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Bnha
Hitoshi Shinsou
One Shots
Glass Slipper Malfunction
Series
Bright as a Diamond: (Complete) Series Summary: When (Y/N)’s co-worker decided to send a picture of her making a diamond to the paper, her life was over. Gemstone based quirks weren’t all that rare, but being able to make a diamond put a target on her back. After years of hiding in the city, it’s time to hide in the countryside with her Uncle Shota Aizawa and his more than ‘roommate’ Hizashi Yamada. With the promise of training her to be self-sufficient, she’s ready to learn.
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Complete Series on AO3: AKA I got to Lazy to Post it on Tumblr
Denki Kaminari
One Shots
If the World Was Ending
Dancing Under Christmas Lights
Fuyumi Todoroki
One Shots
Curbside Confessions
Shouto Todoroki
One Shots
A Plea
Bakugou Katsuki
One Shots
Stand Up
Momo Yaoyorozu
Anything to See You Smile
Lockets, Dolls, and Long Time Pining
Haikyuu!!!
Camping Series: In a world where your soulmate’s name will randomly appear on your wrist during a full moon. (Y/n) discovers that, not only does she know her soulmate, but he’s on the same camping trip with her. {COMPLETE}
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Seventeen
Master List for Chapters
Notes: Thank you all for your comments. I love seeing how people reacted to the last chapter. It was a polarizing one. Lots went down. Keep sharing your thoughts with me, it makes me so happy!
Chapter Seventeen: Purgatory
Lumine wouldn’t look at me. We were with the group at the Curatorium of Secrets deciding our next move. A Futai agent stopped by and I ducked behind Flins, who happily obscured me from view. The agent told us that Arlecchino and Sandrone were going to the Doctor’s personal lab up North.
We all agreed to split up. Some of us would stay in Nasha Town and the rest go to the lab up North. “(Y/n), where do you want to go?” Nefer asked me, eyes already knowing the answer.
“I’ll go up North. I know you all will benefit from some healing.” I was firm on my resolve.
“You should stay.” Lumine didn’t sound angry anymore, more so concerned. Perhaps whatever had happened between last night and today had eased the tension.
“And miss the action? Never.” I laid my hand over my heart. “Let’s go.”
Of course, we all ran up North. It was a long walk from Nasha Town to the Lab, and we had ground to cover. I was thankful that while I had kept my soft body, my ability to run had greatly improved. None of us spoke as we ran, keeping our ‘breath’ under control. Eventually we boarded a boat and it took us past the other islands to the northern most part.
As we entered the lab there were countless agents, robots and Fatui members sprawled about the area out of commission. Flins was beside me, behind me, generally around me the whole time. It was normal, but there was no denying he wasn’t focused on the mission alone.
“Stay close.” Flins whispered as the others chatted about how the downed enemies must be Sandrone and Arlecchino’s doing.
“If you want me to turn into a rabbit and ride in your shirt, then you should have practiced that skill with me more.” I teased him but he seemed to mull the idea over. “No, Flins.”
“What a creative and ingenious plan. We shall work on that once this is over.” He held my hand, rubbing his gloved fingers over my knuckles. “Do not be afraid.”
“I’m terrified, but it’s not going to stop me. Working through fear is something I’ve mastered.” I froze up as we ran into our first active enemy. Rift hounds. Great. “Look alive.”
It was a quick take down, with Nefer leading the charge. She kicked the first one’s brains in. Lauma got the next one with a charge of dendro, and finally Flins got the last with his spear alone. I tended to their drained vitality with a quick song while we ran into the next enemy, the wild hunt. Those foes were taken care of quickly and finally we got to the part I had been dreading.
It was easy enough to ignore the passed out or dead people on the way into the lab, but the agent begging for his life as two reptilian creatures attacked and killed him was hard. Flins had quickly shoved me into his chest, covering my ears and eyes. But I could hear the muffled cries and the horrid sound of the monsters breaking bones.
“Let’s go.” Lumine took charge, running into the side path that would lead to the monsters. Once in the main chamber, Flins and Lumine dealt with the beasts. I focused on the fight, stomach churning with acid alone. They were efficient, having worked together plenty of times at this point.
“May their poor soul find peace.” Lauma prayed as we passed by the body of the dead agent. Beside his body was a key a few feet away.
“We should pick up this key.” I said, stealing Flins’ line as he caught his breath. Grasping the key, I tucked it in my pocket.
“We might need it at some point.” The fae man agreed, finding his strength.
The double doors opened, and Nefer stopped us all before the ceiling collapsed. Flins doubled over me, pushing me towards the ground. “Flins, you have to focus on the fight ahead.” He was fulfilling his role well, but I wasn’t that fragile. He was extra clingy, not that it was different any other time, but there was more at stake.
“Never again.” He reminded me, pulling me along as Nefer led us a different way. A chill ran down my spine, that’s the reason.
My heart had been racing the whole mission. From running, to healing, to witnessing the horrors, I was wearing down before we even got to the big fight. And Flins colliding me, while almost normal, was stressing me out more. I refused to believe the kiss we shared was a mistake,that even if we hadn’t he’d still be this way. If Flins was focused on me, then I was going to be focused on everyone else. If he didn’t play his role, I’d do it for him.
We were all silent as we climbed ladders, went through ducts, and jumped down vents . Hopping from a ceiling vent to the floor would have had me injuring myself, we established early on I was not a climber and heights were not my forte. But hanging from my fingers tips and falling into Flins made it doable. I didn’t have to ask, Flins just went before me and held his arms up to catch me. Everyone else could just jump and be fine, but I was not that kind of girl.
A random agent appeared, trying to get out of the lab the way we had come. “Trespassers? What’s wrong with you people? And the Doctor’s experiment? Are you all crazy?” I adjusted the scarf covering my ears, I had been getting used to not covering my ears since the Moon Prayer Night Celebration. I clearly needed to be more aware and not let my covering slip back.
“We’re looking for the Doctor. I see you’re fleeing the facility, but is he still here?” Lauma asked nicely.
“Looking to settle a score with the Doctor. I doubt you’ll have many chances left. Good luck.” The man crossed his arms, and sent me a glance. “And you, you’re lucky you got out when you did. I wouldn’t set foot in front of the Doctor if I was you.”
“Perhaps we might not have many chances. But you might have a chance to live if you start talking.” Flins’ voice was even, but still scary. His aura was thick behind me, I was used to him being fierce, but the closer I got to him the stronger our unseen bond was. It was like a pulse ebbing through me.
“There are two other harbingers ahead, but the Doctor wouldn’t pull something like this without being prepared.” The man started talking.
“What did you mean, you wouldn’t step foot in front of him if you were me?” I prodded him. Lumine looked at me, her eyes telling me to keep going, despite me going off script.
“From what I heard, the orders were to capture you, and run a few more tests.” The man grimaced. “It sounded extra cruel.”
“Good to know.” I closed my eyes, rubbing my hands down my face.
“But I’m done answering questions.” The man crossed his arms.
“Sounds like you didn’t like working for the Doctor that much.” Nefer stated. “Also, I feel monsters nearby, you can have their company over ours if you prefer.”
“We need to know what the Doctor is up to now. Please tell me.” Lumine pleaded. “This is bigger than just us v. the Doctor. There are real consequences for all of Nod Krai. Even your homeland.”
“It feels like he’s built the big one. This one is ambitious and who knows how long he’s been planning it.” The man shivered. “A while back he said he’d return to the homeland. But he was back sooner than we expected.”
He went on to explain he had two stones with him. And Lauma told him those belonged to Columbina. The man then described the conditions that made Columbina leave the Fatui. He said he was part of her group originally, from the three factions that were dispatched to Nod Krai in the beginning.
Apparently Columbina and the Doctor got along at first. But things changed and they separated. When she left, their units merged. He said the Doctor shifted to obtaining the three moons powers as his main goal.
“He said if he could get his hands on two, he could create a third.” The man looked at me,biting his lip.
“How could he create a third moon? Maybe he learned from the Hyperborean Phantoms.” Nefer thought about it.
“Or maybe…he learned how to harness another moon’s power.” I whispered. Chills settled all over my body. Was I part of his plan to make the third moon? Did what he learned in making me channel into his new plan?
“Thank you for cooperating. We appreciate this level of detail.” Flins was sincere, but his eyes were cast off into the distance, his hand resting above my bunny tail through my outfit.
The others talked with the man a little longer, but I tucked inside my own head. Was I part of this? Clearly I was, but what was the connection? How did I wake up in this place as a fae? Why was I blessed by the Earth’s moon in a foreign world? Was I really the moon’s rabbit in this world?
I was pulled from my thoughts. “Bunny girl, I highly recommend you leave this place.” The agent nodded at the exit and took off running.
“Thanks for the advice.” My hands shook, Lauma took one hand as Flins grabbed the other. It made me laugh, a sad cruel laugh.
“What’s wrong?” Lauma brought my hand to her chest.
“I’m going to die by his hands.” I swallowed looking at the ground. A dizzy spell flared up and I tried to keep my knees from shaking.
“We won’t let that happen.” Nefer spoke up, cutting off Flins who was about to speak.
“I’m starting to think…that I was created and not born here. He didn’t do anything when I was on the beach and Columbina went in the moon gate. Maybe he doesn’t need me after all.” I tried to rationalize it.
“Or he knows you’ll come to him for answers and there’s no reason to take you now.” Nefer shook her head. “If he can create an artificial moon, his technological capabilities are greater than I expected. And if he can create an artificial moon, then there’s no reason he couldn’t create you.” Nefer let the thought hang in the air.
“I’m afraid it’s only going to get ugly from here. Everyone, prepare yourself.” Flins flexed his spear, a fire burning in his eyes. He was ready to take on the Doctor and put an end to this. We were wasting time theorizing. I didn’t have the heart to tell him, this wasn’t the last encounter.
“Wait.” Lauma stopped us. “Perhaps we should make (Y/n) go back. I can heal us what little I can.”
“No, she has to be here.” Lumine spoke up. She chewed her bottom lip, still not meeting my gaze.Her turn had changed since we left the Curatorium. “I want her by my side.”
“Alright, I’ll be there.” I felt tears prick at my eyes. I didn’t have time to warn her she’d be kidnapped. Surely, she’d be mad at me for not warning her…but what good would that do anyone? Her being kidnapped bought everyone else time to evacuate the islands.
“No.” Lauma shook her head. “(Y/n) needs to stay back. At least until the fight starts. If the Doctor is after her, the risk is too great.”
“Why are we arguing?” I asked. “Lauma I’m tough, I can do this.”
“I have a bad feeling. Please just stay here.” We didn’t have time to disagree…
“Okay. I’ll stay back and support from the side.” I looked at Lumine, and she nodded it was okay.
Flins was staring at me. He wanted to say something but was holding his tongue. We all seemed to be holding things back. I couldn’t let anything cloud my judgment, even if it meant stepping into danger. Out of everyone, Lauma had been the wild card so far. I needed to make her happy so things would progress.
“Let’s go.” Nefer led us forward. I stayed a few feet back with Lauma. Just as Flins had done earlier, I was in arm’s reach of him. Just a few feet ahead, I kept my eyes glued to his back.
My heart was uncontrollable; we were so close. We got to the wide-open lab, and I saw a good hiding spot. Flins and Luama confirmed it was a good spot before rushing in with the others. Only the moment they were out of reach, I was encased in a clear box.
“Flins!” I screamed, banging my shoulder against the box’s wall but to no avail. “Lumine!” I cried out again, trying to get their attention, but none of them looked back. They couldn’t hear me. “Please!”
Then like that, I was transferred to another reality. Did I die? What was happening? Everything swished around fast… “She’s awake!”
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Seventeen
Master List for Chapters
Notes: Thank you all for your comments. I love seeing how people reacted to the last chapter. It was a polarizing one. Lots went down. Keep sharing your thoughts with me, it makes me so happy!
Chapter Seventeen: Purgatory
Lumine wouldn’t look at me. We were with the group at the Curatorium of Secrets deciding our next move. A Futai agent stopped by and I ducked behind Flins, who happily obscured me from view. The agent told us that Arlecchino and Sandrone were going to the Doctor’s personal lab up North.
We all agreed to split up. Some of us would stay in Nasha Town and the rest go to the lab up North. “(Y/n), where do you want to go?” Nefer asked me, eyes already knowing the answer.
“I’ll go up North. I know you all will benefit from some healing.” I was firm on my resolve.
“You should stay.” Lumine didn’t sound angry anymore, more so concerned. Perhaps whatever had happened between last night and today had eased the tension.
“And miss the action? Never.” I laid my hand over my heart. “Let’s go.”
Of course, we all ran up North. It was a long walk from Nasha Town to the Lab, and we had ground to cover. I was thankful that while I had kept my soft body, my ability to run had greatly improved. None of us spoke as we ran, keeping our ‘breath’ under control. Eventually we boarded a boat and it took us past the other islands to the northern most part.
As we entered the lab there were countless agents, robots and Fatui members sprawled about the area out of commission. Flins was beside me, behind me, generally around me the whole time. It was normal, but there was no denying he wasn’t focused on the mission alone.
“Stay close.” Flins whispered as the others chatted about how the downed enemies must be Sandrone and Arlecchino’s doing.
“If you want me to turn into a rabbit and ride in your shirt, then you should have practiced that skill with me more.” I teased him but he seemed to mull the idea over. “No, Flins.”
“What a creative and ingenious plan. We shall work on that once this is over.” He held my hand, rubbing his gloved fingers over my knuckles. “Do not be afraid.”
“I’m terrified, but it’s not going to stop me. Working through fear is something I’ve mastered.” I froze up as we ran into our first active enemy. Rift hounds. Great. “Look alive.”
It was a quick take down, with Nefer leading the charge. She kicked the first one’s brains in. Lauma got the next one with a charge of dendro, and finally Flins got the last with his spear alone. I tended to their drained vitality with a quick song while we ran into the next enemy, the wild hunt. Those foes were taken care of quickly and finally we got to the part I had been dreading.
It was easy enough to ignore the passed out or dead people on the way into the lab, but the agent begging for his life as two reptilian creatures attacked and killed him was hard. Flins had quickly shoved me into his chest, covering my ears and eyes. But I could hear the muffled cries and the horrid sound of the monsters breaking bones.
“Let’s go.” Lumine took charge, running into the side path that would lead to the monsters. Once in the main chamber, Flins and Lumine dealt with the beasts. I focused on the fight, stomach churning with acid alone. They were efficient, having worked together plenty of times at this point.
“May their poor soul find peace.” Lauma prayed as we passed by the body of the dead agent. Beside his body was a key a few feet away.
“We should pick up this key.” I said, stealing Flins’ line as he caught his breath. Grasping the key, I tucked it in my pocket.
“We might need it at some point.” The fae man agreed, finding his strength.
The double doors opened, and Nefer stopped us all before the ceiling collapsed. Flins doubled over me, pushing me towards the ground. “Flins, you have to focus on the fight ahead.” He was fulfilling his role well, but I wasn’t that fragile. He was extra clingy, not that it was different any other time, but there was more at stake.
“Never again.” He reminded me, pulling me along as Nefer led us a different way. A chill ran down my spine, that’s the reason.
My heart had been racing the whole mission. From running, to healing, to witnessing the horrors, I was wearing down before we even got to the big fight. And Flins colliding me, while almost normal, was stressing me out more. I refused to believe the kiss we shared was a mistake,that even if we hadn’t he’d still be this way. If Flins was focused on me, then I was going to be focused on everyone else. If he didn’t play his role, I’d do it for him.
We were all silent as we climbed ladders, went through ducts, and jumped down vents . Hopping from a ceiling vent to the floor would have had me injuring myself, we established early on I was not a climber and heights were not my forte. But hanging from my fingers tips and falling into Flins made it doable. I didn’t have to ask, Flins just went before me and held his arms up to catch me. Everyone else could just jump and be fine, but I was not that kind of girl.
A random agent appeared, trying to get out of the lab the way we had come. “Trespassers? What’s wrong with you people? And the Doctor’s experiment? Are you all crazy?” I adjusted the scarf covering my ears, I had been getting used to not covering my ears since the Moon Prayer Night Celebration. I clearly needed to be more aware and not let my covering slip back.
“We’re looking for the Doctor. I see you’re fleeing the facility, but is he still here?” Lauma asked nicely.
“Looking to settle a score with the Doctor. I doubt you’ll have many chances left. Good luck.” The man crossed his arms, and sent me a glance. “And you, you’re lucky you got out when you did. I wouldn’t set foot in front of the Doctor if I was you.”
“Perhaps we might not have many chances. But you might have a chance to live if you start talking.” Flins’ voice was even, but still scary. His aura was thick behind me, I was used to him being fierce, but the closer I got to him the stronger our unseen bond was. It was like a pulse ebbing through me.
“There are two other harbingers ahead, but the Doctor wouldn’t pull something like this without being prepared.” The man started talking.
“What did you mean, you wouldn’t step foot in front of him if you were me?” I prodded him. Lumine looked at me, her eyes telling me to keep going, despite me going off script.
“From what I heard, the orders were to capture you, and run a few more tests.” The man grimaced. “It sounded extra cruel.”
“Good to know.” I closed my eyes, rubbing my hands down my face.
“But I’m done answering questions.” The man crossed his arms.
“Sounds like you didn’t like working for the Doctor that much.” Nefer stated. “Also, I feel monsters nearby, you can have their company over ours if you prefer.”
“We need to know what the Doctor is up to now. Please tell me.” Lumine pleaded. “This is bigger than just us v. the Doctor. There are real consequences for all of Nod Krai. Even your homeland.”
“It feels like he’s built the big one. This one is ambitious and who knows how long he’s been planning it.” The man shivered. “A while back he said he’d return to the homeland. But he was back sooner than we expected.”
He went on to explain he had two stones with him. And Lauma told him those belonged to Columbina. The man then described the conditions that made Columbina leave the Fatui. He said he was part of her group originally, from the three factions that were dispatched to Nod Krai in the beginning.
Apparently Columbina and the Doctor got along at first. But things changed and they separated. When she left, their units merged. He said the Doctor shifted to obtaining the three moons powers as his main goal.
“He said if he could get his hands on two, he could create a third.” The man looked at me,biting his lip.
“How could he create a third moon? Maybe he learned from the Hyperborean Phantoms.” Nefer thought about it.
“Or maybe…he learned how to harness another moon’s power.” I whispered. Chills settled all over my body. Was I part of his plan to make the third moon? Did what he learned in making me channel into his new plan?
“Thank you for cooperating. We appreciate this level of detail.” Flins was sincere, but his eyes were cast off into the distance, his hand resting above my bunny tail through my outfit.
The others talked with the man a little longer, but I tucked inside my own head. Was I part of this? Clearly I was, but what was the connection? How did I wake up in this place as a fae? Why was I blessed by the Earth’s moon in a foreign world? Was I really the moon’s rabbit in this world?
I was pulled from my thoughts. “Bunny girl, I highly recommend you leave this place.” The agent nodded at the exit and took off running.
“Thanks for the advice.” My hands shook, Lauma took one hand as Flins grabbed the other. It made me laugh, a sad cruel laugh.
“What’s wrong?” Lauma brought my hand to her chest.
“I’m going to die by his hands.” I swallowed looking at the ground. A dizzy spell flared up and I tried to keep my knees from shaking.
“We won’t let that happen.” Nefer spoke up, cutting off Flins who was about to speak.
“I’m starting to think…that I was created and not born here. He didn’t do anything when I was on the beach and Columbina went in the moon gate. Maybe he doesn’t need me after all.” I tried to rationalize it.
“Or he knows you’ll come to him for answers and there’s no reason to take you now.” Nefer shook her head. “If he can create an artificial moon, his technological capabilities are greater than I expected. And if he can create an artificial moon, then there’s no reason he couldn’t create you.” Nefer let the thought hang in the air.
“I’m afraid it’s only going to get ugly from here. Everyone, prepare yourself.” Flins flexed his spear, a fire burning in his eyes. He was ready to take on the Doctor and put an end to this. We were wasting time theorizing. I didn’t have the heart to tell him, this wasn’t the last encounter.
“Wait.” Lauma stopped us. “Perhaps we should make (Y/n) go back. I can heal us what little I can.”
“No, she has to be here.” Lumine spoke up. She chewed her bottom lip, still not meeting my gaze.Her turn had changed since we left the Curatorium. “I want her by my side.”
“Alright, I’ll be there.” I felt tears prick at my eyes. I didn’t have time to warn her she’d be kidnapped. Surely, she’d be mad at me for not warning her…but what good would that do anyone? Her being kidnapped bought everyone else time to evacuate the islands.
“No.” Lauma shook her head. “(Y/n) needs to stay back. At least until the fight starts. If the Doctor is after her, the risk is too great.”
“Why are we arguing?” I asked. “Lauma I’m tough, I can do this.”
“I have a bad feeling. Please just stay here.” We didn’t have time to disagree…
“Okay. I’ll stay back and support from the side.” I looked at Lumine, and she nodded it was okay.
Flins was staring at me. He wanted to say something but was holding his tongue. We all seemed to be holding things back. I couldn’t let anything cloud my judgment, even if it meant stepping into danger. Out of everyone, Lauma had been the wild card so far. I needed to make her happy so things would progress.
“Let’s go.” Nefer led us forward. I stayed a few feet back with Lauma. Just as Flins had done earlier, I was in arm’s reach of him. Just a few feet ahead, I kept my eyes glued to his back.
My heart was uncontrollable; we were so close. We got to the wide-open lab, and I saw a good hiding spot. Flins and Luama confirmed it was a good spot before rushing in with the others. Only the moment they were out of reach, I was encased in a clear box.
“Flins!” I screamed, banging my shoulder against the box’s wall but to no avail. “Lumine!” I cried out again, trying to get their attention, but none of them looked back. They couldn’t hear me. “Please!”
Then like that, I was transferred to another reality. Did I die? What was happening? Everything swished around fast… “She’s awake!”
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Sixteen
Master List for Chapters
Notes: Thanks to those who share and comment! I look forward to seeing engagement. This chapter is hopefully well balanced. I really tried to make it an experience.
Chapter Sixteen: What I Wish
“That should do it.” I finished singing a song I knew most of the words too. Lumine was awake and mostly alert. I didn’t know if my power would work as a rabbit, but it had been fine so far. “Are you okay?”
“(Y/n)?” Lumine’s eyes bugged out of her head as she observed me.
“Yes…” I was back on my hind legs, rubbing my little fuzzy arm over my ears. Flins was just behind me, surely making sure no one ran over me. In his arms were items I had left on the beach before transforming.
“Why are you a rabbit?” Lumine got to her feet and stood from the couch. Durin and Albedo were sitting on the other couch, and they both sighed in relief. Arlecchino was standing in the corner opposite of Varka, and Lauma was waiting by Lumine’s head. We all were waiting for her.
“I’m relieved you’re up.” I finally relaxed, my body morphing back into a human.
“Huh, Miss. (Y/n).” Durin was red in the face, looking away. My coat was quickly draped over my shoulders.
“What? Oh snap.” I pulled my coat around me to close the gaps. Thank goodness Flins was thinking fast. “I’m sorry to flash you all. I just needed to get to Lumine as fast as possible. Couldn’t have clothes slowing me down.”
“How long was she in the water? And why didn’t you freeze with us?” Varka asked, pushing off the side of the wall.
“I have ideas, but it doesn’t matter.” I stood up, and Flins handed me the rest of my clothes. “Let me change, you all talk.” I needed them to forget about this topic for now, so I made myself sparse.
“We have a lot to discuss.” Nefer was perched on her desk as I passed her to the bathroom. She offered Lumine medicine, but Lumine declined. For some reason Lumine couldn’t look me in the eye.
Durin went on to explain the call they got from Alice. The Doctor caused a fuss at the border and that’s what caused the Hexenzirkel to leave to attend to the mess. Which meant we were on our own for the moment. Arlecchino said Dottore was gone for now, and he was upset he couldn’t control Columbina as he planned.
Nefer then deduced that Columbina opened the moon gate and fell in to avoid capture. But that also meant she was in there with Rerir most likely. Everyone agreed it was a bad outcome. Albedo even suggested that the Doctor could have been behind all of this. From Rerir to what happened tonight.
I quickly finished getting my clothes on and exited the bathroom to hear everyone more clearly. I stood by Flins in a corner, and listened as Hat Guy reappeared. Come to think of it, I hadn’t run into him yet. I was one of like three who knew who he was before. If I spilled that I’d really be getting him in trouble.
Hat Guy explained that he went back to the mirages we had been working with earlier in the week. He said that somehow Dottore had added enough variables to change the past and create new memories for the people of Hyperborea. He had made promises to them and got the information he needed to use the power of the moons.
Arlecchino was very upset, and said she wouldn’t wait for the Tsaritsa’s order to be lifted to fight against Dorotte. She said time was short and she would make the first move against the Doctor. Sauntering out the door, I wondered what she’d do since I couldn’t remember at this moment. Or maybe it didn’t show it.
“It looks bad, and Dottore has pulled some real dirty tricks up until now. Even the mages say he has changed destiny. We shouldn’t be distracted, because if he can change fate, then so can we.” Varka went on a little speech, hyping up Lumine. Paimon joined in on the pep talk.
Everyone started to pass out assignments, ways they could help. Varka suggested that Flins and Illuga could go talk to the Starshyna about getting some extra help. Once again, I was left out of the equation. Flins grabbed my hand and threaded our fingers.
We all went to the door to split ways, but Albedo grabbed my free hand, pulling me back. “Miss. (Y/n), may I have a word?”
“Sure. Flins, do you mind waiting?” I pulled our hands apart. He wasn’t rough or weird, his grasp was gentle, but there was no reason to stay connected.
“Of course.” Flins b-lined to talk with Durin, who was waiting by the railing and looking over the people who were taking down all the Moon Prayer Night decorations.
“What’s up?” I was nervous. Albedo was a nice guy, but he had been rubbing me the wrong way in some situations. He wasn’t careless, but his inquisitive and straight forward nature did not bode well with me. I liked him in the game, but in reality it was just not clicking.
“You’re not human.” He established.
“Correct.” I looked at my feet.
“And you’re not of this world?” He asked, whispering.
“I’d say it's partly true. But I’m not like Lumine. I just woke up here, in a Fatui lab. The Doctor was involved.” I waved my hands around, chewing my bottom lip.
“I want to run my own experiment.” He leaned down to catch my eyes. I slowly looked up and met his gaze. “When I tested your blood with Mr. Flins’ that day, after the fight. I noticed both samples were not human…but yours was slightly different.”
“How so?” I glanced at Flins and Durin. Durin was absorbing some wisdom from Flins no doubt.
“Are you familiar with blood types?” He asked, scooting back just a tad.
“I am.”
“Flins was mostly a match, which was good for you. However, your blood had an antigen I’ve never seen before. I have a theory, but I need more blood to reach a conclusion. I think it might help us better understand the Doctor’s goals.”
I held out my hand. “Take what you need.” There was no hesitation, if I could help him uncover what I was, I was in.
“You’re agreeing so easily. Are you sure you want to know more? There’s no guarantee it will help us defeat Dottore.” He pulled out a syringe from his bag.
“I need to figure out what was done to me. And we need to win for Columbina.” My lashes fluttered as I looked at the false sky. “Just, try not to exposé Flins’ cover. He doesn’t want it to spread that he’s not human..”
“Of course.” He used a wet cloth to swab my arm then added a tourniquet. I looked away while he felt for a vein and collected his sample.
“I’m sorry, we keep misunderstanding each other.” I sighed, seeing him wrap a bandage around my arm. “I feel like I keep breaking into tears around you. I don’t mean too.”
“It’s quite alright. I don’t intend to make you cry.” He capped off the sample and carefully put the needle in a geo box. “It will just take time for us to get better acquainted.”
“I think you’re right. Anyway, we should all get to our tasks.” I petted his shoulder. “Thank you for looking into this.”
“You’re welcome.” He offered the slightest smile. Maybe it was where he was a creation, or maybe it was just my taste, but he was so handsome under the moon light.
“(Y/n).” I turned around. Lumine stood behind me, her jaw set. “A word.” My spine tingled, I’d never heard her talk to me like that before.
“I’ll be on my way.” Albedo took off with a curt nod, joining Durin and Flins’ conversation.
“What’s wrong?” I reached for her hand, but she yanked it out of reach. “Did something happen?”
“Let’s go somewhere more private. Maybe the Flagship.” Paimon grimaced, floating between us.
“Yes. Let’s go.” Lumine looked through me, waltzing up to Flins. “We’re taking (Y/n) for a while. You can pick her up at the Flagship in thirty minutes.”
“I don’t presume him to be my keeper.” I barked, what was so wrong she’d be so flippant with Flins.
“(Y/n), just go please.” Paimon begged me, sweat pooling on her brow.
“We may be tethered at the hip, but she will follow her own will.” Flins’ eyes filled with surprise. He didn’t know how to react either.
“I’ll find you when I’m done. Just wait by the backdoor when you’re ready.” I steeled my nerves. Whatever was wrong with Lumine I’d fix. I’d done a good job of keeping the timeline in order, surely I could ease her off this cliff.
“Let’s go.” Lumine started walking and I jogged to catch up with her and Paimon. Normally they’d go at my pace, but not today.
The walk was quiet, spare for Lumine gritting her teeth. We went through the backdoor. The sky opened up for a thunderstorm right as we tucked inside. Back in the familiar room, I noticed there was still a pillow and blanket on the sofa, folded where I had left them. Lumine tossed them to the floor and turned on me the minute the door was shut.
“You knew!” She snapped, pushing her finger into my chest. “You knew she’d sacrifice herself and you did nothing to stop it.”
“Lumine, I-“
“No, don’t you Lumine me.” She chewed her bottom lip, blood bursting from the tender flesh. “We just got her back. And you let her go. She’s trapped in the moon gate, and we can’t get to her. This is your fault. Now if you had been frozen on the shore, I’d have more pity. But you didn’t even help me against Dottore. You just caught me, knowing I’d fall. How could you do so little? I know you’re not helpless. Your little stunt with Rerir in the cave was proof enough. What? Do you only step in when it comes to Flins?”
Words hung in my dry throat. My body shaking, heart racing, and ears laying flat. She was right. I didn’t try. Against the Doctor, I just gave up. But that’s how it needed to happen. Everything I did or didn’t do, it was all for the plot. Or was that just what I wanted to believe?
“Lumine, it’s not her fault.” Paimon came to my defense. “She can’t deviate.”
“She should have tried harder. Maybe we could have nipped this in the bud and saved everyone all this pain and grief.” Lumine jerked her head back to me. “You’re a coward. Picking and choosing who to save.”
“I’m sorry.” I looked at my feet, my lungs getting tight. “I don’t want to fuck things up for everyone.”
“Too late.” She burst into tears. “Columbina is gone, again. And now the Doctor had two of the three moon marrows. You made things harder.”
“You’re dealing with big emotions. We will get her back.” I choked my words out. “We will win.”
“There is no ‘we’ here, not anymore. Go to hell.” She pointed to the door. “Get out.”
“Lumine, don’t end it like this.” Paimon begged, her voice echoing through the room.
“I understand.” I sucked in my lips, and shut my eyes tight as I stepped into the hall, bumping into a firm chest as the door slammed behind me.
“What’s happening in there?” Varka pushed me away, resting his hands on my shoulders. “The whole bar can hear an argument.”
“It’s nothing I can change.” Flins was close, surely waiting by the back door, I could feel him. “I need to go.”
“Remember, we’re a team. We need to rely on each other.” Varka let me go, and I dashed through the hall and out under the awning.
“Kyryll?” I called out to him, knowing he was close but not able to see him. Stepping out into the rain, my foot slipped on the slick metal floor.
“Are you okay?” Flins caught me just in time. His arms were around my torso, face inches from mine. “I could hear the argument from here.”
“Not the words though? Right?” I asked, sniffling the only sign I had begun crying. The rain masking the tears that flowed freely down my face.
“No. Let’s go home tonight.” He righted me, then pulled my hood over my head. He wiped under my eyes and massaged my cheeks. “Whatever has transpired, we will get through it.”
“I wanna go home.” I hiccupped. “I can’t stay here.” We traversed the slick ground through Nasha town and headed home.
If it had been any other situation, we’d get a room at the Flagship and head out in the morning. But I couldn’t be in Nasha Town right now. Lumine was mad at me, rightfully so. Even if I could have jumped as high as her, I stood no chance against Dottore. I was his creation; he had the power now to dispose of me with a flick of his wrist.
“We’re going to catch colds.” Flins sighed, using his lantern to light the way for us to get home. It was late.
“Can we get sick? You’re a lantern…” I had shifted from holding his hand, to having my arm wrapped at his elbow. Nestling into his warmth, I used his body as a shield.
“It has happened on occasion.” He admitted. “I’m more worried about you. Rabbits are not well suited to bad weather.”
“I’ll be fine.” I couldn’t stop thinking I deserved to be rained on.
“If not then I will care for you.” He said it like it was so simple.
“Flins. I think I really fucked up.” Thunder clapped and lightning struck, I did not flinch.
“What was said?” He adjusted my hood again, trying to keep my face covered.
I was quiet for a good while, letting the question hang in the air. We were close to being home, but I didn’t want to say anything too loud. He was waiting for me to speak, his patience more than enough. I swallowed hard, my mouth still dry from the fight. “She said I should have done more to stop Columbina from sacrificing herself. And that I pick favorites."
“You know more than you can say. I don’t believe you’re trying to allow anyone to slip through the cracks. We can’t fault you for trying your best…the Traveler is just upset.” We pushed through the lighthouse doors. Flins quickly did a walk through to make sure no one was hiding to ambush us. Then he went to the fireplace to start the fire.
“She’s very convinced it’s my fault.” I slipped my coat off and put it by the fire to dry out. Maybe she was right.
“Then she holds the wrong conviction.” Flins stripped off his coat and put it by mine. But he was soaked through his white undershirt. I was distracted by his body long enough to stop my crying. He noticed my wandering eyes. Long fingers fiddled with buttons, making slow work of undoing the shirt from the bottom up. “Does temptation quell your broken heart?”
“Perhaps.” I crossed in front of the fireplace to stand before him. “You’re clearly struggling. Let me help.”
“Struggling?” He chuckled. “My Starlight, I would not call this struggling.”
“Still, I want…I want to help.” Tentatively, I reached my hand out to his sternum, waiting for his permission. “Will you let me?”
“Whatever you wish.” He pushed a strand of wet hair behind my ear.
“What I wish?” I looked at him through my lashes. My fingers undid a few buttons, working their way up. “Is it fair for me to get what I want? Look at the messes I’ve made. The people I couldn’t stop from hurting.”
“I see no such disasters.” His voice hitched as I got to the last button at his throat. My hands went under each side of the shirt, and pushed it back and over his shoulders. It fell to the floor, my fingers ghosting over his shoulders and back down his chest. Up and down, his scared skin rippled beneath my ministrations.
“I might only bring even more calamity if I keep meddling." I rested my hands on his biceps, the muscles flexing under my hold.
“Then I will quell it.” He said it so sure. Could he really ensure everything would end up, okay? I had put that on myself, as the lone variable it was up to me to make things go off without a hitch. He gripped my chin, bringing my eyes back to his. “You are not alone. So tell me, what do you wish for?”
I leaned up, my lips hovering over his ear. Maybe it was the fight that made me crave to crawl into his skin, or the building tension that had gone for so long. Perhaps it was what Jahoda said on the beach, but bravery or stupidity flooded my body. “What I wish, is to be with you till the end of our time. I want everything I can get from you. Your troubles, your victories, your body and soul. I want all of you.”
He shivered but not from the cold. “We made a deal. I will restrain myself, after such a confession you’ve made it very difficult.” This time he shifted so his lips were by ear, barely whispering. “However, what stops you from taking what is freely offered to you?” Kyryll hummed, his fists gripping the back of my wet dress, pulling me closer till our chests were flush.
“A friend made a good point. Things could change at any point.” I should have been pushing back, but he was so warm. “Can I really? Do I deserve to…have what I want?”
“Yes.” He let out the most heavenly sound when tilted my head and I kissed along his jaw. Several little kisses before hovering over his lips.
“Are you sure you have no regrets?” I put a little space between us, heart hammering in my chest.
“Zero.” His yellow eyes sparkled by the firelight. I kissed him. The first peck was soft and quick. The next one lasted a little longer, spot lips matching figuring out each other . Then the third time, we locked lips pressing into each other till there was almost no space between us. After the moment passed, his hands relaxed, and he let go of the fabric of my dress, instead running them through my wet hair. “I love you.” He said it with his full chest.
“Kyryll.” I gasped as we broke apart. How could he say it so easily? How could anyone love me?
“You do not have to share the sentiment right now. But I can not hide this from you any longer.” His eyes were glued to mine, his flicking down to my lips and back up.
“You want another kiss?” I asked, holding his face and rubbing my thumbs along his jaw. Was it changing the topic? Yes. Had I crossed a line I drew myself. Yes. Worry started to build in the pit of my stomach, but was quickly quelled.
“Another kiss? Only if you will allow it?” He rested his hand on my waist, rubbing right where the worry had started.
“I would be lost without you.” I admitted, leaning in for another kiss. That was all I could muster in the moment, an honest confession. I was going to go on but, there was a knock at the door.
Flins pulled me flush to his chest as I tried to jump out of my skin. “It’s Master Illuga.” He eased me back to arm’s length. “Go get changed and shower. I’m sure the young Master has heard word from Varka about tonight.”
“Alright. I’ll toss you a shirt.” I scurried into our room and tossed him out a shirt.
Stripping off, I hopped into the warm shower and rinsed off. There was hardly any cold lingering on my skin. So much was floating through my mind, but having Flins comfort me in that way…had made all the difference. I was glad to have waited for now; I needed the affection. And as Jahoda said, there was too much to lose. And with the Doctor on the loose, I couldn't put it off.
Still, from this point forward, I was going to help in more ways. I couldn’t do much about things needing to happen, but I would need to face the Doctor and aid my friends more than I did hours ago. Lumine had some truth to her outburst, but I can’t let myself get down about it.
Stepping out of the shower, I pulled on a fresh dress, warm stockings, and put my hair into a pony tail. Going into the living room, Illuga was stripped down to his shorts, his own coat drying by the fire like ours. Flins was in the kitchen making a pot of tea.
“Cold huh?” I asked, walking to the sofa and sitting by Illuga. Without his shirt, I could see he was littered in more scars than I would have thought.
“Frozen.” His eyes were glued to the ground.
“Why are you averting your eyes?” I asked, looking at myself to make sure I was decent.
“I didn’t want you to see me like this.” He whispered, hand flying to the scar running down his throat.
“Oh. I’m sorry. I’ll go back to my room. I didn’t think about how embarrassing that would be” I tried to stand but he grasped my wrist, holding me in place.
“Sorry.” He quickly let me go. “I just don't want you to leave either.”
“I can sit with my back to you.” I offered, turning so I couldn’t see him. “And Flins can let you borrow a dry shirt.”
“That would be great.” Illuga’s voice was meek, which wasn’t like him.
“Is there something wrong?” It was hard not looking at him, but I could hear Flins going into the bedroom to grab a shirt.
“I was on my way back to Piramida after picking up a letter from Sir Varka, and I got caught in the storm.” The couch shifted, Illuga reaching up and catching a shirt that Flins had tossed.
“There you are Master Illuga.” Flins’ voice floated from back in the kitchen. “The tea is almost ready.”
“That will warm us all up. We also got caught in the storm.” I swirled once Illuga tapped me. My face burned seeing Illuga in one of Flins’ deep v-neck shirts. “Ahm, it will be a miracle we don’t all get sick.” I added, looking at the fire as it raged in the fireplace.
“Yes, it’s a good thing we’re all dry and warm now.” Illuga sucked in his lips, eyes scanning my body. “From the letter I received from Sir Varka, there seems to be a rather large threat before us.”
“Indeed.” Flins sat a trey of tea in front of us. He was already applying my favorite accompaniments before handing me the steaming cup. “I’m sure you’re familiar with the Fatui Harbinger Dottore.”
“I am.” Illuga definitely noticed the shiver that ran down my spine as Flins said the Doctor’s name.
“Can you all discuss this when I go to bed?” I wrapped my arms around myself; ears pressed to my damp hair. “I know time is of the essence, but he’s gone for now. I don’t know how much you know of my background as a Fatui fugitive, but I was the Doctor’s experiment.” I swallowed hard, glancing at my reflection in my tea cup. “It’s been a rough night.”
“The witch.” Illuga nodded to himself.
“What?” I was curious why he said that.
“The story you told, my love.” Flins said it so casually it didn’t register he had called me his love.
“Snow white?” I asked.
“He’s the Evil Queen, the witch.” Illuga sat his tea cup down, getting up and stepping over Flins’ long legs. “I promised I’d protect you from the witch and I will keep my promise.”
“Illuga, you can’t.”
“I can.” He fired back.
“I don’t want you to get hurt.” This statement only fired the man up more.
“Pain is something I can handle.” Illuga laid his hand over his heart. “Losing you to the likes of that scum? That’s unbearable.”
“Do not underestimate Master Illuga.” Flins rested his hand on my thigh. “Us Lightkeepers are fiercely loyal.”
“I know it does me no good to remind everyone how unimportant I am in the grand scheme of Nod Krai. But, I must make every attempt to ask you to put your energy elsewhere.” I grabbed Illuga’s hand, keeping my eyes locked with his. “I am not worth saving.”
The hand on my thigh was squeezed tighter, not painful but enough to remind me who I was sitting beside. Illuga freed one of his hands, pressing it to my forehead. “No fever. Sir Flins, what could cause her to say something so absurd.”
“I am not sure, Master Illuga. Perhaps I’ve been too soft on her.” Flins’ eyes glinted indigo.
“Soft?” I was surprised that’s what they thought. The men looked at each other and I suddenly felt like I was about to have my mind changed…
“Yes, soft.” Illuga kneeled before me, hand resting over his heart. “I pledge to do everything in my power to protect you.”
“Not Flins two-point o.” My pulse was racing, Flins’ hand going from my thigh to my lace our fingers together. He lifted my hand to his mouth and kissed my knuckles one at a time, paying attention to my ring.
“You already know my devotion. But, if I must remind you…” Flins started to get on the floor to match Illuga.
“Okay, okay. Enough.” I freed myself and jumped onto the couch to stand over them. “You’re both embarrassing me. I’m not a princess.”
“You are to us.” Illuga spoke for both of them. Flins nodded along, smirking at how flustered I was. They were toying with me.
“This is not fair. We have major problems and I’m not going to let this slide. I’m going to bed.” I jumped over the back of the couch to get away.
“That won’t work, Princess.” Illuga got up and chased after me, a smirk settling over his lips. “
“Ahhh, it needs to work.” I yelped. This wasn’t a fantasy I would concoct, it was way too uncomfortable. Another fact that made this all the more real.
“We’ll let you be, if you promise to stop under valuing yourself.” Flins laid the terms on the table. However, he was definitely closing the gap between me and the bedroom door.
“Look, no promises. I’ll try, but if either of you get hurt because of me. I’ll-“
“You’ll tend to us till we get well.” Flins finished the sentence for me.
“And you’ll tell us more stories.” Illuga added with all seriousness.
“Alright. Fair terms. Just stay out of trouble.” I warned them both. “That whole devotion thing was a bit much, don’t you think?” I prodded them.
“It worked.” Illuga grinned. “And I was sincere.”
“I know you were, but you can’t just go doing that for just anyone. People might take advantage.” I cautioned him.
“You aren’t just anybody. You’re Princess (Y/n).” Illuga’s eyes were practically glowing.
“Don’t call me Princess.” I whined, marching towards the bedroom. “You two have your serious conversation and I’ll be in here resting.”
“Good night.” They both chimed.
“Night.” My heart was finally calming down. Those two egged each other on when they had a similar goal. In the game they always had an interesting dynamic, but this was tag teaming against me….and I almost had my heart pop. In some ways I was thankful though. It made the horrid conversation with Lumine less painful. Not to mention it kept me from going too far with Flins as well. Things were working out how they were supposed to, and I needed to have faith in that fact.
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Fifteen
Master List for Chapters
Notes: Early update for the US Holiday. I hope y'all enjoy this update. I finished this fic last week, and it's going to be 21 chapters. I just need to edit and upload. This means I'm working on my next project. I have an Idea for Illuga x Lohen's Sister! Reader. Where the sibling's parents die and the reader travels to Nod Krai to deliver the news in person. I'm not sure if I have a real plot to it, so it might just be a novella or long one shot. Remember to leave a comment and reblog for me :)
Chapter Fifteen: Eighty Years
“No way! Oops.” I had gotten a little too loud, but none of the three chosen ones were distributed in their focus.
“Don’t be a sore loser.” Varka whispered, taking the mora we had piled on the table. I hated to admit I had a gambling problem, but I played Genshin impact for a reason. At least in the game I was granted a character after a while.
“He’s bested you three times. You should give it up bestie.” Jahoda had thrown in the towel early this round, keeping her mora in her pockets.
“I, just, am learning.” I pouted, not fully understanding poker. It wasn’t something I had played in my past life.
“Wanna play again?” Varka picked up the cards and began to shuffle them. His hands were quick, flicking the cards around and making them almost click together.
“Paimon is too busy tending to our prayer people, with Aino and Ineffa, to notice I’m going broke. She’d put a stop to this.” I hung my head low, eyes glinting up. “But she’s not here, and I’m not a quitter.”
“That’s a bold move.” Jahoda raised her brows high. “That last round was enough for me.”
“We need another player. Nefer?” I engaged the women who kept glancing our way.
“No thanks.” She smiled. “Though you’d be better off following Jahoda’s advice.”
“I know.” I had around three hundred mora left. Maybe enough to buy a hot dog with no drink. “But at this point, I’ve lost it all. What’s one more chance to get some back?”
“Let her try.” Varka hummed. “She needs to learn the hard way.”
“Life is a cruel teacher.” Jahoda whined, petting her thinned wallet.
“I just need the right cards.” I swallowed hard.
“We can play Heads Up. It’s for two people. You play the same way, but the stakes are higher.” Varka sipped from his flask, laying the cards out and dealing our hands. “You in?” He leaned against the barrel we had been using for a table.
“Yes.”
…
“Noooo.” I handed over the last of my money, well now Varka’s money. “I never fold, and you just keep getting lucky.”
“The winds of luck are with me.” He flexed his bicep, kissing the plump part, as if brawn had anything to do with it.
“Welp, I’m going to go out to find some chests. This is bullshit.” I fiddled with my wallet in my hands.
“We can play that game too.” Varka laughed.Good to know they played Bullshit in this world too. We all kept our voices low. “No money. Maybe just favors.”
“Favors?” Nefer perked up, her eyes flashing from Varka to me. “Those are the hardest to repay.”
“I don’t know.” I got up, walking towards the cave entrance. “I’m going to go scrounge for mora.” Then I felt him…. he was back from getting supplies.
“Don’t go out, it’s too dark for you.” Jahoda grabbed my hand, her cold metal fingers making me shiver.
“I’ll just ask Flins to go with me.” I nodded at the entrance.
“Wow, how’d you know he was back? He’s so quiet.” Jahoda balked, letting my hand go to cover her mouth as he walked in.
Flins stalked to the firewood pile and set down the branches. His eyes locked on Varka counting his winnings, then on me holding an empty purple velvet bag. “What has transpired since I left?”
“Just a friendly and lucrative game of poker.” Varka answered. “Miss (Y/n) was about to consider offering favors up as currency.”
Just like that, the heat in the cave was kicked up a notch. Flins’ calm expression didn’t change, but I knew he was a little upset with me. “Is that so?”
“I may have a gambling problem.” I cast my eyes down; ears pressed to my head. Flins ran his hand down my braid, twirling the end.
“Grand Master, how about a round with me?” Flins sat in the seat I was in previously.
“No.” Varka slotted the cards back in the box. “Unlike Miss (Y/n), I know when to call it quits.”
“But you were willing to play her for a favor?” Flins’ eyes held a little mischief.
“Well yeah. Never know when you’ll need one.” Varka awkwardly chuckled.
“Favors are handy.” Jahoda chimed in. She could feel the tension too. Nefer acted uninterested but was clearly engaged in the outcome.
“I’m going to go look around. I’ll be back in time for my shift caring for our friends.” I needed to deescalate. “Good game Grand Master. You won fair and square. I just don’t know when to quit.” I held my thumb up. “I’ll get you next time though.”
“She will never learn.” Jahoda stood from her chair. “I’ll help you out. Let’s go.”
“Thank you.” I took long and calculated strides out of the cave. Once out of the way, I let out a breath I had been holding. “That was tense.”
“Mr. Flins sure does get serious over you.” Jahoda nudged me with her mechanical arm, the cold metal touching my bare skin. Of course, I forgot my coat back in the cave. “Are you two dating?”
“It’s umm. We both like each other, but we’re trying to wait for the right moment.” I waved my arms around, looking under rocks and around ledges on the cliffs for chests.
“He was giving you a ring on the beach…I think the time is now.” She pointed to the ring on my finger. “This life is too short not to go for it. We could die at any minute. And we need to make the most of what time we have.” She rubbed her arm, circling her finger around a bolt. “Things can change quickly.”
“You’re right. I’m the one holding us back.” I sucked in my bottom lip. “Damn, look alive.” I barked, a dark mist settling over the beach.
“Run!” She grabbed my elbow, taking off at lightning speed. While I had developed a new sense of athleticism, I still wasn’t as swift as her.
“Bestie please.” My heart was pounding in my chest. “Go grab Flins. I’ll hold them off.” I broke from her hold and turned on my heels. My voice was sure, but Jahoda had spent the last hour watching me bluff.
“You’re made of glass, no way.” She shot an arrow into the chest of one of the creatures. “We need to keep running.” I felt Flins fast approaching. My shoulder relaxed.
“No need.” Varka appeared in the thick fog, his voice booming. I jumped out of my skin, clutching my chest.
“Wha.” I was gripped around the waist and hauled on his shoulder.
“Eek.” He nabbed Jahoda in the other arm, keeping her hanging low. Varka jumped to higher ground as the hunt snuck up on us from behind.
“I came to apologize. But I see we have bigger problems. Sir Flins, do you mind?” Varka hollered down at Flins, who was bobbing through the miasma.
Flins didn’t answer him, his form dancing around the dark fog. There were points where he totally disappeared and I could only catch the electricity he produced.
“Let me help.” I wriggled on Varka’s shoulder till he slid me down.
“Be careful.” Jahoda said as she was also put down, drawing her bow.
“I got this.” I fired back with more sass then needed. No one needed healing so I just tossed water into the mist, looking for pockets to know I was hitting monsters.
“Stay up here.” Varka pointed at us, jumping back into the mist.
“Why couldn’t I be stronger?” I growled, tossing water with more force.
“I’m tough, but not up close.” Jahoda sighed, shooting a few shots when her line of sight was clear. “I understand you.”
“I’m just glad we caught this before they rolled up on the cave.” I reasoned seeing there were only two beasts left. Flins got one and Varka the other.
“Good work you two.” Jahoda called down to them. She jumped off the cliff, and engaged her glider…. I didn’t have mine on me.
“Come on (Y/n), let's go back.” Varka waved his arm for me to jump.
“I’ll just walk up here. I don’t have my glider.” I sputtered, Flins reaching up his arms. “You don’t have to catch me! I can walk.”
“Let the man dote on you.” Varka laughed, watching our next moves intently.
“Jump and I’ll catch you.” Flins was so casual about it.
“How about I attempt to climb down and you catch me if I fall.” I sat on the lip of the cliff. A scream ripping through me as the ground gave up from under me the second my legs were over the side.
Everything in my mind slowed down. Jahoda was right, things could happen so fast. I grasped at the air, praying Flins caught me and I didn’t break my legs. It was just a split second. But Flins jumped up, the momentum breaking my fall slightly. He wrapped one arm around my back and the other at my knees, landing with grace.
“Are you alright?” Flins whispered in my ear, his face red.
“Thanks to your quick thinking.” I had my arms around his neck. “You can set me down.”
“Take it easy.” He slowly let me go, making sure I could hold my own weight.
“I can’t catch a break.” I kicked up some sand, my toes catching on the lip of a chest. “Ouch.” I balanced on one foot.
“That’s a break…” Jahoda pointed out. “You found what we were looking for.”
“Let’s open it up.” I growled. My mood had tanked, but I still got to my knees and dug out the sand. I popped it open; it was full of rotten fruit and a few iron chunks. “Ewww.”
“Luck isn’t on your side.” Varka recoiled from the smell.
I slammed the chest back shut. “I guess I’ve used all my luck up.”
“Let’s hurry back, it will be our turn soon.” Jahoda bounced on the ball of her heel.
“We’ll catch up shortly.” Flins motioned for them to go on.His aura was serious, the other two giving me concerned glances.
“Yeah. If I don’t return, know that I know it was worth it.” I joked, but the blondes before me didn’t find it very funny. While Flins had been sweet to rescue me earlier, he still was laced with some kind of anger.
“Just hustle when you’re done working it out.” Varka offered a grin before heading back with Jahoda, who was half way down the beach.
I turned to face Flins, he was frowning a tiny bit, his sullen yellow eyes checking me up and down. Crossing my arms over my chest, I turned my head away from him. He broke his frown and chuckled.
“What am I going to do with you?” He held out his hand.
I raised my brow, uncrossing my arms and cocking my head to the side. “What?”
“Hand me your purse.” He flexed his fingers in a ‘hand it over’ motion.
“It’s really your purse.” I handed him the purple velvet bag.
“Now it is yours.” He assured me. “We will need to work on your card game skills. What would you do if every chest you found was empty?”
“Lumine always gets the best chests. I finally found my own and it's humiliating.” My eyes widened, even though I knew what he would do. He took out his own coin bag, and split it in half, putting money in mine.
“You’ve been humiliated enough today. I won’t add salt to your wounds.” He handed me my pouch, and I tucked it back in my bag. A chill went down my spine, and soon Flins was hauling off his coat.
“Flins. I won’t die.” I reasoned. He draped the coat over my shoulders.
“You could catch a cold.” He took my hand, and guided me back towards our cave.
“That’s my own damn fault.” I gripped his hand tighter, my voice growing smaller. “But you always take care of me…no matter how bad I fuck up.”
“That won’t change, my Starlight.” He assured me, rubbing his thumb over my hand.
“I just hope I provide that level of attention back to you.” I laid my head on his shoulder for a moment, and we paused walking. The dark fog was gone, and we were seeing the stars in the sky.
“You do.” He looked at the sky, then down to my ring. “It really does sparkle like the night sky.”
“I love it.” I wiggled my fingers.
“That makes me very happy.” Flins kissed my forehead. “It’s almost our shift to care for our friends.”
“Yeah, we better hurry back.” We took quick strides back to the cave.
Back with the others, we relieved those who had been awake while we had goofed off. It was a simple job: look for any signs of them needing medical attention and hope they didn’t give up. It had almost been three days. The card game was a way to pass the time, but still it was rather boring. It’s not like I needed sleep, but laying by myself and pretending, for the sake of those who didn’t know, was hard. Especially because I didn’t want to look like I was always up Flins’ rear.
A few more hours ticked by. I could smell Ineffa cooking up a storm. She was preparing for the moment the gate opened and everyone could eat and drink again. Soon Nicole was spouting her incantation to open the gate.
Everyone relaxed as the gate appeared. Arlecchino was trying to get everyone to go in right away, but Ineffa reminded them they needed their strength. The three ladies were drooling at the spread before them, and I dared not get in their way.
“Lauma, how do you feel?” I approached her, she was chowing down on a salad, sitting off to herself.
“That was quite the challenge.” She pointed to her feet. “My legs are numb.”
“You’re tougher than me.” I sat beside her. “I guess you’re going inside?”
“Yes. Are you?” She posed a good question.
“I don’t know.” My glance went to the traveler. “Maybe I should wait out here.” If I remembered right, the inside was mostly puzzles. I wasn’t a fan of puzzles and tricks.
“Alright.” She laid her hand on my thigh. “Are you okay?”
“Why wouldn’t I be?” Maybe I said too fast or too loud, but Lauma was good at seeing through me.
“Your being feels turbulent. Maybe it’s where you’re close to animals, but I feel a special bond with you.” She squeezed my plush thigh. I wouldn’t say I was close to the animals in this world, so she must mean my ears and tail.
“I’m okay. Just afraid for Columbina, and what the future holds. Domains make me uneasy. I’m afraid they’ll close and lock you inside.” I admitted, glancing at the other’s chatting and deciding who all would go in.
“Then you’ll have to keep watch over the door to make sure we make it back.” She was soothing, her essence was like a warm hug.
“You got it. Nothing bad will happen, and I’ll make sure of it.” I nodded, standing up and offering her a hand. “Looks like you’re going in.”
“I’ll be extra careful.” She hugged me. For some reason I wanted to cry, but I didn’t let myself. The next bit would be a break, before all out chaos.
“Alright, we’ll be back soon.” Nicole said in our heads, the group going on in.
“You look rough.” Aino prodded me.
“There’s a lot at stake.” I reasoned.
“Analysis, Miss. (Y/n) is worried. Solution, offer up electrolyte juice.” Ineffa offered me a canteen of juice she produced from inside her body.
“Thank you Ineffa.” I took a long swig and passed it back to her. “Alright, let’s look after the door and wait for them to get back.”
We waited around an hour, before they all tumbled out of the gateway. Lumine and Paimon took off at a sprint and didn’t look back. Lauma looked at me then turned into her deer form and dashed out. Arlecchino was gone before I could say boo to a cat.
“What’s going on?” Jahoda was looking around frantically.
“We need to use her chosen name, Columbina, or she could fade away. We need to call out to her in the places she could be.” Nicole said in all our heads.
“So split up, and look for her.” I got to my feet and took off at a sprint. This was part of the game I didn’t know about. I knew Lumine found her in Silver Moon Hall, but I guess everyone would split up and look for her.
“Yes. Hurry.” Nicole waved us off.
“Let’s go Ineffa.” Aino hurried off with Ineffa on her heels.
“Flins?” I called out to him. He had been yapping with Varka before everyone took off.
“Let’s go.” He nodded for me to follow him, and we headed out running.
“Where should we look. I know who finds her, but we should still call out to her just in case I fucked up.” I reasoned.
“Let’s check the area close to her statue on Hiisi island.” He changed our path quickly.
“Good call.” I followed after him, thinking of the few interactions I had with Columbina. How many times she saved me and my friends. How much she mattered to the world we were in. “Columbina!” I called out to her as we got to the island. “That’s your name! Please come back.”
“Columbina!” Flins called out too. Not as loud as me, but he was still trying to help.
We went on looking around Hiisi island for thirty minutes, when a small bird came chirping. “She’s back.” I sighed, relaxing my shoulders.
“I’m glad.” Flins hugged me from behind, resting his chin on my shoulder and applying some of his weight. “It should be Moon Prayer night. We need to hurry to Nasha town.”
“Right. We’ll all meet up there.” I nodded, wrapping my arm around his. “You’re making sugar sculptures right? As a lamp.”
“Lantern, my Starlight.” He kissed my cheek, letting me go and walking towards town.
“Should I be your adorable bunny assistant?” I asked, keeping in step with him.
“Are you able to shift to a bunny at will?” He asked, genuinely curious.
“No.” I laughed. “But I can be your bunny girl assistant.”
“I’m sure that will go over well. We’ll be the most popular booth at the festival.”
“Damn straight.” I walked with a little pep in my step. This was the fun part before the downfall.
OOOOOOOOOO
“How many bunnies are you going to make tonight?” I laughed, sucking on a piece of candy until it melted in my mouth.
“The children love them.” His flame flickered as he used his energy to make another sugar sculpture. “And I would argue a lot of people want a bunny after seeing you.”
“That’s true. I fear my influence is going to cloud the story though.” I pulled my collar away from my neck to let some cold air in.
“It’s a nice feeling getting to be in my true form.” Flins’ voice was a mere whisper but I could hear him just fine over the loud festival.
“I wish I felt that way.” I rubbed one of my ears. Lots of people were donning animal ears, so I blended right in. I hated to admit I had gotten used to wearing a scarf, but it was nice to not have my ears pressed flat.
“Flins?” Paimon asked as she came up to the booth. “And (Y/n)!”
“Hey.” I greeted them, seeing the card tucked in Paimon’s hand.
“Hello Traveler and Paimon.” Flins’ flame flickered in a greeting. “What do we have here?” He motioned to the card.
“We’re making a card for Columbina. Varka decided to draw something for you on your behalf.” Paimon’s mouth was watering looking at the candy sculptures.
“I will draw something for Mr. Albedo then.” Flins decided, shushing the group as Columbina arrived.
I nodded for Lumine to slip to the back. I let Flins have his fun with Columbina, assigning her an animal to resonate with. “Here, I’ll draw mine really quick.” I whispered.
“What will you draw?” Lumine asked, watching me work with the pencil she gave me.
“I have an idea.” I grinned, drawing a bunny rabbit with a scarf on. Then I added a few details that matched my own complexion.
“So cute!” Paimon took the card back and tucked it in Lumine’s bag. “You’re really talented.”
“Don’t lie, I can see some of the other’s work. Mine’s just got the cute factor.” I covered my mouth and almost swallowed my candy.
Paimon beat my back till the candy slid back up my throat. “You okay?”
“Yeah, I just realized the night is almost over.” I looked at the false sky. “I think I’m going to make a wish at the Frost Moon Scions booth.”
“Oooo, you should.” Paimon motioned me to go towards the wishing stall. “We’ll let Flins know where you’ve run off too.”
“Thanks.” I bid them farewell and went to the wish section.
Once at the table, I grabbed a slip of paper and a pencil. I went to a corner to think of what to wish for. In my past life, I always wished to be happy. It was simple but so unattainable. How many wishes I had wasted asking for something that would never be a constant?
“You look lost?” Arlecchino. “What is wrong?”
I hadn’t spoken a word to her the whole time we’d been together. “Just a lot on my mind. What good is wishing for something unattainable?” I forced myself to let out a small laugh. “I’ve wasted many wishes.”
“Hmm. Then I suppose you should think of something more concrete.” She said it, like wishing was so simple.
“Good call.” She hovered near me and I took my opportunity. “Do you know who I am?” I asked, swallowing hard.
“Dottore’s experiment.” She sounded disguised with the man's name.
“Yeah. I’ve been in hiding for months.” I made a fist and placed it next to my heart. “Do you know anything I might not?”
“I do not. He was very secretive about you. It was only after your escape that the project was announced to those outside the inner circle.” She took a piece of paper and wrote down her wish carefully.
“Thank you, for not turning me in.” I bowed my head. To be fair I didn’t know much about her. She was in Fountaine and I had skipped right through it.
“I don’t agree with his research practices.” She hummed, hanging her wish. “You should be free of his hunt soon. He has left Nod Krai.”
“That’s wonderful news.” I answered. Knowing he would show his hand soon.
“I will see you at the gate.” Arlecchino waved and glanced back at me as she left. She was interesting. I doubted I’d ever be close to her, but there was something about her I couldn’t put my hand on.
Scrolling out my wish, I asked for all my friends to live another eighty years at least. It was concrete, some of them would be very old humans, but I would care for them. I just wanted everyone to be okay at the end of the mission.
“Most of the stalls are closing up.” Flins had snuck up on me. I was in my own head and didn’t feel the warm thump of his energy. “I thought we could try the ride in the middle of the town.”
“I would like that.” I glanced back at my wish, then back at Flins. Maybe eighty years wouldn’t be enough.
We boarded the ride, there was a lack of safety equipment, but I knew it was a simple design, up and down round and round. I held Flins’ hand, and the ride sputtered to life. We didn’t speak, the wind fluttering around us. In the cheesiest way, I kept stealing glances at him, but he was always looking at me. He squeezed my hand tighter, and I felt the familiar pang of fear in my chest. I pushed the pang down, and made sure to enjoy the moment.
Once we hopped off the ride, we noticed the group gathering to say goodbye to Columbina. Flins mentioned that farewells are important to the Ratnik, so we had better come to peace with it. Then I said, “It’s not good bye, just farewell.” Everyone else shared their sentiments.
“We made something for you.” Paimon announced.
“What is it?” Columbina was surprised, good.
“It’s a Moon Prayer Night Card, so you can look at us anytime.” Paimon cheered.
“I also did your portrait, since you had never had one done.” Albedo smiled.
Everyone told who they drew in the card. Columbina was speechless. After a minute, she then announced after some thought, she would use moonlight to write messages to us in the future, so we could stay in touch. We all were excited at the prospect.
Soon we were saying our goodbyes. I hadn’t interacted with Columbina much, but she was still important to me. Her story had moved me to tears when I played through it. While I wasn’t privy to her much in this world, I still cared for her deeply.
“Hey, why won’t we go get a stiff drink.” Varka could see the sadness all over my face. He had clamped his hand on my shoulder and rested his other hand on Flins’ back. He didn’t know why I truly looked so sad.
“I could use one.” I didn’t say it was to steel my nerves. I kept looking at the sky, waiting for him to show up.
“Don’t be so blue. We’ll see her again.” Flins looked at me, Varka’s chest obscuring his view.
“I know.” I looked at my feet. “I’m just nervous.”
“Come on, we need to be happy she’s going home.” Varka got us three cups of ale. I didn’t want to be drunk for the next moment, so I only sipped mine.
“A toast to the Moon Goddess.” Flins held up his glass.
“To the Moon Goddess.” Varka agreed.
“To our friend.” I saw it on the horizon, the blue circle in the sky, the doctor’s voice resonating over the land. I took off a sprint, Flins and Varka on my heels.
“Columbina!” I screamed, seeing her in a box in the sky. It was this moment everyone else froze, but I didn’t. Lumine darted to the sky, fighting with the doctor. I started to strip off my clothes, and swim out into the water. Trying to make it to where they were. It was moving so fast in real time, I had to hurry and watch.
Columbina created a portal and threw herself through it. My heart shattered. Lumine screamed and grunted and the floor holding her up broke. I was in the perfect position to break her fall with my power and cradle her body. Pushing up pink cork screws, her body was sucked down and into my arms.
My lungs were making themselves known again. Panic setting in as the Doctor disappeared with the two moon’s powers. Everyone on the beach was unfrozen, some of them jumping into the water to come help me.
I looped one arm around Lumine, and used the other with my legs to back stroke to shore. I was getting dizzy from the panic, but I started to count in my head. I had survived my first encounter with the Doctor unnoticed. Still, I was lightheaded and trying not to throw up the liquid in my stomach. At least the water was cold enough to ground me.
“What happened?” Paimon was the first to us, floating above the water. Her face scrunched in worry.
“No. Time.” I gasped, bobbing us both under a wave as we got closer to shore.
“Hurry up, (Y/n) is going to drown too.” Paimon yelled, and I was way more embarrassed than I should have been.
“I. Can. Still. Swim.” I pushed Lumine up and dunked myself under as a tame wave went overhead. Lumine was taken from me, and I was pulled up right away before I could kick back up. My hands were forced around someone’s throat. My eyes were still shut tight, shame pulling at me.
“Are you two, okay?” Varka was now holding Lumine, and I spotted him past indigo hair.
I was holding lightly to Flins, my heart still racing. The reality I had just seen the Doctor caught up to me. Feeling my body shake, it happened. I was transformed into a bunny. Losing my grip on Flins, he flipped over and grabbed me. He switched to floating on his back, putting me on his chest and pressing me flat.
“(Y/n)!” Paimon gulped, having never seen me like this.
“I’m taking that as a no.” Varka looked at Lumine then me. “Back to shore.”
The waves were rough, but I didn’t have to worry about it. Flins and Varka were built like tanks, so they were able to power through the surf. Paimon kept high enough the water didn’t touch her, but close enough to watch over us.
Once on shore, Flins was offered a towel that Jahoda had. “Always getting into trouble.” She commented, tossing another towel to Paimon, who started to dry Lumine in Varka’s hold.
“What happened?” Lauma was by Lumine, trying to shake her awake. “One minute we were all running, the next second time had froze.”
“It’s better suited for us to regroup. Right now, I need to heal her.” I said, Flins wrapping me in the towel. He dried my ears, and held me close to his chest. Still in my rabbit form, I was shaking, from the cold and the horrors. Trying to focus on anything else, I laid my head on Flins’ chest, his wild beating heart echoed from his ribcage.
“Darling, you need a moment to compose yourself.” Flins smoothed his hand over me. The action soothing my erratic heart.
“That had to be scary.” Lauma looked at me, eyes glancing back at Lumine. She was torn on who to comfort. “You are the Doctor’s creation.”
“The Doctor didn’t seem to notice me. But we should talk as a group, we need to get Lumine some help.” I sounded weaker than I wanted, my voice quivering. “Let’s go.” Jahoda led the charge back to the Curatorium of Secrets.
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Fourteen
Master List for Chapters
Please leave a comment and reblog. Let me know if you are pulling for Durin or Nicole this patch. I got Durin on Radiance, but lost my 50/50 for Nicole. Still have time to maybe get her.
Chapter Fourteen: Disappear
It took a full day, but we managed to get everything back in order. Thankfully the Fatui only looked in areas where someone could hide, like behind curtains or under desks and beds. Most things were just flipped or tore down. It didn’t take much to mend and rearrange what was broken.
“Kyryll, I’m not sure they won’t ransack your home again while we’re away.” I finished sewing up a curtain and handed it to Flins for him to hang up. He faltered, brain short circuiting for a moment. I had been slipping in a Kyryll here and there and he was acutely aware of it.
“I believe they will think twice before stepping foot on this sacred ground.” He hung up the purple curtain, turning back to me. I was sitting on his sofa, starting my last sewing project, which was a sheet for the bed.
“As much blood as I scrubbed out of your hair, I think I believe you.” A chill ran down my spine, and I flinched as I poked myself with my needle. “Ouch.”
“Allow me.” He kneeled before me, and took my finger into his mouth, his tongue running over the droplet of blood. His eyes were locked on mine, gazing up from the floor.
“I, um.” I swallowed hard, licking my lips and looking to the side. He released my finger, placing a chaste kiss to my palm before relinquishing his hold on me. “Thank you.” His fingers rested under my chin and pulled my gaze back to him.
“You have the most beautiful expressions. I do wish you wouldn’t hide them from me.” He was toying with me.
“Are you playing with your food?” I asked, a confident burst spreading over my chest. “Is this payback for using your first name so casually?”
“You have no idea the power you hold over me, my Starlight.” He was so close, so I went ahead and nuzzled our noses.
“I’ll remember to use that power for good.” I picked up my sewing project and began to mend again, more focused this time. “We should go to town soon. Meet with the others, and see how things are going. What happens here soon will be important. I will have the chance to ask a mage about my situation.”
“Are they trustworthy?” He inquired, sitting by me on the couch.
“I sure hope so.” I sighed. “Maybe it doesn’t matter how I got here, but I would like to know. Surely, she would have a clue.”
“There are more questions than answers." He tentatively rubbed my ears. “We’ll get to the bottom of this.”
There was a knock at the door. My blood ran cold, and I got up to scurry into the bedroom. We had come up with a plan. Until we got the Fatui off our back, I would hide when people knocked at the door. And when Flins headed out, so did I and vice versa.
“It’s Miss Paimon and Miss Lumine.” Flins announced, and I came out of the bedroom.
“A little birdie told me that you were in some trouble last night.” Paimon said, coming up to me and hugging my neck. “Paimon is glad you’re okay.”
“Yes, you were thinking on your feet.” Lumine praised me, nodding. “You’ve grown.”
“You think?” I asked, sitting on the couch and petting the spots next to me. I made sure to take the middle so I’d have Lumine on one side and Flins on the other.
“Of course. You don’t have your wing glider license and were still able to operate one. Just like me when I first got here. That’s pretty tough.” Lumine smiled.
“Yeah, you’re a lot stronger physically. Running all the way to Piramida. I’m impressed.” Paimon nodded along.
“She’s adapting well.” Flins agreed, resting his hand on my thigh. I wasn’t about to be flustered.
“Well, I’m glad you all think so highly of me.” I rested my hand on Flins’, rubbing his knuckles. “Anyways, how was Columbina?”
“She wasn’t there yesterday; we’re going to try again in the morning.” Paimon explained.
“I see.” So we were at that point in the story. Good. I still had time to run into Alice or Nicole. “Well, I better go make you some tea. I’m sure you’re both parched.”
“Are you sure it's not because you’re thirsty?” Paimon laughed floating around me as I headed to the kitchen.
“I’m always thirsty.” I laughed, knowing in this world ‘thirsty’ did not mean you were lusting after someone. If only they knew how funny it was, then we’d all be laughing.
“Your laugh is so pretty.” Lumine perched over the back of the couch to watch me work the stove. “You’re accent too; it’s unlike anything I’ve ever heard.”
“Thank you. I didn’t realize I had much of an accent.” I added some tea leaves to a little basket and tossed it in the water.
“Yeah, it’s super cute.” Paimon added, pulling milk out of the fridge.
“Like a beautiful song bird in the morning.” Flins added. He was up and getting cups down from the cupboard. I noticed he got himself a wine glass, and I went to the wine cabinet and pulled down a bottle. I still wasn’t sure what his favorite was, but he happily drank whatever I’d grab for him.
“Y’all don’t need to hype me up. It will go to my head.” I smirked, pulling the cork out of the wine and pouring some into Flins’ glass.
“Teas done.” Paimon declared. I pulled it off the stove and poured Lumine, Paimon and myself a cup. We all retook our positions on the sofa.
“So, I guess we’ve lost custody.” Lumine chided, sipping her tea.
“Indeed, we have.” Paimon added. “We should see you in court Mr. Flins.”
“Woah now. I know you’re not talking about me.” I sat my tea down and crossed my arms.
“We miss you.” Paimon concluded.
“We should have visited sooner. It’s just been super busy.” Lumine frowned, finishing off her tea in a long swig. “Are you content?”
I looked at Flins, who seemed just as curious to my answer. “I am. I was happy with you two. And I hope we can adventure together again. But I feel like I’m less likely to interfere with the story here. And other things.”
“Other things?” Paimon parroted me. “You just like Flins.”
“Paimon!” I tried to shh her, my ears flying straight up. But Flins was laughing now. He was bent at the waist, his glass on the coffee table, and his eyes closed.
“If it’s a secret then I will pretend I don’t already know.” He sat back up, wiping the tears from his eyes.
“She’s not subtle.” Paimon said pointing at me.
“Neither is Flins.” Lumine countered. “As long as both of you are happy, we are happy.”
“There's still things to do.” I looked at myself in the reflection of the tea. My ears were laid flat. “I’m afraid.”
“Don’t be, you have all of us to keep you safe.” Paimon nodded, fluttering to my side, petting my shoulder.
“That’s not. That’s the problem. I’m a variable. Something that wasn’t originally counted for. I know I’ve been helpful to this point, but at what moment do I change things beyond repair. What we’re about to experience…it will be very precise actions that lead to a good outcome.” I had been repeating the same concern over and over. At what point did I start to manifest a bad outcome?
“We will cross the bridge when we get there.” Lumine stood. “We’re going to head out. It’s getting late.”
“Right.” I had brought the mood down, great.
“Good night you two.” Paimon went to the door.
“You’re leaving so soon.” Flins pulled us both up and off the couch. He rested his hand on my lower back and we went to the front door to bid them farewell.
“We have a lead to follow up on around here.” Paimon frowned. “I guess it does look bad we leave on that note.”
“It’s all going to work out.” Lumine assured me. “It’s just getting late.”
“Okay, be safe.” I waved them off.
“Farewell friends.” Flins shut the door behind them. He turned, resting his hands on my face. “That wasn’t a pleasant ending. Are you alright?”
“I’ll be okay. I just have to keep my stupid mouth shut.” His grip flexed on my face.
“I don’t like when you speak so unkind to yourself.” He softened his eyes, rubbing my cheek.
“I’m just frustrated.” I pulled away walking over to the music box. “And one thing that makes me feel better is a good dance.”
“The art of distraction.” He went to the open space in the living room. “Would you like a partner?” The music started; it was one of his albums full of classical music.
“If you would give me the honor?” I curtsied.
“It would be my pleasure.” He slightly smirked, but bowed none the less.
“To be fair, I’ve only danced with a boy once in college. It was super awkward…and neither of us knew what we were doing. And I still don’t know what I’m doing. From what I understand there was a lot of jumping back in the royal court days in my world.” I stalled for time, the glint in his eyes let me know he was enjoying my rambles.
“How about you take the lead? How would you dance to this particular melody.” He held his hands out, waiting for me to grab him how I saw fit.
“Alright.” I nodded and tapped my foot to the beat for a moment. I took one of his outstretched hands and encouraged him to wrap himself in my arms. Once in my arms I dipped him slightly then I spun him back out.
“I’m surprised. That is quite the technical move.” He complimented, before spinning me into his hold. “Though I think the courts would say it’s scandalous to have our hips together.”
“Good thing we don’t have to worry about what other people think.” He dipped me, much lower than I dipped him. And he kept me in that position for a moment. His hair cascading down and ticking my throat. Once back up, I spun and was brought back to him. He grabbed my free hand, and slid the other to my waist. I grabbed his shoulder, and we did some off beat foot work.
“Are you enjoying yourself?”
“Very much. Though I miss my music.” I sighed. “You’d probably hate techno.” I laughed at the thought. “Or maybe you’d love rock music. You’re very macabre so maybe Ghost?”
“I wish I could hear them.” He shuffled us around his house.
“If I could play an instrument, I’d be able to get some of the melody out.” I pouted. “It’s getting dark. I assume the Wild Hunt is kicking up.”
“I fear so.” He let me go. “We should prepare.”
“Let me grab my boots.”
OOOOOOOOOOO
“I’m killed. How do you have so much stamina?” I kicked my shoes off at the door. The lighthouse had been left in one piece while we were gone.
“Years of dedication.” He took off his boots and coat.
“I know I’m still coming into my own, but I’m ready to lay down after a shower.” The house was warm, and after fighting all night in the cold, it was a welcome comfort.
“Do you wish to go first?” He nodded towards the bathroom.
“I think so.” Heat crept up my neck and ran to my ears. It would be faster if we showered together, but I wasn’t that bold. The thought had crossed my mind a few times, but I stomped it down.
Gathering up one of my nightgowns from a drawer, I stepped into the bathroom and shut the door. Stripping down I tossed my dirty outfit in the laundry pile. Nothing was nicer than having spare clothes in this world. Not having to wash my outfit every five seconds was a welcome change.
The hot water washed over me. I didn’t ask about how Kuuvahki were used to generate power, but I was thankful for a hot shower nonetheless. Scrubbing my hair, I tried to be quick to allow Flins to have hot water too.
Hopping out, I dried off and changed quickly. Stepping out, I felt revitalized. Flins was waiting on the bed, resting his hands on his knees, clean clothes in a neat pile by his thigh. “All yours. I’ll try to do laundry tomorrow.”
“All mine?” He looked me up and down, a grin tugging at his lips. He stood from the bed, stepping towards me. I backed up till I was against the bathroom door. His hands on either side of my head.
“You’re a dog.” I pressed my hand to his chest, firm under my touch. “I’m not prey.”
“So, I’m a dog? What does that make you, my Starlight?” He leaned down to whisper in my ear. Warmth bloomed over my body, and I couldn’t still my heart.
“I’d hate to be the rabbit between your teeth.” I slipped from under his arm. “You know how to get my heart pumping.”
“As long as it continues to beat, I will be happy. I’d like to think I’m more of a guard dog.” He grabbed his pile of clothes off the bed.
“Oh yeah big dog? Woof for me.” I laughed, my heart simmering down.
“Woof?” He chuckled. “I’m going to clean up. I’ll be to bed shortly.”
“I’ll hold you to it.” I slid under the covers on my side, settling into the soft mattress.
Minutes ticked by. The sun would be up soon and we’d be going to town. I just wanted a little cuddle time. Sure, I was dodging his every advance, but he wasn’t pushing the matter. Just toying with me. Still, I always wanted to lay with him. He could probably sit and read a good book or whittle and recover, but no. I wanted us to lay side by side and just exist.
Would I have regrets if I disappeared? Would this be my one chance for love and I’ve wasted it being afraid? I needed to make up my mind. Before I pushed him too far away.
“You look deep in thought.” He emerged from the bathroom, his nightshirt and shorts hanging on his body.
“I am.” I sighed.
“Hopefully I haven’t caused you any grief.” He sat on the edge of the bed, looking away from me.
“No. I’m causing my own issues.” I scooted closer to his side, and tugged on the back of his shirt. “Lay down. If you want to.” I encouraged him, scooting back to my position. “Maybe toss a weary arm over me, and pet me while you’re at it.”
“So considerate.” He hummed, crawling under the cover, sliding his arm around my waist. “Is there anything else you might suggest?”
“I have ideas for a later date. Maybe, just, I don’t know, make sure I don’t vanish.” I found his hand and held it. “I’m a little stressed about it.” I rubbed his knuckles with my thumb.
“I’ll be right here. You may rest easy.” He moved his legs to tangle with mine, and soon we were a pretzel.
Time passed as I closed my eyes, and I felt my energy coming back to me. Flins’ hold was enough to ground me to the world I occupied and I soon found the sun was high in the sky. I was thirsty.
“Flins. I need something to drink.” I sighed, slowly undoing our limbs.
“What would you like?” He slowly got up and stretched.
“Juice.”
OOOOOO
Once we made it to town, we ended up at a jewelry shop. Flins was clearly a regular, looking through the jewels with a discerning eye. I was lost. Sure, I’d been in jewelry shops before, and I liked rings. I just didn't wear jewelry much…at least not real stuff.
“What do you think of the star sapphire?” Flins leaned over my shoulder to eye the ring I had my eyes on.
“I had one like this in my…uh past life.” I whispered so only he could hear. “It was a graduation gift from my family.”
“Would you like it? It might not hold the same sentimental value, but it could be a good reminder of home.” He was too sweet.
“I do love star gems, but I don’t know. Would it make me sad?” I asked, more to myself than him. “It would probably get blasted to pieces on the battlefield since it’s a large stone. It’s too pretty to be busted like that.”
“You need something simpler.” He hummed, looking around at the other cases.
“Just shop to your tastes. I’m here for moral support.” I perked back up, knowing this was his forte.
“I shall surprise you if you don’t give me input. How will I learn your likes without your approval?” He swallowed hard, this was important to him.
“Okay. I can tell this means something to you.” I nodded, looking at the next case with him.
The clerk was giving us space to look. It wasn’t hard to guess that they knew Flins only needed their help to pull things out and put them back. We discussed a few options. We both agreed a necklace was most likely a death sentence. Ear rings were a good option, but I didn’t have pierced ears in this world and now was not the time.
“Does this suit your tastes?” Flins pointed to a simple ring with a pink opal. It reminded me of my ultimate healing move. The pink sparkled like the water under the moonlight.
“That’s beautiful.” The gem was smaller than the star sapphire, so it would be harder to smash.
We called over the clerk, and he pulled out the ring. Flins inspected it carefully, yellow eyes roaming over the stone to gauge the quality. He hummed in approval, passing me the ring. I slid it on my right ring finger, and it fit like a perfect glove.
“How much?” I asked, handing the ring back to the clerk. He named the price, and I about dropped my jaw to the floor. “We’ll think about it.”
“You like it?” Flins asked me, ignoring my push off.
“Yes.” I twisted my foot on the floor, keeping my eyes locked on anything but him.
“Then we will take it.” Flins already had his mora pouch. I was too stunned to stop him. Opal was a budget stone in my world, but from what I understood about mora, and the price that was named, he spent way too much.
We exited the store, my blood racing around my body. In some ways it was Flins’ blood too, coursing through me. He had given me so much.
“So,” I left a pregnant pause. He waited for me to speak, as I led us through the streets towards the ocean.
“Yes?” He finally prodded me.
“I feel guilty. Unless you plan to just display it at the house for both of us to enjoy?” I walked quickly, Flins following me as I rambled.
“There’s no need for guilt.” He assured me. “And it will not be part of the collection in terms of display. This will be far more…useful.”
“Oh?” I stopped once we hit the sand. The ocean was behind us, the sun high in the sky, waves crashing on the shore. The wind picked up the stray hairs from my braids and they tickled against my face.
“I know it is far too early, and we have made arrangements for later but.” He kneeled down on one knee. He took the ring from the velvet box. “This is a symbol of promise.”
My heart was hammering, blood rushing, world spinning. I held out my shaky hand. “This is overwhelming in the best way.” I admitted, letting him slide the ring on my left ring finger.
“I will always cherish you.” He stood up, and I hugged him. Wrapping my arms around his back, the comforting smell of charcoal and the flowers on the cemetery hit my nose. I kissed his cheek.
“You fall hard and fast.” I rested my head on his shoulder. “I really hope I’m not squandering the time we have together.” I glanced at my ring from behind Flins’ back. It shined in the sun; the pink sparkles were so dazzling. “I’ve waited my whole life to feel something like this.”
“I can imagine I’ve waited far longer.” He teased me.
“Six or Seven hundred years is a long time. Perhaps I should reward you?” I cupped his face, swiping my thumb over his lips. Leaning up, I pulled him down. Inches apart, I heard them.
“(Y/n)! Flins! I thought I saw you go this way.” We pulled apart. Jahoda was jogging full force to our side.
“What’s wrong?” I had no clue what part we were at in the story.
“It’s Columbina. She’s disappeared. We need to find her real name to help bring her back, and to do that we need to perform a ritual. We need volunteers. So, I came to grab you two. Did I interrupt anything?” She looked between us and I laughed.
“We’ll go with you.” I ignored her question.
“Let us make haste.” Flins tucked the velvet box in his coat pocket.
“Right. I’ll lead the way; boss is already heading that way with Aino and Ineffa.”
“We’re getting the gang back together.” I looped my finger through Flins’ belt loop and pulled him closer. His lantern flicked faster. He wrapped an arm around my back and he pushed me forward to make walking easier. I had toughened up a lot since waking up in a new world, but it didn’t hurt to have a little push.
OOOOOOOOOO
“So, we have to infuse our bodies with kuuvahki and trick the door into opening.” Aino recapped what Nicole had told us.
Nicole was even more beautiful in person. Her long blonde hair, little white hat and stunning eyes, I couldn’t help but wish I had that much style and grace. But I needed to focus, because she could help me answer some questions about my existence.
“Yes. Everyone, be ready to step up.” Nicole’s voice revibrated in my head. It wasn’t as strange as I thought it would be. It wasn’t painful, but it did tingle.
It had been decided that Lumine and Lauma would be two of the three needed to make the connection to the door. I wondered where my soul was presumed to be human, if I could hold the gate open…
Nicole went through Nefer, Jahoda, refused Aino, and disqualified Ineffa for not being human. Everyone’s eyes fell on me.
“I’m not all human.” I reminded everyone.
“You’re quite peculiar though.” Nicole buzzed in my head. “Just give it a try.”
“I’m not sure about that.” Flins spoke up.
“Yeah, she’s the girl we were telling you about.” Paimon flew to me and pulled my scarf back. “See, she’s part bunny.”
“Hey, I might not wish to share with the class.” I balked, ears laying flat to my head. “I’ll figure out how to ditch these ears and I won’t hear another peep about it.”
“Don’t be too upset, Miss (Y/n).” Varka caught my attention. “It’s a very cute look. There are lots of people in Teyvat with different features.”
“Yes, but not everyone has a Fatui bounty on their ears and tail.” I sighed. “But I will see if I will work.”
“I can ask the lightkeepers. Illuga comes to mind.” Flins offered, clearly not happy with having me put through the possibly sickening test.
“I can ask the Knights. Shame Lohan already left, he’s tougher than me.” Varka added.
“I could make a tester. So, we could just go up to people in town and see if they are compatible.” Aino chirped.
“No.” Nicole said.
“That’s the simplest answer we’ve gotten.” Paimon pointed out.
They then went on about how well liked Columbina was, and how she could lose her connection to the world. It was true, there were so many people who loved her and wanted her to be here. The need to find her name was growing. I knew how this ended, so I focused on my finger nails.
Arlecchino appeared and offered her services. She was a good candidate and everyone agreed to start the preparations. In the game. The three days of waiting was over quickly. But living through it was going to be a challenge.
“Nicole.” I caught her attention as she went to our provisions stash for some water. The three candidates were being infused with kuuvahki and were standing strong so far. Nicole was watching them closely so this was the first opportunity to talk with her. “I have a question for you.”
“Oh, the traveler and Paimon mentioned you woke up here from another world.” She spoke just in my head and I nodded. “I see. Have you ever heard of the fable about the rabbit on the moon?”
“I have. The rabbit sacrifices his body to be eaten to feed a beggar. The beggar, who is a god, recognizes the rabbit’s willingness to care for others and puts him on the moon. On the moon the rabbit helps the moon goddess mix up rice cakes. There are many cultures who have a version of the story.” I noticed Flins was close by and listening to me prattle.
“Then I will spare you the explanation.” Nicole smiled. “Tell me, is it true you were brought here after helping a peculiar rabbit.”
“Yes, there were no wild white rabbits where I lived.” I hummed. “It was also my birthday.”
“So, a special occasion.” She thought for a few moments. “I believe you were saved by the spirit of the moon rabbit.”
“What?” I balked.
“It explains why you have the moonwheel. I’m not sure how you ended up in the care of the Fatui but I believe you were transported here as a gift for your sacrifice.” She rested her hand on her hip. “There’s usually some truth to fables and stories.”
“I’ll mull this over. Thank you.” I chewed my lower lip. Walking to Flins, I sat beside him and rested my head on his shoulder.
“Do you want to share?” He asked, only knowing part of the story. “I can infer some of what was said.”
“I think I sacrificed my life for the moon rabbit.” I found comfort in holding his hand. “So…I’m dead in my old world.” I sucked in my quivering chewed lip. Hiding my face in Flins’ shoulder, I tried to calm my heart.
“Hey, what’s wrong?” Paimon floated by.
Flins reached his free arm across himself to rub my back. I sniffled, and sucked it up. “I’m most likely dead in my old life…which means my sister had to bury me.” I choked trying to get the words out.
“Oh (Y/n). I’m sorry.” Paimon petted my ears. “I’m thankful you get a second chance here, but I’m sorry there’s no going back.”
“I don’t want to go back.” I admitted. “I just. I don’t want them to be sad.”
“Paimon doesn’t know what to say.” She handed me a hankie from her pocket. I took it and blew my nose. Most of the other folk were on the other side of the cave watching after our three anchors.
“It’s okay Paimon.” I sucked it up. “I’m going for a walk.”
“Do you want me to escort you?” Flins asked, his eyes flicking to the darkening sky.
“Paimon will go with her.” Paimon pulled me to my feet.
“Flins, will you do what you usually do?” I asked, knowing I meant for him to follow behind at a distance.
“Of course.” He stood up and dusted off the grit from his coat.
“Headed out so soon?” Nefer’s knowing eyes were locked on mine.
“Just a little walk.” Paimon said, waving her hands around.
“Be careful out there. I trust that Mr. Flins will be looking after you.”
“Why does everyone act like I’m a child?” I sighed, pulling my scarf back up and over my still flat ears.
“We’re friends. We’re going to worry about each other.” Nefer forced herself to smile, crossing her arms. “Just don’t be gone too long. And grab some fire wood while you’re out.”
“Sounds like a plan.” I swallowed hard, and took long strides to the entrance.
Paimon and I walked, or well I walked and she floated for about a mile. We discussed the fable in greater detail. How I had to be the representative of the rabbit in this world. Perhaps I had traded places with the rabbit, and my soul was transported to this world and found a fae body to inhabit. I knew Flins was listening from a distance, but I didn’t mind. I just didn’t want to look so codependent. We didn’t have to always be holding on to each other.
“Looks like we have enough sticks.” Paimon announced, handing the last stack we gathered to Flins, whose arms were filled with wood.
“I feel better after hashing it out. Might take time to digest the dead thing, but I’m glad I’m still here with my memories intact.” I summed up the thoughts we had been picking through. Paimon was good at picking out the good parts and helping put them together to make the situation feel better.
“Let’s head back.” Paimon was taking the lead, so I walked by Flins, and slapped my hand against his ass.
“What was that for my lady?” He raised his brow.
“Because I can…and your reaction has given me something else to dwell on.” I let myself smile just a little bit.
“Your courting rituals lack the needed decorum.” He was tinged red.
“I could have copped a feel, but that would be really uncouth.” I wiggled my brows.
“Enough, just kiss already.” Paimon sighed in frustration.
“The minute that happens it’s over for me.” I crossed my arms. “Paimon, it will only get worse from there.”
“Careful what you wish for Miss Paimon.” Flins warned her.
“Anything would be better than the pining.” Paimon laughed, bobbing in the air as she held her stomach. “You’re so in love it’s pitiful.”
“Anyways. Let’s get this wood back to base.” Heat was crawling up my neck and settling in my ears.
“Indeed, the others might be getting cold.” Flins adjusted the bundle of wood in his arms.
“Alright.” Paimon gave up the fight. There was a lot to digest, but I had friends who could support me. We had a lot to do, and Columbina was more important, but I needed to take up some room as well. I needed answers and this was my chance.
Hello! I've been reading your Bunny Girl series and I have to say, it's my favorite now!
Thank you for writing it! It's hard to find a good Flins x reader series and one with a good plot and writing.
Sorry, I really want to say a lot about you fics aside from it's being enjoyable and all, but english is not my first language and I have a limited vocabulary.
I hope you have a good day. I just want to say thank you for writing it. Thanks to you, I have a story to look foward to.🫶🫶🫶
Thank you so much! I was having the same issue trying to find a series so I decided to write one. Plus who doesn't love Flins?
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Thirteen
Master List for Chapters
Please leave a comment and reblog. More of a freestyle chapter to fill in some gaps in time.
Chapter Thirteen: Sincere
Once back at the meeting spot, we all came to the conclusion there was no imminent danger with the projections. That they were mostly useless as small fragments in time, while cool to see, they didn’t have much for any of us, spare the Moonchanter.
That moved us to the next line of action, Moon-Prayer Night. We wanted to get Columbina a gift, and everyone had their ideas. I kept quiet to avoid swaying them at all, since I knew the gift. We all sent Lumine and Paimon to go talk with Columbina about the gift, and the rest of us lingered behind.
“I know you’re interested in the glowing rock.” I jabbed my elbow in Flins’ side. “A lantern on the moon powered by luminescent stones, sounds more like a gift for you than Columbina.”
“Perhaps, it is a bit self-serving.” Flins smirked. “What self serving gift would you suggest?”
“Good question. What does (Y/n) like?” Durin piped up, taking a seat by Albedo and getting comfortable.
“Umm, I would get a good book.” I shrugged my shoulders. “I mean, she’s blind folded all the time, so she might not like reading, but everyone needs a good book.”
“That’s true about her eyes. But a good idea none the less.” Durin touched my foot with his under the table and I jumped in my seat. A third foot entered the mix, slyly easing Durin’s foot back…it was Albedo from the glance he shot me.
“Miss. (Y/n), what book would you recommend?” Albedo asked, crossing his arms.
“Anne of Green Gables.” I said without thinking about the lack of my literature in this world.
“Oh, what is that about?” Albedo inquired.
“Its about a young girl who is adopted, Anne. It’s a slice of life book following her adventures growing up. There’s also a very slight enemies to lovers’ story that blooms over time.” I covered my smile thinking about the book. How giddy it made me thinking about Anne being rescued when her fake funeral didn’t go to plan.
“What scene are you thinking about? It clearly brings you joy.” Flins called me out, and I knew blood was rushing to my face.
“Umm, well towards the end Anne and her friends borrow a little boat. They pretend to have a water funeral and send Anne off down the stream. Her boat starts taking on water, so she grabs a pillar where a bridge is, and the enemy, Gilbert, rescues her.”
“That’s what makes you smile?” Durin cocked his head to the side.
“It was the turning point.” I defended myself. “Gilbert was mean to her, but he was growing up and changing his ways.”
“A tale of growing up. I don’t know how well Columbina might like that.” Albedo pointed out.
“Yeah. She would probably like something more mature.” I pursed my lips. “Maybe a comedy. It has to be lonely on the moon.” I felt my ears twitch. Something in my soul stirred and tears streaked down my eyes.
“What’s wrong?” Durin reached over the coffee table, wiping my eyes.
“I did not mean to offend you.” Albedo looked slightly horrified. Poor Albedo, I was giving him gray hair every time he spoke.
“No, no. I don’t know why I’m crying.” I hiccupped. “I was fine, but thinking about being alone on the moon. It stirred something in me.”
“We need to respect Columbina’s wish.” Albedo reminded me.
Flins stood up, pulling me up and quickly dismissing us. “We will be in touch soon. Goodbye gentlemen.”
“Bye.” I sniffled, dashing with Flins outside and into an alley.
Once away from everyone else, I started sobbing. My ears perked from my scarf and I wiped at my eyes. I was hyperventilating again.
“One, Two, Three, Four, Hold.” Flins counted me through the motions.
“I-I don’t know what’s happening.” I choked out. “Why does the thought of being on the moon…cause such a visceral reaction.” I shook all over. Flins’ hands on either side of me, keeping me in place. Until I went poof.
Flins caught me before I hit the metal ground below. My tiny white rabbit body tucked to his side. “I’m a rabbit again…I’m breathing normally now. I feel like I’m actually getting oxygen. Partly because I think I feel it course through my veins.”
“Do you want to go home?” He asked, and I immediately thought of his house, which made me start to cry again. When was the last time I thought of my sister? My past life? Old world? Was it worth even trying to go back too? A month and some change and I was sold on a new beginning.
“Your home?” I blinked through my tears, my body shifted back to its almost human form. Flins was holding me by my middle, easily adjusting to my weight, he got my feet under me and helped me stand.
“Our home.” He corrected me.
“What happens- What happens if I disappear?” I crossed my ankles and put my hands behind my back, head tilted to the side, and eyes cast at the earth. “What if we don’t have much longer together?”
“I will find you. Be it Teyvat or where you are from. I will find you.” His voice was strong, easing my worries.
“You better.” I meet his gaze, fire dancing at the sides of his eyes.
“On my life. That is a promise.”
“Thank you, Kyryll.” My eyes fluttered, and I felt a bold streak. I took his hand, and pulled him out of the alley. “Come on, let’s go home.”
OOOOOOOOOO
“I never get bored looking at these.” I was in Flins’ special room. It was where he kept his bone jigsaw puzzles he made.
“I could teach you how to make them.” He was whittling a bone as we spoke, working on a mini mock up of a rifthound. Most likely the one of the ones he skewered the other night when I ran off.
“Hmm, I should not be trusted with sharp objects.” I patted the dagger on my thigh. “There’s a reason I don’t use blades often.”
“Are you fearful of injury?”
“Quite the opposite. I’m injury inclined.” I laughed it off, he stopped his actions for a split second. He sucked in his lower lip, trying to coax me to continue.
“Well, if any such injury rears its head, be sure to come find me.” He went back to carving the bone in his hand, before pausing again. “I’m happy you share these parts of yourself with me. It helps me better understand and care for you.”
“Hey, don’t get too mushy.” I warned him, putting the puzzle in my hand back in the box and tucking it away on a shelf.
“How did you word it? I’m a grown man; I can be mushy if I want to be?” He mimicked my tone, and I laughed.
“I don’t sound like that.” I pointed at him. “And don’t say I have four fingers pointing back at me.”
“I fear you do, my Starlight.” He glanced at the window. We were on the second floor of the lighthouse in his special collections room. I had been helping him organize it little by little. Well, more so making a catalog. He had excellent organization.
“It’s almost time for you to go, right?” I let my shoulders sag.
“The night calls.” He put his project away, and went to grab his coat.
“You know. For a man with money to burn, your coat is worse for wear.” I pointed out, watching him put it on.
“It’s suitable for battle.” He flexed his arms to show the movement range.
“You convinced me to toss my star dress out because it was ripped.”
“And stained with your blood.” He added.
“Yes, and I know you bought me an identical one…three actually. But I swear I could have gotten it back to proper form.” I was starting another fight, I needed to simmer down. “It’s not that big of a deal though.”
“It was.” Flins crossed the room to be near me. He ran his hand down the side of my face, then to my arm and finally landed on my side. “It was a reminder of what I almost lost.”
Heat bloomed over my whole body. “Oh, that makes more sense. You were doing that tricky fae thing, where you manipulated me without being honest. So why be honest now?”
“Because I don’t want you to think I hold a double standard. If you wish to wear a sack, I will remind the potatoes that were once held inside how inadequate they are compared to your countenance.”
“Well, when you put it that way. I have to remind you, that you don’t have to shame a potato.” He laughed, his other hand finding the other side of my hip and pulling me closer.
“How I wish to kiss you.” He planted his lips on my forehead. “But I will continue to respect our agreement.”
“Thank you.” I stepped back from him. “Oh yeah, we never did finish our conversation about the Huntsmen and Prince.”
“Indeed. You seemed to think you knew why I was asking?” His eyes glinted, waiting for me to amuse him.
“Well, I think you relate more to the Huntsman. I think you reject the idea of nobility and the politics of it all. So, to someone like you, the huntsmen is more relatable. And perhaps, he’s done more for Snow White than anyone. Considering he risked something to save her. The prince just strolled by, planted a kiss on a corpse and got to reap the rewards.”
“How astute.” Flins ruffled my ears, and smiled. “I hadn’t put that much thought into it. But I think you’re right.”
“What was it like? Being a noble in the Tsar’s court?” I prodded him. He had told me a few stories, the same ones in the game. But I wanted to know a little more.
“It was incredibly boring. There were a few moments that held my interest. Every now and then someone with wit would challenge me. But overall, I am much more content with the lightkeepers.” He nodded for me to follow him back to the base of the lighthouse.
“I hope you don’t grow tired of me.” I said in earnest, trotting down the steps behind him.
“You have nothing to fear.” He assured me. “I also worry you will grow tired of me.”
“Well, we both have hobbies, and friends. I think we’ll be fine.” I followed him all the way to the door. “Have a safe night fighting off the wild hunt. I know that now that Rerir is gone, it’s not as prevalent, but stay vigilant.”
“I will. Try to rest up. I’ll be back before dawn.” He shut the door behind him.
Going to the record player, I put on the album that Illuga had bought me. I put the needle down and danced around for a bit. I had gained a lot of stamina from running and walking so much. I was really beginning to feel like a real athlete. Still my body refused to be anything but soft.
A few hours passed by like that. Then there was a knock on the door. I strode to the door, and saw an unfamiliar Ratniki on the other side. It was clear from my music playing that someone was home. Flins had assured me I would never be in trouble staying with him, that the Lightkeepers had made sure he knew the light house was his home and he could keep whoever he pleased as a guest.
Still, Flins had warned me not to open the door for just anyone. There were travelers who would get lost on the beach from time to time, from what Flins told me. And it was best to wait for him to get back before I just opened the door. Especially because I was a wanted woman by the Fatui. But a Ratnik was here, and he was knocking frantically.
“Open, please.” The man stressed, knocking harder.
“Hello?” I asked, poking my head out the door.
“Miss (Y/n), I presume?” The man was out of breath, leaning against his polearm for support. “Captain sent for you. The wild hunt is particularly bad tonight. Our people are falling left and right, we need a healer.” A ghost behind him shook his head no, and my stomach dropped.
“Of course. Let me put my shoes on.” I assumed the captain he was talking about was Illuga. But something was wrong.
“Hurry.” The man huffed as I shut the door and locked it.
That man was not a lightkeeper. There’s no way Illuga would call for me at this hour and send a stranger to come get me. If there was one thing I knew, it was that Illuga and Flins would rather I not dive into danger. I was capable, but I wasn’t about to fall into a trap.
Jerking my shoes on, I laced them up half way, grabbed my catalyst, dagger, glider and coat, then ran upstairs. Taking the steps two at a time, I got to the top of the lighthouse. Flins had shown me how to work the light once, and there was plenty of oil in it for it to burn. Doing the flashes for ‘send help’, I could hear the door downstairs being banged against.
“Shit.” I took a deep breath and opened the window. Crawling out to the edge, I opened my glider and prayed it was intuitive to use. I quipped my brow then jumped off the back of the house.
I held my arms out like in the game and wings deployed. I floated over top a hoard of what looked like Fatui agents. So it was a ploy. I floated over their heads, as they piled into the house, not paying me any attention as the light flashed and hid me. Jumping from a good height I was able to float a long distance before landing on the edge of the sandbank.
Running, again, I summoned my catalyst and flipped through the book. I had put a map inside the back since I last realized how helpless I was. There were a few places I could go to find safety and not cause a diplomatic issue. Biting my lip, I pushed as hard as I could right towards Piramida. There was a decent stretch of water separating Piramida from the Final Night Cemetery, but not nearly as bad as the game maps made it out. There was a bridge that connected the main island to Voidsea Outlook.
I guess staying so close to the Kuuvahki Experimental Design Bureau was asking for trouble, but I thought being under their nose was enough to avoid misfortune. It has worked this long, but I guess I wouldn’t be saved until the Fatui were done with me.
“Damn it. Damn it all.” I tripped on a rock, planting face first into dirt. I had made it off the beach and was approaching the bridge. I had no clue if the Fatui were still hot on my trail, but I wasn’t about to stop. I had no idea where Flins was. I kept trying to feel for him but was coming up short. Getting up, I made it to the bridge and realized it was a straight shot with no escapes but the ocean….
Keeping my eyes peeled for allies or enemies on the bridge, I flipped the hood of my coat over my ears. This was the moment I realized I was in my old-fashioned nightgown. I looked a little crazy. The sun was coming up and people were starting to come from both sides, helping me blend in, but I was looking like a main character.
The problem with Teyvat was there were only letters and Alice’s Dodoco talking devices. There were no phones, or pagers, or a way to communicate quickly. You just had to run into people or agree to meet somewhere.
Once I finally reached the base of Piramida, I hurried to the first Ratniki I could spot. It was a young woman, her eyes scanning me up and down.
“Can you help me? I’m- I need to find Flins or Illuga. Hell, maybe even Nikita.” I listed the names I knew and the girl looked at me like I was out of my mind.
“Captain Illuga, should be back soon. May I inquire what’s happened?” She was in charge of the lift that led to the top where the city resided.
“Um, it’s best I talk with Illuga.” I didn’t know how many people knew about me. Flins was already an enigma, I didn’t need to make him look weird for housing me.
“Alright, I’ll give you a lift up.” She motioned for me to hop on, and I joined the lift.
Once moving my stomach flipped at how fast the lift was. At the top, she walked to a bench by the drop off point, and told me to sit, and she’d send Illuga to me once he got there.
Settled on the bench, I watched the rest of the sun rise. It was beautiful from this high up. But the downside of being so high up was my ears were popping. I pretended to chew gum and wondered if there was gum here. My mind went down a hole for a bit, the time passing quickly.
“Illuga hasn’t returned, he’s looking for a girl with Sir Flins.” The lady who gave me the lift returned to me.
“That’s me.” I sighed. “Do you know where they’re looking?”
“I’ll pass this information along the proper channels. Follow me.” She took me inside of a building, and left to go tell Nikita about the affair. Once again, I was more trouble than I was worth.
A few more hours passed. People stopped by to question me, and I tried to keep it vague. I had a sinking feeling that Flins might have gone a little more rouge than usual. I knew that Nikita could track their location, so I hoped that he would be able to get some Ratniki out there to tell them I was safe.
“You look cold.” The lady who had first encountered me was back. She handed me a wool blanket. “From what I’m hearing, you’ve had a rough night.”
“It wasn’t fun. I’m super sore from running so far and so hard.” I kept my coat on and my ears covered. But I wrapped the blanket around my legs. Being this high up in the air was damp and cold.
“I hear they’ve informed Captain Illuga and Sir Flins that you’re here. They should be back soon.” She offered me a canteen of water.
“Thank you.” I gulped the water and handed it back to her. “I fear, I’ve made a mess.”
“I don’t think so.” She flexed her arms. “The Lightkeepers are here to protect the people of Nod Krai, and sometimes that looks a little different. We protect our own.”
“I wish I was more useful.” I confided in her.
“You have a moonwheel right? You’ve been blessed by the moon, I’m sure you’re powerful in ways you don’t know how to appreciate yet.” She offered me a smile and I returned it.
Then I felt it, the familiar thumping heat. It was stronger than usual, it wasn’t a rhythmic presence, but erratic. I stood up, looking at the door. Hustling to the front, the heat was almost palpable.
“Sir Flins, you must report to the Starshyna.” Someone tried to keep him from the door.Their muffled voices floating through.
“I will report shortly. I have something to attend to.” Flins’ voice was calm as ever, but I knew his energy was bursting at the seam.
Instead of waiting for him to come in, I opened the door. “Hey.” I shyly waved. He was soaked in blood…that was not his own. So he had a rough night, maybe more so than me.
“This is the girl?” Flins’ companion asked, looking me up and down, nodding with approval.
Flins simply stared at me for a moment, his lantern going from a jumping flame to a calm shimmer. “I’m relieved.” He sighed. I didn’t know what I expected. We were at his job. Yet, he pulled me to his chest and squeezed me tight.
“Yeah, I knew I’d be safe here.” I wrapped my arms around his middle. He rested his chin on my head and kept a firm arm across my back.
“Get a room.” One of the Ratniki chided.
“Never thought Flins was the romantic type.” My new friend commented from inside.
“Hey, don’t tease him.” I tried to pull away, but Flins just held me in place. “His house was broken into. And his…uhh. I was missing.” I hugged him back again. “It had to be super scary.”
“What’s scary is what happened next.” The random Ratniki with Flins said. “The man was on a rampage.”
“Enough, you all are dismissed. I will report to the Starshyna.” Illuga had a hand on his hip, shooing away the prying eyes.
“Yes, Captain.” They both disappeared quickly.
“Illuga. I once again used my nepotism in knowing you to gain access up here.” I tried to lighten the mood.
“I’m happy you came to us for protection.” Illuga closed the gap between us, and rubbed his hand along Flins’ back above my arms. “Lord Flins, she’s safe.”
“I need a moment to compose myself.” Flins ran his fingers through my knotted hair. He had put a braid in it the night before, but it had fallen free from all my running.
“You two settle down. I will report to Gramps.” Illuga slid his hand from Flins back to my hand, and offered me a light squeeze. “How ever you got away, I’m glad.”
“Jumping off the lighthouse with a glider was a first for me.” I forced myself to laugh.
“Well, you’ll have to fill me in later.” Illuga went off and I pulled Flins into the room I had been waiting in previously.
Flins finally put me at arm’s length. “I saw the light house’s distress signal.” He swallowed hard. “When I made it to the house, the Fatui were searching the island, turning the place upside down. It took too long to get through them all…I knew you were either gone or gone.” He rubbed his thumb under my eye. “It is a relief to know you are untouched.”
“One of them was dressed like a Ratniki. Said his Captain requested my help. A ghost shook his head at me, and I thought it over. I agreed to help, shut and locked the door and booked it out of there after sending a distress signal. I ran all the way here. I’m aching all over... but I’m fine” I pouted. “So, let me guess. A whole swarm of Ratniki swarmed the island after my distress signal?”
“Indeed. Illuga and his team were close by. I got there first, but they are the only reason I didn’t storm the Design Bureau."
“Good. I’d hate for you to get in trouble for running the Fatui out of Nod Krai.” I smacked his chest. “I’m sorry I couldn’t tell you where I was.”
“I should have designated a meeting spot for an occasion such as this.” He brushed his thumb over my chapped bloody bottom lip. “You’ve been stressed.”
“A little.” I laughed. “Might be the understatement of the year.”
“From now on, when I go out, you will go with me.” He decided.
“No more solo dance parties while you’re gone?” I frowned. “But if it means I get to stay with you at the Final Night Cemetery, then I’ll follow you anywhere.”
“Until this blows over, we will do what we must.” He relaxed his shoulders. “Let’s go home and clean up.”
“Yeah, they better have left your collections alone.” I put my foot down.
“My collection is strong. Just like my beloved.” He gripped my hand, and started walking towards the lift. Pride swelled in my chest. He definitely wasn’t performative with me. His feelings were on his sleeve and I was going to eat him up the minute that I had the chance too.
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Twelve
Master List for Chapters
Chapter Twelve: Who's the Hero?
Please leave a comment and reblog.
“Another one?” I was perplexed. There were mirages of people, objects, and monsters manifesting around the island. It was almost time to prepare for the Moon-Payer Festival arch, and I knew these projections were things from the past spurred into existence by…huh, it was hard to remember. Maybe it was the moon being close?
“They are everywhere.” Flins hummed, walking beside me as we headed to town. “I wonder what’s causing them in this number?” He side eyed me.
“Don’t look at me. For once I don’t remember the answer.” I sighed in relief. Not spilling the beans too early was a blessing.
“That’s too bad, I assume we do figure it out?” He laced his fingers with mine, pulling us closer together.
“Of course.” I noticed why Flins had grabbed my hand. There were several Fatui soldiers running up to the last projection we passed. They were poking at the harmless monster. “Flins.” My voice betrayed me, coming out weaker than I wanted.
“It’s alright.” He brought my hand to his lips and kissed my knuckles. “No need to fret.”
“I wish I wasn’t so squishy. I have to be made of glass, but do fantastic healing.” I pointed in the distance, changing the topic. “It’s Durin and Albedo.”
“Looks like they are examining this phenomenon as well.” Flins didn’t let go of my hand. He was getting bolder and louder with his affections. Which was nice, but at the same time we were playing with fire until this ended. Even then, it was debatable. I had no clue how this would end.
“Hey guys!” I called to them, waving my free hand.
“(Y/n), and Mr. Flins.” Durin grinned while greeting us. “Do you all know what’s going on?”
“Flins knows a little.” I flexed my hand in Flins’, and he let me readjust before settling back in a tight squeeze.
“We are close to Nasha town, perhaps it would be better to discuss this there, and maybe find some help.” Flins suggested.
“Great idea.” Albedo led the charge to Nasha town. “This is the first time we’ve seen each other since the Rerir incident. How do you both feel? Any adverse reactions?”
“Flins is all healed up.” I proudly said. “Yours truly is the designated healer for a reason.”
“And I’m happy to report that Miss (Y/n) has been nursed back to health.” Flins looked off to the side, and I noticed his cheeks were slightly red. What was making him flush over something like this….then I saw it. Durin made a kissy face at Albedo, thinking we couldn’t see.
“Anyways, we’re all better. It just took some time to heal up.” I tried to let Flins’ hand go, but he held firm.
“You two seem to be in good health.” Flins turned the convo back on them.
“Yes, we were fortunate to be in a more technical part of the plan.” Albedo glanced back, looking me up and down. “Miss (Y/n), do you think perhaps, next time, you should stay on the side line and offer healing as needed?”
“I know I’m more likely to heal an enemy than take them down, but I think I did really well for my like, third big battle.” I thought about how long I had been in Nod Krai at that point, it was maybe a month and half.
“I would never wish to insult you.” Albedo assured me.
“I know.” I forced myself to smile. “I got hit; that’s not the end of the world. We all get hurt at one point or another.” Flins’ body went stiff as we entered Nasha town.
“Still, you were really scaring us.” Durin added. “We haven’t known each other long, but I can tell you’re a sweet person. And I’d hate for you die on-.”
“Durin.” Albedo sent a warning glance.
Flins’ eyes were glazed over, his mind clearly racing. I let his hand go, and slid my arm around his waist and squeezed. “I understand Durin, but let’s not worry too much.” I rubbed comforting circles on Flins and used my soft voice to settle Durin.
“So, the mirages we’ve been seeing.” Albedo had the sense to change the subject. Flins eased out of his own head, and rejoined the conversation.
They chatted for a bit, but I noticed three figures coming our way. “Lumine! Paimon! Varka!”
“(Y/n)!” Paimon crashed into me, hugging my neck. “I was so worried about you.”
“Glad to see you were well taken care of.” Lumine grinned, getting close to my ear. “Sorry I didn’t come see you.”
“It’s alright.” I whispered back.
“So, what’s going on?” Paimon brought the group together.
“We were just discussing the projections that are appearing over the island.” Albedo caught them up.
Flins explained they usually happen closer to Moon-Payer Night, and how there seem to be more than usual. They appear hyper realistic until you get closer to them. Then Durin explained how there were abyss monsters, with no abyssal energy. Albedo went to show they have no power to harm us. Varka then affirmed it was usually a smaller scale event, and Flins agreed it was unusual and worth investigating why there were more large scale projections this year.
We all decided to head to ask Nefer what she knew. She shared that she found a spot with more people and abyss monsters. The humans were dressed like they were from Hyperborea. I stiffened a little, it was the people of Hyperborea who created the fae…I wonder if this would be a chance for me to figure something out?
Jahoda burst in, and she shared that she found Lumine’s space ship. Which I knew was about to happen. For some reason Jahoda found the traveler being from space more interesting and less frightening than me knowing a few facts about her when we first met.
“Let’s split up and come back here to share our intel.” Albedo decided.
“I’ll tag along with the Traveler. I don’t want to be stuck here with nothing to do.” Varka laughed.
“Aren’t you going with the Traveler, Miss (Y/n)?” Albedo asked me as we all paused in front of the Curatorium.
I froze up. I thought it was obvious I was going with Flins. Varka, Lumine and Paimon were already taking off without me. Was I not? How could? I shook my head. “I’ll just hang-“back.
“She’s coming with us.” Flins came up behind me, placing a hand on my shoulder. But it was too late, I already felt like I didn’t belong in the group anymore.
“Oh, my apologies.” Albedo was at least sorry, but it didn’t matter.
“S’fine.” I forced myself to smile. “Let’s hurry, we don’t want to be the last ones back.”
“Good point.” Durin agreed, taking off with me. I trailed just behind him so he could navigate the area.
“You two are going the incorrect way.” Albedo had a map out.
“I’ll lead the way.” Flins offered. “I know the area like the back of my hand.”
“Thank you, Mr. Flins.” Durin and Albedo walked on either side of Flins. Their conversation about the mirages flowed easy.
I settled for walking a few feet behind. Flins’ lantern was flicking at a normal rate, so he was none the wiser to my inner turmoil at the moment. He was too distracted.
At first, I did go with the traveler a lot. The girls were my anchor, but ever since we fought on Hiisi island, I’d been with Flins. I’d spent more time with him than Lumine at this point, or at least close to more. Should I be so close to him? It felt right, and I was keeping it at a distance, but…we were just dancing around it. It being the passion we held for each other.
“Ugh.” I didn’t mean to sigh so loudly but the boys in front me all turned to look at me. “What? Can’t a girl sigh?” I snapped.
“Do you want to talk about it?” Durin circled me, looking me up and down. I felt small.
“We have more important things right now, like that projection.” I scowled, pointing at the rifthounds that were chasing a man down.
“I’m coming!” Durin pulled out his sword, his abyssal energy hitting me like a wave as he took off to help the mirage.
“We’re at the spot, right?” I asked Flins. He was looking at me, like I might break if he looked away for longer than a second.
“Yes.” Flins noticed Albedo and Durin were both distracted for the moment. So Flins closed the distance between us and crushed me to his chest. “I see your distress.”
“Thought you were distracted enough not to notice.” I whispered, burying my head in his chest.
“You are my top priority.” He kissed my forehead. “Mr. Albedo meant no harm in his question.”
“I know.” I let go of Flins. “I just, my therapist said I’m sensitive. Which is a hard pill to swallow. I take things pretty hard. But you’re aware of that.”
“Indeed.” He smoothed my hair. I was glad he didn’t ask why I had a therapist in my past life…
“Look, another one!” Durin was scrambling to help another victim of the past.
“Durin, that’s not working.” I called after him. “You’re going to tire yourself out!” I chased after Durin as he bounded over a hill, losing his footing and tipping over. As soon as I got to the hill, I slipped on the same spot and tumbled down the side right behind him.
“Miss. (Y/n).” Albedo had called out in warning. But it was too late, I was going down the side of the hill. Rolling like I did when I was kid, I had gained speed but kept good form.
“You okay Durin?” I landed beside the boy with a thud, the projection gone back to its original position.
“Are you, Miss (Y/n)?” He got to his feet and offered me a hand. I took him up on his offer and was pulled up.
“You didn’t answer me.” I pointed out.
“I’m afraid I strained my ankle.” He looked down.
I knew Flins was still in the area, but I didn’t realize how close he was until he had his hand clamped down on my shoulder. “I suppose we know the answer to an age-old question?”
“Oh? Which one?” I pulled out my catalyst and got in a stance to heal Durin.
“If your friend jumped off a bridge, would you?” Albedo deducted, coming up behind Durin. “You two need to be more careful.”
“Hey, I’m the healer. I can be-“ I was about to say reckless.
“Extra careful.” Durin cut me off. “Healers should be protected and careful. That’s what I learned about protecting your party.”
“Very wise words Mr. Durin.” Flins pushed my scarf up and back over my rabbit ears. My ears were falling back down from a perky position.
“Alright, top off time.” I awkwardly laughed. I hummed a little tune, and Durin was back in top form.
“Thanks, (Y/n).” Durin then spotted another mirage, and took off to help.
“This is going to go on for a while.” I said, remembering it took him multiple tries here before being successful later on.
“Let’s learn all that we can.” Albedo pulled out a pen and pad of paper and began taking notes.
“Alright, I’m going to find someone to talk to.” I stretched, leaving Albedo and Flins. I found a woman with a book perched on a rock. Out of everyone, she was wearing different clothes, and seemed to be at rest. “Hey, girlie, what are you reading?” She just yawned, and put the book over her face. “Okay, on to the next.”
I found a man running from rifthounds. I ran beside him, and asked him if he knew where he was going, but there was no response. My luck continued in that direction. The only answers I could get were ones that related to the situation and were just timed to match the projections natural speech in the moment.
I returned just in time to hear Flins comfort Durin and let him down easy. “I’m sure you’ve noticed, but there is nothing we can do to help those who have fallen before us, Mr. Durin.”
“But we have to try.” Durin sighed.
“And try you have.” Flins said.
“You’ve failed thirty-nine times." Albedo had counted.
“I’ll go make us a fire. (Y/n), come help me.” Flins beckoned me closer, and I went to his side.
“Druin’s desire to save them is admirable, but he’s worn himself thin again.” I helped Flins pick up sticks.
“He’s got the spirit of a hero, that much I can tell.” Flins knitted his brows together, then broke a thick branch in two with his hands. He seemed satisfied with the branch now that it was split.
“I do love a good hero.” I hummed without much thought.
“Is that so?” Flins stood from his hunched position. “May I ask you a question about the story you told Illuga?”
“Sure.” I pushed my hair back into my scarf and held my bundled twigs at my side.
“Who was the hero? The Huntsman, or the Prince?” His lantern was thumping, radiating heat.
I thought it over for a minute. “Both.”
“Both?” He asked surprised.
“Everyone can be a hero. Even Snow White was a hero to the seven little men. She made such a huge impact, that her death rattled their lives. But maybe I’m trying too hard to be a feminist here.” I laughed, finding a good spot to make the fire.
“Then, who do you think did more for Snow White?” He kneeled by me, and added his sticks to the pile I was making.
“Why the sudden introspective deep dive into a story I heavily watered down?” I watched Flins use his lantern to start the fire.
“Just curiosity.”
“Maybe partly, but I have a theory.” I smiled.
“We’re back. We found water.” Durin had filled several canteens and was passing them out as we gathered around the fire.
“Another time.” I mouthed to Flins. He nodded and we all got settled.
I greedily downed my water. I hadn’t been as thirsty as when I first woke up…really not since Flins gave me his blood. I had been having to be reminded to drink more than craving it.
“Feeling any better now, Mr. Durin?” Flins asked.
“I am. But I have a few questions.” Durin started. “What are we seeing?”
“My guess is we are seeing Nod Krai during the Khaenri’ahn Cataclysm.” Albedo hummed.
“That is correct. As you know, once the abyss finds a crack, it spreads like wild fire. There was once a time it spread over this land. The people of Nod Krai worked hard to heal this land.” Flins went on to say the event 500 years ago had also devastated the land. Basically getting to the point that Nod Krai had and has suffered a lot at the hands of abyss in the past. This event was just a drop in time.
Durin went on to say he now knew we were seeing history and that’s why he couldn’t help anyone. Flins and Albedo agreed, before Albedo brought up how fate and history were similar.
Durin then brought up how calm Flins was. How he was so kind, and wonderful in the face of history. And how he could be so sure of these events.
“I must show my age. I am perhaps Six or Seven Hundred years old by human measure. One becomes accustomed to history once they have lived through it.”
“I’m sorry.” Durin apologized.
I started to zone out a little, as I tended to do. Flins was comforting Durin, but I was stuck on the fact that I forgot about how old he was. Now that’s making me think, maybe I was old too? Was I really born in the Fatui lab? Or were they the ones who woke me up?
“Should I even exist at all?” Durin said, and I snapped out of my head. He went on to keep talking about the fight with Rerir and how he had resolved to know the darkness within can help him push forward.
“I wish you every success. Also, one last thing, let’s keep our discussion about history a secret.” Flins smiled, and I grinned at him.
“Me, keep my mouth shut?” I pointed at myself. All three men looked at me, curious about my next move. “You can count it when it comes to other people. But my own secrets? Forget about it.” We all shared a laugh, and I felt lighter. The dark mood of the conversation was gone and we were all back on our feet and headed to the Curatorium.
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Eleven
Master List for Chapters
Chapter Eleven: Transfer of Bunny Girl
Please leave a comment and reblog.
A few days had passed, most of it I spent wrapped in Flins’ embrace. There was a party at the Flagship but we skipped it in order to focus on healing. As much as Flins' hated to leave me, when it grew dark, he would go out and fulfill his duty as a Lightkeeper. It sucked being alone for most of the night, but I knew it was important.
He had gone to Piramida for a meeting, and would be gone a little longer than usual. I was up and moving around at this point, able to bend and care for myself with some effort. It still hurt to lift my arm above my head, but that was quickly healing up with my practice sessions. Flins didn’t know about my practice sessions when he’d leave, and the ghosts didn’t tattle on me. But it was important to keep flexing my powers.
There was a knock at the door. I looked through the tiny window before throwing open the entrance. “Illuga. How are you?” I forgot I didn’t have my scarf on my head, and he immediately saw my ears. His pupils went wide for a split second before he refocused on my eyes.
“I’m well. Flins told me you were in his care for the time being. I got out of the meeting before him and decided to swing by and check on you. Do you have all the supplies you need?” He held up a bag. “I ran by Nasha Town and picked up a little something for you, also.”
“I think we have plenty of supplies. Flins picked some up yesterday. But what surprise do you have?” I raised my brows, my ears perking up also.
“Here.” Illuga held out a record. “So, you can dance.”
“Oh my gosh. You didn’t have to.” It was no secret I had been enjoying Flins’ record player. He mostly had classical music, but the record Illuga brought seemed to be more folk music. “Thank you.”
“You’re welcome. A friend of Flins’ is a friend of mine.” Illuga held the back of his neck looking towards the ocean.
“Come on in. Or are you busy?” I stepped out of the door frame and beckoned him in.
“I can stay for a while.” He smiled, taking a few steps inside. Walking to the sofa, he got comfortable on one end and I took the other. While sitting I grimaced and held my side. “Flins said you have a serious injury.”
“Yes, it’s almost healed up. I’m better at healing other people than myself.” I sat the record on the coffee table and twisted to face Illuga. “I also want to thank you for taking care of me while I was drunk. I wasn’t the most rational.”
“You were upset. I was glad to help.” He hummed. “The way you dance, it’s like nothing I’ve ever seen.”
“Is that good or bad?” I prodded him, covering my mouth to hide my reaction.
“Good. I wouldn’t want you to ever feel self-conscious. It was inspiring.” He sunk deeper into the couch. His lantern sat at his feet, flickering like a normal lantern.
“If I was self-conscious, I’d make better decisions.” I sulked, dipping my head down. “But I’m trying to live life to the fullest.”
“Do you also feel like you’re in someone else’s shadow?” He asked, hand going to the scar on his throat.
“My own shadow.” I closed my eyes, leaning back on the couch. I could feel Flins just outside the door, he was listening. “You’re very perceptive. I won’t bore you with my stories tonight. How about we put on the record you brought and have a listen.”
There was a gentle rasp at the door before Flins stepped in. “Good evening: Master Illuga, and my Lady.”
“Sir Flins, welcome home.” Illuga spoke the same time as me, but we were slightly off kilter.
“Welcome home.” I laughed, seeing Flins tuck his lower face into his coat. He was surely smirking.
“What a warm welcome.” Flins strode to the sofa, taking the middle seat. “This might be the first time in years that this lighthouse has been this lively.”
“A women’s touch perhaps.” Illuga reasoned, looking past Flins at me.
“Good company is just good company regardless of gender.” I got to my feet, picking up the record and putting it on the player. With the volume low enough we could talk over it, a folk beat came through.
“I fear Master Illuga is right, this place has been missing the divine feminine.” Flins puffed me up, eyes almost glittering with mischief.
“I wouldn’t go that far. I’m not Snow White.” I flicked my wrist, dismissing the claim.
“What’s Snow White?” Illuga knitted his brows together.
“Um. A character in a story. I heard it growing up. Not sure it’s popular here.” I awkwardly chuckled.
“How does the story go?” Illuga was interested.
“Well, there’s a girl named Snow White. Her evil stepmother, who is also a queen, had a magic mirror. One day, she asked the mirror who was the fairest girl alive. And the mirror showed Snow White. The evil stepmother was so jealous of the answer she sent a…”I tried to remember who it was. “A huntsman to go kill her. Anyways, she escapes and ends up in a house of small men. She takes care of them and spruces up their lives.”
“I must interject.” Flins raised his hand. “You are by far the fairest girl in all of Teyvat.”
“Yes. I fail to see the difference so far.” Illuga agreed. “Flins is a tall man, but you’ve spruced up his life.”
My whole body was hot. Once again, I had to wonder if this was a fantasy before death comes and takes me for real. But I needed to keep going. “Anyways, the evil stepmother disguised herself as an old witch and preys on Snow White’s kind heart. Snow White helps the witch and is rewarded with an apple. But it’s poison. When she bites into it, she dies.”
“That’s not where I thought this was going.” Illuga balked.
“Yeah, it has a happy ending. The little men were so upset; they couldn’t bury her.” No clue if they knew about little people, so I simplified it. “So, they put her in a glass tomb so everyone could behold her beauty.” I cleared my throat; still tore up from their agreement I was pretty. “Soon after her death, a prince rode by on his horse. He’s so dazzled by her beauty; he removes the glass and gives her a big old kiss.”
“What?!” Illuga’s eyes were bulging out of his head. “What kind of story is this, that they tell children?”
“Right! But he was Snow White’s true love, and it cured the poison that killed her.” I shot back, holding my hands up. “It works out in the end.”
Flins was also a little horrified by the story. Still, he petted the spot on the couch I had previously been on. “How entertaining. I surely hope you don’t share more similarities to Snow White than beauty.”
“I agree. I will be sure to keep you away from any witches in the area.” Illuga puffed up his chest.
“That’s so sweet.” I settled on the couch, Flins’s hand guiding me down so I didn’t have to use my muscles as much. Thus, there was no annoying pinch in my side. “Illuga, would you like a snack or anything to drink? I don’t live here, but I should have offered on Flins’ behalf.”
“Oh, I’m fine. I should really be going.” Illuga stood, grabbing his lantern. “I should hurry back to base.”
“Right. We could walk you back. If you don’t feel safe.” I offered, nudging Flins.
“I assure you Master Illuga is more than capable. But if it makes you feel better, we can walk with him.” Flins’ lips tugged up at the corner. I had amused him.
“I will be fine. I have more to patrol before going back. You two have a good night.” We all got up and went to the door. It had grown dark outside, and it wouldn’t be long before the wild hunt woke up.
“Still, be careful.” I pursed my lips, resting a hand on my hip. “I’d hate to have to come out there and show you Ratniki how it’s done.” I smirked.
Flins raised his brows. “Oh, I’m sure you will have put an end to the Wild Hunt in one night.”
“Remind me not to invoke the fine lady’s wrath, Sir Flins.” Illuga covered his mouth, and muffled his laugh.
“Hey! I’m really badass.” I bumped my fists together. “These hands are for everyone.”
“Good night you two.” Illuga bowed and took off into the night.
“Night!” I called after him. I watched him walk into the distance until the light was no longer visible. “What a nice guy.”
“Master Illuga has a heart of gold.” Flins rested his hand on my shoulder and guided me back inside. “So, this Snow White? What happened to her evil stepmother?”
“I don’t recall.” I hummed. “Maybe nothing.”
“And the huntsmen?”
“He actually took an animal's heart to the evil stepmother and bought Snow White time to get away.” I wrapped my arms around Flins’ waist, and buried my head in his chest, taking deep breaths of his scent. “I missed you.”
“I missed you more.” He kissed the top of my head. “Was Illuga your only visitor?”
“Yes. Lumine and Paimon told you they’d be by soon. But I guess they’ve been busy.” I shifted in his arms so my back was to his stomach. I grabbed his hands and played with his fingers, the leather of his gloves slightly worn from holding his polearm. “Maybe in the morning I’ll be feeling up for a trip to see them. Or anyone really. I’m happy to be with you, but I’m worried the others might need me.”
“Your value is not hinged on being needed.” He unhooked our hug, but held my hand. “Have you been drinking plenty?”
“Yes.” I knew drinking was part of my healing process.
“Good. Have some more lakaberry juice.” He poured me a glass, finally letting me go.
“I miss orange juice.” I pouted, drinking the juice he offered me.
“I believe oranges grow in Fontaine. I could see if we can get them imported.”
“Look, I know you have money that you like to spend on me. But I’m not going to make you pay for imported fruit.” I washed my glass and dried it, putting it back in the cabinet. “I need to try to raid more chests and get my own mora. I still owe you for the initial loan.”
“I believe we are square.” He poured himself a glass of red wine, sniffling the drink before taking a chaste sip.
“Maybe you feel that way. But I feel like I’m drowning trying to repay your kindness.” I gripped his shoulder, the fabric of his coat bunching up. “Seriously, I’m really a bum at this point. Might as well borrow your car and drop you off at work and run the fuel tank dry.”
“I don’t understand that reference.” He sat his glass down. “I assure you, I’m not keeping tabs.”
“I’m saying I need to be more useful.”
“You’re recovering.”
“So are you.”
“I am fine.”
“I know you’re favoring your left leg, and you won’t let me heal you.” I pointed at him. “You let me work on myself, but the minute my water tries to touch you, you side step me.”
“Perhaps, I am a little stubborn.” He admitted, he smiled, setting his wine glass down. “But so are you.”
“I can acknowledge that.” I crossed my arms over my chest, the action making me seethe.
“Will you also acknowledge you’ve been training while I’m away?” His eyes glinted.
“And since when are you near me that I can’t feel you?” I turned my back on him.
“It’s easy to tell. You would have been healed two days ago if you had been resting properly.” He stalked around me, and I just kept turning to avoid facing him.
“Don’t circle me like I’m prey.” I pouted, now looking at the floor.
“You are not prey.” He affirmed. “I just want to face you while we disagree. I can’t read you as well.”
“That’s the point.” I looked at him, tears threatening to streak down my face. “Do you like to see me cry?”
“No.” He wiped my eyes, resting his forehead to mine. “Should we both agree to be less stubborn?”
“I am a grown woman, I can do what I want when I want.” I felt a jolt of defiance come over me. “In fact, I’m going for a walk around the island.” I pulled away from Flins, and went to put on my shoes.
“Alone?” He raised his brows.
“No.” I pursed my lips, trying to bend over to pull my shoes on and running out of stamina. “I’m sure you’ll follow me at a safe distance.” I said it sarcastically.
“What if I don’t?” He crossed his arms, tone firm. Oh? “Would you still go?”
“Yes.” I got frustrated with my boots and tossed them aside. “I’ll go barefoot. Who needs shoes?” I spoke more to myself than Flins.
“Then go for your walk.” Flins turned his back on me.
“I will.”
Stepping outside, the ground was cold but I didn’t care. I needed to get to the Flagship, that way I could spend the night with Lumine and Paimon. If Flins was going to be like that, then so could I.
It was the first time I had set foot off the island, the ocean water cold as I followed the sand bank towards the dock. Muttering to myself, I kept glancing over my shoulder to make sure he wasn’t following me. After walking so long, all I could see was the pitch-black darkness of the water and the light of the false moon.
“Damn fae.” I couldn’t feel from my upper calf to my toes. Even in shoes I’d be frozen. “Damn handsome stubborn man.” I growled, pulling my coat tighter around myself. I was wearing the dress Flins had bought me. It was a ribbed blue fabric with some buttons down the middle. It reminded me of something Fern from Fireren would wear. “Bastard.” I mumbled finally reaching the next shore line.
Stepping out of the water, I realized I didn’t really know which direction to go from this point. There was no phone for directions, and my guides were usually on top of it, but alone I was helpless. Cursing to myself, I picked a direction and started walking.
I didn’t feel Flins’ presence. Perhaps I had finally fucked it up, or fixed it. Maybe this was the best outcome. Tears had been streaming down my face since before I left. I didn’t want to leave. I wanted him to chase me down; tell me it was okay. But no, I couldn’t just agree that we both work on ourselves.
Grr.
I closed my eyes, turning to see what was on me. It wasn’t something that Flins could feel like the wild hunt. No, it was rifthounds. If I got to close my health would start draining, even if I could fight them, my catalyst was back at the lighthouse. So was my dagger and one of my usual protectors. I opened my eyes; there were three of the hounds. Floating above the ground and flexing their sharp claws. I had been spotted.
Run.
Hustling back towards the light house, I just prayed that someone would save me. I couldn’t channel my magic to heal myself without a catalyst. So, there was no option to at least maintain my health. The pinch in my side was getting worse with every step.
“Flins!” I screamed, desperate. “I’m sorry!” But he did not appear.
Shells were jabbing into the soles of my feet as I booked it down the beach. I noticed the dock, and I remembered I could maybe swim away. They could float, but that was my last option. Running to the edge of the docks, I felt it. Flins’ burning hot energy.
“Flins?” I stopped at the edge of the dock, turning to see him running full speed to the fight. While I was looking at him, one of the hounds swiveled around me, grasped the hood of my jacket and tossed me into the icy waters below.
Sucked under the water, I kicked my way back to the top. Breaking the surface, I spat out a bit of water. Then it happened. My body twitched, and I felt a shift. I looked at my hands to see paws instead. I was a full fledged bunny.
“Be silent.” Flins activated his ult. I could hear one of his famous lines, as I tried to swim above the waves as a rabbit. This was a bad time to change.
I got sucked down under a wave, learning quickly that I did, in fact, breath oxygen as a rabbit. My lungs burned in a way that hadn’t happened in months. I needed to kick back to the surface, but my limbs were so tiny.
Finally, Flins dove head first into the water. He wrapped an arm around me and drug us both up and to the sandbank. He cradled me to his chest, the warmth radiating off him not enough to fight off the bitter cold.
“Thank you.” I gasped, wet fur clinging to my body.
“I’m sorry, my Starlight.” He pressed a kiss to my tiny rabbit head. A puff of smoke appeared and my full human body returned. Flins’ gripped me tighter, getting us both to our feet. “Let’s go home.”
“That’s all I want.” I felt my tears start back up. He had come for me. He still cared after all.
“Hang on.” He eased me onto his back. I wrapped my arms around his neck, pressing a kiss to his temple.
“I’m sorry. I’m more trouble than I’m worth.” I wiped my eyes.
“You are not trouble. Nod Krai is just a dangerous place.” He assured me.
“No. I was too stubborn. You offered for us both to improve and I shot you down.”
“You were right. I should not have been watching you from such a distance you could not feel me. It was deceitful.” He looked at the ground. “It’s a great distance, which is why I could not get to you faster tonight.”
“Well, I understand to some extent. But I just want to get stronger. I want to be even more useful. I want to heal you without it taking multiple sessions to fix things.” We walked along the sandbank, almost back to the lighthouse.
“You will get there. I just know you won’t rest if someone doesn’t tie you down.” He gripped my legs tighter. “You are worthy of care.”
“I’ve never been good at allowing others to care for me.” I offered a sad and pitiful laugh. “My family, they weren’t overly affectionate. I was often left wanting to be closer, with no results. Especially when I was injured or sick. I’d be left to care for myself. So, I’d have to push hard, and heal quick if I wanted to be able to do things like eat or shower. I got hurt often. But it was okay, because I was tough.”
“You don’t have to be tough.” He opened the door, and let me get back on my feet. “Lest, not alone.”
“The people in my life here are so different from the ones back where I am from. People actually help each other, and do the right things. Sure, there’s still corruption, but I’ve met some really good people.” I sighed, pulling my wet clothes off and hanging them by the fireplace. “I’m sorry we fought.”
“I’m sorry too.” His eyes were averted. I guess I was in my bra and underwear at that point. “You should go warm in the shower.”
“Good idea.” I went to the shower.
The rest of the night we cleaned up, and talked it out a little more. Agreeing us both being stubborn was going to be a fixable issue, as long as we respected each other’s boundaries. Then we crawled in bed. Flins slid his arm around me, and pulled the cover higher.
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Ten
Master List for Chapters
Chapter Ten : Square Up Part Two
Nefer arrived with the box holding Rerir. The plan was in full swing. Paimon was told to find a safe hiding place, and Lumine reminded me to put some distance between me and them. Nefer’s hand over the box, it was almost time.
“Let’s go.” Everyone said in unison, and a rift opened, with Rerir crawling out.
“You’ve authored your own demise.” Rerir taunted. My blood ran cold, my eyes darting to all my friends. I needed to lock on.
“I wouldn’t be so sure of that.” Nefer shot back.
“You’re just a warm up before I tear down the moon.” Rerir flexed his hands, and the fight was on.
No one was injured in the first few minutes. I stayed back, watching them closely. Suddenly a fog entered the battlefield and I couldn’t see them. “Shit.” I cursed, not knowing whether to dive in or stay back.
Think, they did it without me in the game. Aino was helping from afar and they had each other. What to do? I shook my head, knowing I needed to be brave. I dove into the fog, catching sight of Lauma. Just move, and find everyone. Do what I can.
I cleared my throat and sang a song I had in my mind. I sang low and slow, pouring all my magic into healing her. Her wounds closed up, and she gave me a quick nod.
Moving deeper in the fog I found Lumine and Nefer next. I topped them off, singing low and slow again. My power was still at full blast; I could use my ultimate soon. But I needed to make sure Flins was okay before using it too soon. Circling around the battlefield, I laid eyes on him. He was fine, but I could see the wrinkles in his face.
Singing, Flins’ eyes flicked to me for a moment. I was low and slow like before, hiding my voice under the clang of weapons, but Rerir heard me too. Miasma hands flew over my body, binding my hands and mouth. Squirming against the restraints, Rerir was distracted by me long enough for everyone to get a blow in.
Rerir tumbled back, eyes boring into mine and losing sight of the fight slowly. He had said I was cute, like Tholindis, last time we were together. Varka said we needed time and to use his own power against him, so I need to keep him distracted.
“Tholindis.” He growled, the ropes around me getting tighter. The hand on my mouth moved to cover my nose, but I thankfully didn’t need to breathe to live.
Then Rerir snapped. Arrows flew at me, Lumine deflecting them. Lauma took the moment to try to break me free, while the other three attacked. Part of me was thankful that Flins wasn’t too concerned with me at the moment. He was one of the best fighters we had, he needed to lock on. He had taken what I said this morning to heart.
“You’re going to be okay.” Lauma pulled at the abyss rope hands.
“Hmph.” I wiggled; my body being squeezed so tight I could feel my dress ripping and skin burning. My eyes darted back to the fight, signaling for her to go back to it.
“I’m not leaving your side.” Lauma. Beautiful, kind, loving Lauma. I hadn’t accounted for her to risk her neck for me. For her to be the one messing up the time line.
Tears bubbled up, the ropes pushing me off my feet and into the air. Lauma’s hands left long scratch lines where she tried to hold on. Rerir had his arrows pushing everyone back. I was being delivered to him on a platter. Kicking my legs with what little movement they had, I watched my friends all fight to end this. To get the power we needed to win. Then it happened. The fog returned, and Flins and Lauma were pulled away.
“Give her back!” Lumine took the moment to slash the ropes holding me. I rolled to the ground, the powers holding me gone. Instantly I used my lungs and expanded my tight chest. Everything hurt.
“Keep going!” I encouraged them, finding my voice again. Picking up my feet, I ran. I ran full circles around the group till Rerir had his eyes on me again. Nefer landed her ult, and he faltered with the blow. Lumine followed up with a bubble of water, and he was focused on them again.
Singing loudly this time. I bellowed out a melody about the moon needing the light of the sun. My ultimate move appeared, the crescent moon on the floor and water pouring over my allies. Even then, Nefer was badly hurt, her eyes still bleeding.
“That dust will plague your memories.” Nefer prodded.
“Any more tricks in your bag.” Rerir was stalking towards them
“You fear the thought of never being able to save your beloved.” Rerir looked at me, and I ran to stand beside Lumine and Nefer, but while getting to them, I was pierced from behind. Screaming, I ripped the miasma arrow from my side. The abyss energy trying to rot my flesh. My blood rushed from just above my hip, into the soft flesh of my tummy.
“Is that what you think? Now it’s your turn to feel afraid.” Rerir was fully powered up. His energy ramping. He didn’t even notice Albedo channeling it into Columbina. This operation was going to work out.
“It will work.” I grunted, healing myself slowly. Humming through the grunting, I gave up after the rotting stopped. Laying still in the water, I was glad I didn’t breathe, or I’d sucked in lung fulls. I’m fairly certain Durin connected us together for a moment, but I couldn’t focus on anything but the fight.
Watching Columbina power up and her and Rerir fighting it out, I forced my eyes open. Blow after blow, trail after trail, they were at it. When Columbina bound him, and tossed him through the moon gate that Dain was holding open, I sighed in relief. Columbina landed with a smile. “We won.”
My shoulder I was propped up on, relaxed, my body growing cold. Eye lashes fluttered as my vision went in and out. Someone picked me up, someone strong. My hearing was broken, I couldn’t understand what was being said. I was, however, being jostled around, they were running with me.
“Light.” Was all I could make out. My wound ached; pressure being applied as I was sat down on a bed of grass.
“Heal-“
“She’s it-“
“Sing, plea-“
It was reckless to go to battle without a healer. The others were far more tired than me. I barely did any healing at all. I was just so thankful. So thankful Flins fought a good fight. He must be okay. Lumine and the others must be okay. If I died here, I’ll be happy to have known them.
“Get it together!” Paimon smacked me. “She’s smiling, Paimon knows she can wake up!”
“Doesn’t hurt that bad.” I groaned. “The moon will sing a song for me. I loved you like the sun.” Tears streamed down my face as I activated my ult one more time. Everyone around me, and myself, were being blessed by the water. The wound on my side started to close. But I’d lost so much blood, my head was dizzy, eyes trying to force shut, and I was struggling to remember why I was there.
“You must stay with us.” Flins rested his hand on face, rubbing his thumb under my eye.
“I’ve done all I can. I think…I think I’ve lost too much blood.” I could feel my heart racing.
“Then have mine.” Flins looked at Lauma and Nefer. “Can we do a blood transfusion? Do we have a kit?”
“We don’t know if you two are a match? We don’t have the tools.” Lauma started digging through a bag that Nefer produced.
“My bag, I brought some supplies.” Nefer sighed, holding her eyes. “For a case like this.”
“How will they know their types are right?” Paimon asked, as Lumine dug through the bag.
“I can do a quick test using alchemy.” Albedo offered, he took a small part of blood from my now closed wound. Then he got a sample of Flins’ blood, pricking his fingers after Flins ripped his glove off. That wasn’t the only thing he ripped off, he had his coat off and his sleeve rolled up in seconds.
“Good idea, Brother.” Durin was feeling better after I used my ult. He had been panting when I came too.
“They match.” Albedo nodded, taking the transfer tube and hooking up Flins first. “You must stay above her.”
“I can do that.” Flins stood over me, his blood filling the tube.
“This might prick.” Albedo stuck me, and I knitted my brows.
“Don’t tell me you take an arrow to the side, and a needle prick is what gets you?” Paimon shook her head.
“I have an idea.” Columbina held her hand out for me. “You have a moon's essence inside you. I’m not sure this will work, but we should try. It could give you strength.”
“Earth’s moon.” My mind was spinning. I needed to hush. “There are many moons in the skies.”
“Shh.” Paimon held my hand up for Columbina. “Just try it.”
Columbina touched my hand, and I felt a surge of energy. It was like jumping into a cold spring. My heart was racing even faster, but there was blood to pump now. I opened my eyes wide, seeing everyone tending to each other. Most hoovering over me.
“How do you feel?” Columbina asked, kneeling beside me.
“Much better.” I admitted.
“Good. You should still take a little more blood from your lover. But you should be okay.” Columbina offered me a kind smile, and I flashed my own back at her.
“Thank you. And to everyone else, thank you.” There was a course of replies from ‘you’re welcome’ to ‘no problem’.
“The color is returning to her face.” Flins sighed in relief. He had been mostly quiet.
“Yes, that should be enough.” Albedo went to undo the line.
“No, just a little more.” Flins looked at me. His eyes glistened. Was he about to cry?
“You need your strength as well Sir Flins.” Albedo argued.
“Yeah, who else will have the strength to carry her back home?” Paimon wagged her finger.
“Are you calling me heavy?” I asked Paimon, the girl laughing.
“No, everyone is tired.” Paimon grinned. “You’re going to be okay. I’m glad you can joke.”
“Me too.” I looked at Flins, surprised he hadn’t looked away. “I feel a lot better. Please don’t drain yourself on my account.” I pinched the tube, and Albedo undid the tape he used to secure it. He did me first, then Flins, who was satisfied with how much he had given me.
“There, all done.” Albedo packed up the tube carefully to discard later I assume. “We’ll be heading back now. I assume you two will be fine on your own?”
“I’ve got her.” Flins assured Albedo.
“You should take it easy for fifteen minutes. Blood donation, as giver and receiver can have adverse effects. So take your time.”
“Noted.” Flins kneeled beside me, fiddling with wiping blood away from my now closed skin. My poor dress was breezy at best. I could feel the biting cold through the holes in my outfit. I had left my thick coat at the Flagship, which was a mistake.
When I looked around, Columbina was with Nefer, Lauma and Lumine. They were trying to fix Nefer’s eyes, and I knew they would be able to succeed. Still, it was gut wrenching to watch Lauma pour her blood into Nefer’s eyes.
“Are you ready to go home?” Flins asked me, pulling me up and to my feet.
“Where even is home?” I groaned, falling against his back as he turned around. Everyone had dispersed, leaving us to ourselves in the far corner of the island. “Also, I have one tiny hop left in me…I’m sorry.”
“I will take you to my lighthouse. I believe it will be much quieter for healing.” Flins didn’t make me jump on his back, he knelt down and wedged his hips between my legs and lifted me.
“It hurts.” I whined. “You have to hurt too.” I reasoned. “We should have got Varka to come and-“
“I’m sure Varka would be a great help, but the results would always end this way. You are mine, and I will be tending to you.”
“My blood is rushing to my face. I don’t have enough to spare for this.” I laughed; it was weak and half-baked but it was a laugh none the less. I poked his cheek.
“Do you require more?” He asked, taking long strides to his island.
“No. I’ll live.” I gently gripped his shoulders. “You did well out there. Not fretting over me, you impressed me.”
“It won’t happen twice.” His voice turned dark. It was strong and stern, bordering on scary.
“But, you did as I asked. Put the team first.” I had asked him that morning before battle to ignore me the best he could.
“And you almost died in my arms.” He countered. “That will not happen twice.”
“It’s not over yet.” I sighed, spilling more than I should.
“Over or not, I will be ‘fretting’ over you. I will not subject myself to this again.” He squeezed my legs. “Understood?”
“Got it, not happening again.” I felt a little high after accepting the moon's blessing. Well, good for a woman on death's door an hour ago. It was a slow build, but my power was coming back to me. I could probably heal Flins and myself a little more.
I cleared my throat. Flins cut me off before I could sing. “What did you say that fateful night on Hiisi Island? ‘Don’t you dare’.”
“Stern Flins is not someone I’m acquainted with.” I laid my head against his shoulder, my cheek still stinging from being slapped.
“I apologize. I just, I am and I was scared for you.” He took long elegant strides down paths he obviously knew well. It seemed like the act of walking a familiar road was giving him some comfort. Some sense of normal.
“I thought I’d be more scared. I really accepted my fate pretty fast. I’m glad Paimon smacked sense into me. She packed a punch for a tiny thing.” I laughed.
“We will hone your fighting spirit.” He nodded, walking into the ocean and along a sand bank.
“Yeah, sounds good. Maybe we can work on losing the ears and tail too. I’m sick of being a bunny girl. Feels like fetish bait.” I upturned my nose, thinking about the prevalence of the genre in cosplay.
“We’ll work on that too. Being able to change your appearance is a great advantage.” Flins didn’t seem to be fully engaged in the conversation. His eyes settled on the lighthouse before us. No, eyes set to the graves of his fallen comrades. His fingers flexed against my skin.
We grew quiet. Flins stepping into the light house. The first thing I noticed was the gems, stones and coins displayed around the living room. The base was a circle, with rounded cabinets. In the center was a sofa, coffee table and a stack of books on the floor. There was a separate room, which must be the bed and bath set up. And then to the back wall was a tiny kitchen and a set of stairs leading up.
“Nice place.” I groaned as he eased me down on the sofa. “My side feels like I got stabbed.” I joked, winking at Flins.
“I believe you did get stabbed, my love.” He pushed my hair back. “Rest for a moment, then we will get you cleaned up properly.”
“I don’t have any of my supplies. They are all back at the Flagship.” I laid down on the plush couch, my bones settling into the cushion.
“While you rest, I will be running back to town.” He pulled a blanket from behind the couch and tossed it over me. “I’ll be quick. Anything you want while I’m out.”
“I keep my mora in that pouch you gave me. It’s in the inside pocket of my bag. Try to grab me another dress if you can. This one will need to be repaired before I can wash it again.” I sunk my head into a pillow.
“How adorable.” He held up his own velvet bag of mora. “I will handle this.” He then asked what size I needed, and then he was off after kissing my forehead. “Don’t move until I get back.”
“I won’t be moving for a while.” I frowned. “Be careful out there. It’s getting dark.”
“I will be.” He shut and locked the door behind him.
Finally, alone, I closed my eyes. I was close to being unconscious earlier, which was different from sleep. Yet, somehow, I was able to lay down and zone out.
A few hours passed, and Flins returned. He helped me out of my clothes and into the shower. I kept my undergarments on, though I trusted him, I still felt ashamed. Once I was washed up, I dried, bandaged myself and put on a gown without help. To my surprise there was a new nightgown in the bag Flins had brought. It fell past my knees, ruffled sleeves and a smaller ruffle around the neckline. It was a pale blue, with a few embroidered flowers spread over the fabric. He had spent a pretty penny on it for sure.
“Are you doing alright, my Starlight?” He asked through the door.
“Just finishing up.” I opened the door, holding my hair brush and hair band out to him. “Do you mind? I don’t think I can lift my arm up that high. It hurts my side.”
“It would be my pleasure.” He steadied me, slotting under my good arm and walking me back to the bedroom.
“Thank you.” I settled into a seated position on the bedspread. The bed smelled like him in the best possible ways. “You can brush my hair now or after you clean up. There’s no rush.” I felt my face heat up. Asking for the things I wanted was hard, but he was right here and willing. Clearly smitten with me, I should really enjoy the gift this new life had given me.
“I will tend to you now.” He eased behind me, combing through my hair, and easing the brush over my scalp. “Does this feel nice?”
“Oh yes.” I hummed. “It’s even better because it’s you.”
“You said, when this was over, I could have what I wanted.” He reminded me.
“It’s not over. We have a few more…hiccups to get through.” I leaned back into his chest, his arms warping around me. “I want it too.”
“Then why must we wait?” He nuzzled my neck with his face, pushing my wet hair aside.
“I’m afraid you’ll try to choose me over what’s best for Nod Krai.” I admitted.
“I feel those are two in the same.” He ran his hands up and down my arms, fingers sliding over where Lauma had grasped me earlier.
“What if they conflict? I can’t have you choosing me.” I felt small. Folding into myself, I pulled away from him. “I’m so insignificant compared to everyone else. They are so important, and I’m just an extra.”
“Lying is unbecoming.” He scooted lower on the bed, sitting beside me. “You are so important. Not just to me, but everyone.”
“I don’t feel like it.” I ran my palm over the jagged grip Lauma left. “Maybe I am important to you all. But to the story, I am fodder.”
“You don’t know that.” He held my hand. “I should have done more to prove that point today.”
“No. You really did perfect.” I pursed my lips.
“What did I say?” He pushed his brows up.
“It won’t happen again.” A storm was brewing outside.
“Exactly.” He brought my knuckles to his lips and placed tender kisses. “I will wait for you to be ready, but I refuse to ignore you in battle ever again.”
“You didn’t ignore me. You took the opportunity to keep the fire to Rerir’s ass.” I puffed with pride. “You were really hot out there.” He dusted pink. “But you’re hot all the time. Can’t get enough of you.”
“Lay down, and rest. You are delirious.” He lifted my legs from the side of the mattress and laid them on top.
“You will lay with me, right?” I asked as he covered me up.
“I will be back shortly.” He planted another kiss on my forehead.
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Nine
Master List for Chapters
Chapter Nine: Square Up
“I’m losing my stamina again.” I had been at it for two hours. Flins and Varka were fighting on one side, Lauma and Nefer on the back end and Lumine and Jahoda fighting in the front. I was healing all of them at the same time. It was my own idea, but I could hardly feel my legs anymore.
“Keep singing, you can do it.” Paimon ran a cold rag across my forehead, and I got back to singing. No matter how much I tried to sing in English, it always came out fae. Which was a dead giveaway for me, and probably why we were on Hiisi island away from prying eyes.
“I’m running out of songs I know the full lyrics too!” I squealed between humming.
“Think of something you know a part of.” Paimon encouraged me.
“Ahh, scream it for me baby. Like you’re going to die. Poison on the inside, I can be your antidote tonight. I can play the doctor. I can cure your disease. If you were a sinner I could make you believe.” Flashes of the doctor gaining all three moons flashed in my mind, and all healing stopped. God he was scary. So was Rerir.
“That’s enough for now.” Nefer called our spar session to an end. “I need to prepare for tomorrow.”
“Right, we all need to be rested.” Lauma added, handing me her canteen…it was filled with juice. Did she make it just for me?
“I think she can take a little more.” Varka pointed at Lumine. “I want a chance to go toe to toe with the traveler.”
“Then I should keep healing you.” I reasoned.
“You can heal them after you’ve rested.” Paimon sighed, floating around me.
“Sure, we can spar.” Lumine grinned. She was slightly winded, going for hours did almost nothing to her.
“My lady.” Flins leaned down. “Would you like me to brush your hair after a nice shower?”
“Yes.” I cleared my throat. Paimon gave me a thumbs up, clearly having better hearing than Flins gave her credit for. “Here Lauma, thanks for sharing your juice.”
“Of course. We will see you tomorrow. Good evening to you as well Mr. Flins.” Lauma smiled, did she also hear? God, this was not discreet.
“I would like to train on the way back to the Flagship.” Flins said as we were far enough away from the group.
“How so?” I asked, my legs still numb from standing in one place so long.
“It would benefit us both, for me to carry you back.” He bent lower to the ground, and held his arms back for me.
“You really know how to frame it, so I will agree.” I hummed, laying against his back and being hoisted up. He locked his arms under me, and took off down the path.
“I tend to get what I want.” He laughed; it almost didn’t sound like him.
“Are you on a high because you bested Varka in that last round?” I wrapped my arm around his shoulder and hugged him.
“It has improved my mood greatly.” He took long and sure steps. “That last melody you came up with. It did scare me a little.”
“Paimon told me to sing what came to mind. I really don't want to die tomorrow. But if I can play doctor and keep y’all alive, I’ll do it. No matter the cost.” I fisted my hand in his coat.
“Nothing bad will befall you.” He assured me, tightening his grip around my legs.
“We don’t know for sure.” I puffed out my lungs, no air passing through me.
“It’s within in my power to protect you.” He was so sure, so steadfast.
“Then it’s within my power to provide the best support I can. Who else will wet the enemy so you get a good shock in.” I smiled, simple and real.
“My Starlight. The only light I need.” He hummed contently. “I feel it is a privilege to understand your songs. These songs, are they from your world?”
“Yes. What I remember. I’ve been trying to sing what I know well, but I’m a little sick of Taylor Swift…. even if the song reminds me of you.” I admitted.
“Are there other songs that remind you of me?” He asked as we entered Nasha Town.
“A few. Who knows, I might sing another one tomorrow.” I closed my eyes and rested my head on his shoulder. “I’m going to rest till we get back.” I hummed, inhaling his sweet scent.
“Close your eyes. I’ve got you.” He walked with grace, and the even motions would have put me to sleep if I was still human.
Back at the Flagship, Flins offered for me to shower first. I washed myself, then my outfit. Hanging it up to dry, I emerged in my nightgown. He has seen me like this a few times at this point, but he always twinged pink.
“It’s a night gown, not lingerie.” I put my hands on my hips, the hem of my gown lifting with my shoulders. “I know you're a gentleman, I’m not afraid of you.”
“I am still a man.” He tried to hide the lantern that was lighting up the room.
“I was told my hair would be brushed. Now will you be able to do so with me in such a state?” I teased him, the lantern flickering even faster.
“I shall tend to your hair, then clean up.” He grabbed my hair brush I had setting on the coffee table.
I settled in between his legs, my ass just hanging onto the edge of the couch. I slid back, and I felt him. Perhaps more than his heart was hammering. Neither one of us mentioned it, as he ran a brush through my hair. He was meticulous, going through each strand and being careful not to tug too hard. Once I was tangle free, he ran his fingers through my hair and sectioned it out around my ears. He braided my hair, tying it off a ribbon from his pocket.
“Where did you find the ribbon?” I asked, running my fingers over the soft material.
“I picked it up this morning. It reminded me of you.” He took the towel from my shoulders, running his fingers over my neck. I could hear him swallow hard. “I should take a cold shower.”
“So, I do have an effect on you.” I got out of his lap carefully. “I should get back to Lumine and Paimon’s room before I make you more uncomfortable.” He grasped my hand.
“Stay.” His yellow sullen eyes pierced through me.
“We can’t just tempt each other.” I had resolved myself, but he made it hard.
“There will be no temptation. I only wish to be near you.” The worried lines on his face were a give away along with the lantern’s dancing slowing down. He was becoming afraid.
“I will go and let Lumine and Paimon know. They should be back.” I went to the door.
“You stay here. I’ll let them know. There are too many wandering eyes in the hall.” Somehow, I think he was afraid I’d run into Varka.
“So concerned with my virtue, and yet, you’ve asked me to spend the night with you.” I quirked my brow, finally looking at his pants. “Now, your virtue on the other hand…go shower then we can let Paimon and Lumine know.”
“Always thinking a few steps ahead.” He complimented me.
Once he was in the shower, I crawled into his bed. I was exhausted, and I just needed to lay still for a while. I hummed to myself, my throat sore from singing so much. There was much to fret over, but it would work out. I had to believe that.
“Flins?” I called to him, flipping over in bed to see him in his sleep pants. A towel hung around his shoulders, his hair cascading down his shoulders. “Looks like I managed to take care of the bruises today.”
“You did, but you also were healing for hours.” He stood by the bed, leaning over me. His hair glided against my face and tickled my nose. His face was inches from mine, eyes locked on my lips. “What beautiful creature has fallen into my bed?”
“Oh?” I squirmed, rolling to my side to add some space. “I believe this creature might need, held in place.”
“Then I shall take on the job.” He slotted behind me, keeping a little space at our pelvises. One arm slid under a pillow and the other tugged my upper body to his.
“What about Lumine and Paimon?” I asked, his warmth lulling me to rest my eyes.
“They are still with Varka. I will alert them when they arrive.” He assured me.
“Okay.” I nearly purred when his hand ran up and down my side, finger light touches like feathers.
“Nothing will keep us apart.” He assured me.
“I believe you.” I threaded my fingers through his. “We just need more time.”
“We have all the time in the world.” He planted a kiss on my throat and I giggled. “Ticklish, my lady?”
“Just a tad. But let us rest. I think we both need some down time.”
“I must agree.” He began to sing parts of songs I had been using to heal them. “Keep it one hundred on the land, the sea, the sky.” He stopped and thought it over. “What does that mean?”
“Keep it one hundred, means you are honest about your intentions.” I guess he wouldn’t understand my slang.
“I always keep it one hundred.” He goosed me, and I laughed so hard I nearly lost my metaphorical breath.
“Don’t use my slang, it’s undignified.” I rolled in his arms, and settled my head on his chest. He accommodated my new position. “Good night.”
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Eight
Master List for Chapters
Chapter Eight: Gear Up
Note: I've been made aware my other links on my masterlist are broken. My aunt passed last week, so it might awhile before I feel like updating them. It feels very overwhelming because it's years worth of content. But the Flins links should work just fine, its just my older stuff post name change. Please comment and reblog, it helps me out.
We made it back just in time for the meeting. Varka introduced us all, and I almost died being described as ‘Our very own dedicated healer.’ The meeting dragged on. We learned that Dain didn’t know how or why Rerir turned to the abyss. And that we needed Nefer’s help to unlock the past and find out what really happened the night the Five Sinners were born. It was all stuff I knew but still.
Flins was joking with everyone, and seemed like himself. I was worried I might have ruined his mood, but I guess my promise for the end of this was enough to keep him in high spirits. I still didn’t know why he was into me, besides the fact I was interesting: a fae with the soul of a human. That's all I knew about myself in this world. My answers wouldn’t come till we dealt with the doctor, if he didn’t kill me on sight.
“Are you okay?” Paimon floated to my corner, cocking her head to the side.
“Yeah, just wishing this was over already.” I answered. “You’re about to head out with Nefer, right?”
“We are. But Paimon’s worried about you. This isn’t your normal mission. We’ve been at it for days. You were still trapped at the Fatui base two weeks ago. You look tired.”
“Has it been that long?” I smiled, looking at my hands. My skin was still pristine. The only real damage I had taken was back in the cave, and when I sparred with Varka. “I need to work harder.”
“You’re already doing so much. Don’t get too wrapped up in your head.” She patted my ears. “We’re heading out, so be good.”
“I will.” I waved them off, leaving only Varka, Flins and I at the base.
Knowing I needed to apologize to Varka, I waited a few minutes till everyone was for sure out of ear shot. I had been resting in the corner, nursing a juice that Lauma had poured for me. She had insisted I needed more than water to recover and ensured I had drunk at least half before she left. Now, it was my life line. Looking at my reflection in the purple juice, I noticed my ears laying back. I slid my scarf back over my head and stood up.
“Ah, Miss (Y/n), are you feeling better?” Varka’s face twisted with worry.
“I’m sorry for causing you so much trouble. I was just embarrassed. That’s why I ran off.” I looked at my feet. “Please forgive me.”
“Woah, no need to be so formal.” He lifted my chin with his finger tips. “Now, you take a break and recover. We’ve been working over time.”
“I keep being told to rest, take it easy and not do my part. I know my constitution is weaker than even Aino’s. But I can help.” I held my hand over my heart. “Should I not give it my all?”
“You have a fighting spirit. That’s a good thing, but like Ineffa told me, you tend to over do it. Rest now, so you can do more later.” He petted my head.
“Is there a shower here?” I asked, looking around.
“Unfortunately, not.” Varka sighed.
“I feel gross. Perhaps I can find a pond around here.” I pursed my lips. The salt water was also an option but one that would leave me grainy.
“Probably best if you stay inside the base.” Varka pointed at the bathroom. “You can clean up in the sink though.”
“That will work. I’m just used to taking a bath every day. And it’s been a hot minute.” I wrinkled my nose at the thought. To be truthful, most of my new friends needed a bath at this point. The only ones not rocking B.O were Ineffa, Flins and I. Maybe it was an inhuman thing to always smell good. I felt raw, and I needed to get the sand off my skin.
Once in the bathroom I stripped down, and took a rag out of my backpack and some soap. I scrubbed up and washed my outfit to the best of my ability. I hung it up to dry, and emerged from the restroom in my nightgown.
“I feel so much better.” I sighed, both men’s eyes glued to my legs for a split second before quickly racing back to my face. The gown hit mid-thigh, I guess it really wasn’t appropriate.
“Well, I’m glad you feel better.” Varka hummed and petted the chair next to him. “Come, have a seat.”
“My lady, are you not cold?” Flins stripped off his jacket and laid it over my legs once I was seated.
“Oh, thank you.” I gripped the collar of the coat. “It’s a bit drafty in here.” Flins was wearing a button up shirt under his coat. I had seen it before, but never in the light. The fabric was worn, the white color almost translucent in some spots.
“Sorry for the breeze. Being by the sea makes for a chilly meeting spot.” Varka cleared his throat. “I can use my vision to help dry your clothes. Nothing a little anemo can’t help speed along.”
“That’s a great idea. I’d rather you not see my undergarments, but I can let you air dry my other items.” Varka laughed but Flins turned slightly red.
“Alright, let’s get you back in your normal clothes before Sir Flins passes out.” I balked as Varka spoke, Flins’ lantern was hopping around erratically but I hadn’t paid it much attention…it did the same thing that night at the hotel.
Varka’s power concentrated on my outfit, and soon it was dried out enough I could slip it back on. He left the bathroom and I got dressed. My ears were trying to perk back up, so I left them out of my scarf.
“There, in my past lif-. In the past I would have many outfits to wear, but nowadays it’s just this and my gown.” I sighed, sitting back in my chair. I scooted to the edge of the chair and stretched my legs out, leaning back. “The Fatui, I don’t know why they had me. Or what happened. But this is just reality now.”
“We’ll figure it out together.” Flins had put his coat back on.
“What I miss most is my sister.” I sat back in my chair properly and leaned forward into my lap. “I hope she’s okay.”
“So, you and the Traveler have that in common. No wonder you’re two peas in a pod.” Varka clapped my back, and I sat up. “You’ll find her again.”
“I think there is too much between us now. Things have changed so much. This world is not something I know.” I was careful with my words.
“You’re fae too, right?” Varka pointed at Flins.
“Umm.” I sucked in my lower lip. “I think.”
“So, you have a hazy memory. Maybe time will help with that.” Varka got up and went to the liqueur cabinet in the corner.
Flins gave me a cautious glance and I nodded in return. “It will be fine.”
“Just a sip. We can’t be caught with our pants down.” Varka passed us all a shot of something clear.
“I don’t know.” I smelt the liquid and scrunched my nose.
“Allow me, my lady.” Flins downed his shot, then mine.
“What a rascal, Flins.” Varka grinned. “Let’s all take a look at the map and see what we can find. Maybe Rerir is back to looking for more kuuvahki rich areas.”
“Pretty sure he’s still looking for Columbina.” I said matter of fact.
“Still, let’s look busy.” Varka looked over to the map.
We spent the next few hours waiting for everyone to get back. I eventually laid down, and tried to remember what would happen next. I had played the Nod Krai quest over the course of two days, with little sleep. I knew Nefer was in her chess set, and that Rerir would be captured for a short time. That was happening as we spoke. It was better I wasn’t there. I’d be stuck watching helplessly with Paimon until Dain and Columbina would free everyone inside.
“(Y/n)! Time to go. Nefer made some discoveries.” Paimon and Lumine were beside me, quiet as ever.
“Oh, finally I can move in some peace.” I laughed, both knowing I knew what happened.
“Shh.” Lumine rolled her eyes, but seemed refreshed. “Let’s hurry back to the Curatorium.”
I sat up, slipped my shoes and coat back on. We all gathered at the door, and as usual, Flins took up the rear or walked beside me. Keeping me at arms reach the whole time. Worry settled in my stomach, gathering up like a swirl of anemo. Would I be enough? Flins dearly loved the people of Nod Krai, but the things he did now were more for my benefit. To be fair this was a part of the game I didn’t get to experience because I was following Lumine.
“Come on, cheer up you two.” Paimon zipped back to my side. Flins was beside me, his eyes lost in thought. “Where's your fighting spirit?”
“We are not wounded Paimon, just deep in thought.” Flins spoke for us both.
“Just don’t get too distracted. We can’t be caught slacking.” Paimon poked my nose, and I giggled. “There, you need to smile. You’re too pretty, not too.”
“Flins is too pretty to frown too.” I said it before I could stop myself, but the fae beside me offered up a dazzling smile.
“Is this suitable?” He asked. I bumped his hip with mine and walked a little faster. He kept up with ease.
“I don’t know. Flashing those canines? Makes me think I’m next on the menu.” I teased him, but a dark glint came over his eyes.
“Maybe you are, my Lady.” Flins smirked, reaching over and adjusting my scarf so he could see my face better.
“Yeah, I hear rabbits are good this time of year.” Paimon giggled. “You two just needed prodded. I’m glad it’s working.”
“Hey, you three. Hurry up and quit goofing off.” Lumine scolded us.
“We’ve caught Lumine’s wrath.” I jogged to close the distance between our group.
“Paimon’s sorry.” Paimon zipped past me.
“It’s just a little fun, that’s needed on a long journey.” Flins wasn’t about to bow to Lumine.
“Yeah, well. We have things to do, don’t get distracted.” Lumine turned up her nose at us.
The rest of the walk to the Curatorium was filled with idle chatter. I talked about my old job of being a librarian. The types of patrons I’d encounter and the messes I’d find at the end of the day. Flins spoke on his job in the Lightkeepers, Varka as Grand Master and Lumine as a Traveler. We took turns to pass the time to make it back to Nasha Town.
“We’re here.” Paimon announced as we all piled into the Curatorium.
The first thing I noticed was Nefer looked worse for wear. She was fighting through exhaustion. I ignored everyone’s greeting and went straight to her side. “Hello, (Y/n). Are you offering to heal me?” She could see right through me.
“I am. You could use some vitality.” I pointed at my moonwheel. “It can be messy, and I don’t want to put moisture in your living room. Want to step outside or in the bathroom?”
“I will be fine without your aid.” She pushed my offer aside.
“You wouldn’t owe me a thing. This isn’t a favor.” I reasoned with her.
“Everything you accept for free, is a favor.” Nefer smiled. “I’ll be fine.”
“Alright, you know where to find me.” I went back to sit by Flins on the sofa. It was natural at this point. We had been through so much in a few short days, not being near him was causing me grief. I should have accepted his advances on the beach, but there was too much at stake.
“Seems we are all here now. Here’s what we know.” Nefer went over the story of Rerir. How he lost his girlfriend, and fell into the abyss, was torn up and spit out creating the wild hunt. There was lots of chatter, most of which I tuned out again. It was better this way, I wouldn’t be messing their process up and giving away too many hints.
Varka made a comment that it didn’t matter how sad Rerir’s story was, we had a duty to hunt him down and put an end to all this. I had to agree, but I knew what was coming soon, or who was. This was just the start of it all. A few days of peace and preparation while Rerir was locked up, then a big ass fight.
Dain was looking sad, Lauma and Columbina offered him some comforting words. Then Lauma mentioned Nefer needed rest. So Varka told us all to split up and catch our breath.
I looked between Lumine and Flins. There was only one right answer, Lumine. However, I wanted to stay with Flins. The two in question looked between each other and nodded.
“How about I escort you all back to the Flagship?” Flins held out his hand for me, and I clasped it.
“Thank you, Flins.” I took a shallow breath. While no air entered my lungs, the muscles still contracted. There were times I would panic and use those muscles to settle me. Maybe the panic attacks were all in my head? How else was I able to lose control of my breathing, when I didn’t breathe?
“Uhhh, (Y/n)? You look like you’ve had an ugly thought.” Paimon floated by me.
“How do I manage to have panic attacks, when I don’t really need to breathe? Is it just muscle memory?” I asked, looking at Flins.
“That’s my theory. You’ll likely forget to use those muscles over time, but it can be helpful to stay strong.” He whispered to where only our group could hear.
“Right. That’s still embarrassing on my part.” I sighed. “I keep making a fool of myself.”
“That’s part of your charm.” Lumine laughed, her voice like spring.
“Really?” I thought it over.
“Yes. You follow your intuition, that’s refreshing.” Flins agreed, and we all came to a stop at the Flagship. “I believe I will be spending the night here, to ensure I am close to town.”
“Good idea.” Paimon floated through the bar and towards our room.
“I think I’m going to stay with Flins for a bit. If he’s okay with it.” I still had his hand in mine.
“Oooo, of course.” Paimon beamed.
“I would prefer you to stay with me.” He was turning red, his ears dusting with color.
“Alright, we’ll see you in a bit.” Paimon said, her and Lumine headed to their room.
“See ya.” I let go of Flins’ hand, pink dusting my own face. “Um, you should go get a room from Demyan, I wouldn’t want him to think anything.” I looked at the floor.
“I would never put your virtue into question, my dearest Starlight.” He pushed some stray hair away from my face and into my scarf.
“I do have a request when we get to your room.” I felt myself burning alive. I had been in his room before, not since the beachside confession.
“Whatever you wish.” He went to the bar and paid for a room. I followed him down the hall, seeing Varka and Lumine were talking with Paimon half listening. Flins grabbed my hand and dove into his room.
“I want to know what that’s about.” I whispered. Flins’ grip on my hand tightened, and he pulled me to face him.
“My Starlight, what was your request?” He was hanging onto my every word at that point.
“I wanted to brush your hair after you shower.” I held the back of my neck with my free hand.
“Do you want to shower first? You did ‘clean up’ back at the base.” He motioned to the bathroom.
“I wouldn’t mind taking another one. But you go first, not that you smell bad. You smell really nice actually, but I know you have to be covered in grit from being in the sand.” I felt myself about to gasp for breath…that I wasn’t really breathing.
“Shh.” He pulled me into a hug. “I will shower first, and you may brush my hair.”
“Thank you.” I settled on the sofa, and he went to the bathroom and I could hear the water turn on.
While waiting, I focused on cleaning my fingernails. Once that was done, I took my canteen from my bag and finished off what was left. I refilled it constantly but it was never enough. Maybe I did need more juice?
Feeling brave, I went to the mirror in the corner and lifted my dress up. The once purple bruise on my ribs had healed up, leaving just a few discolored spots. It didn’t hurt nearly as much, and I could move freely. The shower turned off.
I hurried back to the couch. Flins emerged in a pair of what was this world’s pajama pants…and only that. “I apologize for the lack of attire; I always pack light.”
“You’re bruised to hell and back.” I cleared my head, getting to my feet and circling him. “I thought I was healing you better than this.” I looked at my insufficient hands.
“My Starlight, you are more than enough. For creatures such as you and I, healing requires rest. Some healing can be effective, but our bodies hold onto trauma.” He explained, handing me his hair brush.
“I need to do more. Be better.” I touched the bruise on his back, probably from when he broke my fall earlier. “I’ll get stronger in time…but let me tend to you now.”
“I won’t stop you.” He smirked, catching my eyes on his biceps.
I guided him to the couch, and he sat in front of me. I ran the brush from the bottom of his long hair, and worked my way up. His wet locks were so soft, flowing through my fingers. “I assume you washed your outfit.”
“I did. Perfect timing, right?” He grinned like a fox, sharp eyes flicking back at me.
“I’m going to eat you up one day. They will say, ‘what ever happened to Kyryll?’ and I will say, ‘he was swallowed by the sea.’ And no one will ever hear from you again.” I rattled as I brushed his hair, now focusing on the front’s shorter pieces.
“Seems, you’ve been putting some thought into this.” He laughed. “What if you disappear one day? I will tell the people she ascended into the heavens.”
“If I disappear, I fear no one will come looking for me. If not you or Lumine, then no one will come to dwell on me again.” I combed my fingers through his hair.
“We may jest, but I would scour to the end of the world, till I found you.” He said it so sure, so confident, like he’s never said anything truer.
“Am I that likeable?” I began to braid his hair.
“Like a moth drawn to a lantern, I wish to be consumed by you.” He cleared his throat. “I have been among humans for many years now. They gave me purpose again. But most I know, live and die by the sword.” I finished off his braid. He twirled on the sofa, his knees to mine now. “You give me hope. For someone with a human soul, and a fae life span. We would always have each other.” He tinted red. “But there is far more than just that.”
“Like what?” I prodded him. “If I was fully human, would that have changed your feelings?”
“I fear I will fall for you in any lifetime, my Starlight.” He kissed my knuckles. “The resolve you carry to protect your friends. The stubborn but selfless nature that swallows you whole. It’s so admirable.”
“I think you’re admirable too.” I placed his hand on my beating heart. I knew it wasn’t virtuous, but I wanted him to feel it. “You’re so strong, so funny and kind to everyone you meet. Sure, you’re a flirt, but it adds spice to life, right? But it’s more than that. It’s how easily you believe me. How soft you are with me when I’m falling short. You make me feel safe and seen. I’ve always had to be tough. But with you, I can relax for just a moment.”
“It comforts me to know that my presence brings you ease.” He was still red in the face, his hand not moving from my chest. “Are we close to the end of all of this?”
“About halfway.” I frowned.
“Then we will push through this last half together.” He moved his hand to my face. “Then I shall have exactly what I want.”
“Yes. Be it to rid yourself of me, or not, I will respect it.” I teased him, but it was partly true. I knew I could fuck this up at any given point. I needed to be myself, but also make sure I didn’t let things go array.
“I will not be rid of you so easily.”
OOOOOOO
Later in the evening everyone gathered for a strategy meeting in the bar. Everyone had their role to play, even me. I was to stay at mid-range and offer healing to the best of my ability. It was simple, but something I knew needed done.
At one point, Dori tried to spill Flins’ full name and he shh’ed her. It was hard not to find it a little amusing. Still, we all agreed to prep over the next few days, which meant I needed to work on healing. To practice, I would be singing and healing my friends as they spar. Simple enough.
Soon the night drew to a close, and we all split off. I went back with Lumine and Paimon, feeling a pit form in my stomach.
“You look pale.” Paimon pointed out as we settled into the room. I had dropped off my bag before we went to the bar so I had all my stuff.
“I might have formed a dependent attachment.” I looked at the door. “Trauma bonding at its finest.”
“Aww, you miss Flins.” Paimon eased the scarf off my head. “Your ears are down.”
“I’m fine.” I looked at my feet.
“His eyes, they are always darting back to you.” Lumine sat by me on the sofa. “Between him and I, you’re going to be okay. I know this mess is scary, but we have a solid plan.”
“Plus, you know the outcome.” Paimon added. “And you’re not afraid. So, I’m not afraid either.”
“I am afraid. Terrified. If even one thing goes wrong…we won’t win.” I had one drink at the bar. Flins had insisted on paying for it, and limiting me to one, lest we have a repeat of the treasure hoarder incident.
“Then nothing will go wrong.” Lumine steeled her resolve. “I trust our friends, and I trust you.”
“Thank you. Both of you.” I eased the tension in my shoulders. “Let’s get some rest.”
“Actually, we’re going to go check on a few things. You can come if you’d like.” Paimon offered.
“No thanks. I better have a moment alone.” I leaned back on the sofa. “You two go learn the things I shouldn’t just tell you.”
“Glad to see your humor is still intact.” Paimon clapped her hands. “Alright Traveler, let’s go.”
“Rest up.” Lumine stood and I stretched out on the sofa.
On my own, I read a little bit. At this point I read my catalyst several times. It seemed like a take on Shrek. A woman cursed to turn into an ogre at night, falling in love with a natural born ogre. They actually got along just fine, but when she turned herself over to the king who wanted to marry her, she was miserable. Her ogre man saves her from her fate before she is wed and they run off together.
It was a good story, one that felt like something I’d read or watch back home. Still, I needed to find more books. The people of this world kept me busy, but I missed my comforts.
Soon Lumine and Paimon were back and tucked into bed. I listened to Paimon snore, and Lumine mumble to herself. They never woke each other up, and the noise they made put me at ease. I was almost at a good point of dissociation when I felt Flins at the door.
Getting up, I peeked through the peephole, and there he was. His lantern was flashing, lighting up the whole hall. What made him so nervous?
“Flins, what’s wrong?” I slipped outside the door and shut it behind me.
“The moonlight is lovely tonight.” He dismissed me, not quite holding my gaze.
“You can’t rest, can you?” I relaxed my features, and grabbed his hand. His gloves were smooth against my skin.
“No. I know you’re mere feet away, but I can’t settle my thoughts. I was just going to stand guard at your door, but you felt my presence. Ever so attuned.” He followed my lead and I slipped out the side door at the Flagship.
“The false moon is pretty, though the real moon would be more suitable.” I sighed looking at the sky. We sat on a few crates by the side door.
“Not nearly as pretty as my Starlight.” He smoothed my ears back.
“You can turn into a lantern. Do you think I can turn into a bunny? Maybe ditch the ears?” I asked, tugging at the appendages on my head.
“I think you can. It will just take time and practice.” He gazed at me. Which was too intimate for friends, but over doing it for people trying to repress their feelings.
“Perhaps.” I licked my lips. “I’m a little-“
“Thirsty?” He smiled.
“Yes. We should get back to bed. And you should rest. I’m pretty tough. Plus Lumine is with me, so it’s fine.” I stood up and dusted my rump off.
“You’re right.” He cleared his throat and waited for me to make the first step back inside.
“Also.” I got to my tip toes and kissed beside his lips. “I was worried about being apart as well. But, we need to be tough.”
“Alright, as you wish.” He ran his hand down my back. “Back to bed.” I led the charge back inside, and Flins dropped me off at my room. We parted ways. Knowing in two days, we’d be facing Rerir. Anything could happen.
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Seven
Master List for Chapters
Chapter Seven: Sure, It's Endearment
“Let me heal you, dammit.” I was on Varka’s shoulder kicking my legs. Anio and Ineffa were making more decoys, and Flins, Varka and I were out placing them. Only, I was in time out.
“You healed us at the last spot; this time you rest.” Flins stated, using his lantern to lead us out of the fog.
“The wild hunt isn’t a match for you two, but I know you need topped off.” I went lax against Varka, the strong blonde man laughing so hard it reverberated through his whole body.
“I do recommend you put her down.” Flins said once we were out of the fog.
“She’s no trouble.” Varka swirled me around, now I was facing Flins. “Tell him you enjoy it.”
“Please get me down.” I held my head up to make the request, then let it fall back down to plant into Varka’s spine.
“Fine. I’ll put you down for now.” Varka sat me down and I held my soft stomach.
“You’re very strong, but it’s not super comfortable. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate you watching after me, but I’m too ‘squishy’.” I used the term Paimon coined. Thinking about it, it was also used by the game community.
“Let us head to our next location.” Flins led the way, carrying one of the devices that Aino made in his pocket.
We travelled about a mile before I did it. Starting out with a simple humming tune, I slowly desensitized them to the sound. I hummed a lot, it wasn’t odd or out of the ordinary. Then I sang under my breath, Flins walking beside me instead of taking up the rear. His eyes dared me, pointed and dark. I liked being dared though.
“Keep it one hundred, on the land, the sea, the sky. Pledge allegiance, to your-“Flins covered my mouth, I could taste the leather of his glove. His other hand, gathered my wrists behind my back so I couldn't flounce.
“Shh.” His lips were right by my ear. In the distance, I noticed it. There was a wild hunt anomaly breaking out. Varka was standing with his fist up in the air, silently commanding us to be still. Varka pointed to a bush, and we all dived for it.
Once in the bush, I was sandwiched between the two men. Once again, the thought of this being my own personal fantasy crossed my mind. However, the blood rushing through my veins was not the kind that made me joyful, it was laced with terror. Throughout the day I had been getting used to fighting the hunt, but it didn’t make it any less terrifying.
I closed my eyes as the monsters walked past us. Holding my breath, my heart only thumped faster. Flins eased his hand over mine as I squeezed a handful of dirt. He smoothed my fingers till my hand was lax against the ground.
“Let’s hurry to our last few spots. I imagine everyone will be getting back to base.” Varka whispered and I opened my eyes. The hunt was gone, and we had successfully snuck past them.
We crawled out of the brush, and took the main road to our next spot. Once that was done Varka decided to head back to base, while Flins and I set up the last one, and bought some time.
“I trust you two and Ineffa and Aino to hold them off. I’ll go meet with the others. I have sent for reinforcements, and I feel they should be here soon.” Varka flexed his shoulders as he spoke. He was still tired from his last battle…should have let me heal him.
“Albedo!” I beamed as what he said hit me.
“You know him?” Varka was taken back. “Or must it be your good ears.”
“Her ears are quite attuned.” Flins covered for me. Without him, Paimon and Lumine, I’d been up a creek.
“Yes. I’ve heard of his work in the alchemy world. I don’t know much, but his name is very famous.” I held my neck and offered a smile.
“Him and Durin will be here shortly. Just head to our last spot. I think the fight should be over soon.” Varka dashed off.
“I’m going to ruin things at this rate.” I turned to Flins, offering a sheepish smile. “Thanks again for all your help.”
“It is my pleasure.” He bowed, placing his hand close to his chest. “Now, let’s journey to our next location.”
“Alright, let’s go.” We headed off.
The last spot was already overrun with the Wild Hunt. I know it probably killed Flins to let the Hunt walk by us earlier, but we had bigger fish to fry. This was something too big for one person…or one dps and their singular support.
“I’ll get them wet and you electrocute them.” I reasoned standing a few feet behind Flins. I noticed when I was just tossing water for water’s sake I didn’t need to sing or hum. My group had been adamant I keep taking breaks, so this was good for me to learn.
“Just stay behind me.” Flins lit up with his electro powers. Stabbing and slashing all the while he kept one hand behind his back. I was working up a sweat, tossing water left and right. Offering a little healing when Flins would take a blow.
“Burst forth.” I was raised high in the air by a geo flower. “There, now your companion won’t have to worry about you.” Albedo.
“I got this!” Durin swooped past me, jumping into the fight.
High in the air, it was easier to make it rain over the monsters. Flins was moving deeper into the hoard now that I was up high. And unlike the game, the flower didn’t bob up and down, it just stayed up. Even as Albedo worked his geo powers, the flower stayed strong.
“Holler if you need healing. I’m (Y/n) by the way.” I called out to my new group members.
“Pleasure. I am Albedo, and this is my brother Durin.” Albedo almost took a hit, but I pushed the monster back with a cork of water. “Thank you.”
“You got it.” I wasn’t a fan of being high up in terms of falling down being a factor. But it was very useful for being a better ally.
“I need some healing please.” Durin was lightly singed by a flame from a headless monster.
“Keep it one hundred, on the land, the sea, the sky. Pledge allegiance, to your hand, your team, your vibe.” I nodded my head to the music in my mind, the pink magic water swirling around Durin and the wound closing up.
The fight went on. Durin needed my healing more than anyone, but it made sense considering he hadn’t been a being for very long. I mostly skipped his story when I took my three-year break from the game, but I knew he had some ties to the abyss. Maybe that’s why it was harder to heal him? I was really excreting myself.
“Albdeo!” Durin screamed, a giant monster swinging a cobbering hand down beside Albedo. It was enough to make him lose focus.
The flower I was standing on, fifteen plus feet in the air, began to crumble. I screamed, stepping back to the last floating petal as I tumbled backwards. Airborne, I reached for any piece of the flower that might still be hoovering but it was too far from my grasp.
“I got you.” Flins was somehow able to be everywhere at once. Breaking my fall, catching my upper body and rolling back into the hard earth beneath.
“Albedo, he needs you.” I got out of Flins’ iron clad grasp, and stayed on my hands and knees to gather myself.
“My Starlight, please stay still.” He got up, dashing back into the fight. In his wake, he left his lantern by my side.
Catching my breath, I could no longer keep up with the fight. They descended into darkness. The light of Flins’ lamp was the only reason I could even see my own hands. It had been lighting up the whole battle just enough to where we all could see. Now they were in obscurity.
He told me to stay still. Maybe I was hindering the fight? There were black soot spots all around me from where they had been moving through the hoard. I picked up the lantern, the flame dancing higher with my every step into the black. Flins’ voice rang in my ears. Stay still. Albedo was right, Flins moved more freely when he wasn’t afraid of me being in danger. And yet, when I fell, he was on me in an instant.
Why?
Was it really just a promise?
“Ahhh!” Durin cried out in pain.
“That’s settled then.” I used the lantern to navigate through the fog. Once I was close enough to see Durin, I cleared my throat. “Don’t care where the hell you’ve been. Because now you’re mine. It’s ‘bout to be the sleepless night you’ve been dreaming of.” I twirled on my heels, the familiar crescent moon appearing on the ground and lighting up the battle field. Pink water swirled up like a fountain, drenching my comrades and giving them new found energy. “The fate of Ophelia.”
“Oh yeah! One left.” Durin cheered, Albedo dealing the final blow to the last member of the hunt.
“Good work, everyone.” I cheered. There was a tap on my back, and I turned to face Flins.
“We need to work on following directions.” He sighed, a pile of hunt bodies disappearing into dust behind me.
“I’m not in kindergarten anymore.” I sheepishly smiled.
“What’s that?” Durin asked, landing beside me.
“I’m also interested in what that is.” Albedo rested on his sword, standing on my other side.
“It’s just a word for school for kids where I’m from.” I cleared my throat. “But we won. So, let’s go back to base and see where we stand.” Flins’ eyes softened, tucking away his weapon and taking my hand.
“Interesting, so you’ve had a formal education?” Albedo went on to question me about my schooling all the way back to base. Durin would also pipe in questions here and there. Flins would have to deflect every time I almost spilled too much information, and I was grateful.
Once close to base I jogged ahead and stopped in front of Lauma. “Lauma, I’ve missed you.” I feigned my tears and grabbed her hand. “Is everyone okay? Did you get to check on the other frost moon scions?”
“They all escaped without any trouble. And most of the others are back. Nefer is finishing up a report.” Lauma turned to Flins. “Sir Flins, you seem to be in a good mood.”
“It’s often that I fight alone as a Ratniki. But today I had several companions to aid me.” He motioned to me, and in the distance Albedo and Durin as they brought up the rear. “It was refreshing.”
“We worked well as a team.” I added, knowing that I made Flins, Albedo and Durin stronger. My lunar blessing mixed with my water really made a big difference in the amount of damage they were pouring out. “Lumine, Paimon!” I beamed as they joined outside the hide out. I met Paimon’s open arms with a hug, and then patted Lumine on the shoulder. “I’ve missed you both.”
“Paimon’s been worried about you.” Paimon got closer. “Have you kept your secret?”
“Yes.” I whispered back.
“And who is this?” Lumine asked, looking at Durin.
“This is my brother. You two are already acquainted.” Albedo introduced the purple haired boy.
“Mini Durin? You’re not so mini anymore?” Paimon spoke.
“He wants you to know you can drop the mini.” Albedo said.
“I have learned a lot about how people's names change. And even though I started as mini Durin, it does not suit me anymore. And even though Paimon is little, I will not call you Little Paimon out of respect for you.”
“You may call me your esteemed guide Paimon.” Paimon puffed up.
“People call you little Paimon because of how cute you are.” Lauma laughed.
For the first time since we fought Rerir on Hiisi island, I felt at ease. Laughing, chatting and just thinking about anything else was so nice.
In the next few moments, more people joined the beach. Arlecchino and Columbina arrived, and they talked a little about their meeting with Sandrone. Lauma offered to go grab us chairs and Albedo said he’d make some. Arlecchino bid us farewell. And then Varka’s voice boomed through the secret base’s walls. He mentioned we were out of chairs and it was starting to be a tight fit.
Inside we were greeted by Dainsleif. Paimon introduced him, and we all decided he was welcome to join us. “The enemy of my enemy is my friend, so there is a chair for you at the table, but I’m not sure about the rest of you. Albedo, can you whip some chairs for us?”
“All this time apart, and the Grand Master’s first request is to rustle up some chairs. How I’ve missed this.” Albedo looked so happy to be back with Varka. It made me smile.
Small groups broke out into conversation. Durin, Paimon and Lumine talking about human interaction. And then Flins slyly manipulated Lauma to go prod Nefer to hurry up. It was a sight to see him work in action. Come to think about it, he hadn’t manipulated me that much…maybe when he gave me a piggyback ride. He usually was just quick and direct. But we were usually in peril.
“Wow, I’m impressed by your power of persuasion.” Varka complimented Flins.
“Ha.” I laughed.
“What’s so funny?” Flins raised his brow, smiling.
"That' s one way to put it.” I smiled back, poking his arm.
“The trick in life is to always pitch in with other people’s responsibility so you can be selective with your own.” Flins said, puffing his chest out.
“Or hide in the background.” Albedo added.
“Spoken like a true sage.” I said it at the same time as Flins.
“Wow, (Y/n) sure is great at deduction.” Paimon laughed, flying to my side.
“Anyways, we have down time before the other two get back. Chat to yourself and rest up.” Varka dismissed us.
Flins went to chat with Varka. I overhead them with my very good bunny ears, that I had let loose from my scarf. They talked about Illuga being a good apple, and how Flins was not human. And Varka made a comment about how Lumine, Paimon and I must have known about it. And how Varka can keep a secret. Flins looked back at me with knowing eyes, as I quickly turned.
And an idea crossed my mind. One that would surely make me stronger. Instead of turning my back on Varka and Flins, I walked up to them, gaining their full attention.
“Grand Master.” I pointed outside. “Let’s spar.”
“Wow, you’re a healer. I don’t think that’s a good idea.” He didn’t laugh, but he was cautioning me.
“I just want to learn a few things. Throw a few good punches. I’ll heal you up after, so no worries there.” This time he did laugh.
“You’re so interesting.” He clapped my shoulder letting it linger. “I’ll teach you a few moves.”
“I can assist.” Flins gently laid his hand on my other shoulder. Both men shared a glance.
“Alright, let’s take this to the sand.” I jumped off the platform and bound outside. Once outside, we gathered on the sand and got in position.
“First thing first, you need to learn how to fall.” Varka motioned Flins over. “Sir Flins, please knock me down.”
“As you wish, Grand Master.” Flins pushed Varka back. He landed on his rump first, keeping his hands in the air.
“So don’t use my hands to break my falls?” I asked.
“Perfect. Now I’ll knock you back.” Varka nodded for me to prepare.
“Okay. I’m ready.” I widened my stance, Varka paused.
“Good stance, but I’m going to hit you hard. So be ready.” I nodded at his words. I flicked my eyes to Flins, his body stiff.
“Ack.” I was knocked back while I was distracted. Landing on my back in the wet hard sand, I was sure if there was air in my lungs it would have been knocked out.
“Good, you didn’t use your hands.” Varka offered me a hand and pulled me up. “Let’s try again.”
“Okay.” I took my stance, Varka sweeping my legs from under me this time.
I landed well. “Very good. Now came at me for real. We’ll have a little spar session.”
“I don’t know about that.” Flins had his lips in a straight line.
“It’s harmless. I’ll go easy.” Varka winked, and I froze up for a moment.
“Let’s begin.” I knew I’d need to rely on physical damage, so I went to punch his face, which he was prepared for and caught my one hand. What he didn’t know is I had my other hand ready, and I dove it into his bread basket. He was caught off guard for a moment, allowing me to get another hit on his stomach.
“Good girl.” When he said it, I froze up. He landed a punch in my gut, hard enough I fell back.
Using my hands I caught myself and seethed. Knitting my brows together, I held my wrist to my chest. Great.
“Crud, where does it hurt?” Varka was fretting over me, kneeling in the sand. “I was too rough.”
Flins was behind me, once again wrapping his arms around my torso and pulling me to my feet. Once I was up, he had my hand in his, running his fingers along my bones.
“A sprain.” He sighed in relief. “Do you have the stamina to heal yourself?”
“I do. Umm, I’m going for a walk. I’ll be back healed up.” I hurried away from the men, and sprinted down the beach. Pretty sure one or both asked me to wait, but I was gone in a flash. Ducking and weaving through ship wrecks on the beach and rocks, I found a quiet place for myself.
Come to think of it, I hadn’t been truly alone in a hot minute. Maybe since before my stay with the Frost Moon Scions. My wrist was swelling and I needed to move fast, so I went back to the one song I had been working my way through. “The eldest daughter, of a nobleman. Ophelia lived in fantasy. But love was a cold bed, filled with scorpions the venom stole her sanity.” This part of the song was sort of sad, and that seemed to fit how I felt at the moment. I was in a fantasy world, real and hard. Was I doing the right thing? I had no way of knowing.
Taking off my shoes and coat, I set them up on a rock, and waded out into the cold water. Pouring my magic into the water, it turned pink and danced around me. My wrist was healed, but something was so soothing about spreading my magic out around me. A visual of the power I had been given. It stretched over the waves, crashing into the shore, moving with the force of nature.
I should have stayed and trained with Varka more. I had embarrassed myself again. I felt a scream bubbling up my throat, but I refused to let my emotions continue to control me. I was going to march back and apologize.
With my coat and boots back on, I started walking back down the path I had used to get there. That’s when I felt what was the most familiar presence. “Flins, you think you can hide from me?”
“I believe that’s my line, my dear Starlight.” He emerged from a shadow.
“How long have you been there?” I asked only now in range of him.
“Long enough, darling.” He fell in line beside me as we walked back to base.
“Do you regret taking me on as a responsibility by now?” I crossed my arms and looked out into the ocean.
He walked into my line of sight. “May I touch you?”
“What’s stopping you this time?” I asked, heat spreading over my neck and face. “Also, you dodged the question, so you must regret it.”
“Your body language isn’t exactly open.” He was inches from my face. “And speaking of dodging questions.”
I looked away from him, now gazing at the cliffs. “You may touch me.”
He gripped my chin, pulling me back to look at him. “I hold no regrets when it comes to you. That is my truth. My only regret is allowing Varka to handle you with such toughness.” His hand slid down my throat, across my collar and down my arm to hold my previously injured hand. “To hear him praise you. To see him touch you.” He pulled my hand to his chest, leaning to my ear. “Makes me jealous.”
“Oh?” I suddenly realized I might have been a rabbit in the mouth of a wolf with Varka, from Flins’ perspective.
“Why do you sound so surprised?” His nose brushed the shell of my ear, and I realized another thing. I might be a rabbit frozen under the lantern light.
I swallowed hard, lips and mouth suddenly so dry. “I’m a little thirsty.” I changed the subject.
“You realize it by now, you must?” His eyes flickered between my slightly parted lips and wide eyes.
“I’m not one to presume.” I gripped a fist full of his coat, as I had done a few times since meeting him. But this time, it was on his chest, over his heart. I could feel it, beating to the quick rhythm of his lantern. “But I sense you might be fond of me. Which makes me happy.” His face was inches from mine now, eyes glowing with something I couldn’t name.
“What if I asked you who was your favorite now? Would you mention any other name than mine?” His lips ghosted over mine, hot and barely grazing.
“No other name would come to mind.” My blood was rushing so fast, I started to panic. Oh no. I pulled away, and gripped my hair.
“My Starlight, what’s wrong?” He passed me his canteen and I downed it.
“I can’t fuck this up.” I handed the water back, my chest tightening up. “The story. I don’t know what will happen to Teyvat if I give in. Let alone what happens to Nod Krai, to the people you love, and the life you made for yourself.” I turned my back to him.
“Shh.” He wrapped himself around me from behind. “We can wait. No matter, you will remain my priority.”
“That’s the problem, Nod Krai should be your main concern. I messed things up.” I couldn’t ease the panic, making me feel like I needed air.
“Breath in.” Flins instructed me, unwrapping from my body and giving me space. “One, two, three, four.” His voice rang out, counting and coaching me.
“Thank you.” I sighed as I got myself back to a good place. “How about this? Once we save Nod Krai, we can do whatever you want.”
“Whatever I want?” His eyes glimmered.
“It’s a promise.” I held out my pinkie to him.
“That’s not something I can refuse.” He took off his glove, and linked our pinkies, his skin warm as his lantern.
“Deals, a deal. Now, I owe Varka an apology. So, let’s get back to the others.” I held my hand out for him to hold. I might not be able to do what I wanted at this moment, but I wanted him to know he could still be close with me.
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Six
Master List for Chapters
Chapter Six: Confront It
“More oomph!” Paimon encouraged me.
“I’m out of oomph.” I was two feet off the ground, trying to climb up a cliff.
“Climbing is an important skill.” Lumine was holding my back so I didn’t fall off the rock wall.
“I’m going to have to take the path more travelled I guess.” I dropped my feet and Lumine eased me back to the ground.
“It’s been two days of training, and you’ve made some progress. But.” Lumine frowned.
“But, I’m no match for Rerir.” I sighed. “I need to be there to help you all. One thing the story lacked was a dedicated healer. I’m pretty sure that’s my purpose.”
“Her healing is on scale with Barbra.” Paimon pointed at me. “She’s just squishy.”
“Yeah, her ribs are still purple.” Lumine pointed. “She’s internally healed, but she’s not able to heal herself as well as she does others. Maybe she’s more like Kuki.”
“I do seem to do better healing when I’m injured.” I raised my brow. “Kuki never leaves my team. I love her.”
“We still don’t understand what you’re talking about.” Paimon face palmed.
“Ugh, the people you’ve met on the road. They sometimes join your team and help you progress in the story.” I explained.
“Okay, we really need to get you back home.” Paimon teased, but something was brought to my attention.
“I don’t think that’s an option.” I looked at the ground.
“What do you mean?” Lumine handed me a canteen of water.
Taking a greedy gulp, I looked at them both. “Pretty sure I died.”
“What?!” Paimon gasped. “How can you know?”
“I don’t, but I think it’s the truth.” I started walking back towards Nasha town.
“We don’t know that for certain.” Lumine put away her sword. “Come on, let’s race back to Nasha town. I’ll give you a five-minute head start.”
“You’re on.” I was happy to change the subject, but I knew they would be talking about me while I got my head start. Still, it didn’t really matter.
“Go!” Paimon urged me forward and I took off at a nice pace.
Getting to Nasha town was quick. Lumine caught up to me with practiced ease, and stayed by my side the whole way back. At the last second she pulled back to fix her dress and I won by default.
“You let me win.” I laughed, feeling a little sorry for myself.
“Hey, you need to catch a break sometimes.” Lumine wrapped an arm around my shoulders and passed me her water canteen. I drank some and passed it back.
“There you are. Sir Flins has been looking for you all. There’s trouble at the quarry and he thinks it’s time to regroup.” A Ratnik met us at the town square.
“Oh no, we better hurry.” I sighed, wishing I hadn’t just ran. We all took off at a sprint.
Once we reached the quarry we found Anio, Ineffa, Jahoda, Flins and Lauma looking at several purple gashes along the mine shaft. Lauma mentioned the place was like a husk, Rerir draining the kuuvahki energy from the stone.
“He’s insatiable.” Flins commented.
“He can’t seriously be getting stronger. What’s his end game here?” Jahoda stressed, closing her eyes and waving her hands.
“Oh, you’re here.” Lauma noticed the three of us girls.
“Yeah, sorry to keep you waiting.” I smiled sheepishly.
“What’s going on?” Paimon asked.
“We’ve all been on high alert the past few days, waiting for Rerir to strike, but it’s like he vanished into thin air.” Flins paused. “That was until this morning when a Ratniki found this area during patrol. The kuuvahki has been drained, while the rock remains untouched.”
“Are we sure it was him?” Paimon asked.
“Who else would it be?” Anio answered.
“Threat set to maximum level. Warning, unless he is detained soon, he will be stronger than we are able to contain. The consequences: catastrophic.” Ineffa rattled.
The group tried to reason why he went into hiding. How he had lost his sanity and all the names he called out. How they had to mean something. How could he hide himself without sanity? He must have been living in his own world. Lurking in the shadows with enough sense to be discreet.
“He’s targeting kuuvahki rich areas. We should split up and look for him.” Flins decided. “When we are done, we will meet on Hiisi island.”
“Right, the moon goddess statue is made of kuuvahki rich ore.” I piped up.
“I’ll go evacuate the Pilgrams.” Lauma hustled to get back to her people. Her body transformed into her centaur form, and she was gone.
“Let’s not engage Rerir if we find him, stay on guard.” Jahoda added.
“Right.” We all said in unison.
I began to walk with Lumine and Paimon, but Flins’ voice cut through the air. “My lady, (Y/n). Please accompany me.”
Paimon whirled around to smirk at me. “Go on (Y/n), we’ll see you at Hiisi island.”
“Alright.” My lips settled into a frown before I turned and offered Flins a smile. “Let’s go.”
We walked towards our first look out spot. Flins kept pace beside me, when I slowed, he slowed and vice versa. He mirrored most of my moves, if I held my hand behind my back so did he, if I looked at the sky he would too. We hadn’t said a thing to each other yet, and it had been a solid fifteen minutes.
“Are you feeling, okay?” I asked, not meeting his yellow gaze.
“I fear I might have upset you.” He swallowed hard, his adams apple bobbing up then down.
“No. No. Of course, you’ve done nothing wrong or out of the ordinary.” I cleared my throat, turning to face him as we stopped walking. “It’s nothing.”
“It’s clearly something. Your aura has been sullen.” He paused before picking his next words. “The young Master also mentioned he found you drunk dancing under the moon.”
“Illuga.” I shook my head, of course he would tell Flins. “We barely know each other and he’s betrayed me. Did he also mention I took out a treasure hoarder?” I said it like I was so tough. Though I couldn’t remember if it was a Treasure Hoarder or Fatui member. Who said the ‘test subject’ line anyways?
“And that you promptly fell over, yes.” Flins didn’t smirk or smile. He had his arms crossed over his chest. “You don’t appear to be the type to be drunk and alone in the wilderness without reason.”
“I was jealous.” I whispered, turning my head away from him. I was walking towards our destination once more with haste.
“What was that, my lady?” He chased after me.
“I was jealous.” I said it to where he could hear. “It was stupid to be so jealous. You did nothing out of character, I just. I was so embarrassed by my reaction that I wanted to drown it out.”
“It would never be my intention to make you feel such a strong negative emotion.” He frowned; eyes locked onto mine. It was as if there was a crack in his bravado.
“Like I said, you did nothing wrong.” I took a deep breath. “I shouldn’t be distracting you. We have things to do and places to be.” Sadness bloomed over my chest and settled deep in my heart, aching.
“May I touch you?” He asked, and I raised my brow.
“We’ve touched plenty.” I cocked my head to the side.
“Last time you pulled away.” He kept a respectable distance, a good two steps away from me.
“Then please, feel free to reach out.” Heat bubbled through my body, he closed the two step space between us. One hand sliding around my waist, and the other resting around my back. He pulled me so my head planted in his shoulder. “Flins.”
“My Starlight.” His lips were right by ear, there was no hot breath to be felt, but all the same the soft sound reverberating off my ear drums sent a chill down my spine. “How about I reserve that name, for when it is just us, and only for you? Would that quell the gloom in your heart?”
Slowly, I wrapped my arms around Flins, hugging him back. “That might work. Uh, we can always try it.” I grabbed a fistful of his coat, and pulled him back slightly, so he could see my face. His brows raised, lips quirking up. “But I know you’re very kind to everyone. So don’t hold back on people because I have a soft ego.”
“Alright, my Starlight.” We pulled apart, Flins keeping a grip on my hand as we went down the path.
The gloom that had filled me settled into a more manageable ache. Perhaps I hadn’t been a total fool. I was still missing my world, but maybe there would be some hope of friends here.
OOOOOOOO
We all gathered on Hiisi Island and shared our findings. We had interviewed a few Ratniki and found one kind of suspicious person to look into. But they were gone before we could find them. No one else had a lead, so we were waiting on Anio and Ineffa to come up with a plan when they got to us.
“Rerir should just come on out and fight me!” Jahoda challenged, and there was a shaking.
Lumine grabbed my arm and pulled me close to her side. “He’s here.” Lumine said, looking at me for some kind of answer.
“It’s coming from Silver Moon Hall, lady Kuutar!” Lauma took off in a sprint in the direction of Silver Moon Hall.
I broke free from Lumine and was hot on Lauma’s trail. Flins caught up to me with ease, wielding his polearm. Jahoda, Paimon and Lumine came up the rear but were close on our heels. Lumine stayed back to keep pace with Paimon.
Columbina and Rerir were locked in a fierce battle, their aura dancing in the sky back and forth. Something in Columbina broke and she began to fall. Lauma stood still and used her power to break her fall, but it was me who caught her before she dipped her head into the water.
“There you go. It’s okay.” I held Columbina, humming a quick tune and healing her the best I could.
“What does he want with the Damsellette?” Paimon asked.
“No time for questions, stop him.” Flins and Lumine got to action. They all started to clash weapons.
Lauma passed by us and Jahoda. “You two, get Kuutar out of here.”
“Okay.” I helped Jahoda get Columbina up and we began to hobble as a group back the way we had come. When I turned back, all three of our fighters were tethered with the purple hands of abyssal power.
Think. If I keep holding Columbina, she might not take the hit for Jahoda and that will affect the story. But I also can’t leave the others tied up. What should I do? What do I do?
“(Y/n), go help them, I got Columbina.” Jahoda ordered me. I could sense she was terrified, but this helped me make the better choice.
As I ran towards the fight, I knew I was no use. I was stuck in the middle. Once Rerir’s gaze landed on them escaping, he was about to fire his shot.
Lauma yelled. “Look out!”
An arrow flew past me, and right for Jahoda and Columbina. As it was meant to be, Jahoda’s arrow wasn’t strong enough and Columbina pushed her out of the way. While this happened, I kept running.
“Oh, the little healer.” Rerir was focused on me, long enough for Lumine to start having the cogs in her head turn to reach out to Columbina and break free.
“Let them go.” I summoned my catalyst, and widened my stance.
“So cute. Just like…Tholindis.” He screamed, throwing energy at me. I jumped and rolled, and dodged. Lumine broke free and was running to Columbina. Lumine missed the arrows Rerir threw as Ineffa appeared and blocked them. Good Ineffa and Anio were here.
While looking at Lumine, I missed the arrow coming right at me. My eyes went wide; I couldn’t move fast enough to miss. There was a strangled grunt, then a streak of fiery blue slamming into me. Flins had broken free…he wasn’t supposed to break free.
His body crashed into mine, both of us knocked back. The arrow plunged into the earth. Flins had used himself as a shield, and barely dodged the attack. Another attack was coming, we couldn’t dodge this time. Flins pushed my head back down and stayed firm over my body.
In an instant we were teleported to a valley. The action made my stomach swirl. I didn’t know how close or far we were, but Flins had me caged beneath him. He was about to take a blow to the back to save me…he found the strength he didn’t have before, to come to my aid. I was surely changing the game, but I didn’t know what would happen from here on out. But maybe it wasn’t a game anymore…it was just life.
“My lady, are you injured?” I didn’t realize it, but I wasn’t paying Flins any attention. He was still leaning over me. He gently placed his left hand to my face, rubbing up and down my jaw. “Can you speak?”
“Just sore from jumping around so much. Did you take any damage?” I rested my hand on his hand and squeezed. I shut my eyes for a moment and took a deep breath.
“I’ll be fine knowing you’re sound.” He got to his knees, then stood. Leaning down, he picked me up by my torso and got me to my feet…. odd execution but effective.
“Uhh, are we intruding?” Paimon said. Everyone was staring at us…oops.
“Eww.” Anio scrunched up her nose.
“We have bigger fish to fry right now.” Lumine changed the subject.
“I think everyone might need a top off first. Y’all keep chatting and I’ll heal you.” There was a large group, but only a few needed some healing.
“Thank you, (Y/n).” Lauma was smiling at me. We hadn’t spoken in a few days, I was missing her softness.
“Are you sure?” Paimon frowned.
“Yeah, just keep chatting about ho-“ Paimon covered my mouth.
“Just start singing.” Paimon frowned as she whispered.
“Good call.” I hummed for a moment to warm up my voice, the pink cork screws jumping up and around those injured. “I sat alone in my tower. You were just honing your powers. Now I can see it all. You dug me out of my grave, saved my heart from the fate of Ophelia.” I did a little dance similar to Barbra, picturing my friend’s vitality coming back to them. I sang low enough not to bother the group as they spoke, but I knew a few were listening from their foot taps.
“There are many who love the moon, but just as many who despise it for one reason or another. I don’t know why he holds me in such contempt, but he has aggression towards the moon I represent.” Columbina frowned, looking out into the false sky.
“There are lots of reasons he may want you. You helped the traveler escape, and you are made of kuuvahki. Regardless, the likelihood of this area being discovered is 100%.” Ineffa had a good point.
I looked around, afraid there’d be something behind me, but it was just Flins. Flins offered me a small smile, glancing from his polearm to me. He wasn’t about to let anything sneak up on us.
Columbina then mentioned being bait, and letting us run away. We all agreed we wouldn’t leave her behind. Flins even mentioned we all were friends at this point, which was comforting. Lauma then went on about how she understood why Columbina left the island the first time, and how prayer was used as a barter system.
“My power is on the wane; I won’t be of much use to you now.” Columbina frowned, looking at the ground.
“We’ll find a way to win.” Lumine smiled, and tried to cheer her up.
“Of course we will. We’re all pretty tough… or at least you all are.” I laughed, but no one else laughed with me. “Bad time to joke around I see.” Flins rested his hand on my back.
They went on to talk about the three moons, and how Columbina needed to gather her power to be able to teleport us again. How she can only hold the frost moon's power and no others. And how the eternal moon gave her a boost when she touched hands with Lumine.
“The wild hunt is here.” Paimon squeaked. I jumped around, the wild hunt splitting. Some going back and others coming forward.
“They are turning back. They are likely a scouting party.” Flins stepped towards the monsters. The ones coming at us were approaching fast.
“This is so annoying.” Anio put her hands on her sides, and growled. She then pulled out her claymore.
“Anio, stay in the middle with me and Columbina.” I said, as the fight broke out. Anio tried to fight, but I pulled her back to the middle.
It took all of us to keep them held back. Paimon stayed close to me with Columbina and Anio in the center. The rest fought around us. I sang lowly to myself, once again coming out as fae language. Keeping their bodies in fighting condition. But it was starting to wear me down. Still, I pushed hard and kept their health up.
“Rerir is not far behind.” Flins called out to the group, glancing back in the circle for a moment before looking forward at the fight before him. Lumine, Ineffa, and Lauma also kept glancing back, but not at me. They all had someone they were keeping an eye on…I guess I was Flins’ chosen ward at this point.
“There’s too many to fall back.” Jahoda cried, shooting arrows from a high spot on the cliff.
“What’s the matter? Bit off more than you can chew?” A claymore was thrown into the fray, Varka appearing and killing off the last of the monsters.
“Uncle Varka!” Anio cheered.
“You’re Grand Master Varka?” Paimon asked.
“Yes, but let’s save questions for later and get you all out of this hellhole. Let’s go where it’s safe.” Varka was bigger than I bargained for.
“Is that where I think it is?” Jahoda beamed.
“Yup, come on and move. We have no time to waste.” Varka had us follow behind him.
Flins and Lumine had to help me up the incline that led to the level Varka was on, but once I was up, I was mostly fine. Until I took a few steps and had to brace myself against the cliff wall. Taking even breaths, my vision was spinning and I could barely feel which way was up or down.
“What’s wrong?” Flins put his hand on my shoulder and that grounded me just enough I could hold his gaze.
“We have a man down.” I was about to speak but Varka was on me like a bee to honey. Everyone’s eyes were on me, spare Columbina who just sensed things. “What’s wrong, little miss?” Varka spoke like he was my leader, and I guess he was at this point.
“Vertigo. Don’t let me slow you down, keep going. I’ll catch up.” I reasoned, Flins’ grip on my shoulder tightening.
“No can do.” Varka lifted me with one arm, and slung me over his shoulder. “No man left behind.”
“So strong.” I groaned. Being slung over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes did not help the vertigo. But I didn’t have time to think, he went back to leading the pack.
“Perhaps, I could carry her.” Flins was right on Varka’s heels now. Ineffa leading the back of the group.
“You should rest. I got her.” Varka’s whole body rumbled as he spoke. If my sister was here, she’d be eating this up. I too thought the Grand Master was a hunk and a good guy, but she had dibs…how I miss her.
“Her position is rather unceremonious.” Flins countered.
“Hey, Varka’s got her. Take it easy, Flins.” Paimon beamed, floating around Flins.
“I’m okay.” I assured the group, Varka jumped over an embankment and not once lost his grip. I wanted to scream with how floaty I felt, but I needed to be tough for my friends.
“You take it easy too. We’ll need healing when we get to the base.” Jahoda pointed out.
“Affirmative healing would increase morale.” Ineffa added.
“You got it.” I agreed. Flins and Lumine were biting their lips…but not Paimon.
“She’s used enough energy tonight. We’ll be fine for a bit.” Paimon held up her thumb and winked at me.
In the middle I noticed Lauma was having a private conversation with Columbina. They were helping each other walk and leaning on each other for support.
Once at the hide out, Varka lowered me right onto a cot. “There, now get some rest. We’ll brief you once we get done talking.”
“Thank you, Grand Master.” I let my muscles relax, and settled into the plush cot. It was much softer than the sofa I had been ‘sleeping’ on.
Once again, I couldn’t actually sleep, but laying still was helping. I don’t know how long they were chatting, but I knew they would be splitting up to go out and make everything happen. I should be making sure they split into proper groups, but I only knew how Lumine and Columbina’s journey would go.
They had finally stopped chatting, and I could tell they were about to split. My body still ached, and the unsteady feeling remained. Standing, I hummed and tried to heal myself. After a few minutes, the vertigo let loose, and I could stand without almost tipping over.
“Where did you all find such an adept healer?” Varka asked. Him, Ineffa, Anio and Flins forming a semi-circle around me.
“She was a Fatui experiment that the Traveler rescued.” Anio said it so matter of fact.
“Just got my vision that same day. Not sure how I’m so adept, but I’m learning fast.” I reasoned, biting down on my bottom lip. Varka’s eyes were settled on the scarf I had around my neck and the bunny ears on my head.
“I assume, you weren’t always a rabbit?” Varka frowned.
“We have things to do right? Go make decoys?” I offered, realizing they hadn’t filled me in yet.
“You have good ears, Bunny girl.” Varka clapped his hand to my shoulder.
“Affirmative, rabbits have excellent hearing.” Ineffa chimed.
Flins was staring at me, gaze locked on my lips. My heart was starting to race, so I looked at the ground. “Do you all need healing? After the rest, I think I’m good for some more.”
“Save your strength, we’ve all rested up.” Varka rubbed the spot between my ears, and I shivered. My ears were so sensitive.
“Let’s make haste. You should hold onto me, lest the vertigo returns.” Flins offered me his elbow, and I wrapped my hand around him.
“Thank you, Flins.” Yup, my heart was hammering again. Still, a content sigh left me as we exited the hide out, and fell to the rear of the group.
“If you’re still not feeling well, you should eat.” Ineffa fell back to walk with us. Varka had picked up Anio and had her resting on his shoulders.
“I’m more of a drinker.” I tried not to think about how thirsty I had become again.
“Hydration is a key to staying in good health.” Ineffa pulled out a canteen. “Here, please drink this electrolyte drink I prepared this morning.”
“Won’t Anio need it?” I pointed to the little girl. “I should be fine; I don’t want to take anything from Anio.”
“Affirmative. Anio has her own canteen.” Ineffa held out the drink and I let go of Flins to take a few drinks.
“Refreshing.” I handed it back to her. “I’d use my vision to gather water for myself, but it’s always salty.” I pouted.
“The ocean permeates the air in Nod Krai.” Flins fell back in step with me, resting his arm across my shoulders. I don’t remember him being this close to anyone in the games. But he made a promise to look after me. This was just him keeping his promise.
“True, I love the ocean though. I still haven't had the chance to play in the water. Danger keeps plaguing us.” As I spoke, Ineffa pulled a plate of Krumkake from her body.
“Would you all like one?” Ineffa asked.
“I’m good.” I said, the scent making me wish I felt hungry.
“I shall also pass.” Flins nodded at Anio and Varka. “I’m sure they both would love one.”
“I will test that theory.” Ineffa jogged to catch up to the front.
“Gosh, I’m really slowing y’all down.” I sighed, trying to walk a little faster.
“Go at your own pace. Time is of the essence, but we don’t need to wear ourselves thin.” Flins hugged me a little tighter to his side.
“As long as I don’t mess things up.” We entered the main path and were getting close to the junk yard.
“Look alive.” Varka turned to warn us. Up ahead was a group of Fatui members walking down the path.
Adjusting my scarf, I kept my eyes glued to the ground, and tried to pass with ease. We walked past them, but I felt a cold breeze glide past me as one powered up their vision.
“What do we have here?” There was only one with a vision, it was cryo. I needed to be careful not to create the perfect freeze opportunity if this broke into a fight. “Do I spy a fugitive?”
“All you spy is a group of travelers. Good day.” Varka sat Anio down by Ineffa. He crossed his arms and walked to stand in front of me and Flins.
“No. No. That’s the bunny girl we’re after. I recognize those beady eyes.” The leader, he did look familiar. Maybe he was the one who took me to my cell?
“Perhaps, you shouldn’t be graced with sight at all.” Flins finally let me go, stepping ahead with his polearm drawn.
“Just hand her over, and we won’t have to fight.” The leader flexed his sword.
“Afraid, that’s not going to happen.” Varka pulled out both of his claymores.
“Stand back here.” Anio pulled me to her side. “You don’t want to be in their line of fire.”
“I don’t want a fight to break out. Maybe I should just go with them.” Why did I say that? I needed to ensure the story worked out…but I was causing problems. Maybe if I go back to the Fatui I could-
Something was whispered. Something I couldn’t hear. A wave of ice was spreading towards the group, shattered by both men’s attacks. The fight was over as soon as it started.
“Are you two okay?” I rushed to their side. Both men were up right and in good shape.
“Peachy.” Varka nodded forward. “We have a mission, let’s continue.”
“Flins?” I blinked a few times, waiting for him to respond.
“I’m in perfect condition.” He offered me a smile.
“Good. I was worried.” I grabbed his hand, and pulled him down the trail. “Let’s hustle before we run into anyone or anything else.”
“I like that idea.” Flins rubbed his thumb over my hands and I felt at ease. I had endeared myself to him, and I was reaping the protection I needed…. Yeah, that’s it.
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Five
Master List for Chapters
Chapter Five: Setting In
“What’s that noise?” Paimon asked, and I suddenly remembered the angry mob here to hunt down Flins.
“Let’s hurry to the front.” I prodded them. They were already in their waking clothes, so I ran to the bathroom and began to jerk mine on.
The mob was so loud I could hear them. They were talking about Flins being a wild hunt shape shifter. How he was evil and the Flagship was harboring him. I needed to help get him out, but I was too busy lacing up my boots.
Once I was laced up, I darted to his room. I bumped into Jahoda by the window, holding him in his lantern form. “(Y/n), come on.” She offered me her hand and pulled through the window as people gathered around the door, jiggling the key.
I took her hand, she pulled me out and shut the window as the men were pouring in to investigate. We shrunk down low under the window and circled back around to the front door. “What are you doing in Flins’ room?” Jahoda asked.
“Same as you. Trying to help.” We reentered the venue as Nefer was whooping the mob's ass. “Remind me not to piss her off.”
“Oh, I know.” Jahoda laughed awkwardly, grabbing my hand and pulling us closer to Lumine and Paimon. “We’re back.”
“Let’s take this to my place.” Nefer glanced at the lantern then Jahoda and then me. She shook her hand out, before dusting off her knuckles.
“(Y/n), you’re okay?” Paimon looked me over. “We were worried when you disappeared.”
“I caught Jahoda and left with her.” I explained. “I also feel back to myself this morning.”
“Well good.” Paimon smiled as we went to the Curatorium of Secrets.
Back at Nefer’s place Lauma, Ineffa, and Anio joined us. They decided to look for more fragments and each faction take out a new wild hunt anomaly. While they all talked, I sat by Flins lantern, running my fingers over the hot metal on the outside. It was fun to watch the flame squirm. Perhaps it was still too early in the morning, or I didn’t understand that Flins might be sensitive in his lantern form, but it finally clicked that I shouldn't be touching him. So, I sat back and whispered an apology.
Closing my eyes, I waited for the Lantern to float away. And sure enough, Jahoda spoke, “Did Flins come get his lantern?”
“We have things to do, let’s make quick work of it.” I deflected, and we all went our separate ways.
Lumine, Paimon and I went to the island where Flins lives, and found him there. Just like in the game, files were being moved and we all took turns reading through them. I knew what needed to be discovered but I read anyway. Like Flins said, we didn’t have time to waste.
“As a librarian, this system really needs a catalog.” I huffed while grabbing another book shoved out by the ghost of Columbina.
“We might have to borrow your talents for that one day.” Flins paused, making a discovery.
Flins and Lumine went back and forth for a bit, leading to the conclusion that Rerir could harness the power of kuuvahki. Then we heard a little tap up top. I started towards the steps.
“I’ll check it.” Flins pulled me back by my wrist, his hold was gentle, but commanding. So I didn't even argue, I just motioned him to go on up. He ascended the steps, leaning back down to talk to us. “It’s an Ibis.”
“It must be Lauma.” Paimon reasoned. “Look, there’s a note.”
“They’re using the cannon to fire on Starsand Shoal.” Lumine gasped. “He’s going to regain even more power.”
“Maybe enough to fully restore his body.” Flins clenched his hands. “We’ll go to the cannon site, and meet Rerir there and end this.”
“Let’s get news back to Lauma really quick.” I said, knowing that was the next step before we took off. Flins penned a quick note, and sent the Ibis off.
“Let’s go.” Lumine took off at a sprint, and I fell in line behind her.
Paimon flew beside me. “Maybe you should stay back? Are you okay to face Rerir again?”
“I trust that everything will work out.” I winked at her, and she smiled.
“Right. Paimon just worries.” Paimon flew up to Lumine, and Flins kept up the rear. It seems I would never be the one leading the charge.
Starsand Shoal was in our sights, and we could see the abyssal fog settled over the area. There, in the front, stood Rerir.
“We knew we’d find you here.” Flins went to the front, polearm drawn.
“Humans, always using powers you can’t comprehend.” Rerir looked at us, then focused on me for a brief moment, then back to the group. “But it’s thanks to you I found a way to return.”
“The cannon isn’t going to go your way this time.” Paimon crossed her arms and stuck her tongue out. She was feeling confident.
Rerir laughed. “You have such faith in your friends.”
I stood in front of Paimon. “As she should.” I puffed up my chest.
“You think your friends will stop the cannon. When everyone in Nasha town is weary of each other. When the wild hunt is popping up left and right. When the cannon is their only hope to save their city. You are fools.”
“Well sir, you look most pleased with yourself. Before you put us out of our misery, may I ask a question.” Flins stepped in front of our group, holding out a fragment. “This piece used to haunt your dreams, now it’s useless to you. What is it, exactly?”
Rerir laughed. “That is my body. The piece in your hand is my heart.”
They all monologued for a few minutes. I looked towards Nasha town, knowing I’d need to follow Paimon when the cannon went off. I don’t think I’d be strong enough to hold off the rays like Lumine and Flins.
“When the next cannon shot is fired, I will be strong enough to beat any who stand in my way. Before that happens, I will kill you all and use your energy to help rebuild my body.” I don’t remember him saying he'd kill us that explicitly. Maybe the game dumbed it down…
“How about round two then?” Lumine taunted.
“Traveler, the light.” We all turned to face the light in the distance.
“All your efforts were for nothing.” Rerir smirked.
“Perhaps you’re right.” Flins agreed. Flins looked at us, “Why aren’t you running?” He kept walking forward, holding his lantern up. He began to chant in the fae language. He was asking for protection for those who were in danger. Dead mourning the dead, and living mourning the living. I didn’t fully understand the poetry of it, but I did know that this was happening just like it needed to.
I needed to trust that Ineffa and Anio made it to the tower and they were going to shift it up. The light beamed at us, and Paimon stayed in Lumine’s shadow. So, I did the same. I grabbed Paimon as the cannon hit, tucking her in my arms and kneeling to the ground.
“Hang in there.” Paimon cried in my arms. Lumine and Flins were using their power to split the ray and keep us from becoming toast.
“She did it.” I whispered as the cannon went up suddenly. I let Paimon go and caught Lumine as she fell from the sky. Flins kneeled beside us. “Good work you two.” I hummed a song and water flitted around the fighters, giving them a boost.
“Thank you, my lady.” Flins was back up, and ready to fight.
I steadied Lumine and dusted her off and the miasma that was the abyssal energy strengthened. From the miasma, Rerir emerged right behind us. Lumine pushed me into Paimon and we both barely dodged a blow.
“Tholindis.” Reiri started to repeat names and once again monologue. I took this time to keep humming a tune and healing my companions. He was going on about not needing his heart or a human body, as Flins had pointed out his transformation was a failure. He also was saying the pursuit of knowledge was useless. I knew all hell was about to break loose.
“Sandrone.” I turned as the girl appeared with her robot. But I spoke before turning.
“(Y/n).” Paimon warned me to be careful and I nodded. I kept forgetting myself.
“Knowledge is the pillar of society. You’re not the only one who’s grown stronger.” Sandrone quipped.
Pulonia took off in a heated fight with Rerir. Bombs, abyssal energy, and shots rang out as the two butted heads. I shifted to be behind Flins. Plot armor reasons only…yeah that’s why.
Rerir took aim at us, but Columbina’s power circled us and we were teleported far from Starsand Shoal. Columbina and Sandrone bickered a little bit before Sandrone took off. Columbina then turned her attention to Lumine and checked on her. Then Columbina’s gaze flciked to me and Flins.
“I also brought your associates here. But that’s as much as I can do at this stage.” Columbina waited for our response.
“You’re not afraid to speak your mind- Miss. Please call me Flins. It's an honor to make an acquaintance of one such as yourself.” He held his hand over his heart.
A wave of jealousy settled into my bones. Flins was just nice to everyone. That was it. I looked at my boots, and fiddled with my moonwheel on my hip.
“And you.” Columbina floated over to me, she pointed to my moonwheel. “You belong to the moon as well. I recognize your energy. Though it's strange.” She paused. “What is your name?”
“I should thank you for saving us first. I am sorry I was so silent.” I felt jealous and now I felt ashamed. “I am (Y/n).”
“(Y/n).” She nodded. “That is a good name.”
“We have bigger problems.” Paimon pointed out. “Rerir has gotten stronger than before and now he has his body back.”
“We blocked most of the kuuvahki, so that must have hurt his plans.” Flins deducted.
I zoned out for the rest of it. I finally met Columbina and now I’m stuck in my head. I didn’t have much time to process what I needed to process. I definitely had a strong attachment to Flins, and I know how he is, but why do I feel so torn up? I’ve got bigger fish to fry. Yet, the simple jealousy bug had bitten me.
“My lady, let’s make our leave.” Flins grabbed my hand, and led me to the mouth of the cave. My grip was weak, but his was firm and sure.
“That was insane.” Paimon chatted as she and Lumine caught up to us. “(Y/n), did you see how they deflected that cannon?”
“I did.” I tried to pull my hand free, but there was the slightest tug for me to stay like this. Still, I pulled away.
“Do you think you could heal us some more?” Lumine asked as we all crawled out the tiny hole into an open field.
“Sure.” I thought of some songs. I had noticed if I actually sang words, my healing seemed to come out stronger. I sung a few lines to “I Bet on Losing Dogs’. Again, the music came out in the fae language, sounding more like a poem than a song. But the healing took effect, and even Paimon was refreshed by my little performance.
“That’s a very sad sounding song.” Paimon sucked in her lower lip.
“It just came to mind.” I started walking towards Nasha town, trying to lead the way before Paimon got back to the front. “We just had a very unsatisfactory outcome. I know it’s going to work out, but still.”
“We’re going to win. Don’t worry.” Lumine fist bumped the air. “And everyone in town is going to be okay.”
“Right.” I agreed, forcing myself to smile. Flins had been quiet. Had I made him feel bad? He did nothing wrong. He owed me nothing.
When we got back to town, I saw that everyone was okay. They were all gathered outside waiting on us, the sun about to rise. I let myself be seen to show I was alive, then I booked it to the Flagship. No one tried to stop me, as it was within view of the group. They just bid me a good rest and let me go.
Once inside the Flagship, I settled at the bar. I ordered what I would drink back home. Something sweet and strong enough to knock my socks off. Once Deyman had passed me my drink, I downed it in a few big gulps. “Another please.” I downed two more drinks, the sudden flush coming to my face was a sign it was working.
I began to giggle at my situation. Poor pitiful me, getting knocked out of my shitty old life and into one with danger and hot men and women. Of course, none of them would want me, they were just nice. I’d eventually get through the main Nod Krai event and I’d find a job here and be worse off than before. Only now I didn’t have my sister or my dog. They were hopefully okay, wherever they were in the universe.
Paying for my drinks, I went to the juke box and noticed none of the songs would have the beat I was looking for. So I found something with a lot of drums and began to dance. Shaking my body was something I didn’t get to do often, but it was always a good way to get some feelings out.
No one else was dancing, it wasn’t really that type of bar. But I found a corner in the dark and let the alcohol take the brunt of any shame I might have felt. A few songs played and it wasn’t enough. So I went to my room and left Lumine and Paimon a note that I’d be back.
Once outside, I went to the hill above the city and began to dance again, no music this time. Somehow no music was better. I summoned my book and let water form and glide along my hands. The pink water caught the glow of the false moon, and I let music play in my head.
A song came to mind, about dancing in the dark. That’s what I was doing. Dancing in the dark, practicing my inner DPS Barbara skills. Yeah, I needed to do more damage somehow. Hmm.
“Miss.” I stopped, turning to face the person talking to me.
“Illuga?” My vision was blurred, but I could make out his color scheme.
“Miss (Y/n), are you okay?” He held his lantern to the side so he didn’t blind me.
“Yes.” I slurred my speech. “Just enjoying some movement after a few drinks.”
“I should take you home. I don’t think it’s safe out here for you. Master Flins would be upset if something happened to you.” He acted like he did when he saved me. He slid under my arm and held my hand that hung over his shoulder. “You’re at the Flagship, right?”
“Yes…I don’t know why everyone is worried about me.” I pouted but allowed him to guide me back to the Flagship.
“From what I understand, your strength is for healing. It only makes sense to guard your healers.” He said it, like it was so simple.
“I don’t know. I want to be stronger. What good am I if I can barely take down a hilichurl?” I blew a raspberry and unhooked myself from Illuga. “Fight me.”
“Miss (Y/n), no.” Illuga held his hands out, like I was a horse on the loose.
“Come on, how can I get stronger?” I dug my heels into the dirt.
“I will not spar with you while you’re drunk.” He pushed his hair behind his ear. “Now, lean back on me.”
“Yeah, lean on him.” I swiveled too fast and fell to the soft grass under me.
“Or be my test subject.” There were two men, both clearly bad guys.
“I got this.” Illuga stood protectively in front of me. His polearm glistened in the moonlight.
“I’ll let-.” I got to my feet, the world swaying around me. Forgetting about my moonwheel I walked up to the first guy. “I’ll get…” I couldn't talk right.
“(Y/n), stay back.” Illuga wasn’t fast enough.
Rearing back, I slammed all my weight into my fist and clocked the bigger man. That’s right, I can use physical damage to get my target down. Once he was down, I kicked him in the groin. He withered in the dirt, and I lost balance falling behind him.
“Illuga? You okay?” I asked from the ground.
“I got the other one.” Illuga leaned over me. “You don’t listen.”
“I like to think I follow my own path.” I smiled. “My sister says I’m stubborn.”
“Strong willed, noted.” He got me back to my feet. “Let’s get you back home.”
Everything was spinning, so I closed my eyes and let Illuga guide me like a dog. It was a short walk back to the Flagship. And soon I was in front of Lumine’s door. I couldn’t let them meet just yet, so I needed to show I could get to ‘bed’.
“Thank you Illuga. Please take care of yourself.” I stood on my own, keeping a strong stance. He nodded, seeming satisfied that I didn't need a crutch.
“That’s my line, Miss (Y/n).” He parted with me at the door, and I slinked inside.
Lumine and Paimon were asleep, my note having been moved from its original spot. So, they read it, good. Going to the shower, I used cold water to sober up. I was shaking half to death, but it worked on getting the alcohol to settle down. While in the shower, I washed my clothes and changed into my night gown.
Once that was settled, I laid on the couch and closed my eyes. I didn’t sleep. Instead, I thought about my old life. I missed my phone in moments like this. I missed my music. I missed my bed and the ability to sleep. There was so much to miss. And now I had a crush which started as unattainable, that was suddenly on the table.
“Ugh.” I softly screamed into the sofa cushion.
“You, okay?” Paimon woke up, coming to my side.
“It’s fine.” I waved her back to bed. “I’m an embarrassment to myself.”
“You’re not. Give yourself some slack.” Paimon grabbed my glass of water from the nightstand. “You’re going to be okay. I promise.”
“I hope you’re right.” I sipped the water, and settled back into the couch. “Good night.”
Bunny Girl in Her Gatcha World (Flins x Fem! Reader) Chapter Four
Master List for Chapters
Chapter Four: Consequences
“Oh, you’re talking about Rerir.” I had regained my strength and was joining Lauma, Paimon and Lumine in the outdoor kitchen. They were whispering to each other, but I remembered where we were in the story.
“Yes, you’ve heard of him?” Paimon blinked, almost in Morris code, for me to be quiet.
“I overheard your conversation.” I had to imagine myself playing the game; to know I did overhear it at one point…maybe I couldn’t lie after all. Least, if not asked a direct question.
“We need to gather allies and keep this quiet.” Lumine nodded, giving me a pointed look.
Paimon and Lumine were both tough cookies to crack. They were trying to protect me, but they were a little stern. I guess you have to be stern when you’re dealing with blabber mouth me.
“Yup, we’ll need all the power we can get.” I looked at my nails. I was finally clean again after being so sweaty last night. The Frost Moon Scions had offered me a nice outdoor bath this morning. They were truly great hosts.
“Alright, let’s head to Anio’s.” Paimon led the way. I thanked Lauma for their hospitality one more time and we headed to the junk yard, as I liked to call it in the game. I hadn’t interacted with Anio or Ineffa in this world/dream, but I had strong feelings about Anio’s safety. While she wasn’t put in much danger in the main story, I still worried about her.
“How was your night, (Y/n)?” Lumine asked as we approached the junk yard.
“I-” Remember, word play will save me here, don't be too honest… “I did a lot of reading.”
“Sounds fun.” Paimon bobbed her head to an imaginary beat. “We’ve got to work on keeping you from spilling the beans that you know stuff.”
“Yes, it’s going to get you into trouble.” Lumine frowned, and we took a lift down to the base of the workshop.
“I’m aware. It’s still not real in my head. I’ve yet to have a consequence.” The dagger on my thigh weighed heavy for some reason. Truth be told, I had gotten into trouble, but not the kind that made this feel like this was real.
“Visitors detected, threat level friendly.” Ineffa announced us as we approached them. They were outside the building, looking at the kuuvahki energy they had collected.
“Hello, what’s up?” Anio asked.
“Hey (Y/n), go pick some flowers.” Paimon encouraged me to go to the outskirts of the conversation.
“Right. We’ll need them for a pretty display.” I wanted to say ascension, but that was a bad idea.
I was in earshot. They recounted the whole Rerir debacle. How he was the bad guy we needed to stop. Honestly, they didn’t know too much at this point besides his title and that he was up to no good. And I needed to make sure I didn’t step in.
Next, they brought up Sousi’s death. How he was so loved as a Lightkeeper and there wouldn’t be many people with access or malice to kill him. I knew he had been dead long before last night…oh shit. Flins was seen with me last night by Illuga and several Lightkeepers. Would there be enough time for him to be accused of killing Sousi? Did I fuck up.
“You appear stressed. Would you like a krumkake?” Ineffa made me jump out of my skin.
“Ah, no thanks. Just gathering flowers.” I held up the small bundle of flowers in my hand.
“Those are weeds.” Anio pointed at my collection. “There aren’t many flowers around here. Spare parts yes, but flowers no. Ineffa can take you to where there are more flowers.”
“She better stay with us.” Paimon took my weeds and shoved them into Lumine’s backpack. “They will do just fine for a tea later.”
“Right.” Lumine nodded.
“Okay, you three be careful.” Anio reminded us.
“Will do.” I waved them off as we set off for Nasha Town.
Thankfully, we hadn’t been anywhere too far away yet. I had walked my legs off, and my feet ached, but I’d just use my ability and refresh myself. I offered my healing power to heal Lumine, but she was so strong from years of walking it wasn’t a problem for her. I guess I wasn’t very tough.
“So, how do we get in?” Paimon asked as we made it to the Lightkeeper’s office.
“We wait for Nef-“ I started and was cut off.
“Nefer.” Paimon said it loud and covered my voice before I could be heard.
Lumine face palmed while glancing at me. I had to be quiet again. Nefer got us into the office. Lumine recounted the Rerir stuff once more to her, and we reached the tippy top of the building. As I remembered Flins was still the top suspect, thank goodness. I didn’t mess anything up at this point. I needed to be more careful, or maybe I was fine to fuck around?
The longer I looked at Sousi’s body, the more my stomach turned. I had nothing to throw up but liquid, but my gag reflex was about to be known. “You all are entirely too calm about this.” I stuck my tongue out and swallowed hard.
“Let’s go outside and talk about what we’ve discussed.” Nefer seemed rather unimpressed with my constitution. But she was tough, they all were tough.
“Here, smell this.” Paimon passed me a mint leaf, and it settled my stomach.
While I was chilling out, they all agreed Rerir could have also killed Flins and been living as him. Or he knew Flins was too busy to be around last night and framed him. I knew the truth but I had done enough to mess this part up.
“I’ll leave the beach to you three.” Nefer referred to the beach that the Ratniki had just told us was Flins’ location.
“We got this.” I handed Paimon the mint back.
“Just stick with those two.” Nefer warned me. “You’re still getting your strength back. In fact, you’re welcome to stay with me while they investigate.”
“I should stay with them this time.” I wanted to make sure Flins would be okay. If I changed the story, I needed to be there to fix it.
“Alright, suit yourself.” Nefer walked back to the Curatorium of Secrets.
“Let’s hustle.” Lumine took off at a jog, and I followed suit. Only I kept falling behind.
“Come on, Bunny.” Paimon pushed me from behind. She really liked to use her floating powers for good.
“I’m trying.” I panted. The beach wasn’t too far away, and we soon found a valley that would lead to the cave where Flins and Rerir were fighting.
“Oh look, it belongs to the lightkeepers.” It was a lantern just like the one that Nefer had just passed to Lumine.
“They might be close.” Lumine looked forward, voices manifesting and dark smoke flooding, wild hunt monsters appearing.
“They are on top of us.” I whispered, already firing shots in the dark. Lumine had her sword out and was soon kicking ass. She was far more advanced using all the elements at once. She was creating her own reactions, tearing through monsters.
“Got them cleared.” Lumine turned to me. “Good work. I feel great.”
“Now why were the monsters near the lamp?” Lumine asked.
“It must have been a planned ambush, we won't fall for that twice.” Paimon nodded, the light turned off. “Huh there’s a small device inside. We should take it with us.” With that we descended deeper into the darkness.
A chill crept over my exposed skin. My coat and scarf were keeping me warm, but something was terribly wrong with what was up ahead. I knew what was about to happen, but I didn’t want to be here. I should have taken Nefer up on her offer.
“Please, help!” Flins called out, I could recognize his voice instantly.
“(Y/n)!” Paimon grabbed me before I rushed in to find him.
“Stay back.” Lumine jumped as more monsters manifested. I was too stunned to heal her, my eyes trying to spot Flins in the dark.
“Come on (Y/n), focus.” Paimon shook me.
“I think I’m having an anxiety attack.” My heart was hammering in my chest, body cold and eyes bugging out. Everything felt wrong.
“Come on, let’s use this lantern and find Flins.” Lumine grabbed my hand and pulled me forward. The lantern pushed back the dark shadows as they came towards us.
The fighting could be heard all over the cave. Clashes of metal and the zip of electro. I had to get to him. I walked faster, hearing the fae language…only I understood what he was saying. I couldn’t see what was ahead of me,the cold mist settling over my burning skin. I needed to find him.
“(Y/n) watch out!” Paimon screamed, one of the shadow monsters blasting into my side and pushing me back from the group.
Pain bloomed over my ribs…this was very real. I couldn’t breathe. How did I manage this? My heart was racing so fast I couldn’t hear anymore. All I saw was the swing of the lantern and Lumine coming towards me. She stood between me and where Flins was. Oh no.
“Flins, he needs you, not me.” I said though I could barely hear myself over the resounding blood in my ears.
Lumine looked at me then in the dark distance, electro power flaring up. I got to my feet, and grabbed the dagger from my thigh. Lumine was trying to come to me, but I zipped past her. Her hand grasping the tips of my coat.
I saw it, the moment Flins was knocked back against a rock, trying to catch his breath. While I was freaking out, I knew I had to move. I had messed up enough of the story, I had to fix this moment before something bad happened.
“Hand it over, it was mine first.” Rerir stalked towards Flins, as I was running. My hearing was coming back, but the panic was still deep in my bones. Move faster, be quieter, square up harder.
“It is hereby requisitioned.” Flins stood, holding his lantern out.
“You are a fool.” Rerir powered up his arm, and I jumped in front of Flins. With my dagger out, I met Rerir’s arm and was tossed back into Flins like a ragdoll. Flins rolled so I was laying under him, he jumped back to his feet, standing over me. But Rerir was posed faster to strike a second time.
“No!” I screamed. In the moment all I could do was apply healing powers to Flins, so maybe he would survive. So that’s what I did. Humming to myself, I prayed to anyone who would listen.
“Ugh!” Lumine caught the blow just in time, just like in the story. Great, I had fixed it.
“You again.” Rerir growled.
“It’s stronger than before.” Lumine looked at Rerir as he stood back up and got ready to fight.
While that was happening, I was pulled to my feet. Flins had lifted my arm and I grimaced. The shadow monster had done a number on my ribs. Flins let my arm down, a deep growl slipping past his lips.
“Hide here, my lady.” He tucked me behind a rock and Paimon joined me.
“Lantern!” Lumine yelled, and Flins tossed the lantern to her. Paimon pushed my head back down.
“(Y/n), breathe normally. Come on, you’re scaring Paimon.” She had tears in her eyes.
“Can’t.” I gasped, holding my side as the throbbing got stronger.
“Heal yourself.” She reasoned.
“Can’t.” I groaned tears welling in my eyes.
“How can I help you?” She held my hand.
“I’m really here.” I leaned back into the rock, closing my eyes. Grunting and groaning, I heard the fighting stop. “Did we win?” I knew the answer but I needed to know I didn’t hurt their chances of winning in the future.
“Yes, it’s real. And no, he got away.” Paimon fluttered above the rock. “Traveler, Flins, over here!”
“What’s wrong?” Lumine kneeled by me. “You need to control your breathing.” She put her cold callused hand to my face.
“Nope.” If I had been human, I would have passed out by this point.
“Her ears are down. She’s scared.” My scarf had long since fallen off my head, and Paimon was rubbing my hair as she spoke.
“Let me try.” Flins, grunted himself but kneeled by me. “Breath in four seconds.” I took in a quick breath, then slowed down to go in four seconds. “Hold it for four seconds.” I did as he asked, my lungs begging for more air. “Blow out for four seconds. Good, now hold four seconds.”He repeated the cycles a few times, and I was breathing at a semi strained, but normal rate. Or more so my blood stopped pumping as fast.
“Where did you learn that?” Paimon asked.
“It’s a Lightkeeper trick for this type of situation.” Flins was hurting and I was prolonging his recovery.
“Let me heal you two.” I grimaced, pushing myself to get on my knees.
“Nope, you’re tapped out.” Lumine eased my coat off my shoulders. “Can you heal yourself?”
“Not sure. Look away Flins.” He obliged. I lifted my dress and showed Lumine and Paimon my ribs.
“(Y/n), you’re already so bruised.” Paimon chewed her bottom lip.
“Try to use your vision. It will help with the pain.” Lumine reached in her bag and pulled out a balm. She applied it to my skin and lowered my dress back down. “You were hit hard.”
“I’m fine. You two need more attention.” Lumine got me to my feet. “Alright, I can take care of all of us.” I assured them.
“No. Don’t you dare.” Paimon threatened me.
“At least Flins?” I looked at the fae man, his eyes betraying the pain he was trying to hide.
“Rest will suffice for me. But you my lady, you need to use what strength you have on yourself. That bruise could mean broken ribs or worse.”
“Yes. So hurry.” Paimon waved her hands at me.
“Okay.” I closed my eyes, nothing happening. “No dice.”
“You usually hum or sing when you heal. Try that.” Lumine offered.
I looked at Flins, and suddenly felt shy. If this was real, I would have been very forward with him. Now I was putting on a show… “And if you never come for me, I might have drowned in the melancholy. I swore loyalty to me, myself and I.” I closed my eyes again, a warm spreading over me. “Right before you lit my sky up.” I must have hit my burst, because a water crescent appeared on the cave floor. Corks of water sprouting from the ground and splashing each of us with pinkish water.
“What language were you just singing in?” Paimon asked.
“Let's check on if she is healed or not.” Flins covered for me. Part of me knew what language had come out…it was the same one that had filtered through the cave earlier. Fae.
“I feel much better.” I ran my fingers over my plush side. “It’s still tender, but I don’t feel like I’m actively dying.”
“Here, I picked up your dagger.” Lumine slid it into my thigh holster.
“Thank you Lumine.” I took a slow even breath. “Let’s get out of here.”
“Agreed.” Paimon pointed to the lantern on the ground. Lumine picked it up and she and Flins led the way to the beach. Once on the sand, they discussed the details of the piece of Rerir that Flins had been protecting, and how long they had been in a fight.
“I must give my sincere thanks for your aid. To believe you had the power to cleanse the piece in the lantern that tormented me so. I must ask what magic that was?”
“We’re not sure ourselves.” Lumine sighed.
Paimon gave me a look to stay quiet again, but this time I had no more information. Or so I thought.
“So why did you have that?” Paimon asked him.
“Oh, he collects gemstones and coins, so its ma-“Paimon covered my mouth.
“She is clearly delirious.” Paimon spat.
“No, she’s right. I do collect gem stones and took an interest in the particles I was finding after fighting the wild hunt.” Flins began to explain that his power was constrained by the stones, and he had fought with Rerir many times but couldn’t kill him.
Of course, Flins puffed us up for helping him. I didn’t feel like I was that helpful. Then it happened, Lumine told Flins about Sousi and the Lightkeepers hunting him down. He seemed solemn and explained how the Grand Master could use a device to pin point his location. Then they talked about how Rerir could have framed Flins.
And then the saddest part. Flins talking about Sousi, and how he was trapped in Nasha town. How he was separated from his family. My heart ached.
“Let us go to the scene of the crime.” Flins caught my attention and I finally looked back at the group. I had zoned out through a large part of the conversation. I knew what was happening anyways, but hearing it again, with them in person had been a lot.
OOOOOOOO
“(Y/n), how do you feel now?” Lumine rested her hand on my back. Flins was behind us and Paimon guiding us towards Nasha Town at the front. I had been trying to fall to the rear to get some space, but the lantern had a different idea on where I should be.
“I’m trying not to dwell on it; we have things to do.” I swallowed hard, parched again. “I’m actually thirsty again…”
“Again? You’ve emptied like three canteens.” Paimon frowned, worry etched in her eyes.
“I’m sorry. I’ll be fine till we get back to town.” I wrung my head scarf between my fingers. It was still dirty from falling to the wet cave floor. I had no clue how I would hide my bunny ears once I got to the city.
“Don’t look so sullen.” Flins held out his canteen. “You should always drink when you’re healing.”
“Thank you.” I leaned my head back and tipped the water into my mouth. It was warm from being tucked so close to his body. “Here, I really appreciate your kindness.” When I reached the canteen back, I felt a pinch in my side. My brows knitted together and everyone noticed. Great.
“Maybe we should drop you off at the hotel before we go to the tower.” Paimon suggested.
“I can get there on my own. I’ll walk with you all to the edge of town and then we can split.” I reached up and smoothed one of my bunny ears. “Plus, I shouldn’t really be seen with my ears out.”
“I’m not entirely comfortable letting you go without an escort.” Flins tucked his canteen back to his side, eyes glued to my face as if waiting for me to show signs of discomfort again.
“She’ll be fine.” Lumine reasoned. She also smirked pointing to the dagger on my hip. “She’s tough enough to block a hit from the Rächer of Solnari. I’m sure she can handle a walk through Nasha town.”
“Yeah, I’m tough stuff.” I put one hand on my hip and raised the other to flex. Which also hurt.
“While I’m sure my lady is very tough, she also would benefit from extra care at this time.” Flins argued.
At this point we were at a standstill. I needed to make sure they got to the office on time. “I’ll just go with you.”
“But, (Y/n), you almost passed out earlier at the sight of the scene.” Paimon reminded me.
“We will pass the Flagship on the way there, I can just dart off and stay in eye sight.” I could see Nasha town over the hill we were on.
“Alright, does that make you happy Flins?” Paimon crossed her arms, flying backwards to see his face.
“Since the lady insists.” Flins caved in, good. I dared not look back to catch his face.
“Just lay down, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.” Lumine instructed me.
“Okay. I know everything will work out.” I yawned, eyes fluttering as if I could actually sleep.
It was a few more minutes before we reached town. Just like I said, I peeled off to the Flagship and went to the side entrance for hotel guests. Looking back, I waved at the group and disappeared inside. Once in the room, I stripped and hopped into the shower.
My ribs were still purple but not nearly as dark. I guess I wasn’t strong enough to heal us all to the top yet. In terms of experience, I was max level five with my current skill. I needed to get out there and keep training, but for tonight I needed to rest and wait for them to get back.
Finally clean, I put on my pajamas and hand washed my outfit. It was coated in sand, sweat and sea water. Lumine had been super helpful in helping me get the materials I needed as a traveler. Yeah, just keep thinking and working. Lumine, Nefer, Jahoda, Lauma, Flins, Anio, and Ineffa all had the first part of this mission in the bag. I just needed to stay alive and keep my mouth shut.
Hot tears swelled in my eyes, and I couldn’t stop myself. This was real, so very real. What had I fucked up already? I’m pretty sure I’ve just been giving info right as it’s discovered, but that’s putting me in danger. I don’t think any of the main ones would sell me out, but I could give the Fatui a heads up and they could win. Maybe I should just…no. Can’t give up.
I laid on the couch, and curled into myself. It was never a comfortable position, but being balled up felt right. If I hadn’t stepped in, Flins would have been hurt or killed. If I hadn’t fallen, Lumine would have got the first attack and the events of the evening wouldn’t have gone off the rails.
“We’re back!” Paimon burst into the room. “Oh no, what’s wrong?” She was on me quick.
“I’m fine.” I quivered, wiping my eyes.
“Do we need Flins to do the breathing thing again?” Paimon pointed at the hallway.
“No. He’s already seen me cry once tonight. That’s enough.” I held my cold hands to my hot cheeks. “So, you learned that we can trust Flins, that Sousi was killed before and the man you met fixing the cannon was Rerir. You also learned about Flins’ past.” I listed off the top notes and Paimon sighed.
“You sure know how a lot.” Paimon yawned. “But we are going to go talk to Flins one more time before bed. We haven’t learned his past yet.”
“Oh, I should hush.” I stood up, pacing around the room. “I should go check on him. With you. I’m still worried that he’s not healed fully. My ability didn’t top me off, but I’ve had some rest. Maybe I could-.”
“Nope. Tonight, you rest. However, that looks.” Lumine scolded me.
“I know I’m in my pajamas but I still look decent right?” I changed the subject.
“You’re cute. That nightgown could pass as a dress for sure.” Paimon pulled out a brush and combed her hair.
“He’s not going to mind.” Lumine smirked, and raised her brows.
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Heat rushed to my face, and I looked at my plush thighs.
“He’s a gentleman, so there’s nothing to worry about.” Paimon began to smooth my hair. “Don’t be mean, Lumine.”
“I’m not mean. I’m just stating what I see.” She grinned and nodded to the hallway. “Let’s not keep him waiting.”
“Now I’m self-conscious.” I whined but got up and followed them into the hall, slipping on the flip flops Jahoda originally got for me.
“Don’t be! Oh hey Flins.” Paimon changed gears as we greeted the Ratnik.
“How are you feeling?” Flins’ eyes hyper focused on my face.
“Nothing like some rest to feel better.” I cleared my throat, looking at Lumine.
“Anyway, we have some things to discuss.” Lumine nodded for us all to come into our room. Out of the hall, we piled in the tiny room. I crossed my arms and stood by Flins. The scent of smoke and something floral once again hitting my nose, and making me want to dive head first into his arms.
They started to talk about Flins’ past. How he was a member of the fae, how he put himself to sleep and was awoken by the Rakini on the beach of his current home, and felt and found purpose being among them. He asked for our silence, his eyes only flickering to me for a moment at his request but stilling mostly on Paimon and Lumine.
“You have our word.” Paimon agreed.
“Of course.” Lumine nodded.
“Thank you three again, for all your help.” Flins headed to our door. “We all should rest for tomorrow.”
“Thank you Flins.” Paimon waved as he crossed the hall to his room. I watched him walk away, he was so handsome.
“Pick your jaw up.” Lumine laughed walking towards the shower.
“It’s not open.” I sat on the sofa and pursed my lips.
“Oh, it totally is.” Lumine talked to me while in the bathroom, leaving the door cracked. “You must have liked him in the game.”
“I did. I do. Now I know this is real, I’ve really done some embarrassing things.” Flopping back on the sofa, I kicked my legs. “I’m so stupid.”
“When did you realize this was real?” Paimon asked, taking a curious glance at me.
“When I was hurt by that shadow.” I placed my hand on my ribs.
“And you then tried to sacrifice yourself for Flins…knowing this was real.” Paimon’s eyes went wide. “Maybe you do love him.”
“Hey! Shh.” I sat up and looked at the front door; I felt a presence. “Someone’s at the door.”
“We might have been too loud?” Lumine stuck her head out the bathroom. “Can you check?”
“Yeah.” I got up and checked the peep hole. I cracked the door open. “Flins, did you forget something?”
He was red in the face…oh god. Please tell me he didn’t hear anything we just said. “I was wondering if the Traveler might have some spare necessities.”
“I’ll bring them to your room. I have some spares.” I offered. “Just let them gather them.”
“Right.” He stiffly turned and headed back to his room.
“Paimons sorry.” Paimon looked at my horrified face.
“It’s fine, you two didn’t know. And nothing really came out of my mouth that damning.” I reasoned, going to my bag and getting a spare toothbrush, mini tooth paste, and soap. It was only fair I gave up some of my supplies, Flins had been my benefactor.
“Now, you have to go to his room. Do you want Paimon to do it?” Lumine asked from the shower, the water was going and I could barely hear her.
“I got it. I might go for a walk before returning. I need to clear my head.” I knew my scarf was still wet, but there wouldn’t be many people out at night.
“Alright. Don’t be out too long.” Paimon shut the door behind me and made sure I had a key tucked in my pocket.
Stealing my resolve, I found myself in front of his door. Before I could knock, he had it open. He was much more composed then when he was at our door a moment ago.
“You know, I could have been Rerir knocking at your door.” He hummed. “Flinging the door open so carelessly. Could have put you in danger.”
“I knew it was you.” I countered. With my hand out, I passed him the needed items to properly clean up.
“How so?” He prodded, opening his door for me to come in. I walked in and he shut the door.
“The same reason you flung your door open for me just now. And let me inside.” I couldn’t help but smile, maybe even smirk. “Maybe it’s an us thing, but I could feel your energy.”
“Is that so?” He chuckled.
“Yes. It must be a fae thing.” I nodded, eyes flashing to the clock. “Did you hear what Paimon was saying in our room?” I asked him directly.
“I hear lots of sounds in the night.” He flushed a little, eyes almost sparkling.
“That’s a yes then.” I sighed. “Please don’t let that make you uncomfortable around me. Plus, my past behavior, it was very…inappropriate. I had a realization in that cave, that this isn’t just a dream.”
“Oh, please don’t hold back. You are perhaps the most interesting fae I’ve ever met. There aren’t many of us left, as I mentioned we are living proof. Yet, it’s so peculiar. It’s as if you have a human soul.”
“Well, past me was.” I felt odd thinking about my past. “I don’t know if I died, or what. But I’m here now. Away from my sister, my dog and my job. I’m really up the creek without a paddle.” I looked at the floor, wringing the hem of my gown.
“That sounds difficult.” He held his hand out, and I took it. He brought it up to his lips, and kissed my knuckles. “As I have mentioned, you may rely on me.”
“I was so afraid tonight.” I admitted. “I really thought my actions would cost you your life.”
“That. I wanted to caution you about being so careless with yourself.” He got very serious very fast. Though the conversation had been serious the whole time, this was my reprimand.
“It worked out.” He gripped my hand tighter, resting it to his chest over his heart. “What are you doing?”
“I believe I owe you a debt now.” I could feel his heart hammering in his chest. Oh? Even his lantern was jumping with each fluctuation.
“I thought you said don’t go around owing people?” Feeling brave, I gripped his shirt and pulled him closer. Our faces were inches apart. “Surely it’s a bad idea to behold yourself to a Bunny Girl from another world.” I tried to stay serious but pushed us back apart. “God, that was so stupid. I’m sorry.”
“You had me sold.” He laughed a little, smoothing his jacket and running a gloved hand along his face. “But I will do everything in my power to help you. That is a promise.”
“Fae don’t make promises lightly. Are you sure?” I rubbed my side, his eyes lingering on the area.
“I am.” He changed the topic. “What will you do while Paimon and Traveler sleep?”
“I’m going for a walk-“ he shook his head no. “I’m going to lay on the sofa in their room and read.” He nodded yes.
“Good night, my Lady.” He watched me cross the hall and slip back into Lumine’s room.
“How was the walk?” Paimon was the only one awake.
“Get some rest Paimon, I ended up talking for a bit.” I settled on the couch and summoned my catalyst. I began to read, waiting for morning.
