering, and Raph's intense but expressionless gazes revealed a great deal about his innermost feelings. The fact that Donnie was the one who caused his siblings to suffer made it much more agonizing to watch them go through it.
This was what the genuis was trying to avoid! Keeping it all a secret, attempting to dispose of the key...
Donatello was burdened by an overwhelming sense of guilt that he couldn't seem to escape. He had always been the one to find solutions, to fix things, but this time he had come up short. He had let down his brothers and his family. It was his responsibility, a miscalculation that he had no way of foreseeing, but that could not be justified.
He let out a sigh of frustration, hunching over as his body made it clear that he hadn't fully recovered to the point of indulging in self-pity. The relentless pounding in the back of his head seemed never-ending, and the harsh, blaring light inside the medbay only intensified the pain. He knew that if he called on his brothers, they would immediately rush to his help.
Just like they did on the other side of the lake, an endless cycle of support and protection. His family calling out to him against his own wrapped mind. The lake was convincing, made it all easier to pump Donnie up with lies. Made him eager to fight against them. Eager to do them harm.
No matter how much he wanted to avoid it, maybe he deserved to suffer alone this time.
Nevertheless, there was mercy somewhere out there, or Donnie had a shitton of good karma built up. Whichever it was, assistance arrived in the form of Raphael.
"Hey Dee..what's the matter? Are the lights bothering you again?" The gentle tone of the snapping turtle was comforting, as it was already relieving the pains that were about to overwhelm him. Donnie gives a sharp nod, prompting Raph to take action. "Okay, buddy. I've got you."
The room is elisped into darkness, he could hear the steady steps of his brother, no longer muffled by the grass or by the water. Words clog themselves deep within his throat, he doesn't know what to say, luckily with Raph he never needs to force himself. He feels the gentle hand on his head, "Don't worry about it Dee. Let's just relax and watch somethin."
Time passes, not that Donnie is really registering it, he's still not used to be so aware of it. He stares at the wall mostly and then at the screen. The headache is gone now and he feels well enough to actually sit up, he sees Raph briefly glance at him with a smile before turning his attention back to the movie. His big brother's body curled up at the edge, his tail swaying gently in rhythm with of soundtrack, creating a cozy atmosphere. The scene brings a sense of comfort and familiarity, reminding him of all the times they've spent together.
He enjoyed this kind of time with Raph, where there was no need for loud conversation between them. It brings warmth to the middle of his chest, filling him with a deep sense of contentment. As he watches Raph engrossed in the movie, he can't help but let his eyes wander, noting every scar and chip on the spiked shell.
It makes sense, as each mark tells a story of battles fought and victories won, reminding him of the strength and resilience that Raph possesses. The love his big brother feels to protect them with quite literally all his being, is immeasurable.
Donnie's eyes trail downward, to the side and notices a chip that wasn't there before, he feels his heart sinking. He forces himself, trying to rememeber any time before where Raph could have gotten it but it's hard when all the memories just show his brutality. The way he had mercilessly attacked his opponents (his brothers, it was only ever his brothers), leaving no room for lenience or compassion.
Donnie hugs his legs tightly to his chest, feeling overwhelmed by the weight of his painful realization. He mutters a soft 'sorry' that doesn't really sound like him, his throat dry and scratchy from the lack of talking. Raph looks over, confused while handing him a glass of water, "huh? What did you say, Dee?"
Donnie takes the glass, looks down at the sheets, and drinks greedily without saying a word. While setting the glass down and continuing to avoid making eye contact with his brother, he is aware of the lingering bitter taste of regret. "I said..I'm sorry.."
"Uh…For what?" Raph asked, having the absolute audacity to be confused, tilting down to properly face Donnie. Leave it to his brother, to not understand everything he's trying to apologize for and will have to keep apologizing till the end of time. For now though Donnie tries to keep it simple, his voice still low, "For the chip in your shell. I'm sorry."
Still looking bewildered, the snapping turtle keeps looking over at the ones he can see, which is making Donnie's heart hurt even more. The look on Raph's face changes to one of understanding and firmness as he says, "Donnie, that wasn't your fault." In a tone that almost makes Donnie believe it, but he doesn't, he can't.
"How is it not my fault?" Even though his hands were the ones responsible, Donnie's voice cracks as he searches for an answer within them. Even though tears are clouding his vision, he keeps going "I attacked you guys! Repeatedly. I broke Leo's wrist, I almost killed you guys on multiple occasions, I hurt you, I didn't-"
"Donnie. Stop." Raph interrupts, his voice trembling as he firmly grasps Donnie's shoulder, a strong and stabilizing grip, his face softening. "Stop, okay? That's not.." As Raph searches for the right things to say, he falters, his beak twisting. "You can't blame yourself for things that happned when you weren't in control!"
Distantly Donnie remembers a time where it was the other way around, where there was a door between them and all he could do was hope Raph was still listening. He wasn't good at these things like MIkey, but he can try. For Raph he would do the impossible. "It's not like you wanted to hurt us Raph!"
"You didn't want to do any of those things!" Donnie tries to shake the feeling of déjà vu as Raph goes on, "You were just- You just-" With his expression turning sour, Raph shifted his gaze from Donnie to the bed, closing his eyes and drawing his hands away. Donnie tries not to whine at the loss of touch, once again watching his brother suffer, "We know you would never hurt any of your little brothers, if you had a choice-" Raph's voice breaks, and the words he speaks are full of pain and understanding.
Raph appears to be terrified of something that isn't there when he opens his eyes again, as if he were lost at sea. "It's not…it wasn't your fault. Please Dee…" Silent grief floods the room, "don't say it was mine" remain unsaid. Donnie shuffles closer, head butting gently against Raph's plastron, "You're right. I shouldn't blame myself.." The mental assault of 'your fault, your fault, your fault' never stops, hypocrisy melting on his tongue.
"Thanks Raph." That he really does mean it, seeing Raph's trembling hands hesitating before they quickly wrap around him in a tight hug.
Maybe they'll both believe it one day.
----
Thank you so much @tangledinink for letting me write this and inspiring me! I have been a silent viewer for a bit and glad to finally contribute in some way. I hope you enjoyed it as I did writing it! :) It was very fitting to listen to classical music while writing it haha
Raphael looks out to the demolition in front of him, wondering how long he can trick himself into thinking that the monstrous pink tentacles are actually the green pines in the forest way back then. When the worst monster they had to face was made out of ancient armor, all he needed to do was have faith in his brothers to catch him, active the ninpo that rested deep inside that reassured him that he wasn’t alone.
He was falling and his brothers were nowhere around to catch him.
-------
‘I don’t want to die.’ A childlike cry comes from inside himself, the tears blur his vision back to reality where he is, in fact about to die.
As kids, Donnie enjoyed assigning them roles that correlated with whatever topic of interest he was studying that week.
It started with the four elements of matter, in which Raph was Earth, Donnie was Fire, Leo was Water, and Mikey was Air (this sparked a lengthy debate between the brothers as well as a TV marathon of ‘Avatar the Last Airbender’ whenever their dad wasn't hogging the TV), and even the parts of a cell (Raph will never understand Donnie's cried insistence that he was the mitochondria but wore it as a badge of honor anyways).
Then came the solar system.
It had been exceptional for one topic to entirely hold their attention, and Mikey's delicate touch in artistry always complemented Donnie's narrative of a vast and fascinating space. Raph was content to simply listen to the cosmic realm that lay far beyond the swearing, while Leo enjoyed examining and reading the interesting factoids.
"Keeping it within the Milky Way, Raphie would definitely be the Sun in my brilliant mind. I don't mind being specifically the moon of the Earth, albeit I might hop a little. Given that his ego provides more than enough fuel to keep him blazing, Nardo is the stars, and Angelo is the comets since he would be responsible for destroying the dinosaurs just as he is for destroying my technology."
Mikey attempts to kick away the scrap metal he was currently painting on.
The slider leaped up and down in excitement despite the soft-shell’s jabs at him, shaking Mikey fiercely as he did so and saying, "Whatever Don-Bon. Be a dull moon; I'll be a star! I am the stars’ ruler; Michael, you gotta draw me-“ When Raph turns to Donnie, who is still reading intently, the two youngest brothers' chatter fades to the background. "Dee, why is it so obvious that I'm the Sun? Raph thinks Mikey fits it better, he shines so brightly with that smile of his.”
As any rational thought would be quickly swept away and the victim (yes, you heard that correctly) would become a mindless slave for the time being, the box turtle's smile was a sight to be avoided and adored. Despite that, Raph would be more like the Sun than Mikey because of his shining, gentle demeanor, which held an ineffable warmth to their days. "You have to be", Donnie begins to shake his head while waving his palm in the air and looking away from the eldest. "Because you are the center of our universe, it only makes sense for us to revolve around you. And you, Raph, are like sunshine personified. You shine sufficiently bright.”
Raph now has to look away before he ensnares Donnie in a bear hug for the remainder of the day as the genius's face twists and he carefully looks up, obviously questioning whether he said the correct thing but the goofy grin on his brother's face gives him all the answer he needs. As Leo and Mikey's disagreement intensifies, Raph turns around and hastily holds out his arms to keep the two of them apart before they collide.
“The stars are prettier!”
"Comets are stronger!"
“Well the Sun is pretty and powerful, it can also never die. So Raph wins and you two bozos can stop arguing.” He responds with a triumphant grin, shrinking slightly in the face of the death glares he receives. He turns over his shoulder for Donnie to support him, but the genius had already left the premises.
Donnie returns with a presentation that is tilted ‘The Moon is superior, now bask in my glory..” He doesn’t make it past the first slide before getting tackled.
——-
Raphael feels the sensation of a falling star.
Most likely as a result of him actually falling. (Obviously)
Raph wonders how long he can fool himself into thinking that the pink monstrous tentacles are truly the green trees in the forest from back then as he looks out at the devastation in front of him. The ninpo that lay inactive inside him now, when it once reassured him that he wasn't alone and activated when the scariest creature they had to battle was made of ancient armor and all he had to do was trust his brothers to catch him.
His brothers aren’t here.
The tears start flowing immediately, and yet the regret does not. Leo's portals weren't working, Mikey was unresponsive, they were encircled, and Donnie was on the verge of shutting down, which wouldn't help them any. He recognized what being the bait could cost him. Leo's expression of panic and futility could be seen from far away, and the slider was unable to come up with a solution.
But that was okay, Raph is the big brother, he picks up after his baby brothers. (They’re little, they don’t know any better)
‘I don’t want to die. I don’t wanna go.’ A childlike cry comes from inside himself and he swears that he has been falling forever, his heart clenches in terror as his mind flashes through remembrances of Leo's laughter and jibes, Donnie's ramblings of various scientific findings, and Mikey's experiments with different dishes, and the cold, horrifying realization that he will never experience those again.
“But you saved them. They are safe in the turtle tank by now.” Mind Raph replies, images of taking Brother Kraang with him but, of course, the monster was forced to use one last resort. Raph tries to ignite his ninpo once more, but the red flicker that envelopes his wrists quickly fades and serves as final proof that fighting is hopeless.
As he sobs and wails in the face of death, he tries in vain to console himself by wrapping his arms around himself. Mind Raph can be heard softly humming, "A memory then. A distraction.”
Since the sight in front of him is already transitioning, Raphael is unable to reply.
——-
It was Leo’s pick for movie night and he has grown a love for horror movies at the ripe age of 10. Raph catches himself blinking in surprise and quickly moves to remove his brother from sight before frowning in frustration and responding, "I don't know Leo. Are you sure that Donnie and Mikey can handle it as well?” The cover art wasn't particularly horrifying, but the pool of blood at the bottom was realistic enough to give him a slight uneasiness.
“Disregarding the fact that I am being discussed as if I am not even present. I have done significant research on the movie, certainly not sufficient to be spoiled, but other than three possible sequences I should be able to watch this film without concern.” Donnie says, citing the lists of highlights and drawbacks for the eldest to see on the screen. Mikey pips up, “Pluss, my favorite actors Jackie Duff and Ashton Canon are in lead roles! So there is no way I am missing this masterpiece.”
From a great height, Leo could be seen grinning and encircling Raph, remarking, "And I know losing 3 to 1 is a defeating loss, bro. But, ask Dad like you always do; after all, you are his favorite.”
Even trying to fight against his brother's puppy eyes was pointless (Raph loathes being such a pushover, but their happiness was truly contagious and he just can not say no). He nods simply before heading to their father's room from the living room.
The fact that their father was even engaged in their activities was one of the many illusions that Raph worked so hard to maintain. Most of the time, the 12-year-old had to check in twice a day to make sure that their father is even still alive.
Because one day he’ll forget, he’ll forget to check and Dad would be dead for hours.
Holding the poster, he shakes the notion from his head while gazing into the rat's lifeless eyes and paying attention to the rat's ears as they occasionally twitch. “Pops?” He speaks quietly, but he is fully aware that there will be no reaction. Instead, he makes an effort to time himself; if Raph could do it, their "chat" would go no longer than three minutes.
There had been times were Raph used to talk, hoping it would be encouraging enough to get some kind of response but hope had been sucked out of him as all he could look at was his dad’s empty shell. The room felt suffocating and he had already woken up more anxious than usual today, he can not stop himself with the instinct to run out so run out he does.
Splinter doesn’t even blink when the door slams.
“Well? Well? What did Dad say?” Mikey asks with Raph’s return, bouncing off the couch eagerly and into his arms, giggling when he gets twirled. “Pops says we can watch, but we still need to go to bed at 9 like always.” That earns him cheers and a light kiss on his cheek from Leo, it suppresses all the bad feelings, even for a little bit.
“Let’s go make dinner so we have plenty of time to watch.”
The film wasn't as bad as his imagination had made it out to be; some scenes had him burying his face in the cushions as the protagonists ran through the haunted mansion. Mikey was enjoying the sarcastic quips as well as pointing out the symbolic meanings tied into the monster's backstory, while Donnie and Leo were both loudly commenting on how moronic it was for the heroines to lock themselves inside the residence to hold back the monster. Overall, it was an exciting night that put them all to sleep easily.
Raph, on the other hand, couldn't sleep.
His mind replayed the scene in which each family member was picked up and dragged away, the grief-stricken wails echoing loudly. He hugs Captain Snuggles even tighter, his gaze fixed on the door at the slightest sound.
Footsteps can be heard down the hall, and his heart quickens as he listens intently, his brain quickly registering the steps as Donnie, who always tried to be quick and quiet, but the creeks of the floor gave him away. He opens the door, beating Donnie to it, but is stopped by the sight of stray tears.
The soft-shell turned away, wiping away tears of embarrassment, and gently tugged on Donnie's sweater sleeve, Raph pulls him into a hug but decided to leave space in case it became too much. “You wanna talk about it, Dee?” The silence between them lasts until Donnie pulls himself away slightly in favor of signing. 'My brain is exacerbating the dinner scene. It's as if I can hear the blood, it's so disgusting- Leo picking on me before I came to you wasn't helping.'
If Raph had to guess, Leo is probably scared to, but the need to act as if he isn't causing the slider to deflect with jokes. ‘ You know how he is, always gotta be the brave one. Sleep with me? If you want. You’re always welcome too.’ He suggests, pushing the door open with a small grin in response to Donnie's nod. He was completely right about the movie being too much, but it wasn't the time to point fingers. They’re little, they don’t know any better.
Raph turns as Donnie climbs into his bed, hearing sniffles and Mikey's loud footsteps, which sounded identical to his own. The box turtle was by the doorway, and all it took was for the youngest to jump into the comfort was to leave his arms outstretched and open. “Aw the movie was scary, wasn’t it? Don't worry baby…Raphie’s here." Despite the youngest's recent claim to independence, it was good to be able to hold him tight like this. Raph places a kiss on Mikey's temple, becoming a little overwhelmed with emotion.
Mikey was the quickest to fall asleep, now basking in the presence of his brothers and Donnie's sleepy expression proves he is not that far behind. Still, Raph is alert and tries to ignore his own fatigue for Leo who hasn’t made his way towards his room, and no footsteps to be heard. He gets up, deciding to simply retrieve the slider himself, and makes his way down the hall quickly turning at the sound of the door creaking open.
They make brief eye contact before Leo quickly closes the door, "Go away Raph! I’m all right." The lie feels natural, but the tremors in his brother's voice upset him. Raph leans against the door, putting light pressure on the wood. “Leoo..” He softly hums his name, just like he used to when he was trying to convince Leo out of bed when they were little.
It works, just a little bit because he's able to see the red markings peeking through the crack in the door. Raph smiles wide enough that his snaggletooth appears and does it again for good luck, “Leoo..ruler of the stars.” He can hear the defeated giggle and pushes the door away in favor of scooping his brother up in his arms.
"I didn't mean to tease Don, just—I don't know... It made sense in my head," Leo confesses after a while. "I didn't want to be scared.” What Leo really implied was that he didn't want Donnie to be scared, which goes unsaid "It's okay if you're scared, Lee; I was too." The look of disbelief on his face causes laughter to bubble up in his throat, "It's true! Big brothers get terrified as well. Every time. But you know what really helps?" He starts walking back to his room, Leo by his side.
"I know that I got the moon, the stars, and the comets looking out for me.”
When they return, Donnie is still awake despite his exhaustion, and it's clear that the genius was awaiting them both. He easily slips out of Mikey's grasp, and Leo shuffles awkwardly but lets himself be dragged to bed by his twin, who fondly flicks his brow. Raph is mystified by the sight but decides to chalk it up to twin telepathy, despite Donnie's adamant denial.
The snapping turtle settles in last, the weight of his own anxiety keeping him from rest; he feels everything, and the hammering of his heart is certain to set him off. ‘My babies’ His heart cries out in fear, clinging to his sleeping brothers with a ferocity that, surprisingly, does not wake them. He’ll protect them, he will he swears it.
Fragments of emotion bind him, but it's as if the puzzle is damaged. The pieces don't quite fit, as well as tides of emotion that threaten to whisk him away squeeze at his heart. The love of a father inside the body of a brother.
The sensation evaporates almost as quickly as it emerged, and an unsteady inhale grounds him as his heart speaks again.
‘ My babies.’ Soft and fond this time, with a gentleness.
‘ My boys.’ His mind responds with a fuzzy warm feeling in his chest, and he unconsciously hugs his brothers tighter.
In the bliss of a memory, Raphael doesn’t even feel when his body hits the ground.
———
Donatello detests it when they separated, even though he sees the advantages; after all, one Kraang wouldn't be capable of pursuing them all in various directions. He knows Raph, they all do, and his altruistic brother always does something unsafe for their benefit, never his own. He'd just yelled at Leo for pulling the same stunt during one of their expeditions.
He supposes it was the pot calling the kettle black.
Still, their older brother hadn't arrived at the rendezvous point, causing Leo to worry, and Mikey's hopeful smile didn't last the walk back to the disintegrating building. The soft-shell is glad to have updated trackers on his brothers now more than ever (the apocalypse providing all sorts of technological advancement), but he tries not to focus on the fact that Raphael's tracker isn't moving.
Mikey is the first to notice him, tears streaming down his cheeks at the state of the snapping turtle, and he does his best not to rattle him awake, "Raph! Guys, he's not waking up-" Leo blanches with one look at his brother, quickly turning around and clutching the handles of his swords, his voice wavering, "Donnie, scan and do what you can, I'm going to teleport us back to base."
Protest feels ineffective because he knows Leo will have trouble opening the portal from the distance they were from the base, and they are all exhausted from the battle just moments before. Raph, on the other hand, doesn't have time for doubts, and a quick scan of his body tells Donnie what his heart already knows: 'Raph won't make it.’ Mikey covers his mouth and shakes his head in disbelief, implying that he said it aloud. The box turtle focuses his hands on his brother's plastron. "I'm going to heal him, I know I can do it!"
Even if stubbornness is an Hamato trait, Donnie is grateful for it right now.
Raph's eyes open slightly and turn to gaze at him while he watches Mikey's mystic energy surround their brother, and Donnie swears he will never insult the realm of mystic abilities again. He could see the strain on his hands and knows that Mikey is only buying them more time.
That is a terrifying thought.
'Keep him awake, keep him awake until Leo makes a portal,’. His brain prompts him to speak, but the words die on his tongue as Raph's gaze softens. "Hey, Dee... It's fine to cry, you know... You are always welcome to sleep with me." Donnie doesn't understand, clutching the snapping turtle's hand tightly and trying to keep the sobs from raging through his body, seeing how distant Raph's eyes appeared.
The magic comes to a halt with the youngest appearing to be on the verge of passing out and new cracks running from his fingertips and down his arms; Mikey cries against Raph's plastron, completely overcome with grief, but Raph remains reassuring. “Aw that movie was scary..wasn’t it? It's all right, Raphie is here." The crying intensifies, yet Mikey covers his mouth to quiet his sobs to no avail. Donnie activates his ninpo creating a shield to cover them as well as muffle their sounds; they deserve this moment without fear of being heard.
Raph’s expression becomes troubled, unable to see the slider next to him despite looking as far as he can, Donnie watches Leo’s ninpo barely flicker but he keeps trying, swinging his weapon in different directions and bitter determination in his gaze. His brother will not die. He can’t.
“Leo.”
“Look if Raph is trying to lecture me, tell him to save it for the base-“
“Leo,” Donnie repeated himself, burning rage in his gut because it's a waste of time to keep trying, Leo is wasting time, and Raph doesn't have much left. He has to lean in to hear whatever whispers his dying brother is uttering, but he tries regardless. "You know how he is...always the brave one." It rips his wrath apart, staring down at Raph and then back at Leo, taking in his twin's trembling stance with his tears soaking the ground underneath him. “Spirits, Donnie, why isn’t it working?! Why can’t I do this?”
Silence replied, mocking them for their failure, and Leo bristles in fury until Raph speaks, obviously, the lingering feeling of death is not enough to stop him from consoling his brothers. “Leo..” The snapping turtle hums in a familiar tone of childhood, coaxing and gentle, breaking Leo's heart even more as he shakes his head. "Leo…ruler of the stars.” Raph smiles, and all of his determination evaporates as the slider races to the eldest side, apologies and loving affirmations spilling through his lips. “Raphie...Raphie..” He calls out his brother's name fervently.
“It’s okay if you’re scared Lee. I am too..”Raph’s voice wavers, his eyes becoming less distant and far more clear than before, Donnie can feel the way he stiffens and feels his own heart drop.
“I don’t wanna go..”
Donnie clenches his teeth, knowing that his brother does not deserve this. Raph deserves life, the longest possible life with his brothers, and endless bliss that not even the spirits could bring. His mind rattles on and on, spiraling in his thought because for all his genius and intellect he can not give his brother the life he deserves.
‘You could give him rest?’ His heart suggests, his gaze now fixed on Raph's tears as the notion of dying dawned on him, the soft-shell recalling the distant look in his eyes just moments before. Donnie nods determined that he will be the one to provide his brother the rest he deserves rather than death.
"It's okay, Raph." Words start to freeze in his throat, but he presses on, even attempting to be reassuring as he smiles through the agony, cupping Raph's cheek, and trying not to shatter at the undivided attention. "It's fine if you want to sleep."
Mikey's eyes widen as he realizes what he's doing, but it doesn't quite register with Leo as he takes in Raph's look. The snapping turtle's brown eyes fluctuate as he walks the border between reality and the memory provided to him, but he lacks the strength to fight for awareness and slips back with ease. Donnie breathes a sigh of relief, ignoring Leo's intense glare but still grabs his twin's hand, "Need to make sure Leo and Mikey don't have any nightmares, plus Raph isn't exhausted."
It's difficult to determine which memory Raph is in because he's been caught so many times for warmth after a nightmare, but the argument was there on the tip of his tongue, childish and full of errors but it had worked between the two all the same. "Well, since you're half asleep and I'm wide awake, I'm the most awake older brother by default, so you have to listen to me."
He laughs and for a brief moment Donnie feels so much relief in the rumble of the snapping turtle’s chest, “That doesn’t make sense Dee…” He laughs wetly, even in memories, Raph’s fondness never fades. Donnie squeezes Leo’s hand tighter and rubs his thumb against the scars that decorated the eldest’s cheek, his own heart begs for some sort of release from the anguish still he persists for Raph.
“It makes perfect sense, Raphael! Who is the genius here? Me or you?” The way Raph’s eyes threaten to close makes his blood freeze, he watches his own hands tremble and feels how faint his brother’s heartbeat is. “You are..” Another laugh more quieter than the last, “Just a small nap, okay?”
“The smallest.”
“Wake me up later?”
Donnie's source of strength? He didn't have an answer, but he allowed the last words his brother ever hear to be a lie. "Of course, Raphie...I'll wake you up later," he says, even as he sobs, ignoring the way his skin is burning. He watches the lights of life leave Raph’s eyes, death claiming the snapping turtle and taking his last breath.
Their Sun dies right in his arms.
The world around them grew darker, time passed, and all Donnie could hear were Mikey's muffled screams. Comets collided with the Earth whenever the youngest smashed the surface below them in rage. Leo, spirits, appeared dead himself, expression blank despite the flood of tears and his fist over his chest as if grief was about to destroy him before collapsing into himself like a dying star. Donnie dreads leaving Raph's side, but he needs to because he cannot lose another brother in the span of seconds-
After all, it’s his job as the eldest now.
———
“Raph? Why are you still up?”
The soft-shell returned much later in the night with a glass of water; his glasses were off, so the time stamp was blurred, but he could make out the 2 in front as well as his brother's guilty grimace. “Hehe..just wanted to stay up. Make sure Leo and Mikey don’t have any nightmares, plus Raph isn’t tired.” The snapping turtle shrunk back as Donnie squinted, seeing how hard the eldest was fighting to keep his eyes open.
This would be the start of a very long road for the eldest, successfully creating an Atlas that would carry the world and let himself be crushed underneath it. It will eventually lead to his death.
But 10-year-old Donnie is unaware of this; all he knows is that his brother is growing as fast as they are and that he deserves to rest. He shuffles back on the bed, careful not to the others and crossing his arms, “Well theoretically speaking since you’re half asleep and I’m fully awake, I am the most awake older brother so. You have to listen to me.” Raph’s yawn gets interrupted by his own snort, his tired gaze filled with amused fondness.
“That doesn’t make sense, Dee.”
“It makes perfect sense, Raphael! Who is the genius here? Me or You?”
“You are..” The eldest retorts, sleep taking him by the minute, and he eventually gives in, "Just a small nap, okay?" The genius beams triumphantly at the praise and success, adjusting slightly to allow the other to lean against him, "The smallest. I'll wake you up later, okay?” With no response, he glances down, Raph already asleep and snoring, making Donnie quietly laugh.
The soft-shell whispers into his ear in a moment of intimacy soaked in moonlight.
“I may be the genius but you’ll always be our big brother.”
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UMMM I've had this idea for the longest time and writing this was horrible 3 days one trying to put my dreams into words. I've seen soo many different ways that Donnie and Raph have died in the bad future and I think the concepts are so interesting so I wanted to throw my own hat into the ring, a parallel I had yet to see in a Future Raph death is when he falls in the forest during the Shredder arc! It's such a pinnacle moment for Raph and I wanted to twist it on its head but also to focus a little on the eldest pipeline. Instead of Raph to Leo (because you know the whole leader stuff), I wanted a Donnie and Raph focus especially after seeing so much evidence that Donnie is in fact the oldest twin (though I don't think it's been declared canon). The burden of the eldest hehehe hoped you liked it!
AHHH I love moonknight and as someone who lives off of angst, I really wanted to throw my hat into the ring. This is going to be very Marc-centered, a notable warning for implied child abuse (nothing really written), self hatred through thoughts (Marc believes he doesnt deserve beautiful things), some suicidal imagery and etc (Khonshu is an annoyance at most) . Also I do not have DID, and this NOT meant to used as factual depictions of DID, please make me aware of any mistakes I make, thank you!
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It hurts to hold the pen.
Even with the supernatural powers that being an added benefit to not dying from the bullet wound by his ribs, it doesn't stop the signals of pain caused by the cuts on his hand.
Logically he should be resting, allowing himself to heal properly after the botched job he just did, he can even hear Khonshu's muttering. It's low as if he's speaking underwater, the moon god's presence lingering beyond the shadows and if Marc was conscious enough he would laugh at the sheer thought of the god worrying about him. But he pushed forward as he always has done because it's really all he ever knows and continues to write on the back of the card.
It caught his eye right away, through the window and his own distorted vision, he sees the laminated post card. The picture shifts as you hold it, first showing the Nile River, the beautiful green pastures among the valley and the detailed architecture right next to it. Next it shows a reflection, the clear view of yourself among the ripples of the water, it allows for introspection but it Marc's case it was just the mirror of how shitty he looked with a lack of sleep and crazed hair that resulted in several looks upon the purchase.
He just knew Steven would like it, that Steven was waiting for yet another message from his beloved mother that loved him so. He could feel it whenever Steven would look in the mail, empty with the lack of reassurance that his one fin wonder could only fill so much, the way his heart clenches and twists bitterly at leaving yet another voicemail with no reply. Marc makes sure that her words would last, but paused as all he had left was to sign off with the usual phrase, the last time his mother even smiled and bid him goodbye with such joy, the tangible warmth of locking arms with his younger brother for the last time.
'Take care of your brother, okay?'
'Okay! Laters gators!'
'In a while crocodile.'
Tears brim and he grits his teeth, the bubbling anger sizzling and he tightens the grip on his pen. Conflict brews much like a thunder storm and creates a flood inside that he cant escape from, he could feel panic spreading resembling a disease and phantoms of pain that were supposed to be long forgotten.
Her words were meant to be long forgotten.
The moonlight distracts him, fully illuminating the dark room and bringing small bits serenity to his troubled mind, the panic simmers now and Marc only waits for the god's smugness to begin. It doesn't come and gratitude stills in his mouth, never leaving it cause Khonshu really doesn't need it anyways. He sits right in front of his window, allowing himself to be bathed despite the self loathing that comes bundled with. He's Marc Spector and he does not deserve beautiful things, wonderful people who were meant to live much longer than him.
Steven will live because he deserves to and he'll enjoy the illusion of life and truly live while Marc withers away as an avatar, strangely enough he's unable to see the irony in such sentiment. Any will that slipped away, he regained, in the end it's all for him. For the son that his mother would have wanted, the one who probably would have been able to save his brother. Steven is so much stronger than he realizes, worthy and good, everything that Marc wasn't or really will never be. He remembers Steven reading about the Field of Reeds, how the heart was to be weighed and only those deserving would be able to enter.
There was no doubt that his heart would not even bothered to be weighed, with all the blood that coated his hands from Konshu's bidding. The rope of guilt that has been tied around his neck by his mother since his brothers death, always hanging by it.
He felt like he had been sitting still for a few mere minutes but the world continued on without him by the hours. His wounds are healed, out of pity or duty, he is unsure of but gets up anyways. He could see himself in the reflection, the dried streaks of tears and red rimmed eyes, the scars on his face would hopefully fade away in the morning before the other could question it. He made sure everything was set up, from the postcard to cleaning the remnants of his presence and lying on top of the bed, sleep taking him away gently like it understood that he desperately needed comfort.
When Marc is conscious once again, it's through the reflection he sees Steven, who is very animated on the phone. "Aw Mum, you're so sweet, always thinking about me. This postcard has to be my favorite, even Gus likes it too, he's gotta swim closer to see it better-" Marc lips quirk up slightly, the rambling nothing more than a quite hum, just about to drift into unconsciousness until he hears Steven speaking, "Well I have to get ready for work, you stay safe, Laters gators." Even with no supply of a response, Steven's thoughts fill it for him, satisfied.
Barbatos was an observer, it was an embedded trait that all demons could feel, his presence sends chills with the sign (or what felt more like a warning) that he was in fact watching. No demon should ever question his actions as they are always dictated by Diavolo, the prince's orders to be taken care of by any means necessary.
Though staring at the door in front of him, this certainly wouldn't be on the top of his list. He can hear the echoed sound of grinding gears, the passage of time both forward and back leading the labyrinth of staircases, and the vast array of others doors. Despite what may be believed, Barbatos was not very fond of his room, only recently did he find the positives due to its change.
The atmosphere had shifted, a dull almost stifled state that represented the day-to-day life of every demon in the Devildom. Joy did not last long for demons, nor peace, solitude brought loneliness, and caring brought pain. Until Diavalo's ambitious exchange program began and a very particular human began residing in the house of Lamentation. He feels himself smile at the thought and the essence of bliss seeped into the air, he could faintly hear the laughter, comfort, and warmth, coming from all the doors except one.
Behind the door was a timeline he tried hard not to think about, the effort to distance himself from the cold that always greeted him. The one where their human went through that door and never came back. Barbatos knows as he is both all and none, the future and the past, and informed this version of Diavolo what had happened and best advised the prince to wait a couple of months before ending the exchange program. He never could forget the solemn expression on the prince's face, his eyes watering from how personal grief consumed him.
Such grief carved a deep hole in one's heart and with a bond shared like no other, the brothers who loved their human now sinking into a sea of never-ending anguish without them. Lucifer was the first to break, the Avatar of Pride himself whose walls were all too high to even be seen had shown the first signs of sorrow that was to follow in the House of Lamentation. Barbatos remembers the constant smell of Demonus that suffocated his study, the pitiful sight of the Morningstar gripping Diavalo's shoulders tightly. Barbatos watched his wings, twitching and fluttering like a wounded bird attempting to fly, Lucifer can't stand up straight but he's trying to as if his own body is aware that he should have more pride than to be seen in such a state.
Charades have all been thrown out at this point, a month with their human gone now, Pride himself is begging, "Dia..We're friends, aren't we? Please if our friendship means anything to you- I-I need to know where they are, my brothers miss them. I m-miss them, I can't stand not knowing anymore! I feel as if I've gone mad.." His grip on Diavalo's shoulders tighten, struggling even more so with the look of pity on the prince's face and muttering of apologies that followed.
Barbatos snapped himself out of his trance, holding Lucifer up to lead him to his bed and taking in all of his features. The bags under his eyes, his flushed cheeks, his brows furrowed in pain, and the constant tears streaming down his face. Truly the only time the butler could even remember Pride having such a distressed expression was right after his fall from grace. The parallel makes it harder to swallow the guilt, but he does it anyway.
None of the students of RAD had seen Leviathan for a long time, since leaning into two weeks since their human had gone he had found no need to come to class in person anymore. Even as often as Barbatos had come to the house to pick up Lucifer's work to take to the castle, he could only name one certain time that he had seen the Avatar of Envy outside of his room. That time the butler had come earlier than promised, making his way towards the study before stopping short at the sound of voices. He allowed himself the liberty to look, watching the oldest of the seven holding Levi to his chest, "come downstairs..have dinner with us, please?"
Barbatos didn't even need to use his powers to be certain there was no possibility of Leviathan joining them for dinner. His gaze settled on the controller in his death grip as if letting go meant it would fade away into oblivion, the aesthetic different than his usual assumed taste until he could faintly see the label.
'Player 2: MC'
With the door slammed shut, the noise brought back his focus as he now slipped out from the corner, looking as if he had just arrived but his hands trembled behind his back. He received a wordless nod from the other to follow and did just that, without so much as a glance at Levi's door despite the wails that came after.
Satan had been just the same as he had always been, except the smile on his face was never truly genuine. It was like he was surrounded by hidden landmines and you better run to escape from the explosion radius. He seemed to find comfort in talking with Simeon and Luke in the past month, much of their conservation consumed by literature and it allowed his bubbling infernal wrath to settle, even if just a little. Though the angels had no idea of the situation to cause such a disappearance from their human, the idea of bringing up such a topic was an idea better not thought of at all.
Luke had been coloring during their break, luckily being the only four (Barbatos appeared to be all too busy with his book) in the classroom allowed some access to the limitless amount of pens and crayons, he scribbled hard against the sheet of paper and pouted when the color didn't match just right. "No..no it's all wrong.." The small angel mutters to himself, ready to just grab another paper and try again. The two now hovered in curiosity able to see the rushed coloring of the Devildom sky with the twinkle of stars.
The Avatar is now curious when Luke tries to cover the middle of the picture, seeing his brothers reside on one side and the residents of Purgatory hall on the other. The expression on his face melts into something unreadable, the edges of the page crinkling in his hand as he stares intently at them. Their eyes, their smile, it was a simple figure of their human but it brought back every feeling Satan had tried to suppress, including his wrath. Which felt like it was eating him alive from the inside out, his tears were hot against his skin and baited growls from the back of his throat.
His demon form ripped free, his tail with a mind of its own flipping any desks and chairs that were in its path. He turned around now, looking down at Luke and Simeon, even despite the fact that they didn't run screaming he could see the fear lurking in their eyes. They saw him exactly what he was a high-tempered monster, ever capable of hurting them without a second of remorse. But..the human never looked at him like that, not once did he see them unafraid to step up to him even in this form.
The tears fall like rain, he chokes on a sob and all too well feels like a child again, his wrath out of control and having to bear that pain alone. "I-I wish they were here...I wish they'd come back! They never should have left, why didn't we stop them?" He cries out, desperate for an answer that no one could give him. He slumps, going off to leave but is stopped by small arms wrapped around his waist. He feels tears wetting his thigh and finds himself hesitant to hug Luke back, his tail through its own volition wraps around the angel's shoulders and tightens slightly. "I miss them too Satan! I miss them...You're not alone."
Barbatos looks up from his book, the sight heartwarming but twists the knife even further, he lowers his head to hide his watering eyes.
The congregation that constantly surrounded Asmo hardly really noticed anything off about him, whether it was a testament to how they sometimes only paid attention to the fame and looks that showered them well critic noted. His 'fans' didn't notice the strange outfit sets he would wear to RAD and make the fashion police faint, paid no mind to his jittering hands and shifting eyes. As long as the Avatar of Lust had the same dazzling smile and charm, he was just fine in the eyes of everyone around him. (Well except for those who really knew him)
Solomon was one, who could see past the cheery facade and always had a faint frown of concern. He kept close by the demon even at club functions he had previously said no and sat around the group of admirers with eye rolls coming from him every 5 seconds. His gaze stayed on Asmo, who was happily chattering on about the latest post on Devilgram but wouldn't stop staring at the door. Like he was expecting someone to come in, where he was being pushed past his limits by waiting for a second more.
The Sorcerer found himself confused to say the least, sure he didn't know all of Asmo's vast acquaintances and friends but he did know everyone in this class and they were all here. Who could he be looking for? The disciples talk amongst themselves and the demon takes his hand, the physical affection not unusual as he gives Asmo's hand a soft squeeze in response now taking a proper look at him. "I keep thinking that they'll come through that door. I see it sometimes, they come in, say hello, and go right back to their seat. Oh Solomon I'm quite a fool, aren't I?" He is unable to give a response as the other turns around with bright smiles and all despite the tears that threatened to fall from his eyes.
The butler was sitting next to the empty seat, his hands trailing the markings that were left and he too imagined the human sitting right next to them with their friendly greeting.
Barbatos leaves the classroom after that.
The twins were and always are as thick as thieves, Beel (with the exception of Lucifer) is the only brother with the constant schedule of meeting with Belphie in the castle's prison. Since the human had not found out who let Belphegor out of the attic, he was sentenced to months in jail and a year of house arrest. For the crime being treason, it was a very merciful sentence and all the brothers show Diavalo their gratitude. The two often sit next to each other, the bars separating them but able to hold each other's hand. Belphie gives the sleep he knows his brother needs and offers protection from the nightmares.
Beel tells his brother all the stories, the adventures that he had missed locked away in the attic. His smile is bright when talking about their human and all the things they had down for the house of Lamentation, but it fades away quickly as is the bitter reminded that they are not home anymore. Barbatos finds that he hates these visits, not any particular reason against the pair but for when he cooks and offers them food. Something in him crumples, like mangled threads tying knots together when he sees the Avatar of Sloth eat more than the Avatar of Gluttony himself.
He's heard Lucifer's concern, his brother's eating routine crushed into small bites when he feels like it. When asked Beel tells him, "It doesn't taste the same. Tastes like ashes or sand with no one next to me to share it with." That was what made Barbatos leave the wretched timeline in the first place, watching the agonizing pain each of them was going through, he couldn't stand it.
Yet regardless he has made his way inside once again, his footsteps echoing throughout the halls of the demon castle. His powers allow him to see it before it comes and he sighs, turning around to come face to face with the Avatar of Greed. Whose expression held undeniable anger, wrath one might say, and walked up with his fists clenched. "You knew, didn't you? You knew they were never coming back! And you didn't say anything, you didn't do anything..you still let them walk through that door!"
His heart quickens, his lips pressed together as guilt thoroughly runs through him. He has to be cruel, to be distant, anything to push them away. 'Distance yourself, distance yourself, distance yourself.' His mind chants the mantra and it calms him down, keeping his expression neutral, "That's enough. We've been over this too many times to count." He begins to turn away, unsure if he could handle much more of this conversation. 'I have to get back to my room.' Mammon doesn't stop, nor did Barbatos expect him to, "I don't care! Every time I beg for answers, you tell me the same shit. You want me to be quiet? Bring them back."
The shift in tone was enough of an alarm, still, Barbatos turns around, "Listen Mammon-" He is cut off by the hands gripping his collar, the Avatar was always known for his quickness and he gets to see it first hand. "I said, bring them back! Please!" Mammon's voice breaks in his demands, despite the fire in his eyes, and his hands are trembling, loosening their grip, "Please.." The urge to confess is strong, to tell all that had happened, to show why they could never return but his lips pressed themselves together effectively sealing the secret shut. Mammon growls something feral and his fists clenched together.
The butler sees two possibilities, one where Mammon punches his face and the other he gets soaked in the stomach. He prepares himself to move away and dodge these assaults but to his surprise Mammon does neither, falling to the floor and slamming his fists to the ground. Even in his rage, Mammon makes no attempt to hurt him, even when he knows that Barbatos is not telling him things, even at the cost of their human, he focuses his anger on something else so as not to cause harm. Their eyes meet, "Can you at l-least tell me if they're okay? Lucifer..lucifer keeps talking like they're dead. He mentioned putting some things next to Lilith's grave and- and I just gotta tell him that it's not true. It can't be true. Please Barbatos." He's groveling, he's desperate and is clutching the end of his rope.
Barbatos is a powerful demon, he is as old as time itself, and said powers grant him abilities that could cause the demolition of reality if went into the wrong hands. Then why? Why does he feel so helpless? Mammon has his arms wrapped around himself, his head bowed low as he pleads for even the smallest of answers. He sees it, he sees Mammon heading into other timelines in search of their human and the brothers of any timeline ready to attack and kill anyone who tries to take their human. He remembers the suffering each brother had gone through, then amplified with the news of the second-born also gone. 'They can't take another heartbreak.'
His voice quivers and suddenly he wasn't powerful, wasn't strong, all he could be is responsible. "I'm sorry...I'm so sorry." He's tearful now and doesn't give Mammon even a slight glance before disappearing into the hall. His echoed footsteps boomed, with each sound reminding him of the sickening drop of their body from the stairs, Belphegor's sick laughter. He runs now, gripping the handle of his door with trembling hands and slamming it behind him.
Barbatos stumbles, leaning his back against the wall as he finally breathes, the suffocating grief now replaced with something lighter. His focus took in the bright hues of color, the warmth, and the soft laughter emanating from each of the doors.
WOOO, THAT WAS A LONG ONE. Thank you so much to op @strawberrycartt for letting me right this, sorry it took so long 😭 (ignore my grammar mistakes please) Hope you enjoyed it! <3
With all the deserved love that the Disney movie Encanto has been getting and the beautiful amount of content around it, I've been seeing a bunch of tiktoks with triplet angst so I feel the need to throw my hat in the ring. This is really sloppy because I could not write out a whole fic 😭😭
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It starts out with the Triplet's birthday and Albelua does let them relax from helping the village but they still know that they have to stubly help. Pepa (making sure the weather is good) and Julieta (making food just in case anyone got hurt), big smiles all around for the whole day. Pictures being taken, presants being shared and the sisters holding each other tight as they blow out the candles together. Exhaustion aside it was a great day not only for the Madrigals but for the village as well.
Julieta wakes up in the middle of the night, unable to sleep and decides to get some water. In the kitchen she hearing thunder brewing and Pepa's cries as leaning over the sink. Mumbling 'thank you' to castia who is draining out the water from the rain, Julieta hugs Pepa without warning. Pepa is just sobbing, "I just miss him so much..it's never been the same without him." She doesn't need to say his name, they both know fully well what she means and Julieta does her best to comfort her hermana just enough to ease the storm clouds away. "Hopefully i didn't cause a flood..Mama would be so upset." Julieta shushes her worries away amd they talk mindlessly before Pepa has this determined look on her face, grabbing some ingredients from the cabinets. "Let's make Bruno a cake." Julieta blinks in surprise before smiling in delight and the two get to work making their hermano's favorite cake.
They manage to bake small cake and Julieta puts 'happy birthday brunito' and lights a candle. They both walk outside and sit down, leaning against each other and set the cake down. "Do.. do you think he never-" Its surprising since the doubt coming not from Pepa but Julieta, the 'oldest', the reliable. Her fears welling that their hermano is gone and never to be seen again, tears filling her eyes. Injuries that he might have, she would never be able to fix. Pepa comforts her this time, tucking her into an embrace. "No no! I'm sure he's fine out of Encanto, maybe he even has kids." Though her own voice was shakey they both find solace in imagining Bruno living a happy life with a partner, joking at their anxiety filled brother going out on dates.
Though a crash into sadness that they would never be invited to his big events..marriage or children. His wobley smile, unsure hands, always trying and always deserving a break from the pressure of the village. The hour is late and the candle wax is melting into the now cold cake, "Let's make a wish Julieta." The sisters close their eyes tightly and give each others hand a reassuring squeeze before blowing out the candle together. Knowing that their wish was one in the same, for their beloved brother to come home.
Pepa mentions throwing the cake out but Julieta just waves it off, "the rats should get to enjoy." She jokes and they both wish each other goodnight. Dolores is standing still, having to go out for some water herself and a mournful expression on her face. She feels for her mama and her tia, rushing downstairs as castia brings the cake inside and lands it right by her feet. As if to know her true intentions, she picks it up and goes to the walls, knowing he could hear her steps. If she listened hard enough she can hear his stuble breathing and quiet sniffles, so still as if his own thoughts would alert everyone to where he was.
"Tio Bruno, they miss you..Mama..Tia Julieta, please just come out. How many birthdays do they have to do without you? How many, Tio?" Dolores is angry when there is no response as she expects but it dissolves into sadness as she places the plate down for him to take. 'Try to be understanding..' She thinks to herself, 'This is hard for him too..' "Maybe..next year then?" Her voice hopeful as she walks back to her room, hearing the shuffling of footsteps and picking up of the plate. A bite and muted sobs that's followed afterwards, she smiles sadly and shuts the door behind her.
Soo I'm not sure if the obey me fandom has seen these ads on insta (or I am just as always behind on the latest things)
But I have taken the liberty of actually reading the the manga and I just wanted to show this panel right here
Lucifer, beloved, WHAT THE FUCK 😭😭
He really told Mammon to catch these hands off guard and rocked his shit.
Gonna go on a little tangent because genuinely feel so bad for Mams. As much as Lucifer is one of my favorites, it feels so uncalled for (even if we do take in context that this is just when MC joins the program, before development and blah blah blah) but literally in the lessons Lucifer openly admits that mammon is his favorite brother.
Lucifer needs some lessons on how to treat your favorites cause this is not it 😭 , I'd give one right back to him tenfold.
And just once, I really want Mammon to give it back to him seriously. It's not surprising that Mammon asks us for money, he's the Avatar of Greed, he can't help it. But Luicfer is the Avatar of Pride, you'd think he would pride himself in reacting better OR WAITING TILL THEY GET TO THE HOUSE OF LAMENTATION. HE SOCKED MAMMON RIGHT IN FRONT OF DIAVALO.
The other brothers are no better, when Levi proposes a theory that MC is a sheep because of a curse, Satan suggests that it could be like the fairytale 'The Frog Prince'. (With each of the brothers trying to kiss us to break the spell which was ehhh fan service at most)
SATAN HOW ARE YOU GONNA BACK HAND MY MAN LIKE THAT 😭✋🏼
Granted Mammon was shaking us rather roughly, you could have just snatched us or something idk and even when Satan like turns into a two year old (because he picks up so many books but always gets the cursed ones for plot 👁👁) MAMMOM IS THE ONE HOLDING HIM
Mammon just give them one back, it'll make you feel better I promise
Just wanna say that I know Mammon isn't just some 'uwu' baby or whatever he is a demon but this is his family from the times in the Celestial Realm to the Devildom and he is entitled to basic treatment from his brothers.
A good amount of hurt/comfort (which comes later 😭), all in all pretty wholesome (in my standard of things) and based on an idea that I thought of just the other day (though I'm sure it's not original)
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Satan had a mission, more so a mystery that had been bugging him for the past few weeks when he noticed his brothers' odd behavior. Well odder than usual with the way they would often just stare at him and despite his self-assurance, he couldn't stop the insecurities that would bloom and linger in his thoughts. The newest one was his hair, taking him months of persistence and will to grow out up to his shoulders, an inspiration from the princes in his picture books that Mammy would read to him before bedtime. He liked it and had hoped his siblings would too, only to be proven wrong as it triggered them to whisper amongst themselves and struggle to hide visible tears in their eyes.
'Just like her.'
'Just like she used to.'
'He's just like Lilith.'
He pressed the crayon to his cheek, he had reached over picking up the toy kitten from the table (he dubbed 'Watson' for this mission and therefore making him the knowledgeable Sherlock Holmes) into his lap and looked over his lists of questions he would need answers to from his brothers. Messy in theory, young Satan was still satisfied as he was able to read the incoherent scribbling and walked over to Mammy who was sitting on the couch in front of him with a confused expression on his face. "Umm..whatcha writing over there, Satan?"
The child huffed, subtle frustration beginning to well but dissipates quickly when Mammy picks him up and settles him on his lap. "Mammy who's Lilith?" Satan asked, noting how his brother stiffens and hesitates as he always does with many of the questions he asks and clearly this wasn't an exception. He waits patiently for an answer, feeling the grip around him tighten as he turns to take a proper look at Mammon. Blue eyes looking around the room never settling and mouthing 'no' repeatedly, guilt pools in his gut as his question had brought his brother to a bad place and hating the horrified expression on his face. Satan tugs harshly on Mammon's shirt, "Nevermind! Come play with me, Mammy? Please?" He watches Mammon blink, returning to the present and nodding slowly, registering his request. "Sure, kiddo. What do ya wanna play?"
Satan hugs Watson close to his chest, hoping not to have a repeat of what happened to Mammon as he approached Asmo's room and knocked loudly. He hears a muffled 'go away and tries his best not to let it bother him, when he figures out who Lilith is, maybe he could get his brothers to start liking him again. He asked the question, having the same curiosity but now with some hesitation as he blanches from hearing the sound of glass breaking inside the room. "Go away!" There was a shrill to his voice, purely demonic as his footsteps now boomed like thunder with each step approaching the door, and this time Satan decides to listen, trembling as he runs down the hall, not wanting to find out what happens if he stays.
With Levi, he gets the same but less scary result. His knock is answered with a dull, "Password." and Satan despite trying every guess that he could remember, still couldn't get it. He rubs away frustrated tears with his fist, his guesses going unanswered as the volume of the game was raised to drown out his voice but still tried not to take offense to it. Though his anger welled, reaching level by level that was becoming harder to suppress, he would have to get an answer soon...right?
The twins were always different but never gave Satan a reason to stay away from them, when Mammy wasn't there Belphie helped him nap peacefully and Beel would sneak him sweets before dinner time. Using the ribbon tied around Watson's neck, he twists up his hair, a few blonde strands poking out but he just shrugged it off. If anything Belphie could braid his hair for him and Beel would be sure to have snacks on him, feeling better already he skips over to their room and knocks on the door.
"Beel? Belphie?" The room was dimly lit, hearing Belphie's soft snores as he tips toes inside. "Ah, Satan. Would you like a snack-" Beelzbub's voice gets stuck in his throat and before the youngest could respond he's scooped up and engulfed in a tight hug. "Lilith, oh Lilith I'm so sorry..I should have..I should have tried to save you too.." Beel is wailing apology after apology, his grief just adding more confusion and anger as Satan can only hear his ears ringing. Belphie now awake sensing his twin's pain as he places a hand on his shoulder, "Beel.." Just the sound of his name breaks him out of the spell, dropping Satan who stumbles back and strikes Belphie's hand away as he tries to reach for him.
"I'M NOT HER! I DON'T EVEN KNOW WHO SHE IS!"
The truth is loud and the statement echoes deep into the halls, follow by hiccups and sobs as he rushes out of the twins' room and pushes past Mammon, leaving Watson behind. He stomps into his room, peaking at his face which was flushed from anger. His books are scattered around and all the built-up anger finally explodes, he rips and tears through all of his books even his favorites. Cutting the princes out from pictures so he can rip it himself, ashamed that he thought that he could be anything like the princes in the stories. The ones that were kind and brought peace to their kingdoms were not like him, he only brings his family pain and misery. He was a curse, a burden and it all started when he grew out his...hair.
Realization hit him, he was quick to rush out of his room, ignoring the loud whispers from the living room, and began to sneak into Lucifer's room. His vision was blurry from tears but his eyes finally landed on the cup on the desk, the scissors gleaming almost tempting him and Satan really needed no more convincing. He climbed the chair, reaching and grabbing them carefully as not to push anything else around and reveal his presence. He begins snipping and cutting any which way but the relief is there, his wrath replaced with sadness and embedded with the hope that things would return to normal.
"Satan"
He flinches, dropping the scissors and looking up to see Lucifer at the doorway, clearly shocked with what he had done. Shame overwhelming him and he finds himself unable to stop wailing, putting up a poor attempt at resistance as the eldest pulls him in and gently begins to rock him to calm him down. It works aided with the music, Lucifer put on to ease the silence, his sobbing ceasing as he catches his breath. He offers no explanation and Lucifer doesn't ask for one, instead of racking his fingers through the messy chopped strands, "Would you like me to cut it for you, Satan?" Wordlessly the child nods, his eyes betraying his true emotions as he wriggles out of the hug and settles into the chair in front of him.
"Short?"
"Short."
He expects to see some kind of disappointment, maybe even sadness but the eldest remains stoic as ever, humming along to the melody and it unintentionally lulls an exhausted Satan to sleep.
He is rocked awake, the record long gone as he looks up at Lucifer who smiles at him, "What do you think?" He's turned to the mirror, his first instinct telling him to shut his eyes but he does catch a glimpse. A gasp and a giggle follow as he hops out of the chair to take a closer look and runs his own fingers through the layers. He genuinely looked like him, a dim feeling of pride swelling in his chest. Satan is ready to rush out, excited to show his brothers but stops reaching up as Lucifer bends down to his height. "Thank you!" He beams, giving a tight but quick hug around his neck, and runs out, leaving a flustered Lucifer behind him.
It becomes a routine between the two of them, even a week afterward Satan walks into Lucifer's room asking for a haircut, and the older brother is so sure that Satan knows hair takes much longer than a week to grow but Lucifer could really use a break from his work anyway. He has a favorite record that makes him practically bounce in excitement when Lucifer puts it on, sometimes he falls asleep other times he asks questions and Lucifer gives him answers.
Soon Satan grows up and his rebellion against Lucifer begins, the routine ends and becomes nothing more than a memory. With Belphie by his side and the bridge between them more distant, he learns to cut his own hair, ignoring the visible irritation when it doesn't look or feel the same as it used to.
Lucifer is delighted to have a day off from RAD, having mostly caught up on any leftover assignments that Diavalo needed from him and pouring himself a glass of Demonus with a rare grin. His face falls at the sound of his D.D.D ringing, he tries to will the noise away but at the sound, he becomes anxious and eventually picks up. "Yes, Lord Diavolo? What is it?" His tone clipped and very clearly annoyed at Dia's booming laugh on the other end, "Luci! I know it's your day off and everything but could you come to RAD for a second and pick up Satan?" He blinks, confused and at his silence, Diavolo continues, "Well you see..."
The Avatar of Pride had been checking his watch for the past 10 minutes, ignoring the demons that glanced at him whispering, his day off now really going off the rails as Satan slinks toward him still in his demon form and covered in blood. Diavolo still smiling, "Well just keep him in sight for a few days, that's a nice enough punishment for landing three of his fellow classmates in hospital, don't you think." Lucifer sighs but nods, "thank you, lord Diavolo. I'll make sure this doesn't happen again. Don't roll your eyes Satan-" Both glaring at each other as they left the building, the rest of the walk tense and awkward.
Before he could properly think of a punishment befitting what an embarrassing scene that had been caused, Lucifer sees the pieces of gum sticking to the back of Satan's hair, "What happened?" Though he didn't expect an answer, he had Satan come inside his room, noting the stubble joy in his expression as he looked away. "I'm not child anymore, Lucifer.." He trailed off, his actions betraying him as he took a seat. The tips of his ears reddened in embarrassment, even more so as Lucifer coughed to hide his laughter. Though the music beginning to play worked to hold him in place, "I thought you didn't have this record anymore..you said it broke."
"I lied." Lucifer admitted plainly, picking up the scissors from the table, "I just enjoy playing it when you would come around.." Such an open admission of affection wasn't what he expected, looking down at his hands and nostalgia crept in.
"Lucifer?"
"What is it Satan?"
"Who's Lilith?"
Lucifer stills, taking in a deep breath before continuing to cut Satan's hair. "Lilith was our little sister, back in the Celestial Realm." The boy blinks satisfied but still curious. "Was?" The scissors don't stop this time but he can hear the other's voice waver, "She's gone. A causality of war." There was more to it, he knew but Satan didn't want to push too far and instead settled for something else. "Do I really remind everyone of her?"
That question does completely pull Lucifer to a halt, setting down the scissors and kneeling to eye level with Satan. "You do in some way, your hair for instance, and your eyes. She had a deep love for humans but animals as well partially fond of cats herself." He brings out Watson which makes the boy gasp with glee and grabs the stuffed kitten, "but you must remember..you are not her. You are Satan, the same tempered brat that we all look after." He sticks his tongue out at that, laughed as Lucifer mirrored his expression.
"You're our brother and we love you dearly. As you and you alone."
"Falling asleep again, Satan?" The teasing remark brought him back to the present with a scowl on his face, shooing the comments away and letting himself get taken away by the music. "I have always wondered though..why did you never ask Mammon to cut your hair? You liked him the best and find me 'unbearable'." Lucifer asked, eager to know the answer and Satan hesitating to give it to him. "Well..you were the only one who would actually answer my questions, told me about Lilith, and made me feel like..me instead of someone else." To admit such a confession was a huge leap, but in mending their distant relationship this could be what they needed to hear.
Though the sappy shit was becoming too overwhelming and Satan was practically submerged in Lucifer's pride, "You weren't 'unbearable' until you started kissing Lord Diavalo's ass so much. Guess it comes with dating the future king of the devildom, huh Lucifer?" He winces as he is hit with the handle of the scissors, cackling mischievously at the eldest's expression.
"Satan."
"Hmmm?"
"Shut up."
He does exactly that and lets Lucifer finish cutting his hair.
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Jeez, that was a long one, I hope you all enjoyed it! this was based on a head-canon I have which is that Satan has a remarkable resemblance to Lilith and angst ensued. Satan serving to be a reflection of what they had lost unintentionally but also having to suffer still because of it, it's set in my mind possibly a few years after the war. (which is why Asmo and Levi are locked away in their room and dealing with their new selves) I have not proofread because it is 3 in the morning but if there is any mistake that you see let me know!🥲
In light of the bullshit system that is the pop quiz for HDD, enjoy some memes me and my friend made
🙃 even with having 7,000 ap I feel like I won't be able to complete the event, best of luck to everyone who tries but also remember this event isn't worth your time and effort (or your savings)!
Soo I know I'm way overdue with the 3rd part of my Armageddon AU but I've actually been replaying the lessons so I get a proper feel for what I'm writing, so to make up for it and to get this idea out of my head I've been thinking about it for days here is a related fic between the oldest brothers
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Levi can count on one hand how many times he's seen Lucifer coming home injured. The Avatar of Pride could easily crush irrelevant demons with his glare and he proved worthy of Diavalo's right-hand man for a reason... But the first time that Levi remembers was on a travel mission with Lord Diavalo within a year after their fall from grace. It was a distant memory, seeing Lucifer stumble up the stairs blooded up and adamantly refusing care from any of them, even Mammon who was following behind his every footstep. He had gotten used to such behavior and just settled for turning up his headphones on his way to the safe haven that was his room, stopping when he noticed the eldest's door cracked open. He watched Mammon gingerly wrap the bandage around his shoulder, blinking back tears in his eyes and shaking his head vehemently as Lucifer spoke. The music was loud and distracting he just settled for reading their lips-
"Mammon I need you to do this for me.."
"I won't! There's no need, ya just paranoid-!"
Watching the tears well up made Levi shift, uncomfortable and jealous, wondering what bond allowed them to be so vulnerable so open. Hadn't they all fought their father together? Rallied behind him so readily behind Lucifer, their Morningstar that only shined a light that only Mammon was allowed to see. He lingered before continuing to walk down the hall, to dwell in his own sunken loneliness but hearing Mammon speak one more time before the door had shut.
"..I'll do it, alright? Just stop ya crying, Luci.."
He had felt the deja vu of that very moment playing out in front of him, though this time he was hiding from Mammon in his secret spot in the living room. They had planned to go to the movies in an hour and Levi knew that Mammon would try to find him to convince him to pay for the tickets yet again so he decided to wait out the time so that scumbag would have to bring his wallet. It was a surprise to see the door open, everyone else is out and Lucifer's return to be scheduled for a few more days, but instead, the eldest had come early with visible wounds and beatings. Levi felt frozen, debating on whether he should slip out to help or stay putt but once again Mammon comes down the stairs like it's his calling. "Lucifer? Let me help you!" Denial was the first given reaction, the eldest's heart too hard and stubborn to ask for help before collapsing into Mammon's arms.
Levi followed with anxiety brewing in his chest, now wanting to just hide away in his room since plans were clearly on hold and he could do nothing to help the pair. Not like they would want his help, a shitty pathetic otaku wasn't much good at bandaging wounds, not like he was able to get much practice like Mammon did. Jealousy seethed, it made his heart race as he hid to the side of the door at the mention of his name.
"We have to tell him, Mams."
"We don't have to tell him shit! It's fine like this...Levi doesn't have to be involved."
It was confusing to be thrown out of the loop, but it hurt to hear Mammon so effortlessly fight to not include him. Maybe the second-born felt that Levi wasn't worth it? Too weak and unable to do..whatever it is they are arguing about, even so, it was odd-looking into Lucifer's room. Mammon unafraid of the eldest's temper and even being so bold as to glare at him while cleaning his cuts, Lucifer had an expression of utter fondness that was intertwined with an unlabeled fear, one that only he seemed to see.
"Mammon, you know it takes a lot out of me to..admit this. I'm almost jealous that you're able to view me so..."
Shit shit shit, he had been so entrapped in their conversation and his own envy he hadn't realized that it was emitting throughout the hall. He stiffens when Lucifer calls his name, slipping out from where he was hiding and now embarrassed. "Levi..come here please." He notes that Mammon refuses to look at him, biting his bottom lip hard as he sits next to his brother, so not used to this soft tone from him. He really must have stepped into a completely different world, one where Lucifer is willing to fight tooth and nail with his own pride in order to tell them the truth. And what a horrid truth it must be.
"Lucifer what's going on? Why is Mammon..." He trails off, feeling Lucifer's hand skim through his hair, and despite his own embarrassment leaned into the comforting touch and suddenly the bottle of Demonus was looking very tempting. "Levi...I would like to involve you in something very important, in order to protect the others." Lucifer's words were slow, each one taking some kind of will to overcome his pride, his wings twitching in what Levi could easily place as anxiety and one he knew way too well. "I'm not allowed to say anything about the threat outside of the Devildom but it puts us at risk and I...There may be a chance I won't come back."
His stomach drops, he doesn't realize that he's shaking until he feels Mammon's arms wrapping around his shoulder, shaking his head in pure denial. Not Lucifer, the most powerful one of them all, their eldest brother not coming back. Such thoughts were unfathomable to even believe, much less considered as a probability to the point that they had to talk about it. Acknowledge it and take action, Lucifer keeps talking and Mammon presses Levi closer to his chest, "I talked this with Mammon since the beginning but now we believe it's time to tell you in case something were ever to happen to the both of us and you would decide when to tell Satan..."
The prospect of such responsibility makes Levi feel like a fish out of water as he gulps for air yet in that same breath go on a rampage of self-deprecation and drowning doubt. How he's not ready, he's a good-for-nothing shitty pathetic otaku, he can't protect his brothers, he's weak, he's nothing, if Lucifer and Mammon are gone then there would be no fucking hope for them. The two oldest look at each other, small bits of regret building up from the pressure and burden they had put on him, Mammon gently rubbing his back and Lucifer cupping his face. "Leviathan please breathe."
His body does it automatically before he can think about it, the air in his lungs felt like boiling water as the panic slowly dissipates in his chest. All that was left was his own soft mutterings, so sure that Lucifer was probably disappointed that he has to trust in Levi of all people to protect them, he leans against Mammon who nudges him affectionately before resting his head on his shoulder. "I...I haven't really done anything good since...I was General...how can you be so sure in me?" He asks but squirms unready for whatever the answer might be, though he's unable to mistake Lucifer's radiating pride that he feels.
"Who's the one who came up with the plan on where to steal the weapons in the Celestial Realm?"
"M-Me but I-"
"And who helped convince the others to lay low while we defended the base?"
"I did but Luci-"
"Who's the one who took an arrow for Mammon while he was trying to protect me?"
"Lucifer-!"
He gets cut off with a flick on his forehead, his lips set in a pout but meeting the Morningstar's expression that made butterflies bloom in his stomach from overwhelming pride had him turn away and looking down at the floor. "Levi, get out of your head for one second and look at how smart and tactical you are. When it matters...when there is no time to panic. You're the third strongest family for a fucking reason, you should start believing it." The unusual confidence makes him flush but it's really Lucifer's words that bring the tears, no longer from fear but slowly coming to the realization that Lucifer and Mammon too had faith in him...they always did.
"Do ya still wanna join the pact? If ya wanna think about it, ya still can Levi." He blinks at the fact that Mammon had really been silent this whole time and just hugging him, the second born now getting up to tighten the remaining bandages. "Did you think about it, Mammon?" Levi knew the answer in his gut, only the blind would question the unwavering devotion that Mammon and Lucifer had for each other, only further cemented as the Avatar of greed simply shakes his head. He feels a small smile form on his face, "Then I don't need to think about it...I want to do this."
By the next few hours, any of the remaining tension and somber feelings had slipped away, replaced by a calm atmosphere that usually would not last long in the House of Lamentation. The melody of the cursed record floated and hung in the air as Levi rested on the floor in his demon form, the pact officially made and learning about the secret doorway by Lucifer's bookcase, definitely locking that information into memory. He sees Mammon grinning above him, curiosity embedded in his features, "So where'd ya decide to put the pact mark?" Levi lifts his sweater, the symbol of the three still glow fresh on the side by his ribs, and Mammon hissing with empathy.
He wanted it to hurt weirdly enough, to serve as a forever reminder that this pain was temporary but the pain of losing his brothers would surely last till the end of time. Mammon shows the mark on his hand, Lucifer clicks his tongue in disapproval as someone might ask about the pact but the second brother waves his concern away. He enjoys looking at the pact, the constant reassurance that they would be okay when the word goes to absolute shit, and Lucifer couldn't find any argument against that. They both look at the eldest who crosses his arms with a sharp, "No-" before puppy eyes come into play and Lucifer's pride can not save him from that.
What they both don't expect is for Lucifer to turn around and spread his wings out as if to show off, but then they see it. The markings trailing up his spine and next to the scars of where his two wings used to be, Levi is the first to reach up and touch it, internally blaming the remnants of Lucifer's pride that is making him so bold. He sees his hand tremble but luckily he is able to hold his voice steady, "Just because we made this pact..doesn't mean you both get to just fuck up. Y-You both should always come home." Lucifer nods, Mammon kisses his cheek and Levi struggles to hide his tears.
When Levithan leaves the room while closing the door behind him, reality, as he knew it just a few hours ago, wasn't all that different and he can hear Asmo drunkenly cheering as Satan carries him through the door. "Hey, Levi! Don't hide in your room- you better come join us." He doesn't give his thoughts a chance, heading down the stairs with a small smile. The world hadn't changed, but Levi would be forever.
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AHHH THIS HAS BEEN SITTING THE DRAFTS FOREVER I'M SO GLAD I FINISHED IT. Please please let me know if I should make an explanation post of how the pacts would work (it will most likely be headcanons cause I don't know how they work in canon 😪😪)
either way, I really hope you enjoyed the fic as I did writing it! I'm still working on the next part for the Armageddon AU so bear with me 😭
A part two to my Armageddon AU. Warnings for depictions of blood, gore, and self-depreciation.
Levi's hand stayed pressed against the metal door, if he leaned in enough he can hear the footsteps of his younger brothers running to what he hoped was assured safety. His legs felt like jello and that he could barely hold himself up, anxiety pumping through his veins as he rushed downstairs. There was no courageous bone in his body, he was just a shitty pathetic otaku and all too eager to hide away in his room and wait for an attack to be over, for this fucking nightmare to be over. He watches Mammon continuing to fed of the doorway, trading punches and blasts to those who tried to come in. God, he was all too aware of his tail and horns, the clothes of his demon form feeling all too tight. "Levi! A little help here?!"
Mammon's shout brings him back to the despair of reality, getting a running start as he pulled the angel off of him and began to tug at its wings before completely ripping it off with his tail. The angel cries fall silent and the two brothers meet each other's eyes as the blood begins to reach their feet. "..They're just newborns, why the hell would the Celestial Realm send newborns to try and attack us?" Mammon spoke, effortlessly gutting one that attempt to fly overhead and turning away quickly, his own claws digging into the palm of his hand and it's hard to tell which of the dripping blood is his own or an angel. Levi doesn't want to think about it, it's clear when he closes his eyes and ripping apart wings like paper. He can't bear to imagine each one that he kills being around Luke's age...he just can't. "This is just for a distraction, we gotta give them time to get to Dia's castle," Mammon speaks in plan in their shared language while twisting the angel's wrist, and Levi is unable to hide his grimace from the loud crack that followed.
He keeps sinking, deeper into his own thoughts and trying to ignore the way his heart clenches at the painfilled screams and his eyes constantly shifting so he can kill on sight. There was a brief pause but sadly no relief from the attacks as he screamed, "Mammon look out!" The window of the living room shatters as an angel now armed with a sword tackles the eldest brother, Levi turns to help but finds himself surrounded with similar swords that he knows he can't let them touch him. He breathes in deeply, despite his own self-doubt, he knows that there is a reason why he is part of the most powerful in Devildom though he is at a territorial disadvantage. He snarls baring his teeth now soaked with blood and fire pooling into his gut as some of them back off in fear.
His tail acts first, grabbing an angel behind him by the throat and viciously digging his claws into their eye sockets and watching in crazed delight as the blood oozed out. He looked at their fortified expressions and found himself completely void of pity, where was that hesitation when they so eagerly attacked? Where was that fear that could have driven them away from this house? Their home...his brothers..all split apart because of this attack made anger bubble in his throat. It was feral and ugly, Levi leaving gaping holes in the bodies of already dead angels and the growing thirst for more carnage-
"Are ya done yet? Talk about overkill, Levi."
He blinked as if awakened from a long nap, removing his knee from the angel's back as he stood. They were both panting and clearly becoming exhausted, but he couldn't look away from Mammon's cocky grin and wiping off the remaining feathers. Too many questions flooded into his head, how long will they be able to defend their home? What more they could handle before eventually passing out? Were the younger brothers safe and sound? And why did Mammon look so cool at this very moment? He had watched Mammon so effortlessly fight angels that even he was struggling with, looking so strong and willing to defend their home while Levi's first thought was to run away. He wasn't brave like Mammon, he wasn't strong, even weaker angels put up a fight. He was so weak it was disgusting, he was disgusting and stupid to think that he would be worth anything in comparison to fighting with Mammon.
Bitter admiration and malicious jealousy dances in his chest, he pants and stumbles into the wall as his vision blurs. Now only showing the pure white of his eyes and the last thing he hears is Mammon distantly calling out his name...and Envy taking over. There is an orange glow emanating and pulsing as Levi's form shifts and changes, he grows larger as the scales covering his entire body are now sharp like razors. He's more snake-like, hissing and gurgling deep within his throat, and makes his way to the streets of Devildom, quick to attack any demon or angel that gets in his way.
Mammon curses as he runs after his brother and racking his brain for any way to bring him back but the sight in front of him made him stop. Watching a multitude of angels continue to stab their blades into Levi's tail and this untamable rage begins to take hold of Mammon. The mocking laughter of those surrounding him, filling his ears and drowning out any conscious thought out the window. "We'll kill you and all your brothers too! Devildom is ours for the taking." This sort of desire to make them shut the fuck up leaves a bitter taste in his mouth, black feathers completely decorating his arms as he stumbles back, trying his best to calm down. To think clearly, Lucifer would want him to keep his head on his shoulders, he would be so disappointed if Mammon couldn't keep it together from some small taunts. But such needs...were growing to be too much, the desire to protect the ones he loved became something he could no longer suppress as he let himself transform and sink deeper into this kind of greed.
The greed that the only annihilation can fulfill.
Violence.
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Ahhhhh I am so happy that so many people fell in love with this au! Thank you for all the likes and excitement, it really means alot ❤ and once again a thank you to the fabulous @asterronomical for not only helping me review ideas for this part two but also giving visuals into the brothers (Levi and Mammon) current forms!
I'd also love to hear some theories on why the Celestial Realm is attacking 👀
Armageddon AU where it starts out with Lucifer leaving the House of Lamentation to go assist Diavalo, he texts the bros on his D.D.D saying that he's going to stay in the castle for the night and the bros go ecstatic. Satan wants to bring a bunch of cats, Asmo wants to throw a party, Levi is gonna stay up way later than his version of normal. Mammon decides to be the responsible one and tells them that he's in charge and that none of that is going to happen while Luci is gone. The brothers don't believe him, it's scummy Mammon talking, who's listening to him? Soon though, the lights go off and flicker on and off and on. Asmo starts complaining how the wifi won't let him post anything on devilgram and Levi stupidly laughs talking about his backup wifi box in his room. Mammon pulls that same exact box, "This? It ain't worth shit, let me sell it." Levi goes to grab it as Mammon taunts him, pretending that he's gonna throw it out the door.
Then a bright light appears, practically blinding them but only Mammon who is partially out the door can see it clearly before he slams it shut. Now the brothers are curious, hurling questions and Satan being the first one to reach for the door handle. Mammon transforms into his demon form and growls, something animalistic and feral.. Satan is even too shocked to be angry, the second oldest would never threaten any of them, especially in his form. "What's going on? Why is Mammon acting like this?" While they whisper out loud, Levi is the first one to see Mammon's shaking hands and his panicked breathing as his eyes shifted over each brother one by one as if mentally counting them. As if he could blink and one of them would disappear.. Levi is the first to approach Mammon and stops that the batted growl in his throat. "Mammon what's wrong?" He speaks, but not in the language that the others can understand, but from their time in the Celestial Realm so long ago when they only had each other. He tries not to pay attention to the confusion on their faces, seeing that Mammon was searching for a way to reply and he found himself a fool for thinking that Mammon remembered until-
"Angels. Angels are attacking the Devildom."
And Levi doesn't want to believe it, his heart races and he begins to shake too, not even realizing that he had transformed into his demon form as well. The younger brothers are now even more worried, but all they can do is look at each other as the oldest in the room talking amongst themselves. "Leviathan, you know I'm not lying to you-" "Of course I know that! Mammon what do we do...how do we tell them? Oh...Lucifer." His hands cover his mouth, blinking back tears of relief as Mammon shakes his head, "He ain't...he's strong. I still feel em'..the pact ain't acting up." The second-born pressing his back even closer to the door, growing explosions and now screams being heard from the outside. Satan has had enough, now seething with anger as he launches at Mammon only to be held back by Beel. "What the fuck are you hiding? What aren't you tell us, Mammon?!" The burning in his gut was only fueled by the look he had gotten, just oozing with pity. From what? What the hell was happening out there?
The sudden slams at the door made them perk up, both eldest was muttering curses as Mammon held the door up and Levi began leading them away from the living room. "Get them out of here!" He growled, the heavenly aura too prominent to ignore. All of them are now in their demon forms ready to fight but being pushed away easily by Levi's tail. "Where are we going? We need to help Mammon!" Asmo cried out, though gasping at the opening door by the bookcase in Lucifer's room. "This will take you straight by Lord Diavalo's castle. You should be able to get there safely.." It was odd to see such confidence and reassurance from their most withdrawn older brother, Levi offering them his most characteristic nervous smile. Satan was still thrashing in Beel's hold, "Mammon can't take all those angels by himself! You know that!" Leviathan smiled, nodding in agreement before shutting the door behind Belphie. Satan letting out an ear-piercing scream as the eldest brothers now locked away to fight on their own.
And how he can lose them to the Celestial Realm.
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You started this, but thank you for encouraging me to post this @asterronomical 😭😭
It's time to bring the painnn, is it clear already that only angst seems to inspire me? 😭😭✋🏼 thank you so much @asterronomical 💓
Warning: depictions of a panic attack, heavy guilt, and drinking away problems
Brothers No More
Back in the days of the Celestial Realm, it had been clear to everyone that the famed Morningstar had a favorite among the brothers, though it clearly wasn't obvious to the Morningstar himself who denied it as much as he could. It was hard to take him seriously with the way he attempted to cover his flustered face with his wings and his beloved brother skipping towards him. "Lucifer! Where're ya going?" Mammon asked, confusion on his face as the surrounding angels began to snicker and giggle before thoroughly shutting up under Lucifer's glare. "W-We'll just go o-on ahead.."
Now alone, Lucifer knelt down so he could reach Mammon's height and a small smile on his face as he noted that the younger brother had been growing a little taller while reaching up and ruffling his white hair. "I'm going to the Devildom, we must speak with the King and his son over some territory business-" "Why didn't ya tell me? I wanna come!" Mammon began to whine as he shook his head, "The Devildom is much too dangerous, Mams. Only Micheal and a few others are going with me because of that." He had been hoping that would be the right thing to say, but with how rapidly tears began to fill his eyes had proven otherwise. "That's why I gotta come! To protect ya, Luci!"
Even though he was sure the other angels were watching, it didn't hinder the coo that left his lips and began to cradle Mammon's face and wiped away the tears from his cheek. "But you know, I'm very strong Mams, the others are with me to hold me back." The lie slipped out all too easily and sent shivers up his spine but seeing the younger begin cheer up made it worth it. "R-Really..? You're not tryin to trick me, right?" The morning star shook his head, pressing a finger to his lips, "Don't tell father I told you this, but when I went to the Devildom..the Demon King was afraid to meet me. And he trembled in fear at the thought of me alone with him. So don't worry about your big brother okay? And promise to be good." He wasn't satisfied with the small nod he got in reply, reaching up and tickling Mammon's neck which made him let out a loud shriek and laughter afterward. "OKAY! I believe ya, Luci! I'll be good promise-"
He pulled away, knowing that if Mammon had started to beg anymore that he may actually consider it, Lucifer waved goodbye. Now walking and hearing small footsteps behind him, he sighed and now his hands rest on his hips, beginning to scold but Mammon interrupted him. "I know, I know but I just wanna follow ya till the end..an' I'll promise I'll be good and stay here till ya get back." Even the angels that were previously teasing couldn't think of any slick quips to say, their loyalty to God could easily be rivaled to Mammon's unwavering devotion to Lucifer. The flickered flame of suppressed pride licked at his heart and the Morningstar left the Celestial Realm with a smile that shined like the stars, "I'll be back before you know it."
Lucifer had to blink back that memory, so prominent and fresh in his mind as if it had happened just the other day, he hadn't even realized Diavalo attempting to grab his attention. The hand on his shoulder made him gasp, quick to cover it up with a cough, "My apologies, Lord Diavolo. Can you repeat that?" The prince was quick to remove his hand which made the Avatar of pride try to shrug off the uncomfortable atmosphere. "Are you okay Lucifer? You don't have to meet with the exchange students from the Celestial Realm if it makes you uncomfortable. I'll just have you meet with the humans instead!" He ignored Dia's fallen expression as he shook his head, "I'm your right hand and part of your council, it would be inappropriate for me not to be there."
He pretended not to notice Barbatos and Diavalo sharing a look, his pride making him stiffen, and walk out the room, "They should be arriving soon, let us go." His thoughts taking over with each step towards the entrance of RAD, did they believe he could not handle seeing angels again? Even after all this time, he could handle the white wings and golden aura, fully convincing himself that he doesn't miss it. The pain from such betrayal of the Celestial Realm had been numbed to a dull throbbing that if ignored, he wouldn't even feel. He looked idly at each of the angels, now suddenly all too aware of his uniform and each button feeling too tight on his chest as his eyes met familiar blue ones.
"Mammon."
"Lucifer."
The greeting was so estranged, devoid of emotion but entangled with the remnants of what their relationship once was. Before the war, before he fell from grace when Mammon had promised to follow him till the end...why did he think that meant forever? Diavolo's welcome to the angels was muffled, he couldn't stop the drowning feeling of utter despair that he refused to show, his pride setting him up straight and emotionless. He'll give his sin the control while his heart twisted deep in his chest. Lucifer glanced, hearing Mammon's laughter as he talked to Siemon and a little angel that stood beside them, "Lucifer. Go home, your brothers will show the students around." Barbatos spoke lowly, through his signature professional smile there was concerning his expression and showing that whatever semblance of an act he wanted to perform had been revealed. He could only nod, leaving quickly and pretend not to notice Mammon's eyes on him the whole time.
The House of Lamentation was a safe haven when it was empty, Lucifer could scream his sorrows at the top of his lungs and no one would hear, play his cursed records loudly and dance with the anguish that well in his very soul. He couldn't stop the hysterical laughter, grabbing a glass and watching the Demonus fill much like his guilt. The guilt for dragging his brothers down with him, the pain they suffered when they transformed to their sins, the mantra continued on and on. Mammon was doing better than all of them, he had grown so much without his influence and it would have been so much better if Lucifer had just-
"Luci?" The glass slammed to the floor, his wings popping out as he growled, turning quickly to see Mammon holding out his hands up. "Woah! Lucifer, ya gotta breathe for a second." Shame washed over him, unable to stop the tears or his own drunken hiccups as he turned away, digging his claws into the counter. Out of all the times, Mammon followed him in their time together, why did it have to be now? When he had no reason to? It was just pathetic and why was he feeling so cold? "Can I hug ya?" The question felt so out of place, Lucifer not even registering that the angel was standing right next to him as he tried to clear his blurred vision, he just shook his head.
His pride not allowing him to even dare to take such comfort, probably stemming from the overwhelming pity that the angel had for him, he didn't need it. Still, Mammon reached up, his arm wrapping around Lucifer's shoulder and white wings completely covering his sight of the kitchen. He was so warm and unable to fight his eyes from flickering close and settling down to the rhythm of Mammon's heartbeat. Starved from comfort and touch, he could feel his face flustered as it was now becoming too much and pulling away, now nervously glancing around to avoid Mammon's gaze on him. "I-I..um..thank you.."
The spoken gratitude was low, but the angel's smile showed that he had heard it anyway, "You're welcome!" No words were really spoken afterward, Lucifer's shakey breathing only slightly stifled the silence, his lips pressing together in a thin line before speaking again. "They promoted you to Seraphim status, didn't they?" Now with a decently clear head, he could see the extra pair of wings shifting together with the original four, he couldn't help but chuckle at the blush dusting over Mammon's cheek. "W-Well ya know, I just did some things here an' there and no one could do a job like ya, so they picked me." He awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck, allowing his wings to disappear out of embarrassment. "The others will be looking for you, you better leave Mammon."
"WAIT wait! Are ya kickin' me out? I can't just leave ya like this! Don't make me follow ya, Luci." Mammon stood, beginning to clean the broken glass and wipe up the remaining Demonus that had spilled and Lucifer felt his heart racing, soft broken laughter that made the other turn around and looks at him confused, though pride had come through this time and managed to stop the tears from coming this time as he headed upstairs to his room. The swirling tide of emotions making him tied but the remnants of alcohol making the truth spill out so easily.
"Don't hurt me again with a promise you can't keep, Mams."
The comment made the angel stop cleaning, with his brother gone, he allowed his lips to tremble and his clutch on the broken glass to tighten. Mammon hissing in pain but not from the cuts in his palm, but few black feathers that began to nestle into his pure white wings.
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Ahhh this is probably my most favorite fic so far, I'm so glad I was allowed to write something for this amazing art, I hope I did their relationship some justice :)
