Doomstrange headcanons! Go!
Gods, how can I ever refrain myself and not write a whole book? /hj
Usually I'd go with "which era" but since there's no specification, I'll just... write for each one of them *evil laughter*
- Since it's canon Stephen spent 45 days in Latveria, let's just say that at first Victor intended to keep things as professional as possible, but soon he realized Stephen has excellent taste in things: books, movies, plays. It's the common ground they were able to find since they don't seem to agree with their respective politics and philosophies. Stephen also tasted legit the best wines in the whole world and adored the local cuisine inspired by Victor's mom's romani heritage. They certainly had dates, although none of them are aware those were in fact dates.
- Stephen is friends with Boris and still sends him cards and letters.
- I know Stephen is a genius but he couldn't learn a whole new language in just a few weeks. I like to think that he kept learning Latverian after T&T (also canon that he's fluent).
- Stephen would also befriend Kristoff if he were part of the story. I do believe T&T is set after Kristoff's adoption. Chronology a bit iffy due to the whole mantle and trial, but let's keep it that way.
- Canonically, they both can play the piano. And they did play together a few nights. (*jumps off a cliff*)
- Victor is jealous of Silver Surfer, Adam Warlock and Clea during the Infinity Gauntlet arc because he never knew Stephen was so loved by the hero community.
- Stephen vouched for Victor every time a hero brought up his evil side.
- Victor never sought the mantle of Sorcerer Supreme before Blood Hunt because he trusted Stephen at being the best magic user capable of carrying the burden. He never agreed to Stephen's methods, but at least he respects the man. (I like to think that he hesitated when the opportunity happened because he didn't want to break Stephen's trust, although his need for power and approval spoke louder in his heart)
Secret Wars era (in which I'll go insane):
- Victor allowed Stephen to decide whether or not to take the power of the Beyonders first because he trusted Stephen more than he could admit. Or maybe he knew Stephen deeply enough to know he would decline. In any case, for a single moment, Victor put his hunger for power aside and trusted Stephen's judgment.
- This is why Stephen became his sheriff, though. They built Battleworld together and treasured their creation. And no one was bold enough to go against Victor's temper but Stephen.
- Stephen knew Victor's marriage with Sue was a lavender one so he wasn't bothered by it. Moreover, there were RUMORS by the Thors here and there, to which Stephen remained silent. It's not like they'd say that to GOD EMPEROR DOOM's face, after all.
- I think it's here that they started calling each other by the first name. Which gave a sense of humanity to Victor since he was considered a god by the whole world, except for his friend. And, although it was important for Victor to be seen as a human by a single person, it also made him torn because he was expected to be perfect. By the people, of course, but mostly by himself.
- Victor has never forgiven himself for what he did to Stephen. He will never admit it but he became kinder to him because of it, and also he's afraid Stephen will learn about it one day (delicious angst potential nom nom nom).
- Like, I know it's canon that they have each other's numbers but they made calls often during IIM because well, magic shenanigans and Victor was really committed to proving himself to the world. So what's better than having the Sorcerer Supreme at your side to vouch for you? (gay ppl real)
- They grew closer during this time.
- Stephen tried to visit Victor after he was scarred by The Hood, but was turned down every single time (*cries*).
- Stephen can definitely sees Victor's face behind his mask. In addition, I absolutely adore this headcanon that Stephen's hand scars match Victor's, especially when he cups his face (*dies*).
- Savage Avengers wanting me to believe Stephen had a fling with Elektra when in fact it was Victor all along. They both showing vulnerability to each other was PEAK, especially when it comes to Victor, a man who literally won't scream of pain while dying the worst death possible out of pride. (*banging my head on the wall*)
- If not that night after their first fight against Kulan Gath, then definitely after the post-victory banquet.
- Their divorce era started when Victor didn't show up to Stephen's funeral/helped him with the murder case. I like to think that he didn't have the guts to attend the funeral because it would remind him of Secret Wars. Although the mantle was his by right, he was also jealous of Clea.
AND MY MOST CURRENT HEADCANON
I have no idea what Ryan North will do BUT it's a fact that Victor is holding a piece of Stephen's soul. And if this fact alone doesn't entail a whole crisis of conscience or doesn't affect Victor in any meaningful way... I will have to fix that with fanfic. I'm just waiting to read the whole event and adapt canon like I usually do with my fics, but I NEED THAT ADDRESSED!! *slams table*
Ok, ok, definitely left some hcs out because I forgor/memory issues. But I hope you liked those the same way I adored that you dropped this ask for me. So a hundred million "thank you" from the bottom of my heart and soul 🥹💜
PS: I didn't want to write couple headcanons BUT if you want them, don't hesitate to send another ask 👀
I'm so normal about them....
