Pairing: Peter Parker x OC (platonic)
Genre: Friendship/ Adventure/ Family
Summary: Ten minutes. Ten minutes was all it took. She found his backpack in the alley and left before he got there. Now, before Peter knows it, Ned thinks he has a secret girlfriend and Spider-man has to be her kibble runner.
[Crispin/Basilio/Maliksi/Dominic x Skymaiden!Reader]
01: Noon at Ngayon (Link)
02: Ang Kambal na Anak ni Datu Talagbusao, Diyos ng Digmaan (Link)
03: Ang Prinsipe ng Mga Tikbalang (✓)
04: Ang Pinuno ng Mga Aswang
05: ?
03: Ang Prinsipe ng Mga Tikbalang
⚠️‼ Warning ‼⚠️
Cursing, swearing, cussing—you name it! There's lots and lots of it if you scroll down there. Also a bit of suggestiveness because we know whose chapter this is named after. And yes, kumakain at tumatakbo ka nanaman in this chapter (I don't think you'll mind if you know why, though). 😉
There could be many possible ways to describe this feeling. Pain, pighati, lumbay, sakit, hinagpis, kirot, sakit, pagtangis, iyak, lungkot, siphayo, dalamhati, karimlan, panglaw, lagim, kaligiman, paglunos, pagdurusa, pagkabahala, pagdawis, hilahil, balisa, yamot. Need I say more? Just search it up on Merriam-Webster.
In all honesty, nangangarap ka nalang na masagasaan ka ng pick-up truck at this very moment. No thesaurus could truly describe the chaos of thoughts buzzing about in your head a thousand miles per second as you processed what exactly just happened to you. Basilio was wrong; this was true heartbreak and being rejected by your crush was nothing compared to it.
Who knows? Maybe there was something about Manila that didn't allow you to eat in peace, even if there were so many good places to eat in (whether it be street food, something out of a karinderya, or whatever fancy restaurant available). Maybe you were unknowingly cursed by a spirit while you were traveling into the capital to not be able to enjoy your food in this godforsaken city. Maybe it was your punishment for not returning to the Philippines sooner and for enjoying other countries too much. Was it really a crime to have volunteered abroad then gone vacationing in your homeland right after? Perhaps this was Bathala's wrath to his last biraddali for being so elusive and over-adventurous. First it was the snatcher incident the other day, then there was this.
This.
It was a long, tiring day of apartment-hunting and job-hunting but to no success... and all you got was this. Your simple reward to yourself, spilled all over the ground. Your hot, crispy, and freshly-fried kwek-kwek, once drizzled in sweet and spicy fish ball sauce, unable to be savored or eaten anymore except by the ants or rats that would swarm it later. You stared helplessly at its neon orange remains, your wide, teary eyes absolutely horrified.
Staring daggers at his back, you tapped the shoulder of long-haired man who bumped into you and made you drop your food. You didn't give a single damn if he was brimming with bestial energy or if he was whatever mystical creature—you'd kick his sorry bottom. All hell (or heaven, since you were a skymaiden?) was going to break loose now because your bad day had just reached its breaking point.
"Hoy, you there! Magsorry ka naman!" you roared, subsequently swearing at him in your own dialect. You doubted he would understand—he looked like a snobby rich man, even more so with that expensive car of his (that he was about to open had you not gotten his attention). He was on the more rugged, rebellious, leather-jacket-wearing type of loaded, but still loaded, nevertheless. "Humingi ka nga ng tawad! Tignan mo ang ginawa mo, hinayupak ka!"
Oh, you had absolutely no idea how true what you were saying was.
"And why, pray tell, would I do that?" he raised one fine brow at you.
At his response, mas uminit ulo mo. He was really testing your patience now, looking all bored and unbothered. This son of a bi—
"You've got to be kidding me!" you bemoaned. "Do you not see my food on the ground because you weren't looking where you were going!? Bulag ka ba?" You gestured with angry, extended arms to the ground. "Ayan, o! Watch where you're going next time!"
Only then did the towering man look down to see your precious kwek-kwek down on the floor.
He rolled his eyes, taking out his wallet, "'Yan lang pala, eh. Don't be so dramatic. I'm in a hurry for my race tonight. How much do you want for compensation, princess?"
Princess? Princess, my ass—
He held out a bunch of money to your face, a combination of ₱1000 and ₱500 bills. Was he flaunting his wealth by shoving it into your nose? You hoped not, because you were about to smack a bi—inhale, exhale. Breathe, Inday. You pinched the bridge of your nose, mentally counting down to even your breathing. Ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one...
Zero.
"I don't need your money, sir." You calmed down, exhaling and declining his offer. Anong akala niya sa'yo? Mukhang pera? (Well yeah, you also loved cash and believed that money could bring you happiness but right now, that was not what you wanted.) "I just want an apology. 'Yun lang, po. Please."
Ikaw pa ang nagsasabi ng please. Ang bait-bait mo talaga; tunay na anghel.
"Okay, lady. Sorry. Geez," he arrogantly replied, fishing out his car keys. Clearly, it sounded like your plead was a waste of his time. Bitch, he didn't sound one bit sincere. Knowing that you wouldn't get more out of him, you glowered, turning away to walk back home to your hotel. The confrontation wasn't worth it. Walk away, Inday. Walk away.
"Hey, what the hell is your problem?!" he called out. Okay, stop. Don't walk away. Turn around. Maybe a confrontation wasn't such a bad idea.
You swerved around on your heels, even more pissed off. "Me?! What the hell is my problem? Tarantado—ikaw ang dahilan kung bakit nahulog ang kwek-kwek ko at hindi man lang sincere ang apology mo! Tsk!"
With that, you begrudgingly left the area.
"Lecheng lalaking 'yun! Stuck-up, spoiled little rich brat," you muttered disdainfully as you entered your hotel room and flopped on the cold bed. "Argh! Gusto ko nang bumalik sa probinsya! Heck, I'd rather volunteer overseas again somewhere with no water or electricity! Punta nalang kaya ako ng Brunei, wala akong pag-asa dito sa Pinas."
"Calm down, Inday. And you should watch your language before you say something you regret." Gabay materialized as a bunny so that you could have something squishy and soft to relax your nerves. You buried your face into their fur, exhausted. "Ang blood pressure mo, sis. Anghel ka pa naman pero bibig mo parang galing 'dun sa ibaba and 'di sa itaas. I've taught you better, Y/N."
"Sorry, Gabay. I didn't mean to disappoint you." You sniffled, wiping your tear-filled eyes. You were just so frustrated and tired today. "Pero ang hirap talaga pala maghanap ng matitirahan at matatrabahuan dito sa Maynila," you sighed, feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders. "On top of that, the rising supernatural attacks and everything else. I don't know what to prioritize anymore."
"Tawagan mo nalang kaya ang nanay mo. That would make you feel better."
"Mamaya na, ayokong umiyak sa harapan ni Mama. She'll worry even more," you whispered, then continued to seethe at what happened to you. "The audacity of that pompous jerk! He thinks he can do whatever he wants just because he's moneyed. Well, guess what? Money can buy happiness but it definitely can't buy class!"
"... Inday, you do realize that the guy you just yelled at was a tikbalang."
You were still dwelling in your anger. "Yeah, and? I noticed, pero wala akong pake. Someone should teach that cocky bastard some manners!"
Gabay sighed, knowing it was futile to lecture you about this (and your language). "... Get some rest, Y/N. You have another long day ahead of you tomorrow."
"Kung wala pa talaga akong makikita, I might just have to take up Alex's offer and become the Trese Family helper like Mama... not that I'd mind." An unintentional smile lifted your lips as you remembered who you met yesterday. Your anger abruptly dissipated. "Especially with those two."
Gabay interrupted your daydream of the twin demigod brothers by nuzzling you with their bunny nose, "Oooor, you could go back to doing modeling gigs like you did abroad. All those photoshoots paid good money, didn't they? You looked good in them, too."
"... I think this is the first compliment you've ever given me, Gabay."
The bunny you were holding bit your finger, making you yelp.
"Ow! Ba't ka ba ganyan?! Ang sungit-sungit... do you even love me!?"
"Che. I do, but only when you're not being a bother! Now go, maligo ka na! You reek of sun and smoke."
±
The next morning, you woke up in a much better mood. Crying it out did wonders for you; that was the best sleep you've gotten in weeks. After washing your face and putting on some decent clothes, you locked your hotel room door and headed to the free breakfast buffet. Who didn't love that part of the hotel stay? You'd rather just go down for breakfast in pajamas, but the hotel you were in was a pretty luxurious one and had a dress code for certain amenities.
A bonus of being one of the most active volunteers and senior members in your previous organization? Huge hotel discounts in the top accomodations of various countries. Although you were no longer an active volunteer after you went back to the Philippines, you were still their advocate and a well-loved contributor. You thanked your impressive post-college resumé for allowing you a spot in that international non-profit because now, you'd eternally reap its benefits.
Still, you'd also saved up (and invested) lots of cash from your generous allowances as a volunteer and those modeling gigs you did, even if you weren't a professional. You didn't even have an idea how you had model potential—bro, katawan at mukha pa lang, hindi ka talaga Gigi Hadid o Kendall Jenner—but Gabay said it was probably the natural charm you had from being a skymaiden. You laughed in their face, telling them that you were no Catriona Gray or Pia Wurtzbach, but they were being serious.
In the ancient times, biraddali were known for unintentionally making men fall head over heels, after all. Why else would they want a woman from heaven to be their wife? Their beauty, obviously. But the legends never mentioned that the seven biraddali sisters came in different shapes and sizes. Each of their beauty was unique. Gabay had once conjured up images of the other six biraddali while you were training. To your surprise, you looked nothing like your older sky sisters, and they looked nothing like each other, too. It was like the seven of you were made from whatever randomizer Bathala used.
You weren't the slightest bit alike except for one thing: your silver wings. Either way, men had bent to their knees hoping for at least one biraddali—it didn't matter who—to be their spouse. That was another story for another time.
Today, you opted for a looser, semi-formal dress that would also be able to hide your food baby (because duh, this was an eat-all-you-can buffet and you would make the most out of it). You'd change into something more movable and casual later after breakfast for job-hunting and apartment-hunting.
Breathing in the cold hotel air, you entered the elevator in a good mood, pressing the button for the floor level where the free breakfast buffet was located at. Humming to yourself, you thought about the pancakes and the unimaginably good butter they had in hotels. You had that yesterday morning. You could also get some of those breakfast muffins or the breads with fruit jams. The pineapple jam seemed tasty enough to pair it with.
The elevator stopped at a few levels above your desired floor. Anyhow, you continued daydreaming about your breakfast. Someone was probably going to use the elevator with you. You didn't mind.
Rice, corned beef, and eggs sounded great, too, right? A classic Filipino almusal. Ooh, they also had buko pie available in their selection. You'll get a slice of that for sure.
The elevator doors opened, making you immediately stop thinking about breakfast.
There, in front of you, was that egoistic scumbag who dropped your kwek-kwek yesterday and refused to apologize genuinely for it.
In just one split second, nasira ang araw mo.
"You—ba't ka nandito!?" you exclaimed as he entered the elevator nonchalantly, pressing the button to close it. Like he didn't sin against you last night.
"Uy. Well, well, well. Look who it is." He rested his hands in his pockets. Recognizing your face, he smirked triumphantly, "For your information, my father owns this building. And a lot of other properties here in Makati. Mag-aalmusal din ako. Also, good morning to you."
Truly, madly, and deeply? You wanted to cry in frustration, but held it in even if your blood pressure was skyrocketing. You scooted away to the other side of the elevator as far away from him as possible.
"..."
"What, you're still angry at me?" he asked, amused. "Grabe ka naman magtampo."
You refused to acknowledge him.
"Giving me the silent treatment, huh? Alam mo, ang cute mo 'pag nagagalit ka."
Your upper lip twitched, but the tips of your ears tinged pink. It didn't help that you had a thing for long-haired men. Unlike last night where it was dim and kind of crowded, you could clearly see him now under the bright elevator lights. Tall, dark, handsome, full of beastly energy. Sayang ang mukha kasi mapagmataas nga lang talaga masyado 'yung nasa tabi mo. Hayop talaga 'tong tikbalang na 'to. Literally and figuratively.
"Pretty dress, too, princess," he egged on, checking you out shamelessly. Legit, ang harot. "All dressed up for someone so early in the morning? Such a good girl, aren't ya?"
Blue screen. Error 404. TV static. Red alert. Your one brain cell was panicking and malfunctioning. Sabog na sabog ka pa this early in the morning and you haven't had neither coffee nor breakfast yet. You couldn't deal with this right now.
"Okay, that's it!" You pressed the button to open the elevator, exiting and brisk walking to anywhere you could get away from him.
"Hey, wait! Saan ka papunta?" The smug, flirtatious man had the gall to follow you out.
You didn't turn around, but answered him, "I'm going to use the stairs. Yabang-yabang mo. Bwiset ka."
"The breakfast buffet floor is still six floors down, you know!" he yelled, laughing in the middle of his sentence.
"I'd rather use the stairs and get some cardio if a prick like you is using the elevator!" you answered back, still infuriated. When you noticed he was still tailing you, you started running through the hotel corridors to lose him (which honestly wasn't your best idea since he was a tikbalang and you were wearing heels—chunky ones, but still heels for the semi-formal dress code). And he started chasing after you faster, too. Pisteng yaw—
"Leave me alone, you psycho! Stop following me!" Lintik na lalaking 'to. He wasn't giving up.
"Then stop running! Why are you running?" Was your life a joke? A living meme?
"Because you're insincere and annoying, dude! Can't you see that!?"
Unfortunately, the hotel hallways started to all look the same. The tikbalang was definitely playing tricks on you now, leading you astray like those old stories. You felt like you were running in circles; that meant their powers weren't limited to making travelers lost in a forest. The only way to get out of this mess was to wear your shirt inside out. Groaning, you looked down, remembering that you were wearing a dress. You should've just worn pajamas or a t-shirt to breakfast. Screw the semi-formal dress code; it can rot in hell.
Before you were able to use your magic, he managed to grab your wrist as you rounded a corner, "Hah! Huli ka!"
The instant you were caught, you flashed back to the end of the biraddali myth.
The youngest sister escaped the man’s house while he was away and dashed towards the forest. Never had there been a swifter biraddali, and never had any angel knew what freedom had meant.
You glared at him, tearing your hand away from his grip and not backing down this time. Eyes narrowed into thin slits, you stepped closer and stared up at him fearlessly. You were tempted to punch the pridefulness out of him—and you packed a mean punch, too, courtesy of those years being beaten up by Gabay. You aggressively poked his chest with your index finger. "Gago ka ba? Ano bang problema mo?! Umalis na nga ako para hindi na kita makita pero sinusundan mo pa rin ako!"
At first, he didn't say anything. His gaze looked like he was dissecting your facial features one by one. Being much taller than you were, he blinked down at you in interest, then grinned playfully.
"You know, I've always loved the thrill of the chase. Kaya nga mahilig akong kumarera." He bent down to your level, faces closer together—noses nearly touching—as he tilted his head at you, entranced by your fierceness. You could smell the fresh mint in his breath from this distance. "Ang bilis mong tumakbo. I like a challenge. You're the first woman to give me that." He stopped, as if reminiscing something. "... Well, there is this other lady I know who's as inconvincible as you but I don't think she likes men that way."
Groaning in frustration and knowing it would be useless to outrun a tikbalang without using your powers or showing the creep your undergarments by flipping your dress inside-out (which you really didn't want to do with all the CCTV cameras in the hotel), you stomped back to the stairs and slumped down on a stairstep. You should've just ordered room service instead of going down for the buffet. Why wouldn't the guy just let you be?
"Are you surrendering?" he asked curiously, no longer using his magical abilities.
"No, you jackass," you countered sharply, slouching and again refusing to look at him. "I'm just not stupid enough to challenge a tikbalang in his territory. Unlike you, I know how to set aside my ego."
He was surprised that you knew he wasn't human. Sitting down beside you, he inspected you more, wondering if you used any magic while running from him. You didn't. You were naturally light on your feet and graceful in your movements. For a minute or so, none of you said a word. Noticing your sullenness, he started feeling guilty for what he did.
"... Okay, look. Sige, sorry na. For bumping into you and making you drop your food last night. And for chasing you while using my powers," he huffed out, leaning on the wall. You were in disbelief. Why was he suddenly apologizing? "Consider that my apology. My sincere apology. Bibilhan nalang din kita ng kwek-kwek mamaya."
"... What is wrong with you? Do you have a split personality or something?" you clarified, a little weirded out at his quick change in demeanor.
"Pride and anger issues... uh, yes, maybe. Split personality? No. Come on, let's go." The guy stood up, effortlessly pulling you back to the elevator and pressing a button to let it continue down. "You're staying at this hotel as a guest, right? Let me take you out to breakfast. Pwede rin for dinner later in the hotel restaurant. I'll waive the bills for your stay in the hotel, too. Apology accepted na ba?"
You blinked, not knowing what to say. And they said women are difficult to understand. Right now, you were totally puzzled. Why on earth were you even wasting your emotions on a man whose name you didn't know?
"Ha? Sir," you breathed out exasperatedly (probably for the hundredth time in the past two days). "I don't need you to do all that. I just wanted a genuine apology. Sapat na 'yung ginawa mo. May discount naman rin ang hotel stay ko." You rubbed your temples soothingly. "I'm also sorry for yelling at you last night. And earlier. I just... I just had a really bad day yesterday and reward ko sana 'yung kwek-kwek, eh. Tapos nahulog pa at nakasabay kita sa elevator. It ruined my morning."
Half a minute of silence passed.
"So, bati na tayo ngayon?" He extended his hand, grinning. "Since you know I'm a tikbalang, you also probably know about the code of my people. You have my word that my apology was genuine."
"... Fine." With a sigh, you nodded and shook his hand. He surprised you, however, by bringing your hand to his lips and kissing your knuckles. Babaerong tikbalang na 'to, naghahanap siguro ng chix. Klarong-klaro na may pagka-playboy.
He let your hand go (with you discreetly wiping it on the back skirt of your dress). The guy gave you a jokingly offended look.
"Wow, do you really find me that repulsive? Nagtoothbrush naman ako, if you're worried about germs, princess."
"Stop calling me princess!" you retorted, a palm over your red face. "Ano ba, are you this aggravating to every girl you meet?"
"Well, hindi ko alam kung anong itatawag ko sa'yo, eh. And actually, other girls love it when I give them my attention," he said as the elevator opened to the floor for the breakfast buffet. You two walked to the main area, where the employees automatically bowed their heads as they recognized the man. You tried hiding your face with your hair from the secondhand embarrassment (if you have short hair, then I apologize fully in advance because what you're doing is utterly useless). One could tell how curious they were about you based from their stares.
"Oh God, I shouldn't have gone out of the elevator with you. This is a huge misunderstanding."
He laughed at your reaction to the people bowing as he passed.
"Y/N. You can call me Y/N," you disclosed, voice soft to not attract any more commotion. The employees were already whispering about you—probably because of this guy. "Y/N L/N."
You quickly sat down on a chair in the corner. To your bewilderment, the glamoured tikbalang sat down on the chair opposite to you. Just smirking and staring at you. It made you feel even more self-conscious.
"Ba't ka nakaupo diyan? Aren't you going to sit at another table, uh... sir?"
He leaned back on his plush seat, angling his head to the side as he talked to you. "Hindi ba sinabi kong I'll take you out to breakfast and dinner?"
You gave him a chagrined, unimpressed look. If it were possible, numerous question marks would be seen over your head. "Sir, this is a free breakfast buffet—"
"Don't call me Sir... unless you want me to do some very questionable things to you right now," he interrupted you with a mischievous glint in his eye. Wala ka na atang magagawa sa kayabangan nito. "The name's Maliksi."
You closed your eyes, again mentally counting down and slowing your overly-beating heart. It was too early in the morning for this. "Okay, Maliksi. I have a question for you—"
"Yes. I don't wear boxers nor briefs."
This motherfu—
6AM and you already felt a headache coming up. You regretted not choosing room service today. The sheer number of times you lost your train of thought conversing with this guy was uncountable.
"Ew! That's not, ugh—walang hiyang kabayong 'to," you mumbled, standing up, your entire upper body flushed and warm. "Fine! Umupo ka diyan. Whatever! Bahala ka sa buhay mo. Basta ako mag-aalmusal na kasi marami pa akong gagawin ngayon."
"Alright, sweetheart."
"Sweetheart?"
"Sabi mo ayaw mong tawagin kitang princess."
"There's a reason I gave you my name!"
"Yeah, and all I need now is your phone number."
There was just no getting through this bastard. He knew exactly what he was doing, what he looked like, and used it to his advantage. Maliksi was a menace to society.
Minutes later, you were finally able to take as much of the breakfast as you wanted. Maliksi was still on your opposite side. As vexing, perverted, and well-off as he was, you were surprised he chose to eat spicy cornsilog with fried rice... the same thing you were eating. You thought he'd go for a more American breakfast. Nonetheless, you actually had an additional plate for the fruits, pancakes, jam, and Anchor butter (no, not sponsored) you were craving.
For once, it was peaceful. And quiet. You were just one bite into your spicy cornsilog when—
"Are you sure you can take it all, sweetheart?" Maliksi butted in, his tone clearly leaning towards risqué.
You choked on your food. Immediately, you grabbed your glass of orange juice and gulped its contents down, hitting your chest with a fist to lessen your gagging. Did he just—
"The heat, I mean," Maliksi added intentionally late, relishing in your mortified state. He knew for a fact that he just dropped an innuendo. "Of the spicy corned beef. And the amount of food you've got."
"Putanginang—"
"Language, sweetheart."
May Bathala give you the patience (and not the strength because you might just hit someone) to get over this meal and the rest of the day ahead of you.
After ensuring you weren't in danger of choking, you pointedly answered back, "Don't worry. I can take all of this—" You harshly stabbed the yolk of your sunny side-up with your fork, a sickly sweet fake smile appearing your face. "–and anything else you throw at me."
Maliksi's smirk grew larger, "Ooh. Feisty. I'm starting to really like you."
You snorted, "Then it's your unlucky day. Don't get too attached because fun fact, I'm not into horses."
"You know, I'm not just a horse."
You scoffed, wanting to finish breakfast sooner now. "What? Are you going to say you're a stallion? Kabayo pa rin 'yan, pare."
You seem to have outwitted him this time, because he cleared his throat and changed the topic, now actually eating his breakfast.
"So what brings you to this hotel?" he inquired after a few spoonfuls. "Business? Vacation? Honeymoon getaway with your husband... which I doubt since you're alone but still all dressed up so alluringly."
By this time, you had finished your cornsilog and were already devouring those buttery pancakes topped with fruit jams.
"Actually, you could say business. And FYI, I'm only wearing this outfit for the dress code here," you replied after giving it some thought. Finally, a statement from him that was normal and not suggestive. "I needed a temporary place to stay at habang naghahanap ako ng apartment at bagong part-time job. This hotel also has a long-time partnership to the last organization I was in, which is why I chose to be here."
He seemed intrigued by you, judging by the way he paid so much attention. Why? You had absolutely no clue. "... Huh. Interesting. Anyways, paano mo nalaman na tikbalang ako? I'm pretty sure the glamour spell I have is working perfectly fine, since the human employees aren't freaking out."
"Oh, that?" You swallowed your food. "I could easily sense your mystical energy the moment you bumped into me last night."
"If you sensed it, then that would only mean you're one, a human who's extremely experienced with the supernatural or two, a supernatural being yourself." He chuckled, leaning forward towards you. "So which one is it, sweetheart?"
Actually, it was sort of both, but you didn't know how to answer that question right (nor did you want to). Thankfully, one of the employees—a security guard—approached the man opposite to you, handing him a phone. You could tell that this employee was a tikbalang, too, from the spiritual energy he was emitting.
"Mal, Señor Armanaz is looking for you," he told the long-haired man. Your brows furrowed in confusion at the name. Señor Armanaz. You could clearly remember the old tikbalang leader whenever Tito Anton held those meetings you and Alex would sometimes sneak into. You'd even spoken once and he mirthfully called you a strange tiny human (probably because your biraddali side hadn't fully surfaced yet). Heck, even today, you could keep it that way so that mystical creatures were constantly confused about what you were. The only time you allow yourself to become fully biraddali was in the Timeless Realm Gabay had trained you in. Other than that, you placed a limit on your power.
You could vividly remember the feeling of numerous unearthly eyes following your every movement during Tita Miranda's funeral. Señor Armanaz's watchful gaze was one of them.
"Señor Armanaz? Like, the Great Stallion? Ang Hari ng Mga Tikbalang?" you questioned.
"You know my dad?" Maliksi blinked, taking the phone.
"Dad?" You had frozen in your seat. That word meant one thing. "Tatay mo si Señor Armanaz?"
In your head, you heard Gabay suddenly cackling. You understood why as you put the pieces of the puzzle together. You were absolutely stupid to not have realized it sooner. One, Makati was the home and territory of the Armanaz herd of tikbalang. Two, Maliksi had mentioned earlier in the elevator that his father owned this hotel building and a lot of other properties in the city, likely including the tallest building at Ayala Avenue: Armanaz Tower or Tower A, which stood at 103 stories high. What other tikbalang would be able to do that? Only the all-powerful clan leader, of course. Three, Maliksi's aura was much potent than a regular tikbalang. You've met a few before in your province and when you were traveling around the Philippines with your mom. If you compared Maliksi and the security guard tikbalang in front of you, you could easily say that Maliksi's was stronger—and dare you say it, one of royalty.
"Oo," Maliksi nodded, not understanding your rattled reaction. "Didn't I tell you? Ako si Maliksi, Prinsipe ng Mga Tikbalang." Uh-oh. Definitely royalty.
Punyeta, lamunin ka nalang sana ng lupa. "I—I'm sorry, but I really have to go."
"Huh? You're not done with your food yet. Aren't you going to have some coffee, too?"
"I'll... I'll, uh, get it to go."
You shoved whatever remaining food you could fit in your mouth and practically zoomed out of the breakfast buffet venue before anyone could say anything else. Today, you'd just made a bit too much contact with important creatures in the mystical world; more than you were comfortable with. Had Maliksi been a regular tikbalang, you'd have stayed for the rest of breakfast. But since he was the prince and there were other tikbalang employees around disguised as humans, it was indisputable that there would be rumors spreading like wildfire regarding your possible identity.
"It's the first time I've actually seen you eat breakfast with a girl in the hotel rather than just have a one-night stand," the tikbalang employee commented. "Panglong-term na ba 'tong bagong girlfriend mo, Maliksi? Ang ganda-ganda pa naman."
See? Wildfire. Gossip traveled fast.
Maliksi scoffed, ignoring his father reprimanding him on the phone, "As much as I hate it, she's not my girlfriend. And she's bizzare. I can't tell if she's human or not."
"Maliksi! Are you even listening to me?!" His father shouted from the phone. "Umuwi ka na ngayon dito! Ilang araw ka nang—"
"Anong pangalan?" the employee whispered.
"Heh. Y/N L/N daw ang pangalan niya."
On the other end of the line, Señor Armanaz became quiet all of a sudden.
"Dad? Ba't ka tumahimik?"
"Did you just say Y/N L/N?"
"... Yes, why? Kilala ka ata niya. She just reacted weirdly."
"So that little girl remembers me." Maliksi strained to hear his father speak, which was unusual. "It's been years."
Maliksi and the tikbalang employee were confused. "Dad? Anong pinagsasabi mo?"
"That girl. You said you couldn't tell if she was human or not, Maliksi?"
"Yes, Dad."
"Ah, so it is the strange tiny human. I wasn't aware she has returned to this city."
"Strange tiny human? How do you and this girl know each other, Dad?"
"Bumalik ka sa Tower, Maliksi. Ikukuwento ko sa'yo ang lahat."
And that was how the Prince of the Tikbalang heard the story of the Trese Family's helper's daughter who was an anomaly to the supernatural leaders present whenever former Babaylan-Mandirigma Anton Trese gathered them all. A spiritual signature that was both human and non-human.
And when he found out that you and Alexandra Trese were childhood best friends, he laughed to himself. No wonder he liked you so much; you were so different from Alexandra but so alike at the same time. What a small world. You two were the only women uninterested in his advances; two pretty best friends. Out of respect, he stopped pursuing Alexandra (since he had an inkling that she and Ibu's emissary were a thing). That didn't stop his teasing behavior towards her, though.
You, on the other hand...
Wala pang hamong tinatanggihan ang Prinsipe ng Mga Tikbalang, karera man o panliligaw ng isang babae. You were a mystery, one full of secrets. And what was it that he said to you?
He loved the thrill of the chase, and he's always liked a challenge.
±
Oooh, you fucked up. You really did. Even more than you did this morning with the Prince of the Tikbalang. This one was an "oh, shit" moment worthy of an Oscar. While looking for a good job and a good apartment, you'd accidentally stumbled into a den of ravenous aswang feasting on black market human remains. This time, you really had no choice but to use some of your powers to kill them off.
You also noticed that there was a beautiful woman clothed in red, also an aswang (a manananggal, actually) but it seemed like she was also attacked by those other, more monstrous-looking aswang. She seemed heavily-injured, too, with only one wing remaining and being half-conscious. With the help of Gabay (who'd shapeshifted into a gigantic, white lion), you were able to defeat the other aswang and bring her to a safer place.
"Who... are... you?" she croaked out, blood dripping from her plump lips. You noticed that it was her blood and not a victim's. She watched with blurry eyes as the lion-like Gabay turned into a tiny ball of light hovering over your shoulder... kind of like Peter Pan and Tinkerbell.
"Huwag kang mag-alala. Tutulungan po kita," you told her gently, carefully setting her down on the ground. You knelt beside her. "I'll try to heal you, but since my powers are sacred in nature and you're, uh... a creature of darkness, I can't assure that this will be painless. Kung ano mang espesyal na lason ang ginamit nila, it's running through your veins and spreading fast."
"Pinatay... nila... ang mga kapatid ko," she gasped out in torment, unable to breathe right. "My sisters... were weakened... from inhaling... this poison." You frowned. There were, indeed, other manananggal bodies scattered where you found this lady. Unlike this one, the others didn't survive.
"What's your name?"
"Regina..."
You brushed her straight, black hair out of her face as you let your hands glow silver, "This will be my first time healing a creature of the night. Please bear with me, Regina. I'm not going to intentionally hurt you, but this will hurt."
She nodded weakly. Before doing anything, you turned to Gabay for comfort that what you were doing was right.
"Go on, Inday," they encouraged. "You've healed many other beings before. This time will be no different. Just make sure to siphon out only the poison with your spiritual energy. Once the poison is gone, I'm sure she'll be able to regenerate herself."
Nodding and gaining more self-confidence, you began concentrating on healing Regina. She screamed in pain, your holy powers clashing with her dark energy. "I'm so sorry," you apologized repeatedly, chewing on your lip. "I'll make this quick, I promise."
After fifteen minutes, you were able to siphon out all the poison in her system. It manifested as a green-and-black miasma which you wafted into the air and promptly purified into nothingness. Regina was panting heavily, but thankfully, her wounds were slowly starting to heal already.
"What... are you?" she wheezed out. You shook your head.
"I'm not anyone of importance," you said to her, moving to stand up. Before you could do so, she reached out for your hand.
"Please," she coughed out. "You... helped me. There must be... some kind of payment... I can give you."
"Just stay alive, Regina. 'Yun lang nais ko," you smiled, wiping all the blood that had splattered on your face from all the fighting. You tilted your head at her, cryptically saying, "And restore your other wing. I know for a fact that losing one's wings is a punishment worse than death. Fly free."
Your ancient soul remembered many things. Long ago, before this life, the seventh biraddali's silver wings were stolen and hidden from her. Long ago, she had been forced to become that cruel man's wife as he lusted over her beauty. Long ago, she was shackled to the earth, powerless and grieving over her incompleteness.
Now, you would never take freedom for granted.
The next thing Regina remembered when she woke up was her brother and his two loyal servants running towards her. She was drowsy, but the immense pain that she'd felt when she neared death was no longer present.
"Regina!" her brother yelled. Although he was no manananggal, he was still placed on high stature amongst their race.
"Dominic..." she rasped out. He kneeled beside her, full of worry.
"Nakita namin ang mga rebeldeng aswang, but they were—"
"Already slaughtered."
"Your sisters, they're—"
"Dead. I know."
Dominic snarled, "I knew I shouldn't have trusted those rebels. They never had intentions of returning back to the aswang clans."
That wasn't what Regina cared about right now. "Dominic, saan 'yung babae?"
"Babae?" he repeated, clueless as to who his sister was referring to.
"The one... the one who healed me," Regina swallowed, her throat dry. She sat up, with Dominic assisting her. One of his servants handed him a jug full of blood and minced meat (human or not, we'll never know). Regina drank it greedily.
"There was nobody else here, madam," the aswang with double braided hair buns answered. She pointed her thumb at Dominic's other servant, the one with the short bob haircut. "Ursule and I scouted the area. You were the only one we could sense."
"Sigurado ka ba, Viatrix? Wala talaga kayong nakita?" Dominic inquired, helping his sister stand up.
"Yes, sire," Viatrix nodded. "We checked twice."
"Do you know what she looked like? Or what her name was?" Dominic interrogated his sister, who sighed and shook her head.
"Everything was a blur," she replied tiredly, closing her eyes as she tried to recall what happened. "But I remember her powers... they were pure and holy, and it was a pain... so much pain, to be healed, but she still healed me. Tinanggal niya ang lason sa katawan ko... then she purified it into nothing. And she didn't ask... for anything in return, except for me to live. She was talking... to this ball of light. Tinawag siyang Inday." She opened her eyes. "Wala na akong ibang maalala. But she just seemed so... so familiar. I feel like I've seen her before somewhere."
"Then it's settled," Dominic announced. "Hahanapin natin ang Inday na'to."
You had unknowingly saved the Reyna Manananggal, the beloved sister of the Pinuno ng Mga Aswang, from the clutches of death.
They would find you.
±
It was midnight when Gabay teleported you back into your hotel room, something they only did during emergencies or when you two were done exterminating evil supernatural creatures. You cringed at how much blood was all over your clothes.
"Third day in Manila, as hectic as the past two days," you grunted, smelling of iron and metal. "You know what? I might actually take Alex up on her offer. It's impossible to find a nice apartment and a good job in this place. Plus, it's my last day at my hotel tomorrow."
"You mean later," Gabay corrected. "It's already midnight."
"Oh. Damn. Guess I'll have to savor my last hours here." You sluggishly walked towards the bathroom to shower, only to find that there was a microwave on the hotel room desk that wasn't there before. "Huh? Wala 'yan pag-alis natin kanina, 'di ba?"
"Nope. What's inside?"
You opened the microwave.
It was a plate full of kwek-kwek covered in sweet and spicy fishball sauce.
(To be continued.)
± Author's Notes ±
Soooooo? What did you think? We got not only the almighty MalikSIMP, but also Daddy Dominic and Mommy Manananggal. I think the name Regina really fits her; she's so gorgeous (rawr) and yeah, fit to be a queen (as per her name)! Viatrix and Ursule are also those girls who were standing behind Dominic during the show's Council Meeting flashback. The four of them look like runway models who can eviscerate me whenever they want. 😍🩸
Yes, my headcanon is that Maliksi is a certified himbo, richkid, and playboy (which is pretty canon). Even if he plays with women's hearts, this tikbalang can get it anytime! 🐴👀
Ah, yes. We've got the twins for the friends-to-lovers trope and Maliksi for the enemies-to-lovers trope (actually, only the reader is stubborn; Mal fell head over heels the moment you were able to resist him). 😂
The next chapter might take a liiiiiitle longer since we barely have any Dominic interactions and I'm still pondering on how to write him well. Let's just see. 🤔🤭
Also, we advocate for diversity here in this blog! Beauty comes in many forms; definitely not just the ones commonly seen on social media! I wanted to show that by writing that the biraddali, despite looking so different from one another, were equally stunning in their own rights. You guys can imagine them the way you want. ☺
Uh-huh, I ship Alex with the goth goddess that is Ibu's emissary. I will take no objections. 🤚
Most importantly, thank you, thank you, thank you so much for your support! 100+ notes on Chapter 1 & Chapter 2? My heart is full. 🥺💓
Once more, comments and constructive criticism are super duper welcome. Hit those heart, reblog, and follow buttons for updates! Feel free to comment if you want to be tagged in the next chapters, too. See you next time! 😘💋
[Crispin/Basilio/Maliksi/Dominic x Skymaiden!Reader]
01: Noon at Ngayon (Link)
02: Ang Kambal na Anak ni Datu Talagbusao, Diyos ng Digmaan (✓)
03: Ang Prinsipe ng Mga Tikbalang
04: Ang Pinuno ng Mga Aswang
05: ?
02: Ang Kambal na Anak ni Datu Talagbusao, Diyos ng Digmaan
"It's been three years, Inday," Gabay told you one day, morphing into a white butterfly on your shoulder. It was 5:28AM in Hanoi, and the sun was only beginning to rise; the morning light just beginning to peek through the curtains of your current residence, which you stayed in alone since it was only fit for one person. Thus, you often had your peace in the early hours of the day. The only sounds that could be heard were the chirping of the birds outside, instrumental Bossa Nova music playing from your phone, and your kettle whistling on the stove.
"Since what, Gabay?" you asked curiously, pouring the boiling water into your glass mug filled with coffee grounds. You sighed happily, inhaling the rich, familiar aroma of roasted beans. It felt like it was enveloping you in warmth... and caffeine. You'd drink that matcha powder you bought tomorrow. For now, you wanted to feel like you were in your own personal café.
"Since you left the Philippines to volunteer around in Asia," Gabay replied, thin wings fluttering.
"Hala, talaga? It's been three years?" Honestly, it felt like forever. Figuratively and literally.
"Aren't you homesick?"
"Well, yeah," you began, stirring your coffee. "I am, but I call my mom every other day. You know that already. Besides, I like traveling and volunteering! Ito na ang naging buhay ko."
"Yes, but so is fighting evil supernatural creatures all over Asia," Gabay pointed out with a grin. "From how well they've gone, I've taught you well in martial arts and battle strategies. Your spiritual powers have majestically matured, too." They gave themselves a pat on the back. "All those years in the Timeless Realm have paid off, haven't they? Such great memories we've made there."
You begged to disagree, shuddering as you recalled the mental and physical trauma you had gone through in that realm. It was centuries' worth of training and by Bathala, you never ever wanted to undergo that again. You'd rather go broke than repeat that experience one more time. Gabay was usually a good person, but they were a vicious mentor to you. And by vicious, I mean drill-sergeant-and-not-being-able-to-feel-your-body-for-weeks type of vicious. You could still feel phantom pains and the terrible soreness in your muscles from being beaten up in the Timeless Realm (before shortly being healed or forced to heal by Gabay). It was hell, and that's why it felt like forever since you were in your home country.
But you understood their reasons behind it. You were the only remaining biraddali left, after all. It was a must for you to be able to defend yourself against whatever enemy you might face in the future.
"Gabay naman, eh. Why are we talking about this? Ang aga-aga pa para pag-usapan 'to," you frowned, shrugging off the butterfly on your shoulder and adding brown sugar to your drink. They shifted into a white, chubby cat right beside your coffee mug.
"Inday, I'm just saying that it might be time for you to go home," Gabay advised, their feline tail waving side to side. "You've done your part in volunteering, but you're more needed somewhere else."
You mulled it over as you sipped your coffee, the steam hitting your face directly, "But... I don't think I'm ready to go home, especially not after knowing what I am. Who knows what's waiting for me there?"
"Mga kalaban at mga taong gustong patayin ka, that's for sure."
"Gabay!" you glared at them.
"What? Totoo naman, iha. Sa tingin mo magdidiriwang ang mga demonyo sa pagbalik mo? You think they'll hold a welcome home party for a heavenly being with open arms?" Gabay snorted, making you roll your eyes. "As if."
"Ang sungit mo naman, as usual," you pouted. They've always been like that. "You know, when I first met you, akala ko ako ang magiging susunod na Birheng Maria. Ginamit mo pa ang linyang do not be afraid. Buti nalang 'di ako nahimatay sa takot!"
"You're not the Virgin Mary, but you might as well have the same purity she had, even if you're not sinless and you're a pain in the neck sometimes," they shared to you, stretching their limbs and laying down on the wooden dining table like a real cat. You sweatdropped at their bluntness, but they continued to talk. "That holy power you possess will attract and be feared by many. Be careful."
You groaned, covering your eyes, "Okay, okay. You've told me that a hundred times already. Gets ko na, gosh. Para kang sirang plaka."
Gabay smirked (which was weird since they were currently a cat). You stood up, opening the fridge to see what you could make... only to cringe, knowing how your mentor-now-cat would react.
"... So, what do you think of having leftover phở for breakfast?"
"Again?" they complained childishly, a complete 180⁰ from their normally mature personality. "Didn't we have that yesterday?"
"I can just reheat it! Sayang kung 'di kakainin." Gabay scowled at your reply.
If there was one thing you knew about Gabay, it was that they were awfully picky with their food. They also didn't like having the same food twice in a row. You didn't know that guardian spirits (or whatever Gabay was) could eat living food, but they did when they wanted to. And it gave you a headache. Choosy si bes at ang bilis niyang magsawa sa pagkain.
"Sheesh, ikaw talaga," you ranted, pulling out the bowl of phở from yesterday along with other ingredients. "You always tell me to remember my blessings but you keep forgetting that having any food available is a blessing itself! Hypocrite."
They indignantly turned their head away from you and your nagging, looking like a stubborn toddler who wouldn't eat their vegetables. You placed a hand on your cocked hip, narrowing your eyes at the uncompromising white cat.
"O, sige. Gagawan na nga kita ng bún chả giò. Ang arte ng pusang 'to," you huffed, reaching out to grab a knife and mincing vegetables. "Sosyal na sosyal ka, ha. I may be your ward but I'm not your personal restaurant! You should be thankful I'm cooking for you!"
"Whatever," Gabay scoffed, changing the topic. "Also, the organization is going to make its volunteers rotate around countries again next week. Are you planning on continuing to Brunei this time?"
You stopped in chopping, glancing at them, "I thought you wanted me to go back to the Philippines?"
"I do," Gabay responded, shrugging. "But in the end, you're the biraddali and I'm just your guide. I can't tell you what to do."
"... If I do go back to the Philippines," you wondered. "I don't think I want to go to Manila yet. The news says it's just so hectic there right now. I want to stay with my mom first."
Before you knew it, Gabay had turned your laptop on and had already started searching for flights from Hanoi to other cities in the Philippines. How they did it with cat paws, you didn't know. "Well, if ayaw mong pumunta ng Maynila, we can book a flight to Clark, Cebu, or Davao. You choose, Inday."
For a moment, you thought about it, then slowly nodded, making your decision according to the city closest to your province.
You would later go back to the Philippines after three long years of evading (and accepting) your true nature. Then after that, you ended up making up for lost time with your mother in the province. Heck, you even introduced her to Gabay, your shapeshifting, floating ball of light and mentor.
Only then did she realize that her late friend Miranda was right with her visions all along. You were born for the spiritual world. You were always meant for it, being the last biraddali.
"Huh, that explains it," your mom said one morning as you exited your childhood bedroom. You had just revealed to her last night what you'd actually been doing with Gabay all over Asia, aside from volunteer work. She hadn't said a word to you after that... until this morning.
"Explains what?" you asked anxiously. Were you going to get disowned today? You sure hoped not.
"When I was almost three months pregnant with you, the doctor said that you died in my womb. They lost the heartbeat," she shared sadly, grasping your hands. "After that, I tried to cope with the fact I wasn't pregnant anymore, which was hard to accept since you were the only thing your father left for me before he died. Miranda was with child, too, and I couldn't help but feel a little envious of her even if she was my friend."
"You never told me this before, Ma," you breathed out slowly, watching her eyes become glassy.
"I didn't because miraculously, when I was supposed to have miscarried, the doctors gave me an ultrasound for my continued nausea and there you were growing in my belly, completely strong and healthy! I could still remember hearing your heartbeat again and I can tell you that in that moment, I said that God must have sent me one of His angels from heaven. Totoo nga pala." She wiped her tears away, shaking her head. "Angel, skymaiden, biraddali—it doesn't matter. As it turns out, you really are from up there, my dear." She cupped your cheeks, staring into your eyes, so similar to her own. "But I wouldn't have it any other way. Ano mang nangyari o mangyayari, anak kita at hindi 'yan magbabago. You are my miracle and my greatest gift. You always will be."
±
For one year, you stayed with your mom. You also traveled around the country with her, making memories everywhere. As much as you hated it, she wasn't as young as you remembered her to be as a child and before you left for college, as well as your international charity work. You wanted to cherish the time you had left.
Tonight, she was watching the news on television, looking unusually focused. Gabay, on the other hand, was spending their time as a caterpillar and napping on your mom's indoor potted plant.
"Ma?" you asked, brushing your fingers through your sleeping dog's fur as it slept on your lap. "What's wrong?"
Your mom shook your head, "Wala naman, 'nak. It's just that all these mysterious disappearances and attacks in Manila keep rising. There's no doubt there's something supernatural behind it."
At her honest confession, you grew concerned. Your hometown and the region around it had its own fair share of supernatural occurrences, but it was nothing compared to the mess happening in the capital city. You did your best to help eliminate the bad stuff in your province alongside Gabay, but for the most part, you kept your identity and existence low-key. Despite this, there was a high chance the mystical world was starting to suspect your renewed presence in the country. You held your breath anxiously as the reporter continued to describe the victims' descriptions. Even Gabay had woken up from his nap, listening to the news.
"Y/N, anak," your mom grabbed your hand, squeezing it. She turned to you with a sorrowful, but accepting smile. "I think it's time for you to return to Manila. People need you."
"Pero 'Nay, ikaw lang maiiwan dito sa bahay—" you tried to say, closing your eyes. She cut you off.
"It's okay," she assured you. "It'll be like when you were abroad. We can call each other every other day."
"Ayokong iwan ka, Ma," you exhaled shakily, refusing to leave your home again. "Not again."
"But you have to, my love. And I don't blame you for it."
As much as you hated it, she was right. The censored, black-and-white videos of the mangled bodies being displayed on television was enough proof of it.
±
That was how you ended up in the bustling, traffic-ridden streets of Manila again, starving and looking forward to getting to your hotel. You hopped off the bus, keeping your bags close to you and looking for a place to eat. It was already late afternoon when you arrived, and in the entire duration of your travel all you had for lunch were a pack of Hansel biscuits with a few pieces of Snowbear and Flat Tops the vendors sold along the way.
So you were really hungry, and the smell of sizzling sisig lured you to the first karinderya you were able to see.
"Gutom na gutom na ako, Gabay," you muttered to thin air, rubbing your growling belly. "You're so lucky you can just disappear and reappear whenever you want. I don't even know why you bother eating since you're a spirit."
There was no response, but you didn't mind it, instead paying the lady to give you some rice and that sisig she was making. You flopped down on a nearby table, setting your bag on the chair beside it and gobbling up your very late lunch (early dinner?).
"Ang sarap po ng luto niyo, Aling," you praised the lady as you ordered another cup of rice. She grinned at you.
"Dapat lang, o malulugi ang negosyo ko," she laughed, putting more rice on your plate. "O, kumain ka pa, iha. Pang-hapunan na yata mo 'to."
Your eyes crinkled with your smile, "Oo nga, Aling. Natagalan kasi ako sa biyahe, eh. Salamat, po!"
As you enjoyed your meal, from the corner of your eye, you saw a guy in yellow jersey eyeing you creepily. You gave him a weirded-out look as you mixed more toyo in your sisig.
Nagstaredown pa kayo.
"Ano kayang problema nito," you muttered to yourself, chewing. Your mistake was the moment you started drinking some soda to make the food go down better. Why? Because the little shit decided to snatch your bag of belongings. And run away with it.
"Hoy!" you exclaimed angrily, standing up. The chair you sat in tumbled to the floor.
"Ay, magnanakaw!" the Aling beside you shouted. "Magnanakaw! Habulin niyo!"
You grumbled, gulping down the last of your soda. You really should've known better. This was Manila, after all. It was full of pickpockets and snatchers. But did that stop you? No. Of course not. You actually chased the pesky little thief down.
"Ibalik mo 'yan sa akin! Lagot ka sa'kin kapag nahuli kita! You piece of sh—" you yelled, running down the road quickly. You even managed to jump over a table two men were using while drinking. The height you jumped was high, too. Luksong-baka and Chinese garter are shooketh (it was a perk of the training you had with Gabay).
Meanwhile, two identical-looking men in tailored grey suits and white ties watched nearby, very surprised at the sight of a young lady their age chasing down a snatcher, skillfully evading people, jumping over obstacles, and climbing over metal fences.
"Uy, parkour. Ang galing, ah. Sana all," Basilio commented to his brother as they were waiting for the barbeque to be cooked. They wanted to buy something to snack on before they had to go back to work again.
Thieves weren't an unusual sight in this place, but a young girl with a big backpack actually catching up with one was a sight to see. The thief whirred past them on the other side of the road, with you following rapidly and shouting. But then the smell of grilling barbeque momentarily distracted you, and you skidded to a stop, sniffing for the source of the smell.
That allowed you to see two tall, attractive guys with dark hair and dark eyes (and by dark eyes, meaning black scleras). You wouldn't judge them, though, even if they seemed to be non-human. They were probably twins, given how similar they looked like. Strangely, they were wearing long-sleeved formal wear in the tropical Philippine heat. You wondered how they were faring in this humid weather.
Still, you wouldn't lie, they looked good in it. Really good. Pormadong-pormado kahit parang impyerno na sa bansang ito. It was admirable to see the lengths they would go to look fashionable, pero bodyguards ata sila. Gwapo nga lang talaga kaya inakala mong model.
"Nice fit," you pointed out, impressed. "I like your vibe. It's cool." Not cool meaning malamig, because it obviously wasn't, but you get the point.
They blinked at you. Were you really complimenting them while the thief who stole your stuff was running farther away?
"Thanks...?" the duo answered, a bit confused.
"Luto na ba 'yan, Kuya?" you asked the vendor, who was fanning the grilling meat.
"Malapit na, Ma'am," he answered.
"Magkano po?" you asked, instinctively reaching into your bag for your wallet, before remembering your current predicament. "Ay bwis—my money!"
"Miss, 'yung bag mo," Crispin kindly reminded your distracted self.
"Oo nga pala. Pero ang bango, huhu..." You sulked, longingly staring at the barbeque then running off even faster than you did before, full of determination and new motivation. The thief was already far, but could still be seen. You'd catch up to him like your life depended on it. For the barbeque!
"'Yung bag ko!" you screeched. "Humanda ka sa'kin!"
Back where the twins were, the vendor began to hand them their sticks of barbeque.
"Uy, Kuya Crispin, sino kaya 'yun?" Basilio asked his older brother, munching on the meat.
The other twin shrugged, watching your figure become smaller and smaller in the distance, "Ewan ko, Basilio."
"... She's kind of pretty. Type ko. Type mo rin ata." Although you were only wearing an old, oversized plain white tee tucked into a pair of baggy, faded jeans, that escapade they just saw of you doing acrobatics and running like a trackstar was... well, wow. Plus points to you.
Apart from that, there was also something about you that they just couldn't put their finger on.
At that moment, the snatcher came running back in the direction the twins were in. With a last burst of speed, you tackled the guy and took back your stolen duffle bag, raising your hand to hit him.
"Ikaw, gigil na gigil na ako sa'yo! Grr!" you growled, settling for flicking him painfully instead of hitting him.
"Hindi ba tinuro ng nanay—" One flick to the left ear. "—mo sa'yo—" Another flick to the right ear. "—na bawal magnakaw!? Hm!?" A flick to the nose. "O ano, masakit ako pumitik, no? Halika nga rito!" You flicked his forehead. "Hindi ka pa ba nakakanood ng Dora the Explorer? Sabi nga Swiper no swiping, 'di ba! Kakaladkarin kita!"
The twins just stared, entertained at the scene unfolding a few feet away from them.
"The more important question is, paano niya nahuli ang magnanakaw?" Crispin remarked. His brother chortled.
"Oo nga, no? One in a million chance 'yan dito sa Maynila, haha! Ang astig ni ate!"
You dragged the snatcher by his ear painfully, going back to the barbeque grill. Oddly enough, the non-human twins you saw were still there.
"Hello. Alam niyo po ba kung saan ang pinakamalapit na pulis? O ang barangay tanod?" you asked the vendor in a much sweeter tone compared to how you were chiding the robber. However, it was one of the tall men who answered you.
"Malapit lang dito, Miss," Basilio chimed in. "If you want, we can take you there."
You were unaware of it, but the guy was shooting his shot. Crispin folded his arms, a bit irritated that his little bro did it first.
"Talaga? You'd do that?" you beamed, adjusting your hold on the duffle bag (but making sure that your hold on the struggling thief's ear was secure).
"Sure, why not? Kilala rin naman namin ang kapitan sa estasyon," Crispin quickly offered, looking at what you were carrying—a heavy-looking backpack on your back, a stuffed duffle bag on your right arm, and the snatcher with your left index finger and thumb (multitasking queen, who?). "Uh, Miss, do you want me to take the bag or the robber?"
Your half-scary, half-nice smile only widened, "Oh, no. I can handle both. I don't want to bother you even more. Just lead me to the nearest police station."
Okay. That confirmed it. You were a very strong, independent woman. And by Bathala were you captivating, especially up close.
"Ay! Sandali lang! Before we go..." You turned to the Manong who was selling barbeques, holding up four fingers with your right hand. "Apat po. Pakibalot nalang."
You didn't even get to finish your meal in the karinderya. The thought alone made your pinch the thief's ear even harder.
"Ikaw talaga, nasayang tuloy ang binili kong sisig at extra rice! Pinatakbo mo rin ako na gutom pa! Kapal ng mukha mo."
Anyways, it didn't really matter because while heading towards the station, you ended up getting distracted (again) and giving away your barbeque to a street child you encountered.
"Yup. Definitely my type," Basilio confirmed with a self-assured nod, now holding the snatcher captive with his arm. "Matapang, pero mabait din."
Crispin was more quiet about his initial attraction, observing how you went out of your way to go back to the eatery you ate in to actually buy the kid a full meal. You may only have met an hour or so ago, but he could already tell that you had a good heart.
±
You silently sat on the monoblock chair, your two heavy bags of belongings beside you, as the two men in suits spoke to someone inside their office. You couldn't see their face, but all seemed to be going well. Another policeman—a nice one in glasses named Lieutenant Tapia, from his uniform tag—had already handcuffed the snatcher and transferred him to a cell, so all you had to do was actually file the complaint and sign other paperwork.
The twins exited the office, followed by a man who seemed vaguely familiar. Someone from your younger childhood.
"Sergeant Guerrero?" you blurted out with wide eyes. Said man halted, scrutinizing you from head to toe.
Then, the resemblance hit him.
"Inday?" he realized. "Ikaw ba 'yan?" You stood up, beaming and giving him a brief hug.
"Opo!" you replied happily. "Ikaw na pala ang kapitan sa lugar na 'to! Congratulations for the promotion!"
"Ahahaha, matagal na 'yun, Inday. Pero salamat. Ginagawa ko lang ang trabaho ko."
The twins' gazes alternated between you and the older policeman. "Magkakilala kayong dalawa?"
"Si Y/N ang nag-iisang anak ng dating katulong nina Anton at Miranda," Captain Guerrero explained, patting your head. "Ang likot ng batang 'to kasama si Alexandra dati! Hinding-hindi mo sila mapapaghiwalay!"
"Huh? Kilala mo rin si bossing?" Crispin inquired.
"Bossing? You mean Alex?" you clarified with a smile. "Oo naman! I was her childhood best friend! Pero bumalik kami ni Mama si probinsya pagtapos namin ng elementarya. Isang dekada na ata ang nakalipas. Haven't seen her in years."
"Whoa," Basilio muttered. He hadn't imagined that their boss would have a girl best friend since she seemed like a lone wolf. But he and his brother could see what you guys had in common in spite of your different personalities—both of you were badass.
"Kumusta na pala ang nanay mo, Inday?" Guerrero asked. "Pati na rin ang lolo't lola mo."
"Ah, matagal nang pumanaw sina lolo't lola. When I was in second-year highschool, if I remember right," you shared, a hint of sadness on your face. "Pero si Nanay, very healthy, don't worry! I'll tell her I met you today."
"Ba't ka nandito sa Maynila, if I may ask?" Basilio queried.
You paused, wondering if you should tell these two strangers. Guerrero seemed to trust them fully, and they seemed affiliated with Alexandra by they addressed her, but besides their first names and knowing that they weren't human, you were clueless about them.
Seeing your hesitation and immediately understanding why, Crispin butted in.
"Sorry, that was rude. Hindi pa kami nagpapakilala," he politely apologized. In your mind, you quietly fawned at how gentlemanly he was. "Ako si Crispin, at ito ang kapatid ko, si Basilio."
"As you can see, kambal kami," Basilio added with a charming smile. You smiled back. He seemed like a genuinely nice and fun person. "Anak din kami ni Datu Talagbusao... so yeah, demigods." Crispin elbowed him for that second to the last comment, but otherwise waited for your response.
You held out your hand to them for a handshake, "Y/N L/N. Pwede niyo rin akong tawaging Inday, 'yun kasi tawag nila sa akin dati. Nice to meet you!"
When they shook your hand, you noticed theirs was much larger. More calloused, but warm. The contact was fleeting, yet delightful (not only for you, but for them, too—unbeknownst to you).
You scratched your opposite arm, "And actually, bumalik ako sa Maynila kasi... uh, naghahanap ako ng trabaho. Hindi ako kalahating diyos tulad niyo, pero—"
"—Siya ang huling biraddali," a voice behind you answered. Gabay materialized out of thin air into a floating ball of light, the same form they assumed when you first met them. The men were shocked.
Oh God, here we go again.
"Biraddali?" Guerrero, Basilio, and Crispin simultaneously voiced out.
"Aren't those creatures extinct already?" Basilio murmured to his brother, who was asking the same question in his mind.
"As far as I know."
"Gabay!" you scolded. "You can't just appear out of nowhere like that. You could give someone a heart attack!"
"Akala ko ordinaryong tao lang kayo ng Nanay mo," Guerrero said, baffled. Did he remember wrong?
"Well... tama ka naman po." You sweatdropped. This was going to be hard to explain. "But four years ago, something happ—"
Slam!
The door of the police station opened, revealing a certain girl you hadn't seen for over a decade already. She looked so different—much more mature now—but also so similar to how you remembered her.
"Boys, I've been looking for you two all evening! Hindi niyo rin sinasagot ang mga tawag ko at—"
"Alex?" you spoke first, hopeful that she would recognize you.
She turned around to see you (and a floating ball of glowing light). The cogs were turning in her head. You could see it in her eyes that it was registering to her who you were.
Before you knew it, you were encased in a tight hug, leaving you breathless.
"Y/N!"
Alexandra Trese always did give lung-crushing hugs, even as a kid.
The twins were startled at the uncharacteristic reaction of their boss, who was usually more distanced and definitely not clingy.
"Y/N! You're here! How, what—sandali lang, ba't ka nandito sa Maynila?" Alex pulled away from the hug with a concerned look on her face, thoughts in disarray. "And who's this guy?"
Gabay was just there, watching the scene unfold.
You had a hell of a lot of explaining to do. And from the looks of it, your real identity won't be so low-key anymore. But you did ask Captain Guerrero if you could borrow one of the more private interrogation rooms so that you and Gabay could tell your story there.
God knows what was listening around you. You wanted to at least minimize the gossip in the world of the occult that had already begun brewing the moment you stepped back on Philippine soil.
±
"And yeah," you concluded thirty minutes later, fidgeting with the zipper of your backpack and not looking any of them in the eye. "All the news of weird attacks in the capital got Mama and I kind of worried. Honestly, hindi pa rin ako nakakapaniwala that it led me to you guys on my first day back in Manila."
"Perhaps it was destiny," Gabay suggested, chuckling.
"Sana nga tadhana," Basilio muttered, before being elbowed by a glaring Alexandra. "Ouch, bossing."
"Stop hitting on her," the youngest Trese hissed as Gabay explained further your heritage as a skymaiden and why it could make you a possible target of other malevolent creatures of the night.
"So you have combat experience fighting off bad monsters... internationally?" Crispin repeated. You nodded at the demigod. "That's awesome!"
"Walang awa 'tong si Gabay sa pagsasanay ko," you replied with a pout, rubbing your shoulder. "Their training nearly killed me!"
"That's the point, idiot," your guardian spirit rolled his eyes, fading away once more. "For you to get experience. Okay, the explaining part is done. Aalis na ako. Bye."
It suddenly dawned unto Basilio. "Oooooh, kaya pala naabutan mo ang snatcher. Ang bilis-bilis mong tumakbo, Miss Y/N!"
Suddenly, your phone notification jingle played. You checked the message, realizing what time it is.
"Hala, alas ocho na pala!" you exclaimed, standing up so quickly you felt slightly dizzy. All those detours to buy that kid some food and the processing of the criminal complaint made you lose track of time. Your storytime, too, took up a chunk of time.
"Do you have a place to stay yet, Y/N?" Alexandra asked worriedly. "You know you can stay with me if you need to."
You waved your hands sheepishly, "Oh no, I couldn't possibly, 'Lex." You grabbed your duffle bag. "Magtataxi nalang ako papunta sa hotel ko—"
"Gabing-gabi na, Miss Y/N," Basilio said with a frown. "It's dangerous."
"Hatid ka nalang namin," Crispin proposed smoothly. Looks like he and his brother had the same idea (twin telepathy much?). But they weren't just saying it to make a pass at you. They were fully aware of the things that went bump in the night; they'd do the same for any lady who needed to go home safely.
"As much as I know that you can defend yourself, it's better to be safe than sorry," Alexandra said, a tiny smile on her face. "Especially with what's happening around the city right now. Delikado kung wala kang kasama."
"Ah," you sweatdropped. "Kasama ko naman si Gabay."
"But how long will you be staying in your hotel?" Guerrero asked. "Mag-ingat ka rin, Inday. Nakakakuha kami ng mga reports ng inserted cameras in hotel rooms."
"Three nights po ang rineserve ko," you answered, slinging your backpack over one shoulder. "My original plan was to um, look for a small but good apartment to rent here in Manila. Or kahit kwarto or dorm lang, hehe... then also look for a part-time job, if possible."
"May ekstrang kwarto naman sa bahay, bossing, 'di ba?" Crispin turned to Alexandra, who nodded.
"Edi dun ka na lang, Miss Y/N!" Basilio added. "Mahihirapan kang maghanap ng matitirahan dito sa Maynila, lalo na ngayon. Everything is too expensive here!"
"Eh, nabayaran ko na ang hotel room and they have a no refund policy," you laughed. "Pero kung wala pa akong makita after my hotel stay expires, sige, I'll contact you, 'Lex. Either way, thank you, guys."
"My offer is open anytime, Y/N," Alexandra said, crossing her arms. "And besides, kwarto niyo 'yun ni Tita dati. Buti nga hindi namin 'yun binigay kay Basilio, kaya wala talagang nagalaw sa dati niyong kwarto."
"Ang baho pa naman ng kwarto ni Basilio ngayon," Crispin interjected, snickering.
"H-Hoy!" Basilio stammered. "Hindi kaya—fine, oo nga. I admit it." He bowed his head in surrender. You giggled.
"Sige. Una na ako, Alex," you bid them goodbye.
"Let the twins drive you there!" your childhood best friend insisted, already tossing Crispin the keys to the car.
"Ah—ikaw, Alex? Hindi ka sasama?"
"I still have something to discuss with Captain Guerrero regarding a case. Don't worry, even if they're a pain in the ass, I'd trust the twins with my life."
"Ang sweet mo naman bossing," Basilio and Crispin teased the older girl, making her flush and hit their arms. "Aray!"
"Just go! And make sure she gets to her hotel safe."
±
"Salamat, ha. Sa paghatid sa'kin," you told the two men as you sat in the back of the car. By the gods, were you flustered. Not only because you didn't want to be an inconvenience, but also because they were attractive. Frankly speaking, they had the blood of a god and looked like gods. They were, without a doubt, hot. Also, the airconditioning in the room blew their cologne to you and yes, they smelled wonderful. "Pasensya na rin sa abala."
"Walang anuman, Miss Y/N," they replied at the same time. "Don't worry about it!"
"Anyways, how did you two meet Alex?"
"Eh, long story..."
As they drove you to your destination, you attentively listened as the twins shared to your their backstory. Apparently, it happened a couple of months after you and your mom left the province. You were relieved Tito Anton gave them the chance to experience what a real family was like, given how these warchildren practically grew up in rebel camps thinking that shooting people was a form of playtime. That second chance in life was the reason why they were making sure you were safe right now.
It made your stomach flutter. Get a hold of yourself, bestie!
You arrived outside the large hotel after nearly an hour or so of driving; the traffic was unbelievable—you couldn't believe it had gotten this bad over the years! As you were about to exit the car, Crispin opened his door first and opened your door, even bowing jokingly as if he was a butler. Basilio followed, carrying your heavy bags for you like they were feathers. Shet, kinilig ka.
Now you were sure your face and ears were steaming like a fresh siopao. Your heart was practically beating out of your chest at their chivalrous gestures.
"Huy, ano ba naman 'yan. You guys didn't need to do that, but thanks," you mumbled incomprehensibly. Your voice would betray you if it got any louder. Tangina, they were such gentlemen it nearly made you swoon. Paired with those suits? You felt like a VIP—no, you felt like you won the lottery! Winner na winner!
"Ay, before I forget..." You took your smartphone out of your pocket and opened your contacts. "Can I have Alex's phone number? Wala akong number ng bossing niyo, eh. We just used to communicate with letters as kids. Or the landline, when our moms allowed it."
"Sure," Crispin said, taking your phone and inputting Alex's number.
"Want me to carry your stuff to your room, Miss Y/N?" Basilio offered.
You shook your head furiously, already embarrassed that they drove you here (which took out so much of their time). "No need. Andami niyo nang ginawa para sa'kin ngayon. I still have to check in, so that might take some time. There's also someone who can carry my stuff up, but thank you again, Basilio."
They accompanied you to the reception area to check in, where a bellhop took your belongings from Basilio to your designated floor.
When you got your room key, you turned to the two men (who were still there, Dios mio, why on earth were they still there?).
"I know I've said this for the nth time tonight, but I can't thank you two enough for helping me. Didn't expect to run into Alex and her friends on my first day in the city. I'm really grateful," you honestly said to the duo as you pressed the button to the elevator. "Without you guys, I honestly would've gotten lost. Ang laki ng pinagbago ng Maynila since I left."
"Malamang mas grabe na ang traffic," Basilio joked, making you grin.
"Definitely."
Ping!
The elevator opened.
After that, there was a bit of an awkward silence since you three didn't know what else to say. Feeling antsy, you started backing up into the open elevator.
"Good night, Miss Y/N," Crispin finally spoke up, smiling at you. Oh gosh, huwag ka pong ngumiti, Crispin—your heart was about to explode.
"Sana malamig at malambot unan mo mamaya, Miss Y/N," Basilio said, a bigger grin on his face as he waved goodbye. Konti nalang talaga mahihimatay kana. You were 1000% sure your pulse rate was over the roof.
"Mag-ingat kayo pauwi." You swallowed as the elevator doors began to close. All of a sudden, you remembered something and stuck your arm inbetween the doors before it could close. "Wait! I almost forgot!"
"May naiwan ka ba sa car?" Crispin inquired. "We can get it for you."
"Oh, no! Not that!" you declared, pressing the open button on the elevator and feeling more confident this time. "Just... you two... you don't need to call me Miss. It's so formal! I'm not that much older than you. And you've done enough for me today, so we can be friends, right? Only if that's okay with you!"
God, you were rambling, but you hoped you weren't overstepping your boundaries. You didn't want to end the night so awkwardly.
"Perfectly fine with me," Basilio shrugged. "Ikaw, Kuya?"
"No problem."
You quietly exhaled in relief, smiling as you allowed the elevator doors to start closing.
"Good night, Crispin. Basilio."
"Good night, Y/N. Take care," they said, their trademark, breathtaking smiles curling their lips upward.
When the elevator started going up, you felt yourself collapse on the floor and melt like a puddle, a hand over your pounding heart. You were sweating like a sinner in church! Even your ears were ringing from the rush of blood. Somewhere in your mind, you could hear Gabay laughing at your reaction (and how you likely made a fool out of yourself earlier). Thank the heavens there was no one else inside the elevator.
"Lumalove-life na si Indaaay," Gabay sniggered in a sing-song voice. "First day in Manila and you're already crushing over not one, but two guys, who are siblings, by the way! Kambal pa! Mas malala ata 'to kaysa nung nagparty ka sa Thailand at Malaysia. You weren't even as embarrassed as this when you tripped in front of that celebrity in Boracay!"
"Shut up, Gabay! Mamamatay na ako sa kahihiyan! 'Wag kang dumagdag!" You were a strong, independent woman, but you couldn't deny how your legs weakened with how sweet (and kind) those two acted towards you.
"Ibang-iba talaga ang epekto kapag demigod, hm?"
"Shhhhh! Tumahimik ka! Baka marinig nila, gago."
Down on the ground floor, said demigods felt quite good about themselves.
"I think she likes me," Crispin announced, one minute after the elevator closed. He dug into his pocket and popped a Snowbear into his mouth. You'd given him and Basilio the remaining candies you'd bought during your bus trip.
"That's cap, bro! She definitely likes me!" Basilio countered as they walked back to the car. "Ako kaya ang mas hot sa ating dalawa."
"Weh? 'Di nga?" Suddenly, Crispin stopped, eyes wide. "Wait, what if she doesn't like either of us? What if she was just trying to be polite?"
Basilio groaned, "Awit, lods. Sakit mo naman magsalita, Kuya."
Crispin sighed, "Huy, baka may jowa na 'yun! Foreigner pa nga siguro eh, since she's been abroad for three years. She might not even swing our way, too." He slapped a hand over his face. "She's too good to be true... and to be single. Fuuuuu—"
Basilio moped even more, "Awts. Pain, pighati, sakit, kirot, lungkot, hinagpis, lumbay..." The younger twin continued to list off whatever he found on the thesaurus for the rest of the drive home (while also blasting December Avenue songs on the radio for the dramatic, heartbroken effect). That didn't stop him from unwrapping and eating a Flat Top you'd shoved into his hand while he was driving you to the hotel.
That night, as you were about to go to sleep, you opened the contacts list to check if Alexandra's number was there. It was there, alright.
Number Ni Bossing Alex 🖤//+63451*******
"Cute naman ng black heart emoji," you laughed to yourself in the darkness of your room. The shimmering city lights outside were your only source of light aside from your mobile phone. However, you saw two new contacts aside from Alex's number with theater mask emojis beside them.
Crispin (The Cooler Twin) 🎭😎//+63910*******
Basilio Gwapo 🎭😉//+63866*******
Siraulong kambal na 'to. May pa-rhyming effect pa. You ended up squealing into your pillow to calm yourself down at 11PM in the night from the giddiness you felt. Afterwards, you texted them back so that they'd have your number (since you were too much of a coward to exchange it with them earlier). You texted Alex, too, which she replied with a thumbs-up. Busy ata si ate girl.
And with that, you practically blacked out from the fatigue of traveling and running after that stupid robber. That was just Day 1 of being back in Manila.
(To be continued.)
± Author's Notes ±
Holy shit, nearly 100 notes? For my crackfic slash shameless reader insert? But seriously, thank you sa support, guys. I didn't expect this to kind of blow up. I love you all from the bottom of my heart. I haven't been this motivated to write in a long time. Sana ihatid kayo ng kambal sa mga panaginip niyo. 🥺💕
Guys, also, oh my gosh. I had to cut this chapter because of the 250-block limit—I cannot even fathom how excited I was writing this chapter (and what comes next). So from 7K+ words, 6K+ nalang, huhu. Don't worry, I'll just move the stuff I cut to the next chapter. Sorry if this took a bit long to update (I kept stopping kasi kinikilig rin ako sa kambal while writing, haha). You should see my reaction while writing the next chapter. As in, I was going crazy and para akong baliw na tumatawa sa sarili ko sa kwarto. 👀🐴🐎
And yes, naiimagine ko na medj conyo 'tong silang Crispin at Basilio. Have ya'll heard that "Paano ba 'to nagwowork?" line? Ooh! And this chapter was also inspired by that snatcher scene sa Super Inday, hihi. Sorry din kung palagi kayong kumakain sa fanfic ko, mabusog sana kayo. A lot of my inspiration comes from my cravings. 😂
Comments and constructive criticism are welcome. Hit those heart, reblog, and follow buttons for updates! Just comment if you want to be tagged in the next chapters, too. You're also veeeeery free to simp and thirst over the characters in the comments section. 'Til the next update! 💗😚
