Hi, English isn't my first language but I'm doing my best. I apologize if there are any mistakes, I'm really trying.
Night in Frankelda’s subconscious was always alive, but that one was quiet. The shadows swayed like pages moved by an invisible breeze. You had sat on a stone platform covered in ancient symbols, reading one of the fragments Herneval had “borrowed” from the Book of Hidden Scares.
You knew he had arrived before you heard him.His aura was always warm, like freshly heated ink.
“Ah… there you are,” he said, using the tone he reserved only for you—less theatrical, more… real. “My favorite distraction.
”He approached, his steps silent, his posture impeccable. His shadow wrapped around you before his wings did; a habit of his to announce he had found you.
“Distraction?” you said, smiling. “Is that what I am now?
”Herneval leaned behind you, his elegant, clawed hands resting on either side of you, enclosing you in a little world meant for two.
“The most dangerous one,” he murmured, brushing your neck with the tip of his nose. “And the most necessary.
”His voice vibrated against your skin.It was a confession disguised as flirtation.His favorite way of being honest.
You settled back against his chest, and without a word, he wrapped your shoulders with his wings. He always did it the second he sensed you wanted closeness, as if he had memorized your silences.
“You’ve been tense today,” you whispered.
Herneval exhaled slowly, almost like a human sigh.
“Procustes has been moving pieces again. Trying to interfere with Frankelda, with the balance… with us.”
Us.
A word he rarely used.
But when he did, it weighed like an ancient vow.
“I won’t let anything happen to you,” you assured him, intertwining your fingers with his.
Herneval froze for a moment.
Just a second.
But with him, a second was enough to read him.
“I’m the one who’s supposed to protect,” he reminded with a tilted smile.“The Prince of Scares doesn’t need to be saved.”
“You’re the prince of scares,” you whispered, “but you’re also… you.
”Herneval rested his forehead against your cheek, as if that gesture disarmed him more than any spell.
“With you, I’m less… mask.”
He squeezed your hand.
“That unsettles me. And I like it more than I should.”
You turned to look at him. He watched you with that intensity that blended desire, intelligence, and something he rarely showed: vulnerability.
“Herneval, I’m with you. Not for your power. Not for your titles.”
“I know,” he replied before you could finish, as if he feared your words as much as he needed them.
“And that’s the part that devours me and completes me at the same time.”
He leaned closer, letting his forehead touch yours.
His eyes, always bright, softened.
“If I asked you to stay tonight… not as a whim, but as something real… would you?”
You smiled softly.
“I always stay.”
Herneval closed his eyes for a moment, as if memorizing the heartbeat of that instant.
Then he kissed your forehead—an intimate gesture he claimed was “too human”… yet one he reserved only for you.
His wings wrapped fully around you, shutting out the chaos, the conspirators, the monsters, even the stories themselves.
Only the two of you.
His shadow embracing your light.
Your warmth balancing his magic.
“You are my weakness,” he confessed in a very low voice."
And my strength.
And the one thing I’m not willing to lose.
”You hugged him around the waist.He held you as if you were the only truth in a world made of fictions.
And for one night, the Prince of Scares rested.In you.
English isn't my native language, but I did my best to make it not awful. Please ignore any mistakes.
✨ “Under the Veil of Emberlight” (English Version)
The night had fallen softly over the forest, weaving shadows that seemed to move with a life of their own. But none of them frightened you—not when Herneval walked at your side, his presence warm and mysteriously radiant, like a flame that knew how to burn without ever harming you.
Your fingers brushed against his, and immediately he intertwined them with yours. His touch was firm, protective… yet gentle in that uniquely Herneval way—intense, but never overwhelming. The faint sparks of his magic traveled through your skin, subtle as fireflies dancing between your hands.
“Don’t wander too far,” he murmured, voice low and velvety, tinged with that enigmatic charm he carried everywhere. “Nights like this… the forest listens.
”You smiled. “And what does it hear now?”
He stopped walking. The forest fell silent for a moment, as if it too were waiting.
Herneval turned toward you—eyes glowing with that deep ember-like hue that always made your breath falter. His hand rose to cup your cheek, his thumb stroking with slow intent, warmth blooming beneath his touch.
“It hears my heart,” he whispered, leaning closer, “and how it refuses to quiet when you are near.
”Your chest tightened, not from surprise but from the familiar rush his honesty always sparked in you. Even in a settled relationship, Herneval never lost that intensity—he simply focused it all on you.
His forehead rested against yours, his breath warm, fragrant with a hint of magic and smoke. “You steady me,” he said softly. “Even when the world demands that I remain unshaken… you are the only one who sees how deeply I burn.
”You slid your arms around his waist, feeling the heat of his magic pulse against your body. “And I’m not afraid of the fire.
”Herneval inhaled sharply, the glow in his eyes flaring just a little brighter. His lips found yours—slow at first, testing, savoring—but soon deepening into something fuller, warmer, more consuming. The kind of kiss where he held your face with both hands as if you were something sacred.
When he pulled back, he didn’t move far. His fingers stayed tangled in your hair, his voice a soft promise against your lips.
“Stay with me tonight,” he murmured. “Let me show you a world where the magic doesn’t frighten… only loves.”
You nodded, leaning into him.
And with a swirl of embers drifting around you like stars torn from the sky, Herneval led you deeper into the forest—toward the quiet, glowing refuge he kept hidden from everyone except you.
English is not my native language, sorry if anything is poorly translated. I TRIED AND SUFFERED!
Year 2018.
United States — Defense Department Research Base, Florida.
The air smelled of metal, fuel, and reheated coffee. The laboratory was a place where science and military discipline intertwined like gears in perfect sync.
Microscopes, bioreactors, sealed tubes filled with samples that seemed to hold humanity’s future.
Xeno Houston Wingfield stood before a massive digital genome map. In one hand, a porcelain cup of black coffee; in the other, the calm precision of a man who saw numbers instead of limits.
“If we can isolate the mineral compound that maintains cellular integrity under extreme stress,” he murmured, fingers dancing over the keyboard, “we might be able to reproduce biological hibernation.”
Across the room, Stanley Snyder, his bodyguard, military officer, and closest ally, polished his weapon with the ease of routine. His eyes scanned the laboratory with silent vigilance.
“Typical you, Doc. Talking about duplicating life while forgetting to sleep.”
“Sleep is an inefficient biological distraction,” Xeno replied without looking up. “Some of us aspire to overcome human limitations.”
Stanley snorted.
“Right… until someone forces you to eat.”
The door opened with a soft pneumatic hiss.
A woman in a lab coat entered, carrying a folder and a quiet sense of confidence. Her badge read: T/n [Name Surname] — Biology Department, MIT & Tokyo Biogenetics.
“Dr. Xeno Wingfield, I presume?” she said politely but firmly.
“I’ve been assigned to collaborate on your Cellular Resilience under Extreme Environmental Stress project.”
Xeno finally lifted his gaze, studying her like a new equation.
“A biologist from Tokyo, specializing in extremophiles… an interesting choice by the committee.”
Stanley raised a brow.
“They brought in someone who studies algae for a national-defense project?”
T/n smiled faintly.
“If those algae can survive acid, vacuum, and radiation, they can save more lives than any bullet, Captain.”
Stanley stared for a moment—then smirked.
“Touché.”
Xeno set his cup down neatly.
“Welcome to the project then, Miss [T/n]. But be warned—this lab doesn’t tolerate mistakes.”
“Don’t worry, Doctor. I don’t tolerate wasted time.”
He held her gaze for a heartbeat longer, then nodded with the faintest trace of approval.
None of them knew that moment would bind their fates together long after civilization turned to stone.
Weeks later
The lab became their second home.
Days blurred into nights as T/n and Xeno exchanged ideas about adaptation and cellular endurance. She examined colonies of archaea and lichens while he calculated medical and military applications.
Stanley, ever the steady presence, stood between their worlds—the practical soldier and the visionary scientists.
One midnight, amid the hum of machines and the shimmer of glassware, Xeno broke the silence.
“Your persistence is remarkable,” he said, watching her scribble notes.
“Most researchers lose focus after the third sleepless night.”
She smiled softly.
“Science doesn’t sleep, Doctor. And someone has to prove your ‘perfect hibernation’ theory might actually work.”
Xeno chuckled, rare but genuine.
“I appreciate your pragmatism.”
Stanley, leaning against the wall, shook his head.
“You two could talk about microbes until sunrise.”
“We do,” they replied in unison.
They blinked, then laughed quietly.
For the first time, the sterile lab felt alive.
Months later
Their research succeeded—partially.
Human cells survived in extreme cold thanks to an engineered enzyme. It drew media and government attention alike. With recognition came pressure: Xeno from officials, T/n from global conferences, and Stanley from the ever-tightening grip of security protocols.
One summer night, under flickering fluorescent lights, the three of them stayed behind.
Stanley was reading a report when he spoke, his tone unusually reflective.
“You ever think about what would happen if the world just… shut off?”
T/n tilted her head.
“Shut off?”
“Yeah. No power, no comms, nothing. Just us and nature.”
Xeno folded his hands.
“Humanity would collapse within weeks. But with the right knowledge, it could be rebuilt.”
T/n looked down at her notes, then back at them.
“Then I hope, if that ever happens… we’re together.”
Silence lingered.
Stanley’s gaze softened as he looked at her, then at Xeno.
Xeno nodded slightly.
“That would be… an interesting equation.”
Stanley chuckled quietly, pushing away from the desk.
“Alright, Doc. If the world ends, I’ll play along—as long as she’s with us.”
T/n smiled.
“Deal.”
They stood by the window, watching the night sky over the base.
None of them imagined that only months later, a blinding green light would fulfill that prophecy—turning every human on Earth to stone.
Epilogue
Centuries later, when the world awoke again, that memory still echoed among the ruins:
El fuego apenas chisporroteaba, reduciendo la habitación improvisada a un círculo de luz cálida y sombras danzantes.
Zero, después de limpiar un poco la zona, se acomodó en una manta al costado del campamento y, con un suspiro, cerró los ojos. Su respiración profunda marcaba que finalmente había cedido al cansancio, sumergiéndose en un sueño tranquilo y reparador.
Inyō se recostó, apoyando la espalda contra un tronco cercano, y extendió la mano hacia Tn. Sin mediar palabra, ella la tomó, sintiendo la calidez de su piel y la seguridad de su contacto. La selva podía ser impredecible, las criaturas podían aparecer de repente, pero ahí, en ese instante, no había nada más que ellos dos y la quietud del fuego.
—Es raro —dijo Tn, rompiendo el silencio con voz baja—. Nunca me había sentido tan tranquila en Magmel.
Inyō ladeó la cabeza y la observó, sus ojos brillando con esa mezcla de calma y travesura que siempre parecía desconcertarla.—¿Tranquila? Eso suena peligroso. Sueles estar en tensión constante.
—Lo sé —admitió ella, mordiendo suavemente el labio—. Pero contigo… siento que puedo respirar. Él sonrió apenas, un gesto mínimo pero suficiente para que Tn sintiera que sus palabras habían llegado al lugar correcto.—No quiero que confíes solo porque estás conmigo.
—Hizo una pausa, buscando las palabras correctas—. Quiero que confíes en ti misma, en tu poder… y que sepas que yo estaré ahí si algo falla.
Tn bajó la mirada, jugueteando con sus dedos entrelazados. La idea de su Lakter descontrolado todavía la asustaba, pero escucharlo así, con esa seguridad serena, la hacía sentir menos sola.
—A veces siento que voy a perder el control… y lastimarte a ti o a Zero.
—Entonces no lo harás —replicó Inyō sin dudar—. No porque tengas que controlarlo a la perfección, sino porque yo te enseñaré cómo. No te dejaré sola.Sus palabras, tan firmes y tranquilas, resonaron dentro de Tn con fuerza inesperada. Por un instante, todo el ruido de la selva, todo el miedo que había sentido antes, desapareció.
—Gracias —susurró ella, apoyando la cabeza en su hombro.Inyō ladeó un poco la cabeza para mirar hacia donde Zero dormía, con la libreta cerrada sobre su pecho. Luego volvió su atención a Tn, con una sonrisa tranquila.
—No tienes que agradecerme. Es lo que hago.Tn soltó una risa ligera, casi un suspiro de alivio.—Eres imposible.
—Lo sé —dijo él, apoyando suavemente su frente contra la de ella—. Pero si eso te hace sentir segura, entonces vale la pena. El fuego crepitó, enviando pequeñas chispas hacia el cielo nocturno. Tn cerró los ojos, dejando que el calor de la fogata y la cercanía de Inyō la envolvieran. La noche era silenciosa, pero no por completo; los sonidos de la selva seguían presentes, recordándoles que estaban en medio de Magmel. Aun así, no había miedo, solo confianza.
—¿Sabes lo que más me gusta de estas noches? —preguntó ella, suavemente.—¿Qué? —respondió él, con una sonrisa ladeada.—Que puedo hablar contigo… sin tener que preocuparme por monstruos, misiones o perder el control —dijo Tn, mirando hacia las llamas—. Solo… nosotros.Inyō suspiró, acomodando una mano detrás de su cabeza mientras la otra seguía sosteniendo la de ella.
—Sí… es agradable. Aunque esto me recuerda que tendré que enseñarte a usar tu Lakter en situaciones así, por si algo aparece de repente.
—Ni siquiera lo digas —murmuró ella, entre risas—. Solo quiero disfrutar el momento.Él se inclinó un poco más, apenas rozando su mejilla contra la de Tn.
—Entonces disfruta. —Su voz bajó a un susurro cálido—. Yo me encargaré del resto. Por unos minutos, el mundo exterior desapareció. La selva, los monstruos, la misión… todo quedó en pausa mientras Tn se recostaba contra él, sintiendo que por primera vez podía confiar completamente en alguien.
De repente, un crujido entre los arbustos cercanos interrumpió la tranquilidad. Los dos se tensaron un instante; Inyō se levantó de inmediato, con los reflejos de siempre.
—¿Qué fue eso? —susurró Tn.—Probablemente un bicho pequeño —respondió él con calma—. Pero no te preocupes, yo lo reviso.
Inyō desapareció entre la vegetación, mientras Tn lo miraba, preocupada pero también con una curiosidad mezcla de admiración y cariño. Después de unos segundos, regresó con un pequeño animal extraño que parecía más asustado que peligroso.
—Nada que temer —dijo, dejándolo al borde de la fogata—. Solo un visitante nocturno.Tn rió suavemente, aliviada.
—Eres increíble… ¿siempre estás así de tranquilo incluso cuando hay bichos desconocidos alrededor?
—Sí, siempre —contestó él, volviendo a acomodarse junto a ella—. Alguien tiene que mantener la calma. Y además… así puedo ver que tú también aprendes a mantener la tuya.
Ella lo miró, sonriendo con cierta picardía.—Entonces, ¿estas noches en la fogata también son parte de tu entrenamiento secreto?
—Por supuesto —dijo él, con un guiño—. Pero tranquilo, es un entrenamiento agradable.Tn rió, apoyándose más cerca, mientras el calor de la fogata los abrazaba y la selva seguía su sinfonía nocturna. No necesitaban palabras grandilocuentes; el simple hecho de estar juntos, de confiar uno en el otro, era suficiente.
La noche avanzó, y Zero continuaba dormida en silencio, ajena al pequeño mundo íntimo que se había formado junto al fuego. Inyō y Tn compartían risas suaves, miradas y toques tímidos, disfrutando de esa calma que era tan rara en Magmel.
Cuando la bruma de la madrugada comenzó a aparecer, Inyō sacó una manta y la cubrió cuidadosamente sobre Tn, asegurándose de que estuviera cómoda.
—Duerme un poco —susurró—. La noche aún es larga, pero mientras estemos juntos, no hay nada que temer.
Tn cerró los ojos, respirando profundamente. La seguridad que sentía con él era abrumadora. Por primera vez en mucho tiempo, podía dejar de pensar en el peligro y simplemente existir, abrazada a alguien que la cuidaba de verdad.
Inyō, observando las estrellas entre las ramas, dejó escapar un suspiro tranquilo. La selva podía ser salvaje, Magmel podía ser mortal, pero mientras esos momentos existieran, mientras Tn confiara en él… todo valía la pena.La fogata crepitaba suavemente, y en el aire flotaba la promesa silenciosa de que, pase lo que pase, estarían juntos para enfrentarlo.
English is not my native language, I apologize if it's poorly translated but it was difficult, I SWEAR.
Tokyo, 2019
The city vibrated with a bustle that Y/N had learned to love: the constant drone of trains, the murmur of voices in conference rooms, and the metallic smell of makeshift laboratories.
As a guest biologist, she moved with precision between panels and microscopes, explaining the secrets of her research on the resilience of organisms in extreme environments.
"...and if life finds a way, even in the most impossible conditions, we can learn to apply it in biotechnology and conservation," he concluded, as the room erupted in applause.
A smile spread across his face, but behind his thoughts were Xeno and Stanley.
Their beloved husbands.
Xeno, back in the United States, was reviewing bioengineering formulas in a laboratory filled with blueprints, notes, and data screens. He had spent hours speculating about the possible effects of phenomena
—He always does... no matter what... —Stanley... —Honey, do you realize what this could mean? —Xeno held in his right hand a three-dimensional model of a partially fossilized cell
— "You worry too much about theories, Xeno. When Y/N writes to us about this, you won't have time to analyze everything." Her tone was dry, but there was a glimmer of affection in her eyes... Unbeknownst to her,
The sky over Tokyo suddenly lit up with a green glow that enveloped the city. Y/N barely had time to think about what her beloved husband had told her that afternoon before leaving for his...
But at that moment, after so long without hearing any sound, he felt as if a prison collapsed and a stone fell.
Y/N opened her eyes. Lying in a stream, she began to perceive things. First, she noticed the air; it smelled of damp earth and wild vegetation. Looking up at the sky, she saw it as strange, cleaner, without clouds.
The world she knew had vanished and changed completely. Her hands moved slowly, caressing her face and body, trying to convince herself that she still existed, even though she was alone and, to convince herself that she still existed, even though she was alone and,
«¿"How much time has passed...?" he thought.
The memory of Xeno and Stanley brought her a fleeting warmth; the image of her husbands mingled with the despair of loneliness. Each day was a learning experience. She gathered fruits and roots, filtered water,
The science she had loved so much became her compass for survival. Even among the petrified remains of humanity, her experiments continued: how lichens grew on the
He advanced toward the smoke and found Ishigami Village. A rudimentary but functional structure, populated by awakened humans.
Excited and curious, she ran towards it, but when she arrived, they stopped her.
Senku Ishigami was the first to approach; his bright, analytical gaze didn't diminish the warmth of his greeting. After she explained where she came from and how she had awakened, he decided that...
«¡Wow! A scientist has woken up after so long... This is truly exciting!
Y/N smiled, feeling an unexpected relief. "As I explained, I'm a biologist. I think... I can help."
«¡"Nooo, she just arrived and you're already going to blow her up, Senku-chan!" the metalhead exclaimed dramatically.
Although he wasn't lying
-The following days were a mutual learning experience. Y/N taught biology and chemistry techniques, helping Senku and Chrome improve their plant cultivation and resource extraction experiments.
With Kohaku, (Y/N) developed a bond of trust and friendship. The warrior trained her in mobility and defense, and (Y/N) taught her to interpret signs in nature and to recognize edible species.
-"I don't understand how you can stay calm in the face of so much destruction," Kohaku remarked one afternoon, while they were gathering fruit.
-Calmness is not denial, it's understanding. Observing and learning is the only way to survive. - Y/N replied, smiling gently.
---The days turned into months, and Y/N adapted to the rhythm of the village. However, her mind always returned to Xeno and Stanley.
The suspense of knowing if they were alright, if they had woken up, or fearing the worst and hoping not to find their broken and irreparable rocks. The image of them, separated by oceans.
-¡That's the right attitude! Science always finds a way, right? Y/N nodded, her heart filled with determination. The journey wasn't over; it was just beginning.
Parte 1 https://www.tumblr.com/perfectionphantom/797018365121249281/bajo-las-llamas-de-magmel-parte-i?source=share
El fuego chisporroteaba en el centro del campamento, lanzando destellos anaranjados que iluminaban los rostros de los tres. Zero escribía en su libreta con absoluta concentración, cada línea recta, cada letra medida. El silencio era tan constante que el sonido de la punta del lápiz contra el papel parecía un reloj marcando el tiempo.
-¿Ya terminaste tus apuntes de "cómo sobrevivir a un viaje con dos inútiles"? -preguntó Inyō, con ese tono socarrón que siempre usaba para molestarla.
Zero no levantó la vista.
-Son observaciones científicas. Tú no entenderías.
-¿Ah, sí? -Inyō bostezó y se recostó más-. ¿Incluiste la parte donde hice todo el trabajo del campamento?
Tn casi escupe lo que estaba bebiendo. -¿Todo el trabajo? ¡Si solo hiciste un nudo con Xiang y luego te sentaste a supervisar!
-Supervisar es subestimado -replicó él con falsa dignidad-. Requiere paciencia, visión y carisma natural.
Zero rodó los ojos .-Carisma natural no mantiene en pie una tienda.
Tn rió bajito, abrazando las rodillas mientras observaba la fogata. Había algo cálido en escuchar esas discusiones. Aunque parecieran riñas constantes, al final los tres funcionaban como una extraña familia improvisada.
Zero guardó finalmente la libreta y sacó otro paquete pequeño de provisiones. -Tenemos carne seca y algunas hierbas que recogí. Si alguien se digna a cazar o recolectar algo más fresco, podría hacer una sopa.
-¡Sopa! -exclamó Tn con ilusión, aunque su estómago dudaba de que saliera algo decente de esas raciones.
Inyō arqueó una ceja.-¿Sopa en Magmel? ¿Seguro que no prefieres invocar directamente al monstruo para que nos coma más rápido?
Zero lo ignoró, ya acomodando una pequeña olla sobre la fogata.
-Tn, acompáñame a buscar agua. Tú -miró a Inyō- quédate y prepara la fogata para cocinar.-¿Dar vueltas a un palo cuenta como cocinar? -bromeó él, pero ellas ya habían desaparecido entre los árboles.
Cuando Tn y Zero regresaron con el agua, encontraron a Inyō sentado frente al fuego, con expresión de genio en plena inspiración. Había clavado una estaca en el suelo y colgado de ella un par de frutos extraños que había encontrado cerca.
-Voilà, cena cinco estrellas -dijo señalando los frutos que goteaban un jugo sospechoso sobre las llamas.
-Eso... no es comestible -afirmó Zero, con un deje de alarma.
-Claro que lo es. Si brilla en la oscuridad, tiene que ser nutritivo -replicó Inyō con toda calma.Tn no pudo contener la risa.
-¡Eso suena más a veneno que a comida!Zero suspiró, apartando los frutos con gesto resignado.
-Por eso nunca dejamos que cocines.-Oye, yo podría ser un gran chef -murmuró él-, si la gente valorara más la innovación.
Con Zero al mando, terminaron preparando una sopa improvisada: carne seca, hierbas y un poco de arroz que Tn había traído en su mochila. El olor, aunque no era precisamente un banquete, resultó sorprendentemente agradable.Tn probó un poco con la cuchara y sonrió.
-Está mejor de lo que esperaba.Inyō aceptó su porción con indiferencia, pero tras el primer sorbo asintió despacio.
-Hmph. No está mal.
-Eso significa "está delicioso" en su idioma -tradujo Tn, divertida.
Zero sirvió su propia porción, aunque no comentó nada. Simplemente comió en silencio, lo que en ella equivalía a un cumplido.
Por un rato, el campamento estuvo tranquilo. Solo el crujir del fuego y el murmullo de la selva acompañaban la cena.
La ciudad vibraba con un bullicio que T/n había aprendido a amar: el zumbido de los trenes pasando constantemente, los constantes murmullo de los pasillos de la conferencia y el aroma metálico de los laboratorios improvisados para exhibiciones científicas.
Como bióloga invitada, se movía con precisión entre paneles y microscopios, explicando los secretos de su investigación sobre resiliencia de organismos en ambientes extremos.
-...y si la vida encuentra un camino, incluso en las condiciones más imposibles, podemos aprender a aplicarlo en biotecnología y conservación -terminó, mientras los aplausos llenaban la sala.
Una sonrisa cruzó su rostro, pero detrás de sus pensamientos estaba Xeno y Stanley.
Sus queridos esposos.
Xeno, en Estados Unidos, revisaba fórmulas de bioingeniería en un laboratorio lleno de planos, notas y pantallas de datos. Había pasado horas conjeturando sobre posibles efectos de fenómenos naturales inusuales.Su lógica era inquebrantable, su precisión científica casi obsesiva. Sin embargo, su mente no podía evitar regresar una vez más a T/n. Sus mensajes se habían vuelto más frecuentes en las últimas semanas, y cada correo traía un hilo de esperanza, un vínculo que solo ellos compartían.
-Ella llamo está mañana? -decia mientras fumaba su segundo cigarro del día-
-Ella siempre lo hace... no importa que suceda... -Stanley... Querido ¿te das cuenta de lo que podría significar esto? -Xeno sostuvo en su mano derecha un modelo tridimensional de una célula fosilizada parcialmente en cuarzo mientras con la otra le arrebataba el cigarro de la boca mientras seguía divagando-. La vida podría... persistir, incluso en condiciones extremas. Stanley lo miró con esa calma militar que siempre imponía.
-Te preocupas demasiado por las teorías, Xeno. Cuando T/n nos envíe un correo sobre esto, no tendrás tiempo de analizarlo todo. -Su tono era seco, pero había un brillo de afecto en sus ojos...Pero sin saberlo esa sería la última vez que los tres se hablarían en mucho tiempo.El cielo de Tokio se iluminó de repente con un resplandor verde que cubrió la ciudad. T/n apenas tuvo tiempo de pensar en lo que su querido esposo le comento aquella tarde antes de partir a su conferencia "las palomas se estuvieron despiertas o al menos había un rastro en sus ondas cerebrales cuando fueron examinadas, bastante elegante a mi parecer" antes de que el mundo se detuviera. Su bata al aire, los microscopios se volvieron estatuas y la humanidad quedó petrificada, suspendida en un silencio eterno.
---Siglos después...
(Cuánto tiempo ha pasado desde la última vez que los ví, estarán vivos, también les ocurrió esto, están como yo...)
Pero en ese momento después de no haber escuchado sonido en mucho tiempo, escucho como si prisión se rompía y caía la piedra.
T/n abrió los ojos.
Estando acostada en un riachuelo pudo percibir algunas cosas, lo primero, noto el aire, olía a tierra húmeda y vegetación salvaje.Mirando al cielo noto que se veía extraño, más limpio, sin contaminación. El mundo que conocía había desaparecido y cambiado por completo. Sus manos se movieron lentamente, tocando su rostro y cuerpo, asegurándose de que aún existía, aunque sola y al parecer... Desnuda
"¿Cuánto tiempo ha pasado...?" pensó. La memoria de Xeno y Stanley le dio un calor fugaz; la imagen de sus esposos se mezcló con la desesperación de la soledad. Cada día era un aprendizaje. Recolectó frutas y raíces, filtró agua, estudió el comportamiento de los animales y de las plantas. La ciencia que había amado se convirtió en su brújula para sobrevivir. Incluso entre los restos petrificados de la humanidad, sus experimentos continuaban: cómo los líquenes crecían sobre las estatuas, cómo el musgo parecía absorber nutrientes de los cuerpos inertes."Si la vida encuentra un camino...", murmuró para sí misma. Era la frase que la mantenía viva, tanto emocional como intelectualmente.
---Tras meses de exploración sobreviviendo con fruta y pescado y una ropa deplorable de hojas y lianas para cubrirse del sol y la suciedad, T/n encontró la costa. El horizonte era un lienzo de azul profundo. Allí divisó humo y movimiento: no estaba sola.La curiosidad científica se mezcló con la esperanza. Avanzó hacia el humo y encontró la aldea Ishigami. Una construcción rudimentaria, pero funcional, poblada por humanos despiertos.Con emoción y curiosidad corrió hacia ella, pero al llegar le pararon los pasos.
Senku Ishigami fue el primero en acercarse: su mirada brillante y analítica no disminuyó la calidez de su saludo.
Al explicarle de donde venía y como fue que se despertrifico decidió que seria de utilidad para su nuevo proyecto.
-¡Wow! Una científica despierta después de todo este tiempo... Esto sí que es emocionante.T/n sonrió, sintiendo un alivio inesperado.
-como ya te explique soy Biologa, Creo que... puedo ayudar.-
Nooo, apenas llegó y ya la vas a explotar laboralmente Senku-chan -decia el metalista con tono dramático... Aunque no mentia-
Los días siguientes fueron un aprendizaje mutuo. T/n enseñaba técnicas de biología y química, ayudando a Senku y Chrome a mejorar los experimentos de cultivo de plantas y extracción de recursos. A cambio, aprendía a sobrevivir con los medios limitados del nuevo mundo.Con Kohaku, T/n desarrolló un vínculo de confianza y amistad. La guerrera la entrenaba en movilidad y defensa, y T/n le enseñaba a interpretar señales de la naturaleza y a reconocer especies comestibles. Sus conversaciones, a veces divertidas y otras veces profundas, le recordaban que incluso en la soledad, podía reconstruir un hogar.-No entiendo cómo puedes mantener la calma frente a tanta destrucción -comentó Kohaku una tarde, mientras recolectaban frutas-.-La calma no es negación, es comprensión. Observar y aprender es la única manera de sobrevivir. -respondió T/n, sonriendo suavemente.---Los días se convirtieron en meses, y T/n se adaptó al ritmo de la aldea. Sin embargo, su mente siempre regresaba a Xeno y Stanley.La intriga de saber si ellos estaban bien, si es que habían despertado o pensando en lo peor con la esperanza de no encontrar sus rocas rotas e irreparables. La imagen de ellos, separados por océanos y siglos de piedra, la impulsaba a mantener viva su ciencia y su humanidad.Una noche, mientras observaba las estrellas desde la colina de la aldea, murmuró: -Si están ahí afuera... si sobreviven... los encontraré.Senku se acercó, curioso:
-¡Esa es la actitud correcta! La ciencia siempre encuentra un camino, ¿verdad?T/n asintió, el corazón lleno de determinación. La travesía no había terminado; apenas comenzaba.
Series Summary: Originally from the United States, beloved spouse of Captain Stanley Snyder and Dr. Xeno Wingfield was in Tokyo, Japan at the time of the petrification. Awakening on their own in the stone world, they find themselves stumbling upon a new and budding civilization- The Kingdom of Science- a group of young scientists, warriors, and more, that will soon become like family to them.
With one goal in mind- finding and reviving their husbands on the other side of the world- what will happen when the fledgling science troupe finds themselves in America and find it's already settled?
Part Summary: The night before leaving for America, you find a quiet spot to think about what this journey will bring. Your hope for a few moments alone is squandered by a certain mentalist.
TW: None :3
Word Count: 2,535
A/N: Genuinely I can't believe the love this series has gotten so far :') Thank you all for your support, and being patient with me!! I have certain parts of this planned out, but I'm mostly just flying by the seat of my pants haha
I included a lil flashback moment in here for y'all to give some actually StanXeno x Reader content :3
Enjoy!!
There was a sharp chill in the night air, the feeling of late fall. You had wandered away from the settlement, everyone else having turned in for the night, and had settled in a clearing atop a small hill- looking up at the night sky, out on the expansive forest, and the tents and buildings of the Kingdom of Science. You had just returned from Treasure Island. The trip was a whirlwind, and terrifying at times, but you had secured the platinum you had gone looking for. Everything was in full swing to prepare for your voyage to America- the Persues was to set sail in the morning. You had fully invested yourself in every part of this project, in your journey to the island, and in preparations for the next leg of your voyage- eager to help in any way you could. Eager to continue to be a pillar of strength and wisdom for the (mostly) adolescent crew.
In the silence, your mind wandered. You thought about what would happen next. You knew where the ship was heading. Soon, you would be heading to America. You would be heading back home. It had been two years since you had broken out of the stone. So much had happened since then, you had changed so much. And yet, your end goal never altered. Your stomach tied itself in knots thinking of the possibilities. What was it like there? Was there any semblance of truth in Senku and Gen’s bluff against the Tsukasa Empire? Would America be back up and running already? If so, how long would it have been like that?
You had everything to lose there. You were terrified of what you would find. Or, what scared you the most, what you wouldn’t find. With the negative thoughts flooding your head, you, for the very first time since being revived in the stone world, let yourself cry. Away from curious eyes, eyes that depended on your strength, you let the fear and emotions escape from you. Your mind wandered back. Back to the last morning you had with your husbands- a morning 3,722 years ago.
You struggled against Stanley’s iron grip holding you firmly on his lap on the couch. You were stuck in a burst of giggles, trying to pry his arms from around your waist.
“Stan,” You struggled to get his name out through your laughter, “Stan, please. I need to leave. If I miss my flight because of you I swear-” His grip on you loosened, and you finally thought you had broken free. Just as you were getting up, he changed his hold on you, turning you around to straddle his lap. You groaned in feigned annoyance as he pulled you in and attempted to press kisses all over your face. You blocked his attempts with a hand on his forehead.
“Stanley Snyder,” you said, your tone firm, but a dopey grin plastered on your face, “if you get that lipstick all over me right before I’m about to leave, you are going to be down one spouse.” He laughed, and pulled himself back.
“Is it really so awful to want to love on my doll before they go on a big long trip?” He brought his hands to your face, gently cupping your cheeks.
“It’s not so awful,” you leaned forward, pressing a firm kiss to his lips, “but, I do have to go.” You frowned, “You have to get your ass to work, too, babe.” He gave you another kiss, grip still firm around your waist. Xeno stepped out of your shared bedroom, dressed for work with a coffee cup in hand. He walked up to you and Stanely, wrapping an arm around your shoulders with his free hand. He placed a kiss to the top of your head.
“Stanley, dear, contain yourself. Our darling has an important flight to catch.” Xeno mused. Stanley groaned, and finally dropped his hold on you. Xeno offered his hand to help you stand. You smiled and grabbed his chin, gently pulling him in for a kiss. You felt your phone buzz in your pocket. You pulled it out and frowned.
“Okay, boys. My car is pulling up. I really do have to go,” you gave Xeno another kiss, and turned to Stanley as he stood up, placing a kiss on his lips as well, “I love you both. Behave while I’m gone,” you pointed at both of them, getting a chuckle out of them both.
“No promises,” Stanley said. He grabbed your bags from in front of the door, “I’ll walk you out.”
“I will do my best to keep him in line, darling,” Xeno teased. “Safe travels, my dear, we will see you in a week. I love you.”
Stanley opened the front door for you, and you both walked out. Your ride pulled up as you stepped off the front porch. He loaded your bags in the back of the car and opened the back door for you. He stopped you with a hand on your shoulder before you climbed into the car.
“Stay safe, baby. Keep us updated as much as you can.”
You nodded in response, “I will, Stan. I’ll be home soon. Don’t worry about me too much, drama queen.” You teased and placed another kiss to his lips, and climbed into the car.
“Love you, doll.”
“I love you, too, Stan. See you soon.”
With that, he shut the door and the car drove off.
That was the last memory you had of your husbands. “See you soon” had turned into millenia. Tears fell freely down your face the more you thought about it. Your chest ached with the feeling of missing them, of longing to be in your house with them again. You would give anything to be trapped in Stan’s arms again, to have him leaving purple lipstick marks all over your face. You would give anything to feel Xeno’s gentle touch, his kind and adoring kisses, to listen to him talk through his work at you while you fixed dinner.
Through your sniffles, and lost in your thoughts, you didn’t hear the footsteps of the person sitting down next to you.
“Now, what brings you all the way out here on this fine night, hm, dear Y/N?” You could see Gen settling down next to you. Fuck, you thought to yourself, there’s no getting out of this one.
“Just enjoying the peace and quiet. It’s a beautiful night.” You managed to get the words out with minimal shaking in your voice. You tried to wipe the tears streaming down your cheeks away as subtly as possible, hoping the darkness of the night would cover for you.
From the moment you arrived, Gen had gladly seated himself right in your business. In the beginning, he acted as your translator as you slowly started to learn Japanese (and even teach a little English to the Kingdom of Science). Now, he acted as the pain in your ass. You meant that with the most love in the world. Despite the near decade age gap between you two, you had formed quite the friendship with the young mentalist. But, damn, you could not keep a secret around him. Which included right now. He chucked as you spoke.
“I thought you would have figured it out by now- but, you can’t lie to me, Y/N. Especially not after two years of ostively-pay delightful friendship.” He teased, but you could hear the care in his tone. He turned his head to look at you, seeing the reflection of tears on your face in the moonlight.
“Now tell me, dear Y/N, what’s troubling you?” His voice softened. You felt like his gaze was boring holes into you. You thought for a moment about if you really wanted to get into this now. And, then, you thought that you didn’t really have a choice. Gen could, to your dismay, read you like a book. You knew he already had it figured out, he just wanted you to say it.
“I’m scared, Gen. Really scared.” Your voice quivered as you spoke, a fresh wave of tears threatening to spill from your eyes.
He hummed in response. “About the voyage? About going back to the States?” You nodded. “I had a feeling that was it. This is an important and exciting journey for the rest of us, but it’s very personal to you.” He watched your face, reading your expression. He wanted you to talk about it, to get your feelings out, but he didn’t want to overstep. When your face remained unchanging, he continued, “You were married in the old world, right?”
You closed your eyes, those tears from before freely flowing down your face. You nodded again. “I was. My husbands and I lived in California at the time of the petrification. All I can think about is if their statues are still intact. God, I hope I can find them.”
There was a pause before Gen spoke up, “I’m sorry, did you say husbands? As in, more than one?” There was genuine surprise in his voice, but no judgement. You hadn't spoken about your personal life in the old world much since depetrifying. There was no time, and it pained you to think about it too hard. Gen’s question did break a short laugh out of you.
“Yes, I had two.” You wiped the tears from your cheeks. “Well, legally, I had one husband. But a marriage certificate really isn’t anything but a piece of paper. We only got legally married because he was in the military. He was, uhm, very high ranking, and was often sent on deployments. So, we figured it would be smart to have the legal safety net. Survivor’s benefits, you know. Just in case…” You trailed off, realizing you had begun to ramble. “But, yes, to answer your question. Two husbands.”
Gen nodded, “So, a wildlife biologist, a soldier… What did your other husband do?”
“He’s a scientist, too. Aerospace engineering. He worked for NASA.” You brought your knees up to your chest, resting your head on them, still looking out into the distance. “I hope I’ll get the opportunity to introduce Senku to him.” you stare at the stars, a small smile on your lips. “They have… Conflicting views on science, to say the least.” You laugh, “But, I know those two would talk each other’s ears off for hours. I think Senku could teach my husband just as much as he could teach Senku.”
Gen groaned dramatically, “You’re telling me there’s a possibility there’s going to be two of them?” He fell backwards, throwing his arms up in the air in mock defeat. You laughed at his showmanship, feeling much of the tension you carried from before falling away. You still felt the pit of anxiety in your stomach.
“Lucky for you, I think our chances of that happening soon are slim to none. They were in Pinnacles National Park, for an expo that I was actually supposed to be at but you know… Got stuck here with work…” You frowned. You didn’t regret your time with the Kingdom of Science, and you considered them family now. You couldn’t imagine a future where you didn’t know them. But still, the fantasies of being with your beloved husbands during the petrification, of being revived together, and not aging without them lived at the forefront of your mind.
“Pinnacles is a two hour drive from the nearest beach. Even if we drop anchor there, the logistics of it feel so out of reach. It would take four days, minimum, round trip, and that’s not including the time it might take to find them… If there’s anything left to find.” You sighed, feeling the tears well up in your eyes again. “We have important work to do over there, and we’ll have limited time. I don’t want to risk ruining everything for a selfish endeavor like that. We all have people that we back. I wouldn’t feel right taking the time and resources just for something that only I wanted.”
“Well, they certainly sound like they have desirable skills. I mean, a trained combat expert and a rocket scientist? You do recall that our end goal is a trip to the moon, right? We could use people like them on our team. Even if they wouldn’t be idiculous-ray assets to the team, I think you’ve put in more than enough work to deserve to be a little selfish.” He turned to look at you. You looked back at him and quickly broke your gaze, trying to find anything else to look at.
“Yeah… I guess that makes sense. Yeah, maybe.” Your voice softened, almost a mutter.
“You’re trying to avoid it, Y/N. Why?” His tone was curt. Straight to the point. You shifted nervously.
“I’m scared, Gen. Terrified. There are a million possible outcomes, and so many of them are bad. What if their statues are broken and we can’t fix them? What if we can’t find them? What if they’re so buried under almost 4,000 years of geographical change that they’re never found again? I know they stayed conscious- I know it. It was torture for 3,700 years, imagine that for eternity.” Your voice broke as tears once again began to stream down your cheeks. “Or what if the rest of the world never turned to stone, or the rest of the world got back up and running hundreds or thousands of years ago and they grew old and died without me? I don’t want to do the rest of this without them, Gen. I don’t know if I can. We grew up together. For so long, it was just the three of us. We only had each other. They are the loves of my life, my everything. The only thing that’s gotten me through the last two years is the hope that I get to see them again. What if I can’t get them back?”
“You’ll paralyze yourself with indecision if you keep thinking like that, Y/N. You won’t know unless you look for yourself. You need to face this, but you know you don’t have to do it alone, right? You don’t have to carry all the weight by yourself.” He placed a hand on your back, and stood up. “It’s late, Y/N. We should head back and get some rest.”
You shook your head, “I’m going to stay out here a while longer. Thanks for listening to me, Gen.”
He smiled down at you, “Any time, dear Y/N. You give everybody else a great deal of your love and hard work. You deserve that same kind of care in return.” And with that, he was off back towards the settlement. Once again leaving you alone with your thoughts.
The Perseus was setting sail in the morning. You didn’t have long before you had to face your fears head on. You were terrified, but soon enough, you wouldn’t have a choice. For now, all you could do was hold on to the crumb of hope that you managed to hold on to.
I hope you enjoyed this part! I personally really love the little flashback I put in, and loved getting the chance to expand on one of the reader's relationships in the KoS :) I luv Gen
Also, every time I was reading through this to edit, the "now, he acted as the pain in your ass" line made me laugh out loud. I think I'm way funnier than I actually am.
Part 4 is pretty much finished, and should be out soon! I also want to keep writing for my little StanXeno series I have going on- so hopefully I'll be able to get that out soon, as well! AND, I need to start working on some requests lol. God help me
Tag List: @pandash @eyllwz @weponxwrites @im-lovely-stfu @i-need-sleep-bitch @night-shadowblood-writes2
synopsis: gn!reader catching the bouquet at their friend’s wedding feat. genshin impact men 💐
characters included: venti, kamisato ayato, lyney, and tighnari
previously > thoma, wriothesley, diluc, and freminet
read more: adding more soon!
“it’s a good night isn’t it, my lovely friends?” your friend greeted their guests with the utmost love and happiness in their voice. ahh.. the joys of being in union with the love of your life, you can’t help but sigh dreamily. you believed weddings are sacred and only those who have been blessed by the gods are worthy to receive this blessing. “my husband/wife and i are getting stiff from all the standing and smiling! we are beyond grateful to each and everyone of you..” they laughed lightly, “so what’s a better way to end our night than to catch this bouquet i’m holding for a love story like ours?” the guests’ cheers erupted and some were even making their way onto the dance floor immediately!
you, being you, you didn’t need the approval of no one and stood up from your chair to join in on the fun! and maybe the gods were watching you have fun too—because you caught the bouquet with ease.
𓈒 ࣪ 🍡 ҂ 𓈒 ۫ Ⳋ
꒰ venti .ᐟ ꒱
"y/n? oh my- you're actually joining?!"
you got this man wrapped around your finger, and now he's overthinking whether you already have your heart set on someone. poor guy.
he's sooo nervous about it too lol but still wanted to wish you the best (if he's the one you like. if he's not, then prepare for a gush of wind to blow the bouquet away from you.)
kidding aside, this man would get up from his seat, and suddenly, he's the most sober guest in the room as he marched closer to see whether you'll catch it or not.
"venti get back down here.." his friend dahlia said, palming his face in frustration when he saw venti clinging to the venue's decorative pillar like a koala.
"y/n! are you sure you want to join? you might cause heartbreaks, you know! half of the guests will faint if you win!"
the guests laughed at his sudden outburst. some were teasing him that you would be getting married tomorrow. (don't joke about that though, his poor heart can't take it!)
when he saw you finally have it in your hands, he's not sure if he should feel sad or happy for you.
well, of course, considering he's the god of freedom, he'll cheer you on no matter who it may be.
you laughed at his current state, "venti get down here please! you're so dramatic!"
he scoffed, then jumped down ever so lightly. "you wound me! i might have to make a tragic ballad tonight because of you!"
"not so loud, venti! you're making it sound like you want to marry me."
"well, i do!"
everyone gasped including you. welp! you weren't expecting his confession to be so out in the open, but you'll take it! it is venti after all.
he'd apologize, though, promising that that wasn't his official love proposal (it's true, guys have a little faith in your anemo archon!)
꒰ kamisato ayato .ᐟ ꒱
kamisato ayato is a high-profile man. you’ll see him in events such as weddings, and everyone will surely make time to greet and have a little drink or chat with him.
even so, everyone invited to the party could see that he’s a man already struck by cupid.
he could be talking to multiple people all at once, but that wasn't a reason for him not to notice every move you make.
ayato spots you mingling, bouquet toss approaching, and smiles into his drink.
"if you'll excuse me, sirs and madames," he didn't have to explain himself. they know full well where he was headed.
"i can't believe i caught it!" you said as he walked a bit closer to where you were after the fun game ended.
"ahh yes," he took the flower you so kindly wanted him to see, "a beautiful flower for a beautiful soul."
this man is sooo head over heels for you. he's already planning to plant these specific flowers in his garden himself.
probably thought about consulting a few stores here and there, asking for their finest silks.
(lol you're not even together. yet.)
"should i prepare to congratulate the lucky person? or myself?"
“you can't say things like that! people might think you’re courting me.”
“would that be such a terrible rumor?”
this man is 100% confident he'll get you. he did, eventually.
꒰ lyney .ᐟ ꒱
one thing’s for sure, lyney loves romance and the dramatic tossing of the lover’s bouquet that comes with celebrating the special occasion.
he was already paying close attention as people started talking about who’s next in line to enter the world of marriage, when a certain figure caught his attention.
“oh ho ho! quite bold, aren’t we?” he muttered under his breath when he saw you weren’t passing up the opportunity to have the flowers all to yourself.
he treats the whole event as a performance—willing participants running up the center of the stage as they wait for the lovers to throw the bouquet, excitement and anticipation loomed in the air, guests talking about who they think would have the flowers this time—everything just fell right into place, especially because you were in it.
“we’re counting on you, y/n!” lynette cheered next to her brother, “take my brother away already. he’s been rehearsing his line all week.”
lyney scoffed at his sister’s betrayal, telling you about the proposal he’s been preparing for you.
to his surprise, you actually caught it!
cheers from him and the crowd erupted like a volcano the moment your hand touched the bouquet. and to lyney’s pride, they were also chanting his name, teasing you and him.
“lyney! i caught it!”
“you’re truly magical, mon amour! the bouquet chose you as if to say we’ll be marrying tomorrow!”
there wasn’t a slightest hint of doubt or tease in his words when he said it, making your stomach turn, making room for the butterflies he caused you to have.
he’s not joking around when it comes to you so expect something grand yet unexpected the day after the wedding.
“make sure to invite us all again!” — some random guest
꒰ tighnari .ᐟ ꒱
“nari look!”
he was mid conversation with his silver haired friend when he heard a sweet energetic voice coming from behind him.
only to be greeted with a bouquet of flowers—one he hasn’t encountered with before.
“you.. caught it? just now?”
you nodded enthusiastically, “we haven’t seen this before, right? i thought you might like to study this with me!”
you were too busy admiring the flowers, but tighnari was too busy admiring you.
don’t get him wrong, though, he appreciates the effort and thoughtfulness you gave him when you caught it, but did you really caught it for that reason specifically?
he isn’t the type to pay attention to such superstitions, but now..
“so,” he crossed his arms while looking at you, “you plan on getting married next?”
“that depends.. do you want to?”
his ears perched up, a sudden blush crept over his face down to his neck.
“i’m kidding! i got it for studying purposes!” unless..
he’d then nod and ask you to hand over the bouquet to him because you’re quote on quote ‘damaging the petals’. (a lil hurt you were just joking)
he’s not fooling no one, of course. his friends’ll soon find out he preserved it (for when the day actually arrives for the both of you).
author’s notes: i missed writing for other characters bruh 😭 no offense to scaramouche i actually love him guys sorry for the angst 😓 pls don’t hate him LOL anwww! i miss ventiiiiiii sooo muchhhhhhhh
La noche caía sobre Magmel con un peso extraño, como si la selva respirara alrededor de ellos. Los insectos llenaban el aire con un zumbido constante y el cielo, cubierto por nubes grises, apenas dejaba escapar alguna que otra estrella. El calor húmedo era sofocante incluso después del atardecer, y el olor de la vegetación mojada se mezclaba con el de la tierra removida por sus pasos.
Inyō caminaba con las manos en los bolsillos, la mochila colgando de un solo hombro. Su expresión era la misma de siempre: calma, casi aburrida, como si la isla que intentaba devorarlos no le importara lo más mínimo.
—Podríamos seguir un par de kilómetros más —dijo, mirando de reojo el camino entre raíces gigantes.
Zero, que cargaba un maletín lleno de muestras y apuntes, resopló.
—Con tu sentido de la orientación, acabaríamos dando vueltas en círculo hasta el amanecer. Aquí hay suficiente espacio para montar un campamento seguro.
—Seguro, dice… —Inyō levantó una ceja y sonrió con sorna—. En Magmel no existe tal cosa.
Tn, que los seguía unos pasos más atrás, soltó una risita nerviosa. La caminata había sido larga, y aunque trataba de no quejarse, sus piernas pedían un descanso urgente.
—Yo estoy de acuerdo con Zero —dijo al fin—. Llevamos horas caminando y no quiero arriesgarme a seguir a oscuras.
—Ves, siempre tan responsable —añadió Zero, con un leve gesto de aprobación.
Inyō levantó las manos en señal de rendición y dejó caer la mochila al suelo.
—Está bien, está bien. Haremos base aquí. Pero cuando un bicho del tamaño de una casa venga a saludarnos, me van a agradecer por querer seguir caminando.
—Nadie te va a agradecer nada —replicó Zero con sequedad, dejando su maletín sobre una roca.
Tn rió bajo, agachándose para ayudar a sacar las lonas y cuerdas improvisadas.
Montar un campamento en medio de Magmel era un espectáculo en sí mismo. Zero, meticulosa, desplegaba cada cuerda y estaca como si siguiera un manual invisible; medía distancias, revisaba ángulos y organizaba hasta el último detalle.
Inyō, en cambio, se limitaba a mirar sentado sobre una raíz enorme, lanzando comentarios desde la sombra.
—Ese nudo no va a aguantar. —
—Si lo atas tan tenso, cuando llueva se va a romper. —
—Oh, mira, ese palo se parece a Denden.
Zero apretó los dientes, respirando hondo para no lanzarle el martillo a la cabeza.
—Si no vas a ayudar, cállate.
—¿Ayudar? Estoy supervisando —respondió él con fingida seriedad—. Supervisar es importante.
Tn trataba de aguantar la risa mientras sostenía la lona. Se acercó a Inyō y lo miró de reojo.
—Podrías hacer al menos un nudo con tu Xiang, ¿no?
Él bostezó, formando de la nada una cuerda brillante con la energía, que sostuvo la lona en segundos.
—Listo. Trabajo en equipo.
Zero rodó los ojos.
—Eso no cuenta como trabajo.
—Claro que sí. —Inyō sonrió satisfecho—. Lo hice con estilo.
Al final, entre la organización impecable de Zero, la improvisación de Inyō y la paciencia de Tn, lograron levantar una tienda modesta y una zona de fogata con piedras alrededor.
—Necesitamos leña —dijo Zero, revisando su lista mental.
—Yo me encargo —se ofreció Tn de inmediato.
—No irás sola —replicó Zero sin levantar la vista—. Inyō, acompáñala.
Él suspiró como si le hubieran pedido escalar una montaña.
—Siempre tan mandona.
—No es mandona, es sensata —dijo Tn, tomando una linterna pequeña.
Caminaron unos metros entre la maleza, recogiendo ramas secas. El silencio de la selva era inquietante: cada crujido parecía amplificado. Tn trataba de concentrarse en buscar madera, pero no podía evitar lanzar miradas alrededor, nerviosa.
Inyō, por su parte, caminaba sin prisa, observando todo como si estuviera en un paseo.
—Relájate. Si algo nos quisiera atacar, ya lo habría hecho.
—Eso no me tranquiliza en lo absoluto —contestó ella.
Él sonrió con esa calma suya que tanto la desconcertaba.
—Por eso estoy yo. Si pasa algo, te cubro. Tú solo concéntrate en no pisar nada que muerda.
Ella soltó una risa nerviosa.
—Eres insoportable.
—Lo sé. —Inyō cargó un par de ramas grandes al hombro—. Pero siempre cumplo lo que digo.
Tn lo observó en silencio unos segundos. No importaba cuánto tratara de hacerse el desinteresado, él siempre estaba pendiente, siempre la cuidaba sin decirlo directamente.
De vuelta al campamento, Zero ya había organizado todo. En cuanto vieron la fogata encendida, el calor reconfortante iluminó sus rostros. El círculo de luz se volvió un refugio en medio de la selva que rugía más allá.
—Bien —dijo Zero, sentándose recta sobre una manta—. Ahora falta la cena.
—Yo voto por pedir comida a domicilio —murmuró Inyō, dejándose caer sobre el suelo.
—Aquí no hay servicio de entrega —replicó Zero.
—Con esa actitud, nunca tendrás propina —añadió él, cerrando los ojos como si fuera a dormir.
Tn sonrió, acomodándose junto a la fogata.
—¿Qué vamos a cenar?
Zero sacó un pequeño paquete de provisiones.
—Raciones secas, como siempre.
—Genial, galletas de cartón —comentó Inyō, abriendo un ojo.
Tn se rio bajito. Aunque la comida era sencilla, compartirla bajo las estrellas tenía algo especial.
Mientras masticaban las raciones, el fuego crepitaba y proyectaba sombras danzantes. Tn observaba las llamas, sintiendo un extraño alivio. Allí, rodeados por la oscuridad de Magmel, la fogata era más que calor: era un recordatorio de que no estaban solos.
Cuando Zero terminó de comer, sacó su libreta y empezó a escribir, como siempre. Inyō, en cambio, se recostó sobre su mochila, mirando las chispas que subían hacia el cielo.
Tn lo imitó, sentándose más cerca de él. Durante unos segundos, ninguno habló, escuchando solo el fuego.
—¿Sabes? —dijo ella en voz baja—. A veces pienso que nunca podré acostumbrarme a este lugar. Todo aquí parece querer acabar con nosotros.
Inyō ladeó la cabeza para mirarla.
—Ese es el punto de Magmel. Te quiere muerto desde que pones un pie en él.
—Lo dices como si fuera algo normal.
—Porque lo es. —Él se encogió de hombros—. Pero también significa que cada día que sobrevivimos es una victoria.
Tn lo observó en silencio. Esa calma suya era irritante y tranquilizadora al mismo tiempo.
—¿Cómo puedes estar siempre tan tranquilo? —preguntó ella.
Él sonrió apenas, cerrando los ojos.
—Porque alguien tiene que estarlo. Si los tres entramos en pánico, nos comen vivos. Prefiero fingir que nada me afecta.
Ella bajó la mirada, jugando con una ramita en sus manos.
—No necesitas fingir conmigo.
Inyō abrió un ojo y la miró fijamente. Por un instante, el silencio entre ellos fue más intenso que la selva alrededor. Luego, él suspiró y extendió una mano, dándole un leve toque en la frente.
—Tú preocúpate solo de no perder el control de tu poder. Lo demás, déjamelo a mí.
