mian

she/her | mian

[mianyann]

Absolution | Yoru x Reader

Chapter 4: "Unwinding Tensions"

Chamber, his gaze unwavering, sat comfortably at his desk, each stroke of the brush a deliberate motion as he added a new layer of paint upon his headhunter's golden finish. A momentary pause ensued as his eyes danced among an array of paint sets, a silent debate on whether to maintain the golden appearance or be transformative. A smirk, born of pride and satisfaction, graced his lips, and his fingers lovingly caressed the grip of his meticulously crafted creation, never planning on changing a thing. A contented sigh escaped him as he gripped the desk's edge, rising from his chair.

The journey from desk to the central coffee table unfolded with a sense of unhurried purpose. Chamber's hand found the delicate stem of a champagne glass, the cool effervescence of the liquid a soothing embrace as he took a leisurely sip. Seated upon his couch, his fingers deftly worked at the knot of his tie, unfastening it. His head tilted back, its weight resting against the couch's headrest, a sigh resonating through his weary form. It had been a demanding day, the weight of it settling upon him like a shroud.

Yet, just as the tranquility enveloped him, a soft and persistent knocking reached his ears, disrupting the solitude. His annoyance tinged his voice as he stood up, brushing imaginary dust from his attire and carefully placing the glass down. With a hint of impatience, Chamber called out, "Who is it?"

A clearing of the throat, and then the voice of Sage resonated from beyond the door. The subtle shift of Chamber's demeanor, a softening, bore a certain curiosity. His gaze swept over the dorm's interior before it settled upon Sage, a warm and welcoming smile gracing his lips. "Be my guest," he offered, opening the door to invite her in.

-

In the faintly lit meeting room at Headquarters, Viper and Brimstone found themselves seated across from each other, separated by the long-stretching glass table. The room bore an air of tension, with Viper's furrowed brow as she rubbed her temples in frustration. She took occasional sips of her black coffee, her agitation apparent. Meanwhile, Brimstone pored over a stack of papers, each detailing Kingdom's scandals throughout the years, “Sage was kind enough to give me these.” Brimstone continued to trace his finger over every little word.

As silence continued to engulf the room, Brimstone momentarily glanced up from the papers, his gaze shifting to Viper, who seemed on edge. With a concerned sigh, he set down the documents and removed his glasses. His palms clasped together as he leaned forward, his voice tinged with worry and confusion as he asked, "What's wrong? You've been frantic."

Viper's leg bounced nervously beneath the table as she set down her coffee mug, her anxiety palpable. She cleared her throat, responding with a hint of exasperation, "I've been worried about the protocol. If Kingdom gets wind of our plans and our information, we're finished."

Brimstone shook his head, his face marked with a frown, "It'd be impossible for them to know anything unless we have an informant, a traitor."

Viper straightened in her chair, her frustration simmering. She hesitated, her voice tense as she replied, "We need to keep a close eye on that hostage of yours."

Brimstone chuckled heartily at Viper's determination, "I understand, Viper, but I don't believe a hostage in her condition could be a Kingdom informant. We have bigger concerns."

Viper's headache flared up once more, prompting her to press a hand against her throbbing temple. Annoyance laced her voice as she inquired, "Such as?"

Brimstone let out a weary sigh as he reclined in his chair, his arms casually resting behind his head. The room seemed to absorb the tension that hung heavy in the air as they both grappled with the uncertainty of their situation. With a shift in his posture, Brimstone leaned forward and slid an agent file across the table – a face etched in everyone's memory. Chamber's.

-

As the clocks around the Headquarters marked 6:00, agents began to stream into the common room, a cozy and minimalist space adorned with a collection of chairs, plush couches, and bookshelves lined with classic literature. The faux marble fireplace stood as an elegant centerpiece, exuding warmth into the room. Curtains were drawn to shield them from the outside world, and a hushed tension filled the air. Every agent exchanged nervous glances, saying nothing as they meticulously adjusted their postures. Among them, you and Chamber were absent, though the collective anticipation for the unfolding hostage situation from the previous day permeated the room.

The famous black boots, their signature sound echoing through the hallway, prompted everyone to snap their heads in that direction. The suspenseful silence thickened as the footsteps drew nearer. Emerging from the shadows, Viper, one of their eminent leaders, entered the room with a folder, clipboard, and pen in hand. Furrowing her brows, she glanced at the assembled agents while adjusting her lab coat. Viper settled into the gray swan chair positioned at the head of the couches, and the room immediately straightened in response.

Viper's serious demeanor and posture demanded everyone's unwavering attention. "Sage and Brimstone will be late for our meeting," she began, her voice commanding. "We can get started now. I am certain everyone understands the situation at hand?"

Her scrutinizing gaze swept the room, intensifying the tension. Agents' eyes fixated on Viper's hands as she flipped through the pages, eventually settling on one that contained the image Sage had captured at the facility, a chilling depiction that made even Viper shudder. She secured the image to her clipboard and presented it to the room, capturing the rapt attention of every agent. "This is what was captured that day in the facility," Viper declared, her tone unwavering. "It is grotesque, but it is the harsh reality we face. This can happen to us, and it's our responsibility to prevent it."

-

Sage found herself in Chamber's dormitory. Her gaze wandered nervously around the lavish room, uncertain of his looming presence. Chamber, leaning casually against a marble dresser, exuded a self-assured smirk as he sipped his champagne. He observed Sage's unease and seized control of the situation, taunting her with his authoritarian charm.

"I presume you should be at the meeting, should you not? What brings such a lovely lady like yourself in my presence" Chamber quipped, his words dripping with insolence and a blatant disregard for authority. Sage felt her discomfort intensify but was too preoccupied with her own thoughts to respond immediately.

Grasping a decorative pillow from the couch, she placed it on her lap as her gaze fixed upon Chamber. Finally, she found her voice and confronted him, "We're aware of your association with Kingdom." A flicker of vulnerability crossed Chamber's face before he regained his composure, setting down his champagne glass and walking over to seat himself next to her.

"What on earth could you mean, my dear?" Chamber's affected innocence clashed with Sage's determination. She could sense the falsity in his tone, yet she knew he wasn't directly assisting Kingdom with malicious intent. Chamber understood the flaws in Sage's accusation and recognized that he needed to safeguard the fragile trust they were establishing.

Sage sighed, pushing the pillow aside as she rose to confront Chamber. Leaning over him, her face inches from his, she stared into his dark, calculating eyes. She wrapped her delicate fingers around his tie, pulling him closer and closer. Chamber chuckled softly, relishing the tension between them, and lowered his voice provocatively, "Planning to give me a kiss, cheri?" Undeterred, Sage responded with steely resolve, "We're merely working on building trust, Chamber. It would be wise not to jeopardize it before it's solidified."

Releasing his tie, Sage retreated, leaving Chamber sprawled on the couch with a smug smile. As she straightened herself and left the room, Chamber couldn't resist a parting comment, "I must say, Sage, you pull off the dominatrix look quite well." Sage scoffed at the remark, departing with the room's unresolved tension lingering in her wake.

-

Brimstone made his entrance into the common room with an air of unshakable confidence, flashing everyone a smirk as he casually settled into the lounge chair beside Viper. Midway through Viper's briefing, she winced, interrupting her speech briefly to hand him a copy of the document she had been discussing. Brimstone sighed, his gaze fixed on the page.

"Viper, we don't have to go over all of this," he remarked with a touch of impatience, but Viper turned her body toward him, leaning in close and speaking softly.

"We must ensure everyone is thoroughly prepared," she murmured into his ear, her eyes locked onto his.

Brimstone's expression softened as he cleared his throat and addressed the room. "Each one of you will undergo rigorous training, and we'll be embarking on high-stakes missions that will require unwavering teamwork and strategic brilliance. We're preparing for the worst-case scenario and ensuring we maximize our available resources."

Viper nodded, her hands clasped together on the clipboard in her lap. "You'll be paired up with a partner, and you'll train together every day. It's imperative you remember your duty. We're pleading for your loyalty and dedication to Valorant."

Killjoy raised a trembling hand, her gaze darting between Brimstone and Viper as she managed a nervous smile. Viper, exhaling in mild exasperation, extended her hand toward Killjoy, granting her permission to speak.

"I could enhance my technology to gather more intel," Killjoy began tentatively, but Viper swiftly interjected, her tone resolute, "These missions will have to be carried out with the utmost discretion. You can focus on technology improvements once we've gathered information about the current situation."

She punctuated the end of the meeting with a tap of her pen on the clipboard, signaling dismissal. As Viper and Brimstone stood up, they made their way out of the common room.

In the hallway, Viper stormed forward, with Brimstone hastening to catch up. Concern etched his features as he asked, "Viper, what's been bothering you lately?"

Viper turned sharply, her headache resurfacing as her gaze bore into Brimstone's eyes. "We could lose everything and everyone we care about, and you expect me to be okay with it? I can't burden everyone with this. I'd rather bear this responsibility alone."

Brimstone's reassuring eyes met hers as he placed his hands on his hips. "We're here to watch each other's backs. I'm confident that we can navigate through this crisis and prepare for whatever comes our way."

Before they could delve further into the conversation, Sage burst out of Chamber's dorm, right in front of them. She smoothed out her ruffled attire and adjusted her bangs, her expression stern. "We need to talk."

-

The common room was filled with a sense of collective astonishment, leaving Killjoy undoubtedly disheartened. Raze sat beside her, offering a comforting touch on Killjoy's shoulder, and a reassuring smile accompanied by supportive words, "Awe, Killjoy-Zinho. We all love your little robots, and we'll figure out a way to get them back on the field."

Killjoy found solace in Raze's gesture, her anxiety momentarily soothed by the warmth of her

presence. However, Reyna's gaze held a different sentiment, bearing a natural aversion to Killjoy's technology and the engineer herself, “Who is we?” Raze exchanged a knowing look with Reyna, her brows pleading for some sympathy or intervention to prevent another argument.

Reyna, silently conceding to Raze's request, crossed her arms and reclined on the couch, her chin lifted, and her gaze sharpening as she inquired, "Where's that new girl? I heard she had some stories to tell. I’ve just been dying to meet her."

Phoenix's attention perked up at the mention of the new recruit. He leaned in, nonchalantly opening a bag of chips and munching on them. With a smirk, he remarked, "I don't know. She was supposed to be at the meeting, but I guess she didn't have the nerve to show up." He chuckled at his own quip, taking another handful of chips.

However, Fade swiftly intervened by snatching the chips out of Phoenix's hand, a teasing yet resolute expression on her face. As she held the bag away from him, she suggested, "Maybe if we make her feel more at ease, she'd be more inclined to join."

Phoenix, eager to reclaim his snack, reached out with determination. As he wrestled for the bag of chips, Fade finally relented, tossing it back into his lap. Phoenix resumed eating, his gaze shifting to Yoru, his tone laced with playful flirtation, "You're the man, Yoru. Why don't you be the one to bring her down here?" Yoru's response, a nonchalant eye roll, signaled his reluctance. Yet, before he could leave the room, a reminder of their earlier agreement stopped him in his tracks. As he sighed, he flipped Phoenix off and walked away, leaving the room to its various conversations.

-

Amidst a chaotic scene of scattered papers, books, files, and empty water bottles, you sat worn and weary, your gaze bereft of energy. Exhausted, your head sank onto a pile of paperwork, only to be abruptly startled by loud knocks echoing through your door. Wearily, you raised your head and mumbled, "Hello?" in response. The incessant knocks persisted, further frustrating you, prompting you to push yourself up and swing open the door in annoyance.

Standing before you, Yoru appeared, his demeanor stern and disapproving. His arms were crossed, and he spoke with cold indifference, "Everyone's waiting for you in the common room." His voice bore no warmth. Without uttering a word, he turned away, preparing to walk back.

However, you reached out and grabbed his jacket sleeve, compelling him to pause begrudgingly. He pulled his arm free, clearly uncomfortable with your touch, and in an irritated tone, he inquired, "What?"

You sighed, your back against the doorframe, a frown forming on your face, "Can we talk about what happened?" Yoru, without any intention of relenting, resumed his departure, responding with a curt, "No."

Undeterred, you once again caught his sleeve, causing him to pull away hastily, his irritation growing as he rubbed his jacket sleeve, "It was my job, nothing more." Understanding the reasoning behind his reticence, you nodded, yet an underlying curiosity lingered, "I was mainly going to ask about how you are towards me."

Yoru gently shook his head, his steps carrying him away from you as you watched him walk away. Sighing, you pondered the complex dynamics between you two, craving a deeper understanding but resigned to let it be for the time being.

Eventually, you joined the others in the common room, settling uncomfortably beside Neon. As she offered you various dishes of food, you declined them repeatedly, leading to a visible frown on her face, brimming with concern. It was apparent that everyone had questions, their wide eyes fixed on you as you shared the details of your experiences, revealing some things while withholding others, leading to an air of curiosity and apprehension.

Reyna scrutinized you, her lips curving into a sardonic smile, and she placed her wine glass on the table. Her words seemed patronizing as she commented, "My cariño, such a poor soul. I wonder how you could live with such trauma." Her mockery weighed on you, causing your fingers to clutch at your pants.

Neon's compassion shone through as she reached out, her hand gently resting on your leg. Her voice, barely above a whisper, offered solace, "Don't take it to heart." You responded with a soft nod, appreciating her support, even though Reyna's intentions remained unclear.

Neon, however, refused to let Reyna's behavior slide, snapping at her, "You can't just be a bitch to everyone." Reyna's gaze widened, her grip on her glass tightening, and Gekko made an attempt to intervene, though his effort was met with a swift dismissal from Reyna, who swatted his hand away, saying, "Don't worry about it, cariño."

Gekko, apologetic and nervous, gripped a pillow on his lap, casting an apologetic look your way. Attempting to speak up, you hesitated, stopping short as Reyna abruptly stood, her figure imposing as she confronted Neon, "I hope you didn't forget about those times I saved you from the easiest of deaths."

Neon, undaunted, met Reyna's disapproval with defiance, standing chest to chest with her. Meanwhile, Phoenix continued to munch on his chips, audibly crunching in the otherwise hushed atmosphere. The agents directed annoyed glances his way.

You reached out and gently pulled Neon back to her seat as Reyna resumed her place after Gekko's call to calm down. A thick silence settled in the room, only punctuated by the sound of Phoenix devouring his fifth bag of chips.

Gekko, seeking to shift the atmosphere, asked a question, "Ah, so, what was it like in the facility? No one really knows too much beyond the picture that Sage took." Your recollections sent shivers down your spine, but you hesitated only briefly before answering, "Well, those were victims of failed radianite experiments." Your words were slow, each phrase carefully weighed and measured. "The radianite wasn't pure; it was fabricated."

The revelation left the room's occupants exchanging concerned glances, drawing closer in their curiosity. Phoenix, perhaps in an attempt to break the tension, choked on his chips and remarked, "Well, she's useless." A swift slap to his chest from Fade elicited an apology, "I didn't mean that, mate. Just playing with you."

Reyna, ever the instigator, turned her attention to you, a mocking applause in her voice, "Great, we're making room for the homeless." Laughter filled the room, though Fade and Neon did not partake. Yoru, who had been leaning against the wall observing the situation, grimaced, recalling the times when he felt similarly unwelcome upon joining the protocol.

He moved closer, looming over the back of the sofa you and Neon occupied. Leaning forward, he rested his arms on the cushion, his irritation palpable, "Don't you have something better to talk about, Reyna?" It wasn't that he cared deeply about the situation; he was simply fed up with Reyna's inflated ego.

Reyna's smirk waned as she side-eyed Yoru, quipping, "So the riftwalker joins us, how can I live with myself?" Yoru scoffed and tapped your shoulder as he spoke to Reyna, "Pick on someone with use."

-

Sage, Viper, and Brimstone gathered on the patio, seated under the serene moonlight as they shared drinks. Sage, perhaps fueled by some form of urgency or anxiety, was hastily downing every drink in her reach, only to be gently slowed down by Brimstone, his concern evident in his words, "Take it easy there; we don't want to lose you too early."

Viper, her headache gradually fading, chuckled and began to feel more herself again. Curiosity piqued, she asked, "So, what happened with Chamber? Don't tell me he's screwing his way up the roster." Sage shook her head, a drunken laugh escaping her lips, "I don't think he's the one we should be worried about."

Brimstone, exchanging an intrigued glance with Viper, raised an eyebrow, prompting Sage to share her startling revelation, "You're kidding me." With earnestness, she shook her head, her eyes widened as she took another sip, "I'm being serious; he seems completely out of the know."

Viper, feeling skeptical and unconvinced, took Sage's glass into her own hands. "There is absolutely no way Chamber is not involved with something of this sort," she remarked, certain of her assessment. "It has his name and face written all over it."

Sage sighed as she ran her fingers through her messy hair, seeking clarity amid the haze of her inebriation. "The girl, the hostage," she began, her speech somewhat disjointed, "was telling me that the victims were regular people with fabricated radianite exposure. On what earth would Chamber be able to get his hands on such a substance? It has got to be Kingdom."

Brimstone let out a heavy sigh, taking another swig of his drink. He contemplated the situation, "We'll have to speak with the two of them." The uncertainty loomed like a shadow over the trio in the moonlit night.

-

As the evening wore on and agents began to disperse, you found yourself seated on a plush couch, the absence of Neon, who had left to prepare for her early morning garden duty, leaving you in solitude. A nearby sofa hosted Killjoy and Raze, who had initially listened intently to your retelling of your experiences within the facility. However, they wisely chose to retreat as they sensed the growing unease that accompanied your narrative.

Meanwhile, the remaining trio, consisting of Fade, Phoenix, and Yoru, provided a playful diversion. Phoenix was immersed in a seemingly endless battle with a colossal bag of chips, and the spectacle garnered a mix of amusement and concern from those in the vicinity. Fade tussled with Phoenix, with his bottomless appetite, trying to rip the family-sized bag of chips as Phoenix attempted to eat it.

As Phoenix gave up on trying to retrieve the bag of chips from Fade, he tapped on Yoru's shoulder, signaling towards you. He playfully reminded Yoru of the deal they had made regarding the sake. "I'm getting her number first," he declared with a wink.

With a smirk, Phoenix sauntered over to you, earning him scoffs and laughter from Killjoy and Raze. Taking the seat next to you with a closeness that left you intrigued. Meeting your inquisitive gaze, he stumbled over his words in a rather flustered manner, "Hello?"

The room filled with laughter as Killjoy, Raze, and even Yoru couldn't contain their amusement. Phoenix's embarrassment was palpable as he continued, "You're… wow, I mean, you're pretty amazing, girl. Really cute." Your confusion turned into a warm chuckle, and even Yoru sported a faint, amused smile.

With newfound confidence, Phoenix finally asked, "Can I, um, get your number?" Caught in the moment and still amused by the earlier banter, you playfully choked out, "I'll think about it." Phoenix felt a light smack on his face but continued to smile, flaring his collar. Even as he nodded and made his way back with a tinge of embarrassment. Moving to the table where Yoru was seated, he couldn't resist taking a playful jab, saying, "Wipe the smile off your face, chum. It's not like you can do any better."

Yoru, however, simply shook his head, and the smile began to fade. "Just hand over the sake already," he urged.

But Phoenix leaned back in his chair with a mockingly serious tone. "Can't do that, mate," he quipped, adopting a witty posture. "You've got to be a womanizer to drink the pure gold."

Yoru, now glancing from you to Phoenix and back, realized that pure flirting wasn't working. He swiftly grabbed his jacket from the back of the chair, determined to employ a different approach. "I didn't mean to act coldly towards you," he began, a tone of sincerity replacing the earlier jest. "I was wondering if we could chat more about what happened. Can I get your number?"

The atmosphere shifted, and a note of vulnerability crept in. You remembered the way Yoru had treated you when he rescued you, but hearing him now, sounding genuinely kind and considerate, eased your reservations. You replied with a heartfelt, "Yeah, of course."

Yoru extended his hand toward you, deftly inserting your phone number into his phone. As he tried to suppress his smile, he gave you a small nod, acknowledging your response.

Returning to the side of Phoenix, Yoru couldn't help but sport a triumphant smirk as he witnessed Phoenix's jaw drop. "How the hell do you do it, yet you still get absolutely no bitches?" he teased, a challenging glint in his eyes.

A moment of silence fell, with Yoru casting a hard gaze and furrowed eyebrows upon Phoenix. Not missing a beat, Phoenix playfully surrendered, "Please forgive me, Father Yoru."

But Yoru was quick to brush it off, shaking his head as he leaned back in his chair. "Cut it out, fire boy," he replied, signifying the playful banter was all in good fun. "Where's my sake?"

Phoenix sighed, his sense of humor still intact, as he said, "I'll give it to you when we head back, as long as you promise to share it."

Yoru, with a smirk on his lips, took a sip of his malt and leaned in closer to Phoenix, retorting, "No way."

[mianyann]

Absolution | Yoru x Reader

Chapter 3: "Revelations"

Beneath the blue sky, life pulsed within the heart of Valorant Headquarters. Agents, still battling slumber in their heavy-lidded eyes, flowed into the bustling dining hall. The clinking of plates harmonized with a symphony of breakfast aromas drawn from the corners of the globe. It didn't matter whether you craved the simpleness of a bagel or a five-star meal inspired by the distant shores of Fiji – breakfast was more than just a meal here; it was a ritual.

You entered the dining hall with a touch of shyness, immediately capturing the collective gaze of those around you. Their watchful eyes seemed to dissect you with intense scrutiny, focusing on each bandage and every wrinkle of concern. Instinctively, you sought to conceal your vulnerabilities, shielding them from the prying eyes of your newfound peers. Amid this sea of scrutiny, one island of comfort emerged - Neon.

With her peppy smile, Neon approached you, her white-haired companion, Jett, by her side. Her introduction was an explosion of unbridled enthusiasm. Despite the early hour, Jett extended a friendly hand in greeting, her groggy smile bearing traces of the just-broken morning.

"That must have been quite a morning surprise," Jett commented with a yawn, acknowledging the early hour. "Neon told me about what you've been through, and I can't even begin to imagine how terrifying that place must have been. I'm a little claustrophobic myself, but that's beside the point. If you ever need anything, rest assured we're here for you. You may be new, but we're all dedicated to making you feel at home."

You continued to stand there, ensnared in this whirlwind of introductions, your gaze shifting between Neon and Jett. Despite her morning grogginess, Jett's friendly demeanor was a welcoming sight. With a nod, Jett excused herself and made her way to an unoccupied seat. Her raised eyebrows and lingering gaze communicated her genuine interest in both you and Neon. As she enjoyed a piece of toast, you and Neon remained standing, connected by the warmth of your exchange and a sense of belonging you hadn't anticipated. It served as a reminder that, even though your past had been darkened by fear, here in the heart of Valorant Protocol, there was a glimmer of hope.

Neon, ever enthusiastic, guided you to an unclaimed table where she had laid out a simple yet inviting breakfast – a waffle beside a cup of fruit, a serving of yogurt with granola, and a steaming cup of tea. You regarded the meal with a mixture of weariness and eagerness, a poignant reminder of the nourishment you'd long been deprived of.

With genuine gratitude, you looked up at Neon and sincerely said, "Thank you." As you met her eyes, you couldn't help but notice the blush that graced her cheeks. Her already sparkling personality was further adorned by her radiant smile.

-

Phoenix sat at the end of the bustling dining hall, hastily devouring two pieces of toast topped with a fried egg while cradling a steaming cup of black tea. Breakfast had always been Phoenix's favorite, making him the first to rise and ravage the breakfast bar. He even had his designated plate for the occasion. On the opposite end of the table sat Fade, her slender fingers gently embracing a mug of black coffee while a modest bowl of blackberries waited for her attention. The room hummed with morning chatter.

As Phoenix gobbled down his meal, his amber eyes drifted toward Fade, who had been silently sipping her coffee. Their gazes collided, and with a mouth still full, Phoenix playfully pointed at a lone piece of toast remaining on her plate. "You gonna eat that?"

Responding with a sigh and an exasperated eye roll, Fade reluctantly slid the untouched toast toward him. Her attention shifted, turning toward the dining hall's open window. Outside, the naked trees swayed to the rhythm of the brisk autumn wind, their leaves having already surrendered to the inevitable descent to the ground. Fade couldn't help but smile, captivated by the chill in the air and the fading greenery. It was her favorite weather.

Letting out a contemplative sigh, Fade's gaze returned to the table, focusing on the hostage they had rescued the day before. She spoke softly, her voice laced with concern, "What a poor soul."

Phoenix, still chewing on his last bite of toast, nodded in agreement. Swallowing hard, he leaned in, lowering his voice. "Is that the Radiant?"

Surprise widened Fade's eyes as she snatched the fork from Phoenix's grasp, her fingers gripping onto his fork. "What do you know?" Her tone was both inquisitive and skeptical.

Caught off guard, Phoenix gulped and straightened up, clearing his throat before attempting to salvage his dignity. He pushed his now-empty tea cup aside. "I know nothing."

Unimpressed, Fade rolled her eyes and fixed her piercing gaze upon him. It was a scrutinizing look that could weaken even the most steadfast. Phoenix's resistance crumbled. "Yoru and I had a few drinks last night," he confessed reluctantly, "and we chatted about her. That's all. No harm."

Fade's sigh signaled her reluctance to pry further. She handed the fork back to Phoenix, though her concern still lingered. The image of Radiants, their ethereal light fading, piled together like refuse in her memory, haunted her. Fade spent all night pondering what it meant to die as a Radiant, their inner brilliance extinguished by an unknown force.

-

Yoru was the last person to drag himself into the bustling dining hall. He approached breakfast with apathy, often forgoing the meal entirely. Phoenix, with determination, took it upon himself to persuade Yoru into eating, well aware of Yoru's ability to go for days without food. At best, Yoru might relent to packaged ramen, per Phoenix's insistence, or nibble on a piece of fruit. Yoru's diet consisted mainly of steamed vegetables, fruit, and a small bowl of rice, avoiding almost everything else.

On this particular morning, Yoru strolled into the dining hall, attracting a different kind of attention. Rather than admiration, onlookers gazed at him with a mixture of disgust and concern. His usually well-groomed appearance was conspicuously disheveled. From the unruly mess of his hair, to the shirt he'd put on backward and inside out, to the bunched-up sweatpants and mismatched sneakers, Yoru appeared to have been caught in a whirlwind. The room seemed to sigh collectively at the sight of him.

Unfazed by the disarray of his friend, Phoenix, heaving a resigned sigh, made his way to Yoru. His voice carried a hint of amusement as he playfully observed, "You're a wreck."

Yoru's brows knitted together in a blend of shock, annoyance, and confusion at Phoenix's straightforward comment. With a casual arm draped over Yoru's shoulder, Phoenix guided him toward Fade and his usual table. There, he firmly seated Yoru, who displayed the same blank expression as he did when he was about to take a shot. Phoenix rolled an apple toward Yoru, positioning it beside a plate of toast. His intentions were clear: he wasn't going to tolerate Yoru's intermittent fasting any longer.

Phoenix quipped with a smile, "I'm not dealing with you not eating again. You can't maintain that physique of yours, and you won't be much of a ladies' man without it."

Fade, though slightly exasperated by Yoru, couldn't help but feel a pang of concern as she observed his condition. She knew that he had been the one to accompany the hostage and had probably seen things that were hard to shake off.

Yoru, sitting before his pitiful piece of toast, had yet to react to the morning's developments. The table remained wrapped in silence, except for the background chatter and the clinking of utensils. Phoenix, aiming to break the silence, turned the conversation toward their upcoming day off.

He inquired, "What are your plans for the day, mate?"

Fade, looking up from her mug, answered with a relaxed demeanor, "I'll be tending the gardens with KAY/O and Sage. I'm surprised Sage is getting a day off after everything that's happened."

Yoru winced at the reminder of the previous day's mission. His fork pierced through the toast, causing both Phoenix and Fade to redirect their attention to him. Yoru raised his wide eyes, issuing a nearly inaudible apology as he leaned back in his chair, arms folded.

Phoenix let out a nervous chuckle, breaking the silence that had settled around them. "Uh… what about you, mate? What are you doing today?" His voice wavered with unease, a stark contrast to the weight of the day's events.

Yoru, still carrying the burden of his thoughts, sighed and shook his head. "Probably going to the range to practice a bit on my own." He emphasized his solo venture, typically having Phoenix as his company, but he couldn't help but notice that Phoenix didn't appear troubled by the prospect.

With a reassuring smile, Phoenix turned his focus to Yoru, concern etched into his expression. He knew that Yoru was putting up a front, and he didn't want his friend to bear the weight of recent events alone. Phoenix reassured Yoru that he understood more than he let on.

-

Neon marveled at your ravenous appetite, never having met a girl with such an insatiable hunger. Plate after plate of breakfast foods from around the world disappeared before you. She tried several times to slow you down, her thumb finding its way into her mouth as she contemplated whether to intervene.

"Uh… why don't you save some for lunch and dinner?" Neon suggested, her brows furrowed with concern. "We take meals very seriously here… maybe we can find you a little snack or some water." But her words fell on deaf ears, and it took Neon physically taking your plate away to make you realize just how full you were. You let out an audible sigh, sinking into your chair as drowsiness washed over you from the overwhelming meal.

Unbeknownst to you, curious eyes had been locked onto you from the surrounding tables, casting a light shade of embarrassment across your cheeks. Neon, perceiving the situation, shot a knowing look at her fellow agents, prompting them to divert their attention back to their own meals and conversations.

With a warm smile, Neon offered you a napkin to clean the smudges of food from your face. Shyly, you tucked your body in, your gaze fixated on the blank table before you.

Neon took your hand and leaned in closer, her tone inviting. "So, today is our off day. How about we do something fun?" Her enthusiasm was infectious, and you couldn't help but nod, your voice soft as you replied, "That would be… fun."

Neon remained unfazed by your reserved demeanor, fully aware of the challenges you faced adapting to this new life. She brainstormed ideas eagerly, sharing her plans with you, "We can hang out in the common room, meet some of my friends. Oh, and we can hit the range and try out our weapons, although I might need to run that by Brimstone. But he probably won't mind."

While Neon continued to express her suggestions, your mind wandered back to the man you distinctly remembered seeing. His image was etched in your memory, right down to the color of his shoelaces. You met Neon's eyes with newfound determination, saying confidently, "I know what I want to do today."

-

Bullets flew, ricocheted, missed, hit. Magazine filled, trigger pulled. Yoru had spent hours in the shooting range. Whenever something weighed heavily on his mind, he found solace in the rhythmic chorus of bullets piercing the training bots' heads. He took an occasional drag from his cigarette, a habit reserved for stressful times, as he honed in on his target. A clean shot rang out as he sighed, setting his gun against a barrel and leaning against the shooting booth.

His cigarette was discarded, and he removed his jacket, neatly folding it and placing it on his lap. Fingers ran through his unruly hair as he reflected on that fateful day, the day he found those lifeless bodies, the day he found you. It played over and over in his mind, a puzzle he couldn't quite solve. He wasn't preoccupied with you, but rather the enigma of the Radiant race, the notion of their Radiance withering away, leaving only a decaying vessel.

Yoru's own memories surfaced, of the time he'd been discovered by the protocol, battered and teetering on the edge of death. He had needed days to recover under Sage's watchful care. But he also remembered his early days within the protocol, a time when he was seen as a weaker link. He was the subject of ridicule, his fellow agents doubting his ability to perform under pressure. It was this distrust from his peers that had made him lose respect for them. Yoru preferred working alone, saving others only when it served his interests. Phoenix was the lone exception, the only one he believed genuinely cared for him. Yet, even with their friendship, Yoru couldn't entirely trust him.

At the range's entrance, Yoru's attention was drawn to a blue-haired girl ascending the steps. She crossed her arms and questioned him, "Where have you been hiding?" Yoru scoffed and began packing up, grabbing his jacket and Vandal as he approached her. "I was just leaving."

But the girl placed her hand on his chest, halting him in his tracks. "That girl wants to meet you." Yoru's demeanor changed, and he took a step back, his gaze piercing into hers as he cleared his throat and assumed a stern expression. "I'd rather not. I have better things to do."

The girl, Neon, chuckled lightly and crossed her arms again as she looked up at Yoru. "Like what? Going on your 5th date? You can't keep walking out of these situations." Yoru shook his head disapprovingly as he hung up his gun, put his jacket back on, and made his way toward the exit. But Neon caught up behind him and grabbed his sleeve. Yoru instinctively pushed her hand away, turning to face her, his eyes locking onto hers.

Neon shifted her gaze to the side as she spoke, "She has no friends here, she's barely making friends with Jett, and everyone else seems put off by her. I don't know if you've ever experienced something like that, but when I joined Valorant, it was the same for me. It's not easy, and I'd really appreciate it if you could help her out a bit." Yoru felt a trace of sympathy for you but couldn't bring himself to truly care. Neon's eyes softened as she looked at him, her unspoken plea echoing in her gaze. Yoru sighed and turned to walk away, his voice low, "I can't."

Neon watched as Yoru walked away, her eyes following him until he disappeared from view.

-

Sage knocked on your door gently, causing it to creak open just slightly, allowing a thin sliver of light from the hallway to pierce through and dance across the cold, dark room. Her presence was a soothing contrast to the somber atmosphere as she observed you, seated at your desk, engrossed in the profiles of the various agents within the protocol. With an amused chuckle, she remarked, "I see you're adapting well, aren't you?"

You swiveled your chair around to face her, the faintest trace of a smile gracing your lips upon hearing her comforting voice. "Doing my best," you replied, before returning your attention to the screen, which displayed a wealth of information meticulously curated by Brimstone.

Sage moved closer, placing a glass of water on your desk before her hands found their place on her hips. She spoke softly, her words carrying the warmth of understanding. "Neon told me about what's been happening." You sighed, the ephemeral smile giving way to furrowed brows as you fought back the emotional turmoil within you. "I don't know what I've done wrong, but it seems like not many people like me here."

Sage sighed in response, her empathy evident. She lowered herself into the chair beside you and extended her hand, her fingers finding your shoulder with gentle reassurance. "It's not that no one likes you," she assured. "We're all very cautious about new members joining the protocol. The past breaches have left a lingering sense of vigilance, but as time passes and trust develops, that apprehensiveness will gradually ease."

Before leaving, Sage stopped in her tracks with her hand resting on the doorknob. She turned to face you once more, her eyes filled with a sense of compassion and understanding. "There's a meeting in the common room at 6. Everyone will be there. I believe it would be the perfect opportunity for you to meet everyone."

You turned your gaze to meet Sage's, a grateful and determined smile playing upon your lips as you nodded. "I'll be there."

Sage acknowledged your commitment with a nod before finally departing, leaving you with newfound determination. You resumed scrolling through the agent profiles, but one name in particular caught your attention and refused to release its grip on your thoughts: Chamber.

-

The dormitory held a somber atmosphere, heavy with the weight of the day's tumultuous events. Phoenix's voice cut through the silence, its accusatory edge echoing off the room's walls. "You did not."

Yoru, seated at the edge of his bed, met Phoenix's eyes. A flicker of defiance danced in his gaze, his arms crossed as he observed Phoenix securing the door behind them. The room settled into an uneasy stillness as Phoenix paced back and forth, his frustration palpable.

Phoenix's exasperation peaked as he pinched the skin between his eyebrows and muttered, "That was our one opportunity to get some information about what happened, and you fumbled it."

He let out a heavy sigh, his gaze lifting to the ceiling as laughter bubbled from his lips. It was a nervous, almost hysterical chuckle that seemed to drain the tension from his body. In a fit of emotion, he flopped onto his own bed, across from where Yoru sat. Yoru's expression contrasted with Phoenix's emotional turbulence; he regarded Phoenix's emotional rollercoaster with a lighthearted smirk.

Between his smirk and light-hearted chuckles, Yoru sought to clarify his stance. "I don't want to talk to her, that's all."

Phoenix turned his head slightly, propped up on his elbows, his voice matter-of-fact. "Why? What's wrong with talking to her?"

Yoru, sighing contently, finally achieved a moment of clarity. He reached for the bottle, pouring himself another shot and addressing the issue directly. "It's a waste of time."

Yoru leaned back, taking a sip and sighing, his thoughts weighing on him. It was evident that Yoru was grappling with his own internal struggles.

Undeterred, Phoenix was determined to get to the bottom of this. He seized his shot glass, filled it to the brim, and slapped his palms together to propose a challenge. "You think she's pretty, don't you?"

Yoru responded with a deadpan expression, his demeanor unwavering. "Not one bit."

Phoenix was taken aback by the unexpected response and couldn't help but laugh heartily at himself. However, as he noticed the unwavering seriousness in Yoru's gaze, he grinned widely. "Oh, you're serious. Well, I think she's pretty cute, in my opinion."

Yoru took another sip from his glass before placing it back on the table. "She smelled horrible when I found her."

Phoenix stared at Yoru in disbelief, as the stark reality of the situation weighed on him. "Well, no shit, she was in there for days."

Yoru's apathetic demeanor since the discovery concerned Phoenix. He couldn't help but sense that something deeper was troubling his friend, especially as Yoru had let go of his usual meticulous grooming habits. Clearing his throat, Phoenix set down his glass and straightened up with determination. "We're talking to her."

Yoru crossed his arms, locking his gaze onto Phoenix, unyielding. "I told you—"

Phoenix immediately cut him off, knowing Yoru was drawn to challenges. "First one to get her digits gets the bottle." Phoenix pointed to the bottle of sake, holding it up as a coveted prize.

Yoru's eyes locked onto the exquisite bottle of pure sake. He couldn't resist a good competition. With a competitive glint in his eyes, he looked back at Phoenix and declared, "You're on."

[mianyann]

Absolution | Yoru x Reader

Chapter 2: "Obsidian"

The aircraft's engines roared to life, and with a shuddering lurch, the vessel embarked on its journey away from that sinister, oppressive facility. The flight was marred by turbulence, a turbulent reflection of the emotions that churned within the team.

Neon, Fade, and Sage huddled around you, their expressions painted with worry as they watched over your still-unconscious form. Each bump and shudder of the aircraft mirrored the uncertainty and unease that had settled within their hearts.

Opposite your prone figure, Yoru appeared detached. His gaze seemed to wander beyond the aircraft window, his thoughts drifting through the haze of recent events. The enigma that enveloped you had ignited an unexpected curiosity within him, though he wasn't about to confess such a weakness.

Neon, ever perceptive, decided to pry beneath Yoru's usually impenetrable exterior. She couldn't ignore the transformation she had witnessed in him. "Yoru, something's been eating at you since we found her. What's on your mind?" Her tone was a delicate blend of concern and intrigue.

Yoru cast a fleeting glance in her direction, his eyes briefly locking onto hers before drifting away. He shrugged dismissively, attempting to mask the uncertainty that had begun to fester within him. "It's nothing, Neon. I just don't see why we're making such a fuss over a hostage. We've been through these situations countless times before," he replied, though a trace of irritation edged into his voice.

Fade, always the voice of skepticism, entered the conversation. "This isn't an ordinary hostage, Yoru. There's something peculiar about her," she insisted, her brows knitting together as she contemplated the enigma you presented.

Sage, ever the compassionate soul, couldn't help but voice her own concerns. "I concur with Fade. There's an inexplicable element to her condition. I fear the consequences when she awakens."

Yoru heaved a sigh, coming to terms with the fact that his attempts to brush off the matter were in vain. He reclined in his seat, crossing his arms, and let out another exasperated sigh. "So, what would you like me to do about it? I'm here to follow orders," he retorted with a hint of sarcasm, but his inquisitiveness continued to gnaw at him from within.

Time in the cabin stretched on, punctuated only by the fidgeting of Neon as she absently tapped away at her phone. The turbulence outside seemed to mirror the tensions within. Yoru's gaze occasionally wandered in your direction, your frail figure nestled against the seat, still lost in unconsciousness. Despite his best efforts to feign indifference, he couldn't escape the sense of fascination you had unexpectedly ignited within him, an ember glowing against the backdrop of his feigned apathy.

-

Hours dragged on, the aircraft edging closer to the Valorant Protocol's headquarters with each passing minute. Inside, the dimly lit cabin was a stage of anxious anticipation mixed with a heavy dose of uncertainty. Neon, Fade, and Sage remained vigilant, their eyes unwavering as they continued to keep a watchful eye on your still unconscious form.

Yoru, despite his outward facade of disinterest, couldn't suppress the flickers of curiosity that continued to dance within him. His wandering glances in your direction betrayed the illusion he'd carefully crafted. Observing his restless demeanor, Fade couldn't resist a playful tease. "What's caught your attention, Yoru?" Her words hung in the air, and Yoru, rather than acknowledging her directly, chose to direct his attention to his own shoes. He mused, "Perhaps inviting strangers into the Valorant Protocol under these circumstances isn't the smartest decision." Fade regarded him with a mix of disbelief and exasperation, her gaze fixed firmly on his impassive expression. "We can't afford to tarnish Valorant's reputation further; this could be disastrous," she argued.

Then, you stirred, your eyelids fluttering open. As your awareness returned, you found yourself in an unfamiliar setting - the interior of an aircraft, with the presence of strangers, and a throbbing headache. Panic surged through you as you attempted to sit up, but the sharp pain forced a groan from your lips, and you clutched your head.

Neon, who had been keeping a watchful eye, immediately leaned in, her fingers brushing lightly against your thigh. "Hey, you're awake. Take it easy; you've been through a lot," she offered reassurance, her voice warm and friendly, her thumb tracing absent patterns on your jeans.

Blinking, you struggled to comprehend the situation. The memories of your captivity rushed back, and you shuddered at the grim recollections. "Where am I? Who are you?" Fear laced your words, your voice trembling with uncertainty.

Seated beside you, Sage extended a calming hand, her eyes filled with compassion. "It's alright. I'm Sage, second in command with the Valorant Protocol. You're aboard an aircraft, and we're here to help you," she explained, her soothing tone aimed at easing your nerves.

Yoru, however, remained across from you, his demeanor largely unaffected. His gaze drifted in your direction, his expression marked with a hint of disdain. As he observed the interaction between you and the Valorant agents, his apathy appeared unwavering, and he couldn't suppress a subtle smile as he turned his attention aside.

As you began to recount the horrifying events that had led to your current predicament, a wave of despair washed over you. "I… I was trapped in that place, surrounded by radianite. They were experimenting on us," you confessed, your voice shaking with a mixture of dread and anger. In an instant, Yoru's smug smile fell from his face, replaced by a sense of unease as he instinctively leaned in closer, his elbows resting on his knees.

Neon, Fade, and Sage exchanged glances filled with concern, their expressions growing graver with each word you uttered. The severity of your ordeal was becoming increasingly evident, and an atmosphere of tension continued to permeate the cabin.

-

The aircraft continued its journey back to the Valorant Protocol headquarters. Sage, Neon, and Fade listened intently as you recounted the horrors you had endured in the facility, your voice shaking with each word. Yoru’s disinterested facade finally began to waver, replaced by a genuine concern. As you spoke, it became clear that the radianite experiments were far more sinister and gruesome than anyone had initially suspected. Sage’s compassionate nature drove her to offer comforting words, but she struggled to find the right words to ultimately console you.

Neon, however, was quick to respond with a determined glint in her eyes. “We’re going to make sure those responsible for this pay for their actions,” she declared, her voice laced with conviction. Fade nodded in agreement, sharing Neon’s resolve. Yoru, sitting nearby, remained silent but observant. Your harrowing experience had cracked through the walls he had built around himself. Despite the situation, his primary concern remained his own safety as a Radiant.

-

As the aircraft gently descended at the Valorant Protocol headquarters, you were swiftly guided into a state-of-the-art medical facility where Sage conducted a comprehensive examination of your condition. By your side, Neon and Fade stood unwavering, offering you solace and unwavering support throughout the thorough assessment.

Meanwhile, in the adjacent common room, Yoru made a deliberate choice to remain there, perched at a table, his fingers wrapped around a cup of tea as he leisurely thumbed through Omen's well-worn book on crocheting. As he pored over the intricate patterns and contemplated the various types of yarn, his gaze intermittently strayed to the door that separated him from your examination room. His thoughts dwelled not on your well-being, but rather on the peculiar sensation of losing a unique part of oneself, severed from one's very soul.

-

With the initial medical examination complete, you were given a clean bill of health, despite the emotional and psychological scars you bore. Sage, Neon, and Fade stood by your side as you were led to a comfortable room within the Valorant Protocol headquarters, where you could rest and recover. The room was a bit more secluded from the other chambers where the agents rest, just to give you some sort of privacy considering the whole Protocol was alerted to your arrival.

The investigation into the sinister facility and the horrifying experiments you had described was now in full swing. Brimstone, Viper, and Sage, three influential leaders of the Valorant Protocol, gathered in the dimly lit meeting room that was typically reserved for dozens of agents. The room had seen its fair share of briefings and strategy sessions, but this time, the severity of the situation warranted utmost secrecy.

Sage, with a solemn expression, pulled out a file containing images she had captured in the facility. The photographs depicted the Radianite experiments, highlighting the eerie blue luminescent markings on the victims' bodies. She pointed out how even her powerful healing abilities were blatantly rejected by the Radiants, creating a palpable sense of dread among the leaders.

Brimstone and Viper, two strong-willed individuals with years of experience, studied the images with a mix of horror and curiosity. They exchanged puzzled glances, struggling to reconcile the unthinkable acts with the organization they had once been part of.

Viper, a former chemist at Kingdom, voiced her doubts about the organization's involvement. She found it almost impossible to believe that Kingdom, despite its flaws, would resort to such heinous experiments on Radiants. Her loyalty to her past employers and her deep-seated connections with the company left her hesitant to accept the harsh reality.

Brimstone, however, maintained a stern resolve. He regarded Viper with a mix of sorrow and worry, understanding her conflicted emotions. "Viper, I know your history with Kingdom, and I also understand the severity of this situation. But the evidence points to their involvement. Even if it's an act of betrayal from within, there's a trail leading back to Kingdom. This requires an investigation."

Sage, sensing Viper's internal turmoil, offered a comforting touch and encouragement. She gently grabbed Viper's hand and took the picture from her, proposing a potential solution. "Viper, I understand the difficulty of the situation. But perhaps you can use your past connections to our advantage. We could consider sending you undercover to gather crucial information. It might be risky, but it's a necessary step to unravel this nightmare."

Viper hesitated, torn between her loyalty to Kingdom and her commitment to the Valorant Protocol. She knew the decision held immense consequences for both organizations and the world at large. She cast her gaze upon her fingertips, gripping her clipboard tightly as her emotions churned. Eventually, she pushed herself up from her seat, her voice reflecting the weight of the situation.

"Gather everyone in the common room at 6:00 pm sharp. We need to figure something out," Viper announced, her determination tempered by the magnitude of the choice before her. With a smirk of genuine admiration, she glanced over at Sage. "Good work today," she complimented warmly, her voice laden with respect. "Bring that little friend of yours; we might just need them."

-

You awoke to a sterile canvas. The walls, sheets, desk, and shelves—all white. It felt as if your world had been upended, leaving you disoriented and adrift. Nothing seemed familiar, and a sense of profound loss gnawed at you. You clutched the blanket, struggling to remember how you'd ended up in this unfamiliar room. Your head throbbed, your vision remained hazy, and every slight movement sent tingles of discomfort coursing through your body.

Amid your pain and confusion, you finally noticed a woman with striking blue and yellow hair sitting in a Lawson chair at the end of your bed, her eyes fixed on you with concern. She spoke rapidly, her words tumbling out. "I'm glad you're awake! I'm sorry if I'm bothering you or anything like that," she said. "Sage had me keep an eye on you until you woke up. I need to make sure you don't do anything to exacerbate the pain you're already feeling."

Her words seemed to spin your head even more, but you managed to offer a small, pained smile. With great effort, you adjusted the pillows behind you to support your back, wincing as you reclined. Neon, the woman watching over you, had an unmistakable eagerness about her presence, which left you perplexed.

Neon appeared as if she was about to burst with questions. Her curiosity was palpable. She asked, "What's your name? Codename, birthname? I don't know—what should we call you?" As she inquired, she observed your struggle to remember your own name.

You responded with an awkward chuckle, gripping the sheets as you confessed, "I'm… not too sure." Neon's expression softened into a slight frown as she settled back into the chair's soft upholstery, smoothing down her pants. Her smile returned, but there was a hint of melancholy as she said, "It seems you've met some of our top agents! I can't wait until you meet Jett, Raze, Gekko… It's so exciting to have you with us!" Neon tried to distract you from the disorienting situation, but beneath her enthusiasm, she knew that erasing your confusion was a nearly impossible task.

Yoru and Phoenix sat in their dimly lit dormitory, the weight of the day's events pressing down upon them. The room itself seemed to grow heavier, as though the very air had thickened with the gravity of their situation.

Their conversation had ebbed into silence, and it was as if the quiet had a life of its own, expanding to fill every corner of the room. Phoenix's empty drinking glass, adorned with forgotten condensation, stood as a silent testament to the drink he had just finished.

Phoenix examined his ring, his fingers tracing the intricate etchings eternally etched into the metallic surface. He turned it this way and that, the ring capturing the room's dull light, casting fleeting shadows on the white walls that surrounded them.

After a heavy sigh, Phoenix lifted his gaze to meet Yoru's, his eyes filled with a knowing look. He could read Yoru like an open book, and he knew that his friend had been wrestling with his thoughts.

"You've been thinking, haven't you?" Phoenix inquired, his voice gentle, yet carrying the weight of understanding.

Yoru's expression softened as he met Phoenix's gaze head-on. He hesitated for a moment, taking a deep breath before he spoke, the words escaping like a reluctant confession.

"Well, yeah. What I saw was…" Yoru's voice trailed off as he tried to find the right words. His brow furrowed in frustration. "Look, I just can't shake off the feeling and the smell. It was too much."

Phoenix carefully set down his empty glass on the wooden table, his chair's front legs lifting off the ground slightly from the weight of his contemplation. He leaned back, the worn chair creaking softly. His sigh was heavy, but he spoke with a reassuring tone.

"I get it," Phoenix said, his voice steady. "But you can't let it get to you. This is all part of the job, and you know you're one of our best agents, man. We're counting on you."

Yoru couldn't help but appreciate the support he received from his friend, but the weight of the discovery still hung heavily over him. He crossed his arms, his legs spread out, and he stared down at his orange laces, chewing on his gum.

Phoenix, recognizing the profound impact of the day's revelations on Yoru, couldn't bear to see his friend in such turmoil. He watched as Yoru let out another sigh, frustration and unease etched across his face.

"You don't understand," Yoru muttered, his voice barely more than a whisper. He ran a hand through his disheveled hair, once meticulously styled, now hanging in disarray – a reflection of the chaotic thoughts racing through his mind. The unease and confusion gnawing at him from the inside. "We're not immortal, and everything we knew has been erased, entirely."

Phoenix watched Yoru in silence, deeply worried. This was a side of Yoru that he hadn't seen before, the confident and cocky agent shaken to his core by the discovery. Yoru shifted his gaze to the tattered posters on the walls, as if seeking answers among the faded images.

Eventually, Yoru turned his attention back to Phoenix, his foot tapping restlessly on the floor. He took a swig of his drink, the glass clinking softly as he set it back down.

"The hostage was a Radiant," Yoru revealed, his voice tinged with disbelief. "Not just any Radiant; she's dying. Part of her has just entirely died. She's a walking corpse. Not even Sage knows how she's alive."

Phoenix sat there in stunned silence, his mind racing to comprehend the implications of what Yoru had just shared. The air grew thicker between them, a palpable tension hanging in the room.

Phoenix managed a nervous chuckle, his hand rubbing the back of his head, a thin sheen of sweat forming on his forehead as he struggled to find the right words. Yoru, his usual confident and arrogant demeanor temporarily shattered, couldn't bring himself to add anything more to the conversation.

Silently, Yoru poured another drink for Phoenix, and they both sat in contemplative silence, wrestling with the immense weight of their discovery and the uncertainties it brought.

-

As darkness draped itself over the Valorant Headquarters, Yoru lay on his bed, ensnared by the eerie aftermath of the day's disturbing events. Sleep, which usually came effortlessly to Yoru, eluded him tonight. His eyes remained fixed on the ceiling, where the cracks formed a fractured map of his thoughts. A deep sigh escaped his lips, like a specter of his restive state.

In the dimness, his thoughts invariably drifted to you, your pallid image seared into his mind. He knew that room you'd been trapped in was a place where only nightmares could thrive. Yoru's face remained a mask of composure, but internally, he retraced his steps within that chilling facility. The dim lights and stark walls were like a canvas tainted with the blood of the fallen.

Yoru was known for his cool exterior, a man unburdened by typical emotions, but tonight, a profound sense of unease had settled in. He longed to hear your story, suspecting that it might cast him as the unlikely hero, the one who could quell the relentless Radiant assaults. The thought of being lauded by the Protocol stirred a fleeting, cryptic smile on his lips. However, the sight of you, in your injured state, filled him with dread, fearing what might happen if he were to confront the elusive killer.

[mianyann]

Absolution | Yoru x Reader

Chapter 1: "Awakening"

Wattpad Link: https://www.wattpad.com/story/354742695-absolution-yoru-x-reader

You awoke with a sudden jolt, your body drenched in cold sweat, and your eyes slowly blinked open. Your surroundings came into focus, revealing glistening fragments of what appeared to be radianite scattered about, casting an eerie, spectral glow in the dim room. The sole source of illumination hung from the ceiling, a solitary, swinging lamp. As you attempted to sit up, a peculiar, electric sensation coursed through your body, causing your head to spin and your throat to constrict. Every movement seemed to sap your strength, as if the frigid air conspired to hold you in place.

The world you once knew lay in ruins, and the feeble light in the room could only provide limited guidance. With great effort, you managed to stand, trailing your bloodied and battered hands along the walls in a desperate search for an exit. But, to your mounting despair, your quest yielded nothing. Panic gripped you with each futile attempt, pushing you to the brink until you crumbled to the ground, overcome by a flood of desperate tears.

Time lost meaning within that claustrophobic chamber, an eternity compressed into mere hours. Eventually, you succumbed to exhaustion and anxiety, collapsing back onto the unforgiving floor, tears mingling with the pain and confusion, until sleep mercifully overcame you.

The sensation of holding a rifle was meant to be empowering, instilling a sense of purpose. Sage's delicate hands lovingly caressed the weapon's handguard, entrusting her life to it as she prepared to infiltrate the facility. Accompanied by four others, they loaded their magazines, their faces exuding confidence, readying themselves for the challenges ahead.

Typically, Sage was not the one to lead operations; her role usually involved overseeing the injured and ensuring their safety. However, Brimstone had entrusted her with this mission due to the precarious condition of the captives. It was widely known among the team that losing Sage would be catastrophic. Her gaze swept over her comrades with a motherly tenderness, assuring them of her unwavering protection.

Sage's eyes first locked onto Neon, her hand gently touching Neon's face, reassuring her, "Neon, I believe in you. We will make it home safe, I promise." She then turned to Fade, her heart open and vulnerable, offering encouragement, "Fade, you know your mission, and I have no doubt you'll give it your all, for Valorant."

Killjoy observed as Sage approached her, fidgeting with her gun, her nervousness apparent. Sage chuckled softly and rested her hand on Killjoy's shoulder, "You'll perform brilliantly out there, Killjoy. We have complete faith in your tech." Last but not least, Sage confronted the enigmatic Yoru, her gaze piercing, "Yoru, you're undoubtedly our MVP, but don't forget the significance of our mission."

Yoru watched as Sage walked away, arms crossed, feeling a mix of bewilderment at her words and pride for being called an MVP. He ensured his customized vandal was intact, then took his place behind Sage, ready for the mission. They approached a hatch buried beneath fallen leaves, surrounded by towering trees in the crisp autumn air. Sage strained to lift the hatch, but as the air hissed around her, she coughed and stumbled back.

Squinting into the darkness, Sage hesitated as all five of them descended into the pit. Yoru was the first to step forward, scanning the room that unfolded before him. Sage looked back at her team, their faces barely visible, and issued her first set of orders, "Neon and Fade, find the main control room to restore the lights. Killjoy and I will locate the hostage and set up defenses. Yoru, identify hostiles and inform us if you find the hostage."

Everyone nodded and split up, utilizing their flashlight attachments to navigate the dim labyrinth. Killjoy and Sage headed toward the area Cypher had pointed to, ensuring they watched all angles for potential threats. Fade and Neon made their way to the control panel, and Neon successfully activated the lights, revealing the extent of the situation.

Yoru, however, stumbled upon a gruesome sight. He relayed to the team through his earpiece, "What the hell is all this? Radianite everywhere… and corpses, it smells awful."

Sage shook her head in disbelief and scolded Yoru, "Is that your primary concern? Are you certain it's radianite and not something else?" Killjoy emerged from the saferoom, recoiling from a horrifying sight, "I don't know what I just witnessed, but it's beyond terrifying."

Sage switched off her earpiece, gripping her rifle with trembling hands as she cautiously peered around the corner. Her eyes widened in horror at the gruesome scene before them: a heap of dead Radiants piled in front of red letters that spelled out 'Down with these pigs.' She approached the gruesome spectacle with extreme caution, extending her arm to stop Killjoy from venturing closer. She turned her earpiece back on, reporting the scene to her teammates and instructing them to continue searching for the hostage.

Once more, you jolted awake, caught in the grip of an icy shiver, perspiration trickling down your face. You attempted to sit up, just as you had before, only to discover your strength waning. It felt as though your body had been drained of every ounce of vitality and life. Struggling with all your might to remain upright, you dragged your battered leg toward the nearest wall, banging on it with all the strength you could muster, only to crumple to the ground once again.

Gasping, you clutched your stomach, feeling the painful constriction as nausea threatened to overwhelm you due to the stress and anxiety. You dared not utter a sound, aware that any attempt to do so might lead to choking on your own vomit. Instead, you continued to pound on the unyielding concrete wall, knowing that each blow only added to your suffering.

Yoru's determination to search intensified. His primary concern wasn't the identity of the trapped individual; he was driven by a fierce desire to enhance his reputation among his peers, to be hailed as a hero. Competitiveness coursed through him at an extreme level. He fretted that Neon and Fade might reach their target before him, potentially stealing the credit he craved.

He clawed his way into the rift, swiftly retrieving his mask and securing it over his face as gravity seemed to betray him. Navigating through this alternate dimension, he felt unburdened by the constraints of time. He effortlessly glided past corridors, his eyes darting from door to door, yet it felt as if he was trapped in an endless loop. His frustration grew with each passing moment.

Returning to his starting point, Yoru's anger surged. He swiftly activated his earpiece and bellowed, "I don't have a clue who the hell we're searching for, but this feels like an impossible task." Fade chimed in, "Yoru, have you always been this loud? Neon and I picked up a signal. It seems our target is radiant."

Frustrated beyond measure, Yoru yanked the earpiece from his ear and slammed his fist against the wall. Mission after mission, he felt as though he couldn't contribute beyond taking shots at the enemy. The issue had been raised during a protocol meeting, and they were contemplating benching him for additional training. The memory of that meeting haunted him, the disappointment etched on the faces of the protocol members, especially the stern countenance and voice of Brimstone. It filled him with anger. He knew he had to locate the person they were searching for, if only to prove his worth.

Sage's delicate fingertips gently traced over the clothing of the deceased Radiants as she searched for any distinctive markings. She couldn't help but notice faint, ethereal blue glows emanating from their skin. Filled with curiosity, she attempted to use her restorative abilities on one of the lifeless bodies, only to be met with a searing pain coursing through her own body as the Radiant's form vehemently rejected the healing.

Shocked and bewildered, Sage turned to Killjoy, her expression reflecting her astonishment. "This is impossible. It's as if the Radiance has somehow turned and devoured their bodies," she muttered, her voice trembling with disbelief.

Killjoy's face contorted with terror. She had encountered dead bodies before, but there was something uniquely unsettling about seeing her own kind in such a horrific state. Sage, after snapping a few pictures of the grim scene, reported back to Brimstone, waiting anxiously for a response.

Neon and Fade navigated the labyrinthine corridors with meticulous precision, systematically clearing every conceivable corner to ensure they wouldn't be caught off guard. Their progress took an unexpected turn when they stumbled upon a ladder. This wasn't the ladder they had initially descended from, but an entirely different one that led even further underground. Neon tentatively touched the ladder's steps, preparing to descend until she suddenly recoiled, a fierce sensation coursing through her body, causing her to yelp in pain. "What was that?" she exclaimed, examining her fingers with the skin peeling off and blood oozing from the wound.

Fade scrutinized Neon's injured fingers and then turned her gaze toward the ominous ladder. "We need to inform Yoru about this. It's not safe to touch or be around," she asserted, feeling a sense of frustration that they had to involve that arrogant troublemaker, aware of his eagerness for attention.

Yoru, upon receiving the message, hurried over, his focus fixed on the ladder. "Did you let Sage know?" he inquired, an unmistakable air of amusement in his voice, hoping they hadn't, giving him another reason to feel superior.

Rolling her eyes and crossing her arms, Fade replied, "No, we thought it's best to get the hostage out before worrying Sage about a tampered ladder."

Yoru scoffed, then deployed his Gatecrash into the pit and teleported, connecting himself to the portal. He activated his flashlight attachment as he coughed from the dust, evidence that this place had remained untouched for days. Carefully, he navigated the dimly lit corridor, his flashlight darting from point A to point B, fully prepared for any potential confrontation.

Then, his attention sharpened as he picked up faint signs of life coming from his right. He stomped on the ground and called out, "Hello? Come out, you coward." Yoru was determined to intimidate whoever was present. However, he halted when he heard Neon's voice in his earpiece, urging him to get serious and find something.

Those words irritated him, as if the admiration he usually received had turned into disdain. He scoffed and continued scanning the walls until he spotted what seemed to be a hatch. His smirk returned as he strode toward it. "Look what I found," he announced, his hand gripping the handle, causing the hatch to release a hiss of air. Yoru instinctively turned his head away as he dropped his rifle and covered his mouth to avoid inhaling whatever had been released.

In his moment of shock, his rifle accidentally discharged a round into the wall, causing him to jump in surprise. "Fuck!" he exclaimed. After regaining his composure and maintaining his balance, he peered down into the room, spotting a small woman curled up in the middle of it. "Hello?" he called out. He then transmitted through his earpiece, "I believe I've found her…"

Your eyes shot upward, and a towering figure loomed over you. Fear seized your heart, and you instinctively backed into the wall, crying out with what little voice you had left. Tears welled up in your eyes as you lifted your arms to shield yourself, watching the man descend into the room where you'd been imprisoned for days. You continued to retreat from him, your voice trembling, "P-please, stay away…"

He remained silent, merely studying you with an unyielding gaze. After a few tense moments, you ceased your struggles, realizing he wasn't taking any immediate action. "Why are you here?" you managed to ask.

His expression remained impassive as he straightened up. "It's not like I want to be. I was ordered to come rescue you," he replied, the finality in his tone bolstering his self-assuredness, observing your submission to his authority. Suddenly gathering your strength, you attempted to lift yourself up, but he made no move to assist you. As you moved further into the light, the room's center felt colder than the darkness. The man's pitiless gaze bore into you as he watched your every move. He asked, "So, aren't you going to climb up?"

You glanced at the ladder and then back at him, your body tensing with embarrassment and shame at the lack of empathy he displayed. Slowly, you limped over to the ladder, clutching its rungs as you looked back at him. He closely followed you, and you hoisted yourself up. Your legs struggled under your own weight as you continued climbing, feeling his unyielding eyes on your back. "I-I'm sorry," you stammered, not entirely sure why you were apologizing, but sensing the man's patience wearing thin.

He scoffed and pushed you further up the ladder, accidentally striking your leg against the metal rung, causing you to cry out in pain. You couldn't resist him, so you climbed until your hands gripped the cold concrete floor. Eventually, Yoru ascended behind you, giving you an exasperated look as his shoulder brushed past yours. "Look, you're going to have to hold onto me. I hate it as much as you do," he grumbled, furrowing his brows.

Bewildered, you stared at him, unable to question him. But you complied, noting the annoyance on his face. Yoru grabbed you by your tattered shirt, pulling you close to his chest as he set up a Gatecrash portal above the final ladder. The world around you spun, and you felt a series of blue flashes envelop you, like being trapped in a whirlwind of chaos. You felt nauseous but couldn't vomit. Finally, you found yourself on the ground, surrounded by a group of people. To your right, a short, black-haired woman extended her hand to you, helping you up as she looked at you with sympathy in her eyes, radiating warmth.

You gazed at her, still scared and confused, as her face filled with sorrow. She glanced around, instructing the others to get in touch with someone you couldn't quite make out. You were so disoriented that you couldn't keep your eyes open. However, a rush of coldness coursed through your body, breathing life into your battered form. You couldn't discern any specific touches or words, only feeling the wind rushing around you and tears streaming down your cheeks.

Neon kept a close watch, her gaze fixed on your expression as she observed you being carried on Yoru's back toward the aircraft. "Will she be okay?" she inquired, turning to Fade, who wore a somber expression as she sighed, "We can only hope. We can't afford to lose another person under Valorant's watch."

Neon couldn't help but feel a deep sympathy for you, trying to fathom what it must have been like being held captive in that place for nearly five days. The thought of enduring such isolation and despair was horrifying. She recognized that many of her comrades had grown somewhat desensitized to these hostage situations due to their regular occurrence, but something about this one felt different. There was a palpable sense of loneliness and anguish that painted your face with sorrow. Neon wished nothing but the best for you, hoping that you would find some semblance of solace and healing after the ordeal.

As everyone headed back to the aircraft, Sage anxiously bit her nail while listening to Brimstone's orders. "You need to get her back to the HQ immediately. If she's a radiant, it's crucial that we study her and ensure her safety with us. We can't afford another incident, Sage," Brimstone instructed.

Sage nodded in acknowledgment and swiftly returned to her companions, passing on Brimstone's message as she charted the course for the journey back to headquarters. Yoru, who had been carrying you throughout the journey, reacted with a disgusted scoff as he practically tossed you onto one of the aircraft seats, earning disapproving looks from both Neon and Fade.

Fade was the first to break the silence, her voice laced with sarcasm. "Wow, it seems like you're truly aiming to get kicked off, aren't you?"

Yoru glared at her with disdain. "Rich of you to say. It's like you're the one with all those secret agendas and your disgusting coffee." His words dripped with contempt.

Fade simply shook her head, wearing a sardonic smile as her eyes locked with Yoru's. Meanwhile, Neon watched the exchange and chuckled nervously before seating herself next to your unconscious body, ensuring that both of you were securely buckled in for the journey.

As Sage inspected the aircraft along with Yoru, she double-checked the course and ensured that everything and everyone were securely in place before takeoff. Yoru opted to sit across from you, seemingly indifferent to your presence as the aircraft began its journey back to the headquarters. Yoru couldn't deny that he felt a twinge of sympathy for you, never having encountered a situation quite like this during his tenure in the Valorant Protocol. But deep down, he had an inkling that this might be the last time he would see you, didn't he?