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@songxfthestars
Upon this Earth, There's no one like him He sees the squirrel I long to be Making even me believe in me
Independent Semi Selective Highly AU Ray the Flying Squirrel Mutuals only - Semi Selective OC - Crossover - Multifandom - Multiship Been writing this boy since 2012! Please read rules before interacting <3
About - Rules - Promo made by Suri <3
"Today is not one, but two birthdays. And while I have only positive vibes to give, one fact still remains.
I will always be more devastatingly beautiful than both of them."
On the outside.
An easy question. "Jerard Kal, I'm a Freedom Fighter from my own Zone. As for Adventure, sure, I don't see why not. There's plenty of world out there to explore." He says as he looks up towards the sky. There was a sense of nostalgia on his face, the kind of that which someone missed dearly. Sailing the sea of stars was beyond him now, but that didn't mean he was missing out on what lay before him now.
No one can keep living in the past.
"Well, since I'm the new guy around here, I suppose I'll defer to you as to where we should start then."
"Well, since you've accepted..."
Ray immediately took Jerard's hand, and into the air they went. Beyond the trees, and into the deep blue sky. Though he didn't mean to, he was showing off a bit in the way he twirled, and spun. Flying was the most freedom he ever got the chance to feel, so when opportunity arose, it was the greatest feeling in the world.
"There are plenty of legends around this small town."
Words spoken, once he'd calmed his movements, and steadied into a smooth soar.
"Magical flowers, lake dragons. I've never had the time to explore all of them. I've only read about them in books."
An eyebrow raised, smirk heavy on his face.
"Think you're up for seeking some magic?"
"Spend enough time with me and I can make you into a rockstar yet." The hedgehog would chuckle and smile as his hand was taken and they began to walk back to the house. As they walked into the house, he would wait for a few moments before the hedgehog would slip off his wet accessories to not track water everywhere. As they both had started getting soaked, his first instinct would to head to their nearby closet to grab a pair of towels for them to draw off. "We better dry off so we can warm up then." He spoke as he handed Ray a towel.
"Your skills in the kitchen have definitely gotten better since you started practicing though. I don't think you're as bad at it as you think anymore."
Lil' was always one to boost the other's confidence. And it was true, the squirrel had been getting better. It helped he wasn't in this alone either. The hedgehog was always willing to participate as well.
"Well we have been experiencing new things already today. What's on your mind, Ray?"
"Something exciting."
Words spoken as he, very carefully, dried his hair. It had to be done a certain way, lest he risk it becoming frizzy. Before, it hadn't really been noticeable, but ever since he'd begun growing it out, there were natural waves. He didn't plan on letting it get much farther past his shoulders. Wasn't necessary to look flawless, the super long hair look didn't fit him.
Taking the hedgehog's hand once again, he twirled Lil, sort of like a dance, but quickly went backj into thought.
"Meats are what I'm most afraid of. I've dealt with more than one instance of food poisoned patients, at least eggs are simple to cook. But if I don't try what I'm afraid of, I'll never step forward."
That had more than one meaning. Much more than one meaning, it showed in the way he was being more himself, rather than that personification of a playboy. Sort of testing the waters, and so far, his fears were being reduced, little by little.
"Maybe a chicken salad, but rather than using precooked chicken, we could make it fresh. That's one of the most dangerous meats, but I've always been the kind to jump in head first towards a difficult project."
"Heh, let's not get mixed up. Ghosts are definitely real, but I'm pretty sure I'd know one if I see one." The hedgehog would retort. Coming out here definitely seemed worth his while as the squirrel came out to greet him. Definitely wasn't like the one he knew. "I know how it feels. Not often I get visitors back home myself, even living in the city."
"Still, I'll admit, curiosity is most definitely the reason for me coming out here. Rumors or otherwise, can't help but feel a little adventurous even in my old age."
The hedgehog could've almost passed for a super mode if it weren't for the lack of aura and the mundane air around him, though unlike most male mobians, he definitely dressed far more modestly with shirt, pants and even a jacket to go over both.
Oh, what he could have said. Ray had been a ghost once. However, he'd been given a second chance at life. It was his entire reasoning behind the medical career, why he felt it was his obligation. His life had been given back to him, therefore, he was to use his power he was given to heal those who were sick. Granted, he preferred study over using actual Chaos Energy. If you just fixed someone's problem, what lesson would they learn?
He has Chaos to thank for that, and Tikal for teaching him how to heal. How many years had it been now...?
"The city?"
Cities fascinated him, he'd never lived in one. The town, where the hospital he worked in was located, happened to be rather small. Ray had grown to love nature. To even love gardening, but... the concrete jungle was so appealing. Just imagine, lights every night. The sound of life that wasn't crickets, frogs, or cicadas.
In winter, there wasn't any life at all out here.
"I don't think anyone should lose an adventurous spirit, no matter how old they get."
A wink.
"So why don't we go on an adventure? You and me. Everyone calls me Ray, so that's what I stick with. Better question is, what's your name?"
Come, now, Look how we fly to the sky so high! Come @unsung-heroesofmobius In my flying machine Going up, they go Up, they go! Balance yourself like a bird on a beam In the air, they go! There, they go!
~~~ ♪ ♫ ♪ ~~~
"Well would you look at that!"
Someone was in a good mood today. The squirrel hops into the air, doing a perfect flip as he lands in front of this guest of his. It wasn't every day someone stumbled upon his home, as Ray lived in the forest just outside of town. In fact, there were even ghost stories about the large cabin, which amused him. The ghostly squirrel that lived in the old log cabin.
In reality, his appearance was rather flawless. His personality, not so much.
"Are you here to get spooked? Or are you more intelligent than those silly rumors about where I live?"
Raising his hands, they began to glow a shade of blue. Though it was all in jest, he couldn't fight with Chaos Energy even if he wanted to. That just wasn't how it manifested in his body. He was a healer. A shield. Not a fighter, though for emergencies he always had that spear of an umbrella waiting at home.
He clapped his hands, and the blue vanished. He shook his head.
"In all seriousness, it's nice to get a visitor out here sometimes."
What Lil' had found during the mountain climb that one fateful day, several years ago at this point, was a kind and caring soul; someone he could come home to and be welcomed with open arms. Sure people like Gold, Arrow, and Arrow's family would always welcome him in such a manner; but this was different. It wasn't the typical platonic bond that he had with them. This was much more. There was a spark and he held onto that feeling.
Did Lil' have his doubts at first, sure, especially as he grew to know Ray better. There were things he hadn't expected to see and the lack of attachment at first left the hedgehog feeling confused. But now that they were here, standing in the rain with their arms wrapped around one another, looking into each other's eyes...There wasn't any doubt anymore. With all the events that had unfolded for him recently, having that caring soul there for him, that sense of home...A place to return after his adventures...It was a dream come true.
It was like Lil' was falling for Ray all over again.
"You sing beautifully...Shame you're not a wanna-be rockstar like me." The hedgehog teased, taking a jab at himself. It was one of his ventures he had yet to have take off. Ray's voice was beautiful, something that Lil' had to admire. There were few people he knew that had such a talent.
"You know, I didn't I could imagine myself ever falling for someone after all that I have been through in my life. But now I can't imagine my life without you."
"I'm better at ballads than rock, anyway."
Maybe he could guest star in Lil's band someday, but rock really wasn't his genre, and that was okay. It just meant it'd take extra practice to nail it on the occasion he did sing to Lil's guitar. Practicing music was different than studying medical information for him. Rather than feeling draining, like a necessary use of energy, to practice singing brought him so much joy.
If only he wasn't obligated to become a professional in the medical field. If only he could follow his own passion, rather than that which was set out for him.
"With that being said, we really should go inside now that the bulb is planted. The concept that rain can cause a cold is a medical myth, but its roots are steeped in fact. Being colder, causes your immune system to weaken. That's where the cold got its name in history."
Slipping out of the hedgehog's arms, he took a hand, and began to walk. On the way, he'd grabbed his umbrella, and neatly folded it, setting it on the hanger inside once they were indoors. A moment for the mud to come off of their shoes, before
"The question now is what to do for lunch. I'm afraid my ability when it comes to the kitchen is still a bit limited. I'm looking to expand upon my selection."
A pause.
"Maybe we could try something new together?"
"What are you-"
His sentence was cut short has he was pulled along into the rain, feeling each drop that fell onto his own body. He would be able to keep up with the squirrel with ease once the abruptness of it all wore off. Following the squirrel into the meadow, he would come to a stop just next to Ray. He was still confused for a moment, not sure where this was all going.
It wasn't until Ray grabbed his other hand and they stared longingly into each other's eyes did he really understand. The hedgehog gave the other a smile that spoke more than words could a out how he felt. He was happy, despite the rain pouring onto them. But then as Ray leaned in, he coulding help but pull the squirrel in close as their lips locked in on each other, for however long the other desired. Ray could see the fireworks going on in his own eyes. It was very blissful.
After it was all said and done, he would continue to look into Ray's eyes. His smile blooming at the point.
"There's what made me fall for you. I was wondering when I would see it again." His time was soft and good spirited, a little teasing perhaps, but all in good fun. But it wouldn't stop Lil' from leaning in himself and kissing the squirrel much more passionately this time around.
Pelted with raindrops.
It seemed like years since he'd felt so alive. He'd originally made the choice for the wrong reasons. Lil was an adventurer, that was what drew the squirrel to him. And maybe he'd resented settling down a little bit, into amore domestic life, rather than gong on adventures himself.
But that was gone. When he really looked at things, looked at the bigger picture. He knew he couldn't let this one get away.
🎵 I've looked for you for all of my life 'Round every corner Wishin' on stars like some kind of fool, ohhhh ohhhh And now I see the stars in your eyes Those days are over I took one look And I was hooked I found Heaven in you 🎵
Crystal clear, and beautiful. Ray's voice could be described as nothing short of that. Music had been, still was, his greatest passion. He worked in the medical field out of obligation, not because he truly felt passionate about it. Make no mistake, he loved helping people, though he wouldn't outwardly admit it quite so easily.
But singing was his true passion in life. A few moments pass.
"I've always wondered what a kiss in the rain would feel like. It's better than I could have ever imagined."
"Sounds like people truly didn't understand what it really was."
That was the only thing he could think of. After all, a rare flower such as this would be prized in the right circles. Maybe it was a sign of good fortune to them. It's best they not squander it.
Although, the poke to the nose was met when a bit of surprise, followed by a chuckle. He would look into Ray's eyes before moving in a bit closer...But then the rain started to pick up a little. He let out a sigh. Perhaps it was time to for them to head inside until dryer weather...
That was until his hand was suddenly grabbed. He looked over at Ray with confusion. What on earth could they possibly do outside with what seemed to be a rainstorm starting to pick up?
"Y-You can't tell me? Should I be concerned?" Lil' was puzzled at the other's statement. He didn't know why the other wouldn't share the idea. But perhaps it was a surprise? It was hard to say with the squirrel sometimes.
"I do trust you."
"Since I have your consent."
Tossing the umbrella into the air, Ray began to run, Lil in tow. It didn't matter to him, that they were getting wet, that was part of the point of the situation. Now of course, his speed couldn't compare, so they ran at a lower rate than say, Lil at full speed. He ran until they reached an opening in the meadow.
Then he stopped, taking Lil's other hand into his own.
For a moment, he stared into the other's eyes, and those vibrant blue eyes of his spoke more than his words ever had. Inching in, is when it happened. Just like a romantic novel, a soft, heartfelt kiss during a rainstorm.
A rare moment where he was truly himself, rather than what others expected of him.
"That you are. I don't see how I can compare to such beauty."
He was willing to play up Ray's ego occasionally sure, but not as much as he had. Perhaps to simply let Ray temper his vanity overtime. It certainly seemed to work, but he did still see it, every now and again. While Lil' enjoyed Ray's self confidence, it did lead him to wonder how he truly ended up with the squirrel sometimes. What exactly did Ray see in him?
"I can't believe they would be willing to let you have such a rare flower for free like that." He could already tell this place must have been a smaller shop. But those places were always the best to get advice and the things you needed, so it wasn't surprising. "You really did get pretty lucky. Had it been any other place, they would have tried to get you to pay an arm and a leg...Or worse, pitch the bulb."
Lil' would smirk at look over to Ray, putting an arm around the squirrel as he spoke that last sentence. It was a rare occurrence of Ray acknowledging how he truly felt about their relationship. It was hard for him to really tell what Ray thought deep down. Perhaps it was his own initial naivety to make him think Ray was an open book like he was, but it was moments like this that reaffirmed Lil's decision that one fateful night.
"I'm glad to hear it."
It was a flaw. Ray put a lot of stock in his appearance. He felt as though his personality couldn't compare to his looks. That nobody could ever truly care about him by personality alone, it had to be something about the way he looked. Just another hurdle to get over, as he grew older, and wiser.
"They told me no one would buy it, that's why they gave it away so easily."
He felt bad for the flower. A poor bulb, that no one seemed to want, simply because it was hard to take care of. It was something he could relate to, maybe that was why he was so willing to take it. He himself was someone hard to take care of. Someone that so often, nobody had wanted. It wasn't until he met Mighty that his feelings had begun changing.
An eyebrow raised, a smirk of his own as he poked Lil's nose. There was no resistance to that arm whatsoever, while in his right hand, he continued to twirl his umbrella. The rain grew harder. Not overly so, but noticeable enough for him to get an idea. Very gently breaking away from the hold Lil had on him, the squirrel took the other's hand into his own.
"I have an idea, but I can't tell you what it is. Do you trust me enough to go along with it?"
Lil' kind of shook his head and silently chuckled when Ray gave his little response to his quip. He couldn't tell if Ray was just messing with him or was serious.
"You're lucky you're cute." Lil' obviously joked and smiled, finishing up the planting of the bud, being gentle when planting the precious bulb. He would then get up and look towards the squirrel, giving him a small kiss on the cheek.
"Must have been quite a lucky find then. We'll be sure to take care of it and let it bloom. Give it a little bit of love."
The hedgehog smiled and would brush off a bit of the extra dirt on his gloves. He was looking forward to seeing the fruits of their labor, but for now they had a lot of care to do.
"Don't be ridiculous, I'm nothing short of devastatingly beautiful."
Okay, maybe he was still a bit vain. But it didn't cloud his feelings near to the extent that it did years ago. By his tone, it was clear that he understood the meaning Lil was going for. Used a dramatic voice and everything.
Picking the umbrella back up, a gust of wind blows by. Breathtaking.
"It holds an extra special meaning to me. The flower shop in town, mentioned that they couldn't hold it. That they didn't have the right conditions for it to flourish. When I mentioned how the sunlight was often directly above this house, they gave it to me, and their only request was that, should it bloom, I take a photograph of it in its prime."
An idle twirl of that umbrella.
"I think we can do it. After all," A short pause.
"There's a lot of love here."
"When you have to live off of the land, you learn to respect nature. It's a lesson I had to learn pretty quickly when I was growing up. Especially when you have someone to look after."
Lil' sighed. He didn't have those same memories of past relationships. Only the events that led up to him being who he really was. The survival...The struggle...The trauma. Perhaps not like Ray's, but his own all the same.
"You trying to butter me up?"
He couldn't help but tease the squirrel, if only to see what he would say regarding his comment. For what reason? Who could say. But he would do so regardless unless told wotherwise.
"I don't mind. I did this last time, remember. This is our garden, you know. I gotta pull my weight around here too."
He would kneel down to assist the squirrel, smiling at him as he would begin to make the hole in the soul for the bulb.
"What is this particular flower called anyways?"
He'd keep it a secret for now, how he survived after he'd run away from Omen. Taking advantage of the kind, just to take what he needed, and one day leave without a word. He was just a young teen. It was when Mighty came around, that he came to understand what love is.
And learned how love was one of the most powerful forces in the universe. It certainly changed this squirrel.
"A friend of mine told me it was better to use oil than butter, but that you would have to sacrifice taste for health. I can respect their feelings, but that doesn't mean I'm not going to experiment with butter sometimes. Everything in moderation."
Eyes close. Once there's sufficiently deep a hole, the bulb is placed. The soil was damp, as could be expected. But that was okay. Everything was okay.
"The Blue Mist Moon. There are botanists who give an arm and a leg for one of these bulbs. I thought it'd be fun to take on the challenge of raising one too. I've never seen one bloom, so it'll be a new experience. I'll work hard too, to make sure it grows."
🎵 I wanna sing a song! A song to bring Simon arou-wound When he hears my voice I hope he likes the sound Just give me a listen Mmmm... 🎵
"That would be the best place for it yes." The hedgehog would look around to see the location in question. He personally didn't mind the light rain. The drizzle was nice, even when it ended up spraying him in a bit of water. It wasn't pouring so the ground wasn't soggy and mushy just yet. Hopefully it would stay that way. He also didn't have to worry about a large body of water, so that was nice.
"I don't think you'll have to worry about a single rainstorm doing that. Even plants, being living things as well, can adapt and survive in unexpected, short-term events. So long as a season long monsoon doesn't show up, they should be fine."
The hedgehog turned to Ray with a curious look on him. "Blue huh? What made you choose that particular flower?"
"I suppose that for most of my life, I didn't think much on nature."
Though that latter part was a testament. He himself had survived extreme events in his lifetime. So many memories, at such a young age. Some sweet, some sour. Was that what it meant to begin growing older? Looking back on bygone days, relationships, and overall experiences?
"I had my reasons."
Blue had always been his favorite color, for a multitude of reasons. The sky, when it was blue, spelled freedom to him. Probably made sense he'd take interest in someone whose fur was blue. Taking the bulb out of his pocket with his free hand, he knelt down. In reality, it was a rare flower.
And it bloomed both spring and summer, assuming you took care of it.
"Let's plant it together. If you don't mind getting your gloves a little dirty."
After all the time we sang we surely made plenty Of the music that had cried out each and every feeling And even if we can't make anymore it doesn't matter 'Cause I understand @lilbluespeedster's muted expression
-------------------------------------
"Well the instructions say only moderate sunlight..."
He and Lil were busy planting the spring garden. The winter was over, that meant time for flowers! There was light rain, which meant no need to water. His weapon of choice served a practicality as well, his star umbrella was more than big enough to shield both of them.
"I'm no heliophysicist, but I think the side of the house would be best. Says it needs a lot of water, so we must stay diligent. I really want to see these ones bloom, they're supposedly very rare blue blooms. We can't miss a single day of making sure it gets some water, so we'll have to remind each other in case the other forgets."
There's a pause, as he looks up at the sky.
"...I hope the rain doesn't drown it out."
🎵 Well then You should use my voice and put your feelings to music Even if they say it's just a waste, I'll do it "This is so ear grating it just hurts" They laugh and say But even if that's true It could be the thing that one day will set you free So come on, and let us sing a song for just you and me I'll hear your words No matter what they tell you I believe
So write a song I'll sing along... 🎵
🎵 Sometimes I feel so alone at wit's ends Sometimes don't know where to turn, or who to call my friends
But I'm okay I have faith in myself I'm okay I'm gonna make it through the day I'm okay 🎵
