Last words of a shooting star.

An oc rp blog ₍^. .^₎Ⳋ

[the-starchild]

"A child that was from the night sky itself... a star child."

Meowdy! This is a roleplay blog for my (vaguely–) Ultrakill oc, Nyx!

My main is @painted-clovers and I use they/them :) (also I'm a minor :P)

Now some rules!

Nyx is Nonbinary, and uses They/them along with neos. (They/star/xyr)

NYX IS A KID!!! So nothing suggestive nor just fully nsfw. Shipping is also discouraged ^^;

Please don't send vent asks :')

If im uncomfortable with an ask/interaction, I'll delete it.

Not a rule, but here is Nyx's toyhouse :3

"And so, they stayed in the kingdom in the clouds, living happily ever after."

[thescarlet-executioner]

God you are so rude to me! Maybe I should tell them you have been slacking off

@eddie-heavens-perfect-snitch

“….See if I care, the Council always look for a reason for punishment. I would not be surprised if you were also on the recieving end of their ire.”

Abhorson spoke with contempt towards Eddie, their eyes rolling.

“Just keep Nyx out of your snitchery. They do not need anymore sorrow to befall them.”

[the-starchild]

While this is all happening, Nyx is peeking from the corner, giving the NASTIEST glare to Eddie.

[thescarlet-executioner]

You're just minding your buisness, running errands with your apprentice with overcast skies, when their ear twitches and they start looking around as if they just noticed something.

"Oh, I just felt a rain drop."

As if on cue: it starts drizzling rain, and you two hear a distant roll of thunder; the kid holds their paw out to feel the drops.

"Wow, it would be a really nice time to go out to the library, don't you think?" They chirped as they glanced at you.

{ @heartandstar }

Abhorson was preoccupied with picking out goods, when they glanced down to their apprentice. They paused, before sticking out their fingers to feel the raindrops.

That is until they flinched at the soft rolling of thunder.

“Yes, Nyx. That sounds like a good idea. Anything to get out of the open space.”

They quickly pay with a couple of gold and silver coins, holding Nyx’s hand. The executioner shielded their apprentice from the rain as the two made it to the library.

Anything to get out of the way of thunder and lightning.

[the-starchild]

Nyx gleefully nods and holds their mentors hand as they skipped over to the library, happy to have what others see as "gloomy" weather.

But when they arrive at the library, they slow down, and glance at Abhorson as they seem to ponder something.. yet, they shake their head, greet the librarians, and enthusiastically run off to the wide array of bookshelves; accidentally leaving their mentor in the process.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled softly as Nyx ran off to the wide array of bookshelves. In all honesty, the executioner knew that the library was at least insulated against outside.

So they had to wait until the rain passes.

They nod in greeting for the librarians, before going over to find a book that would hold them over.

[the-starchild]

As they go over to the bookshelves, they hear a few murmurs and get a few stares, but all of that is interrupted when the rain suddenly gets heavier.

Then, they hear a call of their name.

It's Nyx, who is holding a couple of different books, wanting to bring them over to a section of the library with a variety of different kinds of comfortable looking chairs.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was perusing some books, though it didn’t seem to catch their attention. Another soft roll of thunder made them flinch once more, making them glance out a stray window to see the rain get heavier.

Great. Just great.

“Hm? Nyx?”

They perked up at the call and looked over at Nyx with a softened expression hidden behind their mask. The executioner followed the other, sitting down on one of the comfy chairs.

“What is it that you wish to show me Nyx.”

The angel still held a flat tone, but there was a softer undertone whenever they spoke to the child. It was like looking into a mirror, and Abhorson made sure that this time.

That they would never be like their father.

[the-starchild]

The kid put down their books near their mentor, and walked to a tan basket.

"Well first I wanted to show you this area, its my favorite! It even has blankets!!"

They walked over back to Abhorson with a space-themed blanket, and cover Abhorson's body with it, as if they were tucking them in.

They giggle looking at what they've done, grab a book, and then sit on Abhorsons lap.

They point to the cover of the book, it's a book about sea slugs with a sea bunny on the cover.

"It's you!! Or at least like you!.." :3

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson’s face softened at Nyx ‘tucking’ them in, noticing that it looks soft and fluffy. They glanced around at the other angels that are in the library, feeling the stares and the hearing the not so quiet whispers.

Everything that made them feel so small.

Their thoughts were interrupted when Nyx sat on their lap, making them focus on them instead of the other angels.

And the thunderstorm.

Well, sorta.

The executioner hummed at the cover, before lightly moving one of their hands to gently pat Nyx’s head.

“I suppose you are right Nyx. If I did not know any better, I would say that sea bunny was a cousin of mine.”

They mused, joking that they were related to the sea bunny on the cover. They knew it wasn’t true, they were an Angel and the sea bunny went extinct.

But they didn’t have the heart to break that news to their apprentice.

“Are you going to read it to me?”

[the-starchild]

Nyx chuckles at the comment and leans into Abhorson's hand, but their eyes widen at the question.

"Oh! Well do you want me to?.."

Without notice—the lights flicker a bit, most likely from the storm.

Nyx flinches, and gets a bit squeamish.

"Uh—I'll.. Just, read it anyways."

They grab another blanket and settle themselves into Abhorson's lap more.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“If you-“

Abhorson began to answer, flinching at the sudden flickering of lights. Fear slowly creeped into their mind, but they shook it off when Nyx settled more into their lap more.

To show fear, especially in a public place like this? They would truly be pathetic.

But they didn’t think about that too much.

“After you read, might I tell you a story?”

The executioner hummed out, patting Nyx’s head gently as they settled a tad more. They had a story brewing just for the apprentice, well, ever since they mentioned off-handedly that star liked listening to lullabies.

[the-starchild]

The child looked up to Abhorson, and their poise softened.

"Sure, I like your stories." They said, their eyes softening under their mask

They started reading, talking about all different kinds of sea slugs as the rain poured outside.

They finished, but as they were going to close the book, a librarian comes by the area.

"H-" They jump at actually seeing the larger executioner. "-..ey. just to let you two know that its not very..uh, safe to go out, so its best for you two to stay in here." They give a thumbs up, and then quickly leave the two of them alone once again.

...

"..Oh." ...They mutter.

They close the book, and just..sit there for a moment.

Normally they like the storms, but..this? What were they going to do about food and water, how would the council react?

Oh God how would the council react?? How would they punish them for staying out of their sight for too long; how long, ho—

Shakily, they fold their blanket, put it and their book on the ground, and wiggle themselves under the blanket Abhorson is tucked under.

"You can..tell your story now."

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was glad to have the mask on, otherwise angels would think they were going soft. Though they paused when Nyx spoke.

Star… likes the stories they always tell??

Their stories were already rudimentary, spoken stilted, and spoken few and far between. They’ve tried to make stories for their apprentice, but that was rare. So they stuck to what generational stories their family passed down.

Which isn’t a whole lot.

The executioner shook off the growing thoughts, focusing as Nyx began to read the book and talk about Nudibranchs. It mostly seemed to overshadow the storm that was raging outside.

Mostly.

Abhorson still flinched silently at every rumble of thunder and every flash of lightning. They couldn’t help it really, after all, it reminded them of the all too familiar feeling of their father.

When Nyx was done, the executioner smiled lightly beneath their mask and gave a soft applause.

“That was wonderful Nyx, thank-“

The sound of someone approaching made their words of praise fall flat, seeing the librarian appear to give the news that it wasn’t safe to go outside right now.

No shit Sherlock.

Though that raised the question, how WOULD the council react. With annoyance, mostly. The group was one who the most insignificant thing would set them off. Even if it was out of control. They absentmindedly remembered when they were late to a meeting the first time, they were berated. And beaten.

And they never were late again. That is how they solved their problems, through threats and violence.

However, the council was going to be annoyed. The best case scenario is that they get berated, the worst case scenario is.. punishment. Either way, the angel knew that the other was taking this harder than they were.

The executioner sighed lightly, the feeling of Nyx shifting pulling them out of their thoughts. Oh right, they had to tell a story.

Silently they hoped that it raised their apprentice’s spirits.

“Ah yes, hm.. let’s see.”

Abhorson began, humming as they thought quickly of a concept.

“Well… Once upon a time, there was a bustling kingdom full of creatures of many shapes and sizes. It lived up in the clouds, far from the ground and saw many wonderful things. From the rainbows that danced across the skies, to the quiet lulls in the summer day.”

Abhorson faltered, before they cleared their throat and continued.

“..Among the people, was the knight in red. They were a fearsome warrior, feared by all and was the right-hand of the Council. Right next to the King and Queen of this glorious paradise. One night, when the knight in red went outside, they looked up at the sky. A beautiful night sky shined back, the array of stars that speckled it making them smile if but a little… but while they looked they heard a small zoom.”

The executioner made a soft ‘zooming’ sound.

“A star zipped across the sky,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“Then another,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“The knight in red could not believe it. For the sky was filled with moving stars, creating a beautiful array as they shot across the glittering night sky. All for one star. One that was heading straight for the knight in red.”

Abhorson opened their mouth to make a ‘boom’ sound, though they were interrupted by an unexpectedly large clap of thunder.

BOOM!!!

The executioner flinched at the sound before continuing.

“..They were sent flying back, knocking back into the ground with a groan. But heard a soft giggle.”

They made a stilted giggle, before continuing.

“At the source of the sound, the knight in red looked down and saw a child that now rested on top their stomach. A child that was from the night sky itself. A star child.”

They glanced at Nyx, before glancing away and continuing.

“For a while, the knight in red did not get along with the star child. But as time passed, they warmed up to the star child and realized something. Something that made their steel-covered heart break.”

Abhorson glanced back to Nyx, a soft smile behind their mask.

“The knight in red saw themselves in them, the tragedy and pain someone so young had to endure. The fearsome warrior vowed that no one was going to hurt the star child for as long as they lived. And so, they stayed in the kingdom in the clouds, living happily ever after. And some say, they still live there to this day.”

The angel finished their story, still looking at Nyx.

“How was that? Did you like it?”

[the-starchild]

As the large executioner was telling the story, a couple of bystanders were staring at the two of them. Some in concern, though, some were looking with curiosity and even wonder.

Nyx was attentively litsening to the story, and at the end, they clapped and said "Horray, I loved it!!"

Abhorson even heard a few of the starers started quietly clapping, but when they looked up at them, they either jumped and quickly looked away, or were already being taken elsewhere by their parents.

Nyx then covered their "mouth," noticing that they were a little louder than what would be appropriate in this setting.

"I loved it," they whispered, smiling.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled at Nyx’s enthusiasm, before hearing the applause from a select few of the bystanders. It felt, weird, in a way…. Having others applaud instead of the suffocating silence that they seem to always illicit.

“I am glad you liked it Nyx.”

The Executioner spoke calmly, tilting their head slightly as they looked at their apprentice. Ever since star had mentioned that they liked lullabies, they’ve tried to find some, but they’ve never found any that were of calliper for Nyx. So they made up their own.

Sorta.

But that’s something they wouldn’t say outright. Maybe when they’re alone.

“What do you wish to do now Nyx? The weather is still not viable to go through.”

The larger angel asked, their voice a touch bit softer. They moved to lean forward towards the smaller angel, putting a hand on star’s head gently.

They won’t be like their father.

They’ll NEVER be like him.

[the-starchild]

The lean onto Abhorson's hand, smiling widely.

"I would ask for another story.." They purred

They then stretched, yawning.

"..but honestly, all I want now is to just nap." They mumbled before cuddling up to Abhorson, ready to go off to lala land.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Then take a cat nap Nyx, I will be here when you wake up.”

Abhorson mumbled out to their apprentice with a clandestine smile, their both arms gently wrapping around Nyx to protect their star child.

And so they sat there, keeping watch over Nyx and inadvertently helping them ignore the storm that raged outside.

Sort of.

Their heart still raced and their body felt like a coiled spring. But they felt…not alone, but perhaps that was because their apprentice was there. With them.

[the-starchild]

They relaxed with the mumbled permission from Abhorson, their drowsiness taking more and more of their energy every second that they stayed awake.

Nyx hugged their arms, comforted in their grasp as they dazed off to sleep. Though, not before an.. unexpected farewell.

"..goodnight mama."

And just like that, they were fast asleep, not even realizing the new nickname they used.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson continued to watch over Nyx, their eyes softening as their apprentice hugged their arms.

Though the executioner paused when they heard that nickname.

Mama?

Did… Did they just call them.. Mama?

Tears started to well up in their eyes, their breathing starting to become shuddered. It made Abhorson feel so small yet so loved. So much so, that they hoped that no one would notice that they’re starting to cry.

Oh, they hoped.

“………goodnight my starchild… sweet dreams.”

The executioner’s voice was soft but shaky, as though they were trying to hold back tears.

They hoped that no one would see them like this.

[the-starchild]

Though, sadly, Abhorson's hopes wouldn't stay true for long—as when they were processing the nickname, a different librarian than the one from earlier came back to the area the two of them were seated.

They seemed only the tiniest bit tense, but they were just there to put away some books and stuffed animals.

Then they looked at the two of them in silence for a moment, saw Nyx, and remarked "that must be comfortable for them, huh?"

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Ah!”

Abhorson flinched at the sudden voice, quickly snapping their head towards the librarian. They stared at the other for just a minute, before clearing their throat and responding.

“………… Yes….. It is for… them.”

The executioner glanced away, looking down at the sleeping apprentice. Before, looking over to the librarian.

Small talk…

Make small talk!

“….Please notify us if the weather becomes better..please. I would appreciate it.”

Atleast the angel was focused on Nyx and… not on the revelation of Nyx’s nickname for the executioner. Abhorson knew it wasn’t anything special of their apprentice saying ‘mama’ to them, they said ‘father’ and ‘papa’ to the previous executioner.

But that would mean confronting the fact that Nyx thought of them as their guardian, their mama.

Their starchild.

It overwhelmed them if just a bit, but they’d be strong for Nyx. They’d be better than their bastard of a father.

[the-starchild]

The librarian jumped when the executioner flinched. They thought that the angel already knew they were here by some kind of power by the way people were talking about them.

They smiled softly at the conformation, it was nice seeing someone so intimidating be sweet.

Though, their voice sounded.. They shook their head, maybe it's best not to dwell on it.

"Of course; i'm not sure if it's gonna be any better soon, but I hope so. The library's nice, but nobody can stay here forever."

They almost stood up, but couldn't leave without..

"By the way, you okay? Your voice sounds.. choked up." They faltered.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“It is none of your concern.”

Abhorson huffed out, their arms around their apprentice tightening. Their tail twitched as their ears pressed against their head, though it was mostly in annoyance.

They didn’t need the librarian’s pity.

They were fine.

“I am at a satisfactory level of emotion.”

The executioner spoke, taking care to not give any hints of their feelings. While it was true that they were.. happy, they didn’t want to show it.

It was weakness.

[the-starchild]

The librarian flinched at Abhorson's rebuttal. Even if it was to be expected (because it honestly wasn't their buisness to begin with,) they still felt bad.

"Alrighty, sorry for prying" They said, standing up.

"I'll say if the weather gets better." They sighed, "do tell if you need anything, okay?" And with a small smile and a wave, they went back to the library shelves. But they did look back a couple of times while walking away, still worried.

Even after all of this, Nyx was still sleeping in Abhorson's arms, even snoring the tiniest bit.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson nodded in response, glancing away.

“I will.”

As soon as the Librarian left, they sighed out as they turned their attention to Nyx.

They were happy that their voice didn’t wake up their apprentice, they trusted the executioner enough to sleep in their arms.

They couldn’t do that in their father’s arms, not as a child Nyx’s age.

[the-starchild]

Some librarians came to the one Abhorson just talked to after they left, and they saw them having a conversation—One of them laughed, but then the one Abby talked to got defensive after the other laughed, and after some words were thrown around, they stepped out of the conversation before it turned into an argument.. wonder what that was all about.

Anyways, Nyx was still sleeping. The child couldn't remember the last time they felt this safe than when in Abhorson's arms. Had it been weeks? Months? Years?.. Their entire life..? No matter, they slept the most sound they have in ages, and it was wonderful.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson glanced over to the sound of the librarians talking, narrowing their eyes from behind their mask at the conversation.

“Tch.”

What a bunch of gossipers.

The executioner glanced back down to Nyx in their lap, their hard gaze softening. Gently, they put a hand on the other’s head and started to pet it.

All while they hummed a lullaby tune that they had hummed for Nyx so many times.

[the-starchild]

The librarian other than the one they talked to calls out to the other one, but the other one snaps back, and the conversation ends with the former going back to doing their job.

Even though they're asleep, when Abhorson pets Nyx, they start purring and leaning closer to Abhorson.. Someone's comfortable.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson started to smile behind their mask at Nyx, continuing to both pet and hum the lullaby for them. The executioner was glad that their apprentice felt comfortable and safe with them, helping them take their mind off of the storm that raged outside.

They had heard of one of their predecessors, Venerable Brutus had been comfortable with her father, Elder Perseus. Though, they can’t say for certain, they’ll need to dig out the necessary books to fact-check. One more thing they need to do.

However, the relationship between them and their father wasn’t comfortable.

“Hm. Perhaps I do need to do some digging..”

The angel mumbled out to themselves, still petting Nyx.

[the-starchild]

Nyx was moving a bit as they were sleeping, maybe they were having a dream? Who knows—they were still purring and even chirping sometimes in their sleep.

The librarian who was previously with Abhorson and Nyx had walked in view of where they were sitting again, and got a small smile on their face before quickly attending to their duties again.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson let out a small sigh as they petted Nyx, focusing on their apprentice.

“Awh, look at-“

A loud crash of lightning interrupted them, their body reacting on its own as they jump to their feet. They held Nyx close to themselves, though their breathing became ragged and their heart quickened. They glanced around.

It wasn’t safe.

Not safe.

The executioner glanced down at Nyx, worried. A sharp stab of pain from their back made them wince, their body aching from the quick movement.

Not safe.

Not safe.

They needed to go somewhere else.

They needed to hide.

[the-starchild]

Nyx had flinched at the crash of thunder, but was about to snuggle back to sleep before Abhorson suddenly stood up.

"Mrrp?"

They were half-asleep, and.. put a paw on their mentors face; still processing being awake.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“…!!!”

Abhorson flinched away from Nyx’s touch, moving to glance around once again. There was no one around, well what the angel could see, but they didn’t want to leave it up to interpretation.

If they could find somewhere more safe then-

Another loud crack of thunder and lightning rang out, the sound of it causing the executioner to recoil. Their breath came out in quick shuddered bursts, overcome by the need to run.

To hide.

Whether if their back pain could tolerate it or not. They kept their apprentice close, just so they too could be safe.

Though, a small part of them knew that they were only doing this to try and calm themselves down.

[the-starchild]

The child saw their mentor flinch away from their paw, and that with them feeling their rapid breathing immediately made them know that something was wrong.

They looked around, and they saw the ground much lower than before from when they were sitting, along with a couple of people staring at the both of them. Though, Abhorson was moving so quickly that they couldn't even think of a way to try and ground them.

Without even noticing, they started purring: not out of comfort this time, but the complete opposite of it.

[thescarlet-executioner]

You're just minding your buisness, running errands with your apprentice with overcast skies, when their ear twitches and they start looking around as if they just noticed something.

"Oh, I just felt a rain drop."

As if on cue: it starts drizzling rain, and you two hear a distant roll of thunder; the kid holds their paw out to feel the drops.

"Wow, it would be a really nice time to go out to the library, don't you think?" They chirped as they glanced at you.

{ @heartandstar }

Abhorson was preoccupied with picking out goods, when they glanced down to their apprentice. They paused, before sticking out their fingers to feel the raindrops.

That is until they flinched at the soft rolling of thunder.

“Yes, Nyx. That sounds like a good idea. Anything to get out of the open space.”

They quickly pay with a couple of gold and silver coins, holding Nyx’s hand. The executioner shielded their apprentice from the rain as the two made it to the library.

Anything to get out of the way of thunder and lightning.

[the-starchild]

Nyx gleefully nods and holds their mentors hand as they skipped over to the library, happy to have what others see as "gloomy" weather.

But when they arrive at the library, they slow down, and glance at Abhorson as they seem to ponder something.. yet, they shake their head, greet the librarians, and enthusiastically run off to the wide array of bookshelves; accidentally leaving their mentor in the process.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled softly as Nyx ran off to the wide array of bookshelves. In all honesty, the executioner knew that the library was at least insulated against outside.

So they had to wait until the rain passes.

They nod in greeting for the librarians, before going over to find a book that would hold them over.

[the-starchild]

As they go over to the bookshelves, they hear a few murmurs and get a few stares, but all of that is interrupted when the rain suddenly gets heavier.

Then, they hear a call of their name.

It's Nyx, who is holding a couple of different books, wanting to bring them over to a section of the library with a variety of different kinds of comfortable looking chairs.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was perusing some books, though it didn’t seem to catch their attention. Another soft roll of thunder made them flinch once more, making them glance out a stray window to see the rain get heavier.

Great. Just great.

“Hm? Nyx?”

They perked up at the call and looked over at Nyx with a softened expression hidden behind their mask. The executioner followed the other, sitting down on one of the comfy chairs.

“What is it that you wish to show me Nyx.”

The angel still held a flat tone, but there was a softer undertone whenever they spoke to the child. It was like looking into a mirror, and Abhorson made sure that this time.

That they would never be like their father.

[the-starchild]

The kid put down their books near their mentor, and walked to a tan basket.

"Well first I wanted to show you this area, its my favorite! It even has blankets!!"

They walked over back to Abhorson with a space-themed blanket, and cover Abhorson's body with it, as if they were tucking them in.

They giggle looking at what they've done, grab a book, and then sit on Abhorsons lap.

They point to the cover of the book, it's a book about sea slugs with a sea bunny on the cover.

"It's you!! Or at least like you!.." :3

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson’s face softened at Nyx ‘tucking’ them in, noticing that it looks soft and fluffy. They glanced around at the other angels that are in the library, feeling the stares and the hearing the not so quiet whispers.

Everything that made them feel so small.

Their thoughts were interrupted when Nyx sat on their lap, making them focus on them instead of the other angels.

And the thunderstorm.

Well, sorta.

The executioner hummed at the cover, before lightly moving one of their hands to gently pat Nyx’s head.

“I suppose you are right Nyx. If I did not know any better, I would say that sea bunny was a cousin of mine.”

They mused, joking that they were related to the sea bunny on the cover. They knew it wasn’t true, they were an Angel and the sea bunny went extinct.

But they didn’t have the heart to break that news to their apprentice.

“Are you going to read it to me?”

[the-starchild]

Nyx chuckles at the comment and leans into Abhorson's hand, but their eyes widen at the question.

"Oh! Well do you want me to?.."

Without notice—the lights flicker a bit, most likely from the storm.

Nyx flinches, and gets a bit squeamish.

"Uh—I'll.. Just, read it anyways."

They grab another blanket and settle themselves into Abhorson's lap more.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“If you-“

Abhorson began to answer, flinching at the sudden flickering of lights. Fear slowly creeped into their mind, but they shook it off when Nyx settled more into their lap more.

To show fear, especially in a public place like this? They would truly be pathetic.

But they didn’t think about that too much.

“After you read, might I tell you a story?”

The executioner hummed out, patting Nyx’s head gently as they settled a tad more. They had a story brewing just for the apprentice, well, ever since they mentioned off-handedly that star liked listening to lullabies.

[the-starchild]

The child looked up to Abhorson, and their poise softened.

"Sure, I like your stories." They said, their eyes softening under their mask

They started reading, talking about all different kinds of sea slugs as the rain poured outside.

They finished, but as they were going to close the book, a librarian comes by the area.

"H-" They jump at actually seeing the larger executioner. "-..ey. just to let you two know that its not very..uh, safe to go out, so its best for you two to stay in here." They give a thumbs up, and then quickly leave the two of them alone once again.

...

"..Oh." ...They mutter.

They close the book, and just..sit there for a moment.

Normally they like the storms, but..this? What were they going to do about food and water, how would the council react?

Oh God how would the council react?? How would they punish them for staying out of their sight for too long; how long, ho—

Shakily, they fold their blanket, put it and their book on the ground, and wiggle themselves under the blanket Abhorson is tucked under.

"You can..tell your story now."

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was glad to have the mask on, otherwise angels would think they were going soft. Though they paused when Nyx spoke.

Star… likes the stories they always tell??

Their stories were already rudimentary, spoken stilted, and spoken few and far between. They’ve tried to make stories for their apprentice, but that was rare. So they stuck to what generational stories their family passed down.

Which isn’t a whole lot.

The executioner shook off the growing thoughts, focusing as Nyx began to read the book and talk about Nudibranchs. It mostly seemed to overshadow the storm that was raging outside.

Mostly.

Abhorson still flinched silently at every rumble of thunder and every flash of lightning. They couldn’t help it really, after all, it reminded them of the all too familiar feeling of their father.

When Nyx was done, the executioner smiled lightly beneath their mask and gave a soft applause.

“That was wonderful Nyx, thank-“

The sound of someone approaching made their words of praise fall flat, seeing the librarian appear to give the news that it wasn’t safe to go outside right now.

No shit Sherlock.

Though that raised the question, how WOULD the council react. With annoyance, mostly. The group was one who the most insignificant thing would set them off. Even if it was out of control. They absentmindedly remembered when they were late to a meeting the first time, they were berated. And beaten.

And they never were late again. That is how they solved their problems, through threats and violence.

However, the council was going to be annoyed. The best case scenario is that they get berated, the worst case scenario is.. punishment. Either way, the angel knew that the other was taking this harder than they were.

The executioner sighed lightly, the feeling of Nyx shifting pulling them out of their thoughts. Oh right, they had to tell a story.

Silently they hoped that it raised their apprentice’s spirits.

“Ah yes, hm.. let’s see.”

Abhorson began, humming as they thought quickly of a concept.

“Well… Once upon a time, there was a bustling kingdom full of creatures of many shapes and sizes. It lived up in the clouds, far from the ground and saw many wonderful things. From the rainbows that danced across the skies, to the quiet lulls in the summer day.”

Abhorson faltered, before they cleared their throat and continued.

“..Among the people, was the knight in red. They were a fearsome warrior, feared by all and was the right-hand of the Council. Right next to the King and Queen of this glorious paradise. One night, when the knight in red went outside, they looked up at the sky. A beautiful night sky shined back, the array of stars that speckled it making them smile if but a little… but while they looked they heard a small zoom.”

The executioner made a soft ‘zooming’ sound.

“A star zipped across the sky,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“Then another,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“The knight in red could not believe it. For the sky was filled with moving stars, creating a beautiful array as they shot across the glittering night sky. All for one star. One that was heading straight for the knight in red.”

Abhorson opened their mouth to make a ‘boom’ sound, though they were interrupted by an unexpectedly large clap of thunder.

BOOM!!!

The executioner flinched at the sound before continuing.

“..They were sent flying back, knocking back into the ground with a groan. But heard a soft giggle.”

They made a stilted giggle, before continuing.

“At the source of the sound, the knight in red looked down and saw a child that now rested on top their stomach. A child that was from the night sky itself. A star child.”

They glanced at Nyx, before glancing away and continuing.

“For a while, the knight in red did not get along with the star child. But as time passed, they warmed up to the star child and realized something. Something that made their steel-covered heart break.”

Abhorson glanced back to Nyx, a soft smile behind their mask.

“The knight in red saw themselves in them, the tragedy and pain someone so young had to endure. The fearsome warrior vowed that no one was going to hurt the star child for as long as they lived. And so, they stayed in the kingdom in the clouds, living happily ever after. And some say, they still live there to this day.”

The angel finished their story, still looking at Nyx.

“How was that? Did you like it?”

[the-starchild]

As the large executioner was telling the story, a couple of bystanders were staring at the two of them. Some in concern, though, some were looking with curiosity and even wonder.

Nyx was attentively litsening to the story, and at the end, they clapped and said "Horray, I loved it!!"

Abhorson even heard a few of the starers started quietly clapping, but when they looked up at them, they either jumped and quickly looked away, or were already being taken elsewhere by their parents.

Nyx then covered their "mouth," noticing that they were a little louder than what would be appropriate in this setting.

"I loved it," they whispered, smiling.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled at Nyx’s enthusiasm, before hearing the applause from a select few of the bystanders. It felt, weird, in a way…. Having others applaud instead of the suffocating silence that they seem to always illicit.

“I am glad you liked it Nyx.”

The Executioner spoke calmly, tilting their head slightly as they looked at their apprentice. Ever since star had mentioned that they liked lullabies, they’ve tried to find some, but they’ve never found any that were of calliper for Nyx. So they made up their own.

Sorta.

But that’s something they wouldn’t say outright. Maybe when they’re alone.

“What do you wish to do now Nyx? The weather is still not viable to go through.”

The larger angel asked, their voice a touch bit softer. They moved to lean forward towards the smaller angel, putting a hand on star’s head gently.

They won’t be like their father.

They’ll NEVER be like him.

[the-starchild]

The lean onto Abhorson's hand, smiling widely.

"I would ask for another story.." They purred

They then stretched, yawning.

"..but honestly, all I want now is to just nap." They mumbled before cuddling up to Abhorson, ready to go off to lala land.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Then take a cat nap Nyx, I will be here when you wake up.”

Abhorson mumbled out to their apprentice with a clandestine smile, their both arms gently wrapping around Nyx to protect their star child.

And so they sat there, keeping watch over Nyx and inadvertently helping them ignore the storm that raged outside.

Sort of.

Their heart still raced and their body felt like a coiled spring. But they felt…not alone, but perhaps that was because their apprentice was there. With them.

[the-starchild]

They relaxed with the mumbled permission from Abhorson, their drowsiness taking more and more of their energy every second that they stayed awake.

Nyx hugged their arms, comforted in their grasp as they dazed off to sleep. Though, not before an.. unexpected farewell.

"..goodnight mama."

And just like that, they were fast asleep, not even realizing the new nickname they used.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson continued to watch over Nyx, their eyes softening as their apprentice hugged their arms.

Though the executioner paused when they heard that nickname.

Mama?

Did… Did they just call them.. Mama?

Tears started to well up in their eyes, their breathing starting to become shuddered. It made Abhorson feel so small yet so loved. So much so, that they hoped that no one would notice that they’re starting to cry.

Oh, they hoped.

“………goodnight my starchild… sweet dreams.”

The executioner’s voice was soft but shaky, as though they were trying to hold back tears.

They hoped that no one would see them like this.

[the-starchild]

Though, sadly, Abhorson's hopes wouldn't stay true for long—as when they were processing the nickname, a different librarian than the one from earlier came back to the area the two of them were seated.

They seemed only the tiniest bit tense, but they were just there to put away some books and stuffed animals.

Then they looked at the two of them in silence for a moment, saw Nyx, and remarked "that must be comfortable for them, huh?"

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Ah!”

Abhorson flinched at the sudden voice, quickly snapping their head towards the librarian. They stared at the other for just a minute, before clearing their throat and responding.

“………… Yes….. It is for… them.”

The executioner glanced away, looking down at the sleeping apprentice. Before, looking over to the librarian.

Small talk…

Make small talk!

“….Please notify us if the weather becomes better..please. I would appreciate it.”

Atleast the angel was focused on Nyx and… not on the revelation of Nyx’s nickname for the executioner. Abhorson knew it wasn’t anything special of their apprentice saying ‘mama’ to them, they said ‘father’ and ‘papa’ to the previous executioner.

But that would mean confronting the fact that Nyx thought of them as their guardian, their mama.

Their starchild.

It overwhelmed them if just a bit, but they’d be strong for Nyx. They’d be better than their bastard of a father.

[the-starchild]

The librarian jumped when the executioner flinched. They thought that the angel already knew they were here by some kind of power by the way people were talking about them.

They smiled softly at the conformation, it was nice seeing someone so intimidating be sweet.

Though, their voice sounded.. They shook their head, maybe it's best not to dwell on it.

"Of course; i'm not sure if it's gonna be any better soon, but I hope so. The library's nice, but nobody can stay here forever."

They almost stood up, but couldn't leave without..

"By the way, you okay? Your voice sounds.. choked up." They faltered.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“It is none of your concern.”

Abhorson huffed out, their arms around their apprentice tightening. Their tail twitched as their ears pressed against their head, though it was mostly in annoyance.

They didn’t need the librarian’s pity.

They were fine.

“I am at a satisfactory level of emotion.”

The executioner spoke, taking care to not give any hints of their feelings. While it was true that they were.. happy, they didn’t want to show it.

It was weakness.

[the-starchild]

The librarian flinched at Abhorson's rebuttal. Even if it was to be expected (because it honestly wasn't their buisness to begin with,) they still felt bad.

"Alrighty, sorry for prying" They said, standing up.

"I'll say if the weather gets better." They sighed, "do tell if you need anything, okay?" And with a small smile and a wave, they went back to the library shelves. But they did look back a couple of times while walking away, still worried.

Even after all of this, Nyx was still sleeping in Abhorson's arms, even snoring the tiniest bit.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson nodded in response, glancing away.

“I will.”

As soon as the Librarian left, they sighed out as they turned their attention to Nyx.

They were happy that their voice didn’t wake up their apprentice, they trusted the executioner enough to sleep in their arms.

They couldn’t do that in their father’s arms, not as a child Nyx’s age.

[the-starchild]

Some librarians came to the one Abhorson just talked to after they left, and they saw them having a conversation—One of them laughed, but then the one Abby talked to got defensive after the other laughed, and after some words were thrown around, they stepped out of the conversation before it turned into an argument.. wonder what that was all about.

Anyways, Nyx was still sleeping. The child couldn't remember the last time they felt this safe than when in Abhorson's arms. Had it been weeks? Months? Years?.. Their entire life..? No matter, they slept the most sound they have in ages, and it was wonderful.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson glanced over to the sound of the librarians talking, narrowing their eyes from behind their mask at the conversation.

“Tch.”

What a bunch of gossipers.

The executioner glanced back down to Nyx in their lap, their hard gaze softening. Gently, they put a hand on the other’s head and started to pet it.

All while they hummed a lullaby tune that they had hummed for Nyx so many times.

[the-starchild]

The librarian other than the one they talked to calls out to the other one, but the other one snaps back, and the conversation ends with the former going back to doing their job.

Even though they're asleep, when Abhorson pets Nyx, they start purring and leaning closer to Abhorson.. Someone's comfortable.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson started to smile behind their mask at Nyx, continuing to both pet and hum the lullaby for them. The executioner was glad that their apprentice felt comfortable and safe with them, helping them take their mind off of the storm that raged outside.

They had heard of one of their predecessors, Venerable Brutus had been comfortable with her father, Elder Perseus. Though, they can’t say for certain, they’ll need to dig out the necessary books to fact-check. One more thing they need to do.

However, the relationship between them and their father wasn’t comfortable.

“Hm. Perhaps I do need to do some digging..”

The angel mumbled out to themselves, still petting Nyx.

[the-starchild]

Nyx was moving a bit as they were sleeping, maybe they were having a dream? Who knows—they were still purring and even chirping sometimes in their sleep.

The librarian who was previously with Abhorson and Nyx had walked in view of where they were sitting again, and got a small smile on their face before quickly attending to their duties again.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson let out a small sigh as they petted Nyx, focusing on their apprentice.

“Awh, look at-“

A loud crash of lightning interrupted them, their body reacting on its own as they jump to their feet. They held Nyx close to themselves, though their breathing became ragged and their heart quickened. They glanced around.

It wasn’t safe.

Not safe.

The executioner glanced down at Nyx, worried. A sharp stab of pain from their back made them wince, their body aching from the quick movement.

Not safe.

Not safe.

They needed to go somewhere else.

They needed to hide.

[the-starchild]

Nyx had flinched at the crash of thunder, but was about to snuggle back to sleep before Abhorson suddenly stood up.

"Mrrp?"

They were half-asleep, and.. put a paw on their mentors face; still processing being awake.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“…!!!”

Abhorson flinched away from Nyx’s touch, moving to glance around once again. There was no one around, well what the angel could see, but they didn’t want to leave it up to interpretation.

If they could find somewhere more safe then-

Another loud crack of thunder and lightning rang out, the sound of it causing the executioner to recoil. Their breath came out in quick shuddered bursts, overcome by the need to run.

To hide.

Whether if their back pain could tolerate it or not. They kept their apprentice close, just so they too could be safe.

Though, a small part of them knew that they were only doing this to try and calm themselves down.

[the-starchild]

The child saw their mentor flinch away from their paw, and that with them feeling their rapid breathing immediately made them know that something was wrong.

They looked around, and they saw the ground much lower than before from when they were sitting, along with a couple of people staring at the both of them. Though, Abhorson was moving so quickly that they couldn't even think of a way to try and ground them.

Without even noticing, they started purring: not out of comfort this time, but the complete opposite of it.

[thescarlet-executioner]

You're just minding your buisness, running errands with your apprentice with overcast skies, when their ear twitches and they start looking around as if they just noticed something.

"Oh, I just felt a rain drop."

As if on cue: it starts drizzling rain, and you two hear a distant roll of thunder; the kid holds their paw out to feel the drops.

"Wow, it would be a really nice time to go out to the library, don't you think?" They chirped as they glanced at you.

{ @heartandstar }

Abhorson was preoccupied with picking out goods, when they glanced down to their apprentice. They paused, before sticking out their fingers to feel the raindrops.

That is until they flinched at the soft rolling of thunder.

“Yes, Nyx. That sounds like a good idea. Anything to get out of the open space.”

They quickly pay with a couple of gold and silver coins, holding Nyx’s hand. The executioner shielded their apprentice from the rain as the two made it to the library.

Anything to get out of the way of thunder and lightning.

[the-starchild]

Nyx gleefully nods and holds their mentors hand as they skipped over to the library, happy to have what others see as "gloomy" weather.

But when they arrive at the library, they slow down, and glance at Abhorson as they seem to ponder something.. yet, they shake their head, greet the librarians, and enthusiastically run off to the wide array of bookshelves; accidentally leaving their mentor in the process.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled softly as Nyx ran off to the wide array of bookshelves. In all honesty, the executioner knew that the library was at least insulated against outside.

So they had to wait until the rain passes.

They nod in greeting for the librarians, before going over to find a book that would hold them over.

[the-starchild]

As they go over to the bookshelves, they hear a few murmurs and get a few stares, but all of that is interrupted when the rain suddenly gets heavier.

Then, they hear a call of their name.

It's Nyx, who is holding a couple of different books, wanting to bring them over to a section of the library with a variety of different kinds of comfortable looking chairs.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was perusing some books, though it didn’t seem to catch their attention. Another soft roll of thunder made them flinch once more, making them glance out a stray window to see the rain get heavier.

Great. Just great.

“Hm? Nyx?”

They perked up at the call and looked over at Nyx with a softened expression hidden behind their mask. The executioner followed the other, sitting down on one of the comfy chairs.

“What is it that you wish to show me Nyx.”

The angel still held a flat tone, but there was a softer undertone whenever they spoke to the child. It was like looking into a mirror, and Abhorson made sure that this time.

That they would never be like their father.

[the-starchild]

The kid put down their books near their mentor, and walked to a tan basket.

"Well first I wanted to show you this area, its my favorite! It even has blankets!!"

They walked over back to Abhorson with a space-themed blanket, and cover Abhorson's body with it, as if they were tucking them in.

They giggle looking at what they've done, grab a book, and then sit on Abhorsons lap.

They point to the cover of the book, it's a book about sea slugs with a sea bunny on the cover.

"It's you!! Or at least like you!.." :3

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson’s face softened at Nyx ‘tucking’ them in, noticing that it looks soft and fluffy. They glanced around at the other angels that are in the library, feeling the stares and the hearing the not so quiet whispers.

Everything that made them feel so small.

Their thoughts were interrupted when Nyx sat on their lap, making them focus on them instead of the other angels.

And the thunderstorm.

Well, sorta.

The executioner hummed at the cover, before lightly moving one of their hands to gently pat Nyx’s head.

“I suppose you are right Nyx. If I did not know any better, I would say that sea bunny was a cousin of mine.”

They mused, joking that they were related to the sea bunny on the cover. They knew it wasn’t true, they were an Angel and the sea bunny went extinct.

But they didn’t have the heart to break that news to their apprentice.

“Are you going to read it to me?”

[the-starchild]

Nyx chuckles at the comment and leans into Abhorson's hand, but their eyes widen at the question.

"Oh! Well do you want me to?.."

Without notice—the lights flicker a bit, most likely from the storm.

Nyx flinches, and gets a bit squeamish.

"Uh—I'll.. Just, read it anyways."

They grab another blanket and settle themselves into Abhorson's lap more.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“If you-“

Abhorson began to answer, flinching at the sudden flickering of lights. Fear slowly creeped into their mind, but they shook it off when Nyx settled more into their lap more.

To show fear, especially in a public place like this? They would truly be pathetic.

But they didn’t think about that too much.

“After you read, might I tell you a story?”

The executioner hummed out, patting Nyx’s head gently as they settled a tad more. They had a story brewing just for the apprentice, well, ever since they mentioned off-handedly that star liked listening to lullabies.

[the-starchild]

The child looked up to Abhorson, and their poise softened.

"Sure, I like your stories." They said, their eyes softening under their mask

They started reading, talking about all different kinds of sea slugs as the rain poured outside.

They finished, but as they were going to close the book, a librarian comes by the area.

"H-" They jump at actually seeing the larger executioner. "-..ey. just to let you two know that its not very..uh, safe to go out, so its best for you two to stay in here." They give a thumbs up, and then quickly leave the two of them alone once again.

...

"..Oh." ...They mutter.

They close the book, and just..sit there for a moment.

Normally they like the storms, but..this? What were they going to do about food and water, how would the council react?

Oh God how would the council react?? How would they punish them for staying out of their sight for too long; how long, ho—

Shakily, they fold their blanket, put it and their book on the ground, and wiggle themselves under the blanket Abhorson is tucked under.

"You can..tell your story now."

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was glad to have the mask on, otherwise angels would think they were going soft. Though they paused when Nyx spoke.

Star… likes the stories they always tell??

Their stories were already rudimentary, spoken stilted, and spoken few and far between. They’ve tried to make stories for their apprentice, but that was rare. So they stuck to what generational stories their family passed down.

Which isn’t a whole lot.

The executioner shook off the growing thoughts, focusing as Nyx began to read the book and talk about Nudibranchs. It mostly seemed to overshadow the storm that was raging outside.

Mostly.

Abhorson still flinched silently at every rumble of thunder and every flash of lightning. They couldn’t help it really, after all, it reminded them of the all too familiar feeling of their father.

When Nyx was done, the executioner smiled lightly beneath their mask and gave a soft applause.

“That was wonderful Nyx, thank-“

The sound of someone approaching made their words of praise fall flat, seeing the librarian appear to give the news that it wasn’t safe to go outside right now.

No shit Sherlock.

Though that raised the question, how WOULD the council react. With annoyance, mostly. The group was one who the most insignificant thing would set them off. Even if it was out of control. They absentmindedly remembered when they were late to a meeting the first time, they were berated. And beaten.

And they never were late again. That is how they solved their problems, through threats and violence.

However, the council was going to be annoyed. The best case scenario is that they get berated, the worst case scenario is.. punishment. Either way, the angel knew that the other was taking this harder than they were.

The executioner sighed lightly, the feeling of Nyx shifting pulling them out of their thoughts. Oh right, they had to tell a story.

Silently they hoped that it raised their apprentice’s spirits.

“Ah yes, hm.. let’s see.”

Abhorson began, humming as they thought quickly of a concept.

“Well… Once upon a time, there was a bustling kingdom full of creatures of many shapes and sizes. It lived up in the clouds, far from the ground and saw many wonderful things. From the rainbows that danced across the skies, to the quiet lulls in the summer day.”

Abhorson faltered, before they cleared their throat and continued.

“..Among the people, was the knight in red. They were a fearsome warrior, feared by all and was the right-hand of the Council. Right next to the King and Queen of this glorious paradise. One night, when the knight in red went outside, they looked up at the sky. A beautiful night sky shined back, the array of stars that speckled it making them smile if but a little… but while they looked they heard a small zoom.”

The executioner made a soft ‘zooming’ sound.

“A star zipped across the sky,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“Then another,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“The knight in red could not believe it. For the sky was filled with moving stars, creating a beautiful array as they shot across the glittering night sky. All for one star. One that was heading straight for the knight in red.”

Abhorson opened their mouth to make a ‘boom’ sound, though they were interrupted by an unexpectedly large clap of thunder.

BOOM!!!

The executioner flinched at the sound before continuing.

“..They were sent flying back, knocking back into the ground with a groan. But heard a soft giggle.”

They made a stilted giggle, before continuing.

“At the source of the sound, the knight in red looked down and saw a child that now rested on top their stomach. A child that was from the night sky itself. A star child.”

They glanced at Nyx, before glancing away and continuing.

“For a while, the knight in red did not get along with the star child. But as time passed, they warmed up to the star child and realized something. Something that made their steel-covered heart break.”

Abhorson glanced back to Nyx, a soft smile behind their mask.

“The knight in red saw themselves in them, the tragedy and pain someone so young had to endure. The fearsome warrior vowed that no one was going to hurt the star child for as long as they lived. And so, they stayed in the kingdom in the clouds, living happily ever after. And some say, they still live there to this day.”

The angel finished their story, still looking at Nyx.

“How was that? Did you like it?”

[the-starchild]

As the large executioner was telling the story, a couple of bystanders were staring at the two of them. Some in concern, though, some were looking with curiosity and even wonder.

Nyx was attentively litsening to the story, and at the end, they clapped and said "Horray, I loved it!!"

Abhorson even heard a few of the starers started quietly clapping, but when they looked up at them, they either jumped and quickly looked away, or were already being taken elsewhere by their parents.

Nyx then covered their "mouth," noticing that they were a little louder than what would be appropriate in this setting.

"I loved it," they whispered, smiling.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled at Nyx’s enthusiasm, before hearing the applause from a select few of the bystanders. It felt, weird, in a way…. Having others applaud instead of the suffocating silence that they seem to always illicit.

“I am glad you liked it Nyx.”

The Executioner spoke calmly, tilting their head slightly as they looked at their apprentice. Ever since star had mentioned that they liked lullabies, they’ve tried to find some, but they’ve never found any that were of calliper for Nyx. So they made up their own.

Sorta.

But that’s something they wouldn’t say outright. Maybe when they’re alone.

“What do you wish to do now Nyx? The weather is still not viable to go through.”

The larger angel asked, their voice a touch bit softer. They moved to lean forward towards the smaller angel, putting a hand on star’s head gently.

They won’t be like their father.

They’ll NEVER be like him.

[the-starchild]

The lean onto Abhorson's hand, smiling widely.

"I would ask for another story.." They purred

They then stretched, yawning.

"..but honestly, all I want now is to just nap." They mumbled before cuddling up to Abhorson, ready to go off to lala land.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Then take a cat nap Nyx, I will be here when you wake up.”

Abhorson mumbled out to their apprentice with a clandestine smile, their both arms gently wrapping around Nyx to protect their star child.

And so they sat there, keeping watch over Nyx and inadvertently helping them ignore the storm that raged outside.

Sort of.

Their heart still raced and their body felt like a coiled spring. But they felt…not alone, but perhaps that was because their apprentice was there. With them.

[the-starchild]

They relaxed with the mumbled permission from Abhorson, their drowsiness taking more and more of their energy every second that they stayed awake.

Nyx hugged their arms, comforted in their grasp as they dazed off to sleep. Though, not before an.. unexpected farewell.

"..goodnight mama."

And just like that, they were fast asleep, not even realizing the new nickname they used.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson continued to watch over Nyx, their eyes softening as their apprentice hugged their arms.

Though the executioner paused when they heard that nickname.

Mama?

Did… Did they just call them.. Mama?

Tears started to well up in their eyes, their breathing starting to become shuddered. It made Abhorson feel so small yet so loved. So much so, that they hoped that no one would notice that they’re starting to cry.

Oh, they hoped.

“………goodnight my starchild… sweet dreams.”

The executioner’s voice was soft but shaky, as though they were trying to hold back tears.

They hoped that no one would see them like this.

[the-starchild]

Though, sadly, Abhorson's hopes wouldn't stay true for long—as when they were processing the nickname, a different librarian than the one from earlier came back to the area the two of them were seated.

They seemed only the tiniest bit tense, but they were just there to put away some books and stuffed animals.

Then they looked at the two of them in silence for a moment, saw Nyx, and remarked "that must be comfortable for them, huh?"

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Ah!”

Abhorson flinched at the sudden voice, quickly snapping their head towards the librarian. They stared at the other for just a minute, before clearing their throat and responding.

“………… Yes….. It is for… them.”

The executioner glanced away, looking down at the sleeping apprentice. Before, looking over to the librarian.

Small talk…

Make small talk!

“….Please notify us if the weather becomes better..please. I would appreciate it.”

Atleast the angel was focused on Nyx and… not on the revelation of Nyx’s nickname for the executioner. Abhorson knew it wasn’t anything special of their apprentice saying ‘mama’ to them, they said ‘father’ and ‘papa’ to the previous executioner.

But that would mean confronting the fact that Nyx thought of them as their guardian, their mama.

Their starchild.

It overwhelmed them if just a bit, but they’d be strong for Nyx. They’d be better than their bastard of a father.

[the-starchild]

The librarian jumped when the executioner flinched. They thought that the angel already knew they were here by some kind of power by the way people were talking about them.

They smiled softly at the conformation, it was nice seeing someone so intimidating be sweet.

Though, their voice sounded.. They shook their head, maybe it's best not to dwell on it.

"Of course; i'm not sure if it's gonna be any better soon, but I hope so. The library's nice, but nobody can stay here forever."

They almost stood up, but couldn't leave without..

"By the way, you okay? Your voice sounds.. choked up." They faltered.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“It is none of your concern.”

Abhorson huffed out, their arms around their apprentice tightening. Their tail twitched as their ears pressed against their head, though it was mostly in annoyance.

They didn’t need the librarian’s pity.

They were fine.

“I am at a satisfactory level of emotion.”

The executioner spoke, taking care to not give any hints of their feelings. While it was true that they were.. happy, they didn’t want to show it.

It was weakness.

[the-starchild]

The librarian flinched at Abhorson's rebuttal. Even if it was to be expected (because it honestly wasn't their buisness to begin with,) they still felt bad.

"Alrighty, sorry for prying" They said, standing up.

"I'll say if the weather gets better." They sighed, "do tell if you need anything, okay?" And with a small smile and a wave, they went back to the library shelves. But they did look back a couple of times while walking away, still worried.

Even after all of this, Nyx was still sleeping in Abhorson's arms, even snoring the tiniest bit.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson nodded in response, glancing away.

“I will.”

As soon as the Librarian left, they sighed out as they turned their attention to Nyx.

They were happy that their voice didn’t wake up their apprentice, they trusted the executioner enough to sleep in their arms.

They couldn’t do that in their father’s arms, not as a child Nyx’s age.

[the-starchild]

Some librarians came to the one Abhorson just talked to after they left, and they saw them having a conversation—One of them laughed, but then the one Abby talked to got defensive after the other laughed, and after some words were thrown around, they stepped out of the conversation before it turned into an argument.. wonder what that was all about.

Anyways, Nyx was still sleeping. The child couldn't remember the last time they felt this safe than when in Abhorson's arms. Had it been weeks? Months? Years?.. Their entire life..? No matter, they slept the most sound they have in ages, and it was wonderful.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson glanced over to the sound of the librarians talking, narrowing their eyes from behind their mask at the conversation.

“Tch.”

What a bunch of gossipers.

The executioner glanced back down to Nyx in their lap, their hard gaze softening. Gently, they put a hand on the other’s head and started to pet it.

All while they hummed a lullaby tune that they had hummed for Nyx so many times.

[the-starchild]

The librarian other than the one they talked to calls out to the other one, but the other one snaps back, and the conversation ends with the former going back to doing their job.

Even though they're asleep, when Abhorson pets Nyx, they start purring and leaning closer to Abhorson.. Someone's comfortable.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson started to smile behind their mask at Nyx, continuing to both pet and hum the lullaby for them. The executioner was glad that their apprentice felt comfortable and safe with them, helping them take their mind off of the storm that raged outside.

They had heard of one of their predecessors, Venerable Brutus had been comfortable with her father, Elder Perseus. Though, they can’t say for certain, they’ll need to dig out the necessary books to fact-check. One more thing they need to do.

However, the relationship between them and their father wasn’t comfortable.

“Hm. Perhaps I do need to do some digging..”

The angel mumbled out to themselves, still petting Nyx.

[the-starchild]

Nyx was moving a bit as they were sleeping, maybe they were having a dream? Who knows—they were still purring and even chirping sometimes in their sleep.

The librarian who was previously with Abhorson and Nyx had walked in view of where they were sitting again, and got a small smile on their face before quickly attending to their duties again.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson let out a small sigh as they petted Nyx, focusing on their apprentice.

“Awh, look at-“

A loud crash of lightning interrupted them, their body reacting on its own as they jump to their feet. They held Nyx close to themselves, though their breathing became ragged and their heart quickened. They glanced around.

It wasn’t safe.

Not safe.

The executioner glanced down at Nyx, worried. A sharp stab of pain from their back made them wince, their body aching from the quick movement.

Not safe.

Not safe.

They needed to go somewhere else.

They needed to hide.

[the-starchild]

Nyx had flinched at the crash of thunder, but was about to snuggle back to sleep before Abhorson suddenly stood up.

"Mrrp?"

They were half-asleep, and.. put a paw on their mentors face; still processing being awake.

[thescarlet-executioner]

You're just minding your buisness, running errands with your apprentice with overcast skies, when their ear twitches and they start looking around as if they just noticed something.

"Oh, I just felt a rain drop."

As if on cue: it starts drizzling rain, and you two hear a distant roll of thunder; the kid holds their paw out to feel the drops.

"Wow, it would be a really nice time to go out to the library, don't you think?" They chirped as they glanced at you.

{ @heartandstar }

Abhorson was preoccupied with picking out goods, when they glanced down to their apprentice. They paused, before sticking out their fingers to feel the raindrops.

That is until they flinched at the soft rolling of thunder.

“Yes, Nyx. That sounds like a good idea. Anything to get out of the open space.”

They quickly pay with a couple of gold and silver coins, holding Nyx’s hand. The executioner shielded their apprentice from the rain as the two made it to the library.

Anything to get out of the way of thunder and lightning.

[the-starchild]

Nyx gleefully nods and holds their mentors hand as they skipped over to the library, happy to have what others see as "gloomy" weather.

But when they arrive at the library, they slow down, and glance at Abhorson as they seem to ponder something.. yet, they shake their head, greet the librarians, and enthusiastically run off to the wide array of bookshelves; accidentally leaving their mentor in the process.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled softly as Nyx ran off to the wide array of bookshelves. In all honesty, the executioner knew that the library was at least insulated against outside.

So they had to wait until the rain passes.

They nod in greeting for the librarians, before going over to find a book that would hold them over.

[the-starchild]

As they go over to the bookshelves, they hear a few murmurs and get a few stares, but all of that is interrupted when the rain suddenly gets heavier.

Then, they hear a call of their name.

It's Nyx, who is holding a couple of different books, wanting to bring them over to a section of the library with a variety of different kinds of comfortable looking chairs.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was perusing some books, though it didn’t seem to catch their attention. Another soft roll of thunder made them flinch once more, making them glance out a stray window to see the rain get heavier.

Great. Just great.

“Hm? Nyx?”

They perked up at the call and looked over at Nyx with a softened expression hidden behind their mask. The executioner followed the other, sitting down on one of the comfy chairs.

“What is it that you wish to show me Nyx.”

The angel still held a flat tone, but there was a softer undertone whenever they spoke to the child. It was like looking into a mirror, and Abhorson made sure that this time.

That they would never be like their father.

[the-starchild]

The kid put down their books near their mentor, and walked to a tan basket.

"Well first I wanted to show you this area, its my favorite! It even has blankets!!"

They walked over back to Abhorson with a space-themed blanket, and cover Abhorson's body with it, as if they were tucking them in.

They giggle looking at what they've done, grab a book, and then sit on Abhorsons lap.

They point to the cover of the book, it's a book about sea slugs with a sea bunny on the cover.

"It's you!! Or at least like you!.." :3

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson’s face softened at Nyx ‘tucking’ them in, noticing that it looks soft and fluffy. They glanced around at the other angels that are in the library, feeling the stares and the hearing the not so quiet whispers.

Everything that made them feel so small.

Their thoughts were interrupted when Nyx sat on their lap, making them focus on them instead of the other angels.

And the thunderstorm.

Well, sorta.

The executioner hummed at the cover, before lightly moving one of their hands to gently pat Nyx’s head.

“I suppose you are right Nyx. If I did not know any better, I would say that sea bunny was a cousin of mine.”

They mused, joking that they were related to the sea bunny on the cover. They knew it wasn’t true, they were an Angel and the sea bunny went extinct.

But they didn’t have the heart to break that news to their apprentice.

“Are you going to read it to me?”

[the-starchild]

Nyx chuckles at the comment and leans into Abhorson's hand, but their eyes widen at the question.

"Oh! Well do you want me to?.."

Without notice—the lights flicker a bit, most likely from the storm.

Nyx flinches, and gets a bit squeamish.

"Uh—I'll.. Just, read it anyways."

They grab another blanket and settle themselves into Abhorson's lap more.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“If you-“

Abhorson began to answer, flinching at the sudden flickering of lights. Fear slowly creeped into their mind, but they shook it off when Nyx settled more into their lap more.

To show fear, especially in a public place like this? They would truly be pathetic.

But they didn’t think about that too much.

“After you read, might I tell you a story?”

The executioner hummed out, patting Nyx’s head gently as they settled a tad more. They had a story brewing just for the apprentice, well, ever since they mentioned off-handedly that star liked listening to lullabies.

[the-starchild]

The child looked up to Abhorson, and their poise softened.

"Sure, I like your stories." They said, their eyes softening under their mask

They started reading, talking about all different kinds of sea slugs as the rain poured outside.

They finished, but as they were going to close the book, a librarian comes by the area.

"H-" They jump at actually seeing the larger executioner. "-..ey. just to let you two know that its not very..uh, safe to go out, so its best for you two to stay in here." They give a thumbs up, and then quickly leave the two of them alone once again.

...

"..Oh." ...They mutter.

They close the book, and just..sit there for a moment.

Normally they like the storms, but..this? What were they going to do about food and water, how would the council react?

Oh God how would the council react?? How would they punish them for staying out of their sight for too long; how long, ho—

Shakily, they fold their blanket, put it and their book on the ground, and wiggle themselves under the blanket Abhorson is tucked under.

"You can..tell your story now."

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was glad to have the mask on, otherwise angels would think they were going soft. Though they paused when Nyx spoke.

Star… likes the stories they always tell??

Their stories were already rudimentary, spoken stilted, and spoken few and far between. They’ve tried to make stories for their apprentice, but that was rare. So they stuck to what generational stories their family passed down.

Which isn’t a whole lot.

The executioner shook off the growing thoughts, focusing as Nyx began to read the book and talk about Nudibranchs. It mostly seemed to overshadow the storm that was raging outside.

Mostly.

Abhorson still flinched silently at every rumble of thunder and every flash of lightning. They couldn’t help it really, after all, it reminded them of the all too familiar feeling of their father.

When Nyx was done, the executioner smiled lightly beneath their mask and gave a soft applause.

“That was wonderful Nyx, thank-“

The sound of someone approaching made their words of praise fall flat, seeing the librarian appear to give the news that it wasn’t safe to go outside right now.

No shit Sherlock.

Though that raised the question, how WOULD the council react. With annoyance, mostly. The group was one who the most insignificant thing would set them off. Even if it was out of control. They absentmindedly remembered when they were late to a meeting the first time, they were berated. And beaten.

And they never were late again. That is how they solved their problems, through threats and violence.

However, the council was going to be annoyed. The best case scenario is that they get berated, the worst case scenario is.. punishment. Either way, the angel knew that the other was taking this harder than they were.

The executioner sighed lightly, the feeling of Nyx shifting pulling them out of their thoughts. Oh right, they had to tell a story.

Silently they hoped that it raised their apprentice’s spirits.

“Ah yes, hm.. let’s see.”

Abhorson began, humming as they thought quickly of a concept.

“Well… Once upon a time, there was a bustling kingdom full of creatures of many shapes and sizes. It lived up in the clouds, far from the ground and saw many wonderful things. From the rainbows that danced across the skies, to the quiet lulls in the summer day.”

Abhorson faltered, before they cleared their throat and continued.

“..Among the people, was the knight in red. They were a fearsome warrior, feared by all and was the right-hand of the Council. Right next to the King and Queen of this glorious paradise. One night, when the knight in red went outside, they looked up at the sky. A beautiful night sky shined back, the array of stars that speckled it making them smile if but a little… but while they looked they heard a small zoom.”

The executioner made a soft ‘zooming’ sound.

“A star zipped across the sky,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“Then another,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“The knight in red could not believe it. For the sky was filled with moving stars, creating a beautiful array as they shot across the glittering night sky. All for one star. One that was heading straight for the knight in red.”

Abhorson opened their mouth to make a ‘boom’ sound, though they were interrupted by an unexpectedly large clap of thunder.

BOOM!!!

The executioner flinched at the sound before continuing.

“..They were sent flying back, knocking back into the ground with a groan. But heard a soft giggle.”

They made a stilted giggle, before continuing.

“At the source of the sound, the knight in red looked down and saw a child that now rested on top their stomach. A child that was from the night sky itself. A star child.”

They glanced at Nyx, before glancing away and continuing.

“For a while, the knight in red did not get along with the star child. But as time passed, they warmed up to the star child and realized something. Something that made their steel-covered heart break.”

Abhorson glanced back to Nyx, a soft smile behind their mask.

“The knight in red saw themselves in them, the tragedy and pain someone so young had to endure. The fearsome warrior vowed that no one was going to hurt the star child for as long as they lived. And so, they stayed in the kingdom in the clouds, living happily ever after. And some say, they still live there to this day.”

The angel finished their story, still looking at Nyx.

“How was that? Did you like it?”

[the-starchild]

As the large executioner was telling the story, a couple of bystanders were staring at the two of them. Some in concern, though, some were looking with curiosity and even wonder.

Nyx was attentively litsening to the story, and at the end, they clapped and said "Horray, I loved it!!"

Abhorson even heard a few of the starers started quietly clapping, but when they looked up at them, they either jumped and quickly looked away, or were already being taken elsewhere by their parents.

Nyx then covered their "mouth," noticing that they were a little louder than what would be appropriate in this setting.

"I loved it," they whispered, smiling.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled at Nyx’s enthusiasm, before hearing the applause from a select few of the bystanders. It felt, weird, in a way…. Having others applaud instead of the suffocating silence that they seem to always illicit.

“I am glad you liked it Nyx.”

The Executioner spoke calmly, tilting their head slightly as they looked at their apprentice. Ever since star had mentioned that they liked lullabies, they’ve tried to find some, but they’ve never found any that were of calliper for Nyx. So they made up their own.

Sorta.

But that’s something they wouldn’t say outright. Maybe when they’re alone.

“What do you wish to do now Nyx? The weather is still not viable to go through.”

The larger angel asked, their voice a touch bit softer. They moved to lean forward towards the smaller angel, putting a hand on star’s head gently.

They won’t be like their father.

They’ll NEVER be like him.

[the-starchild]

The lean onto Abhorson's hand, smiling widely.

"I would ask for another story.." They purred

They then stretched, yawning.

"..but honestly, all I want now is to just nap." They mumbled before cuddling up to Abhorson, ready to go off to lala land.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Then take a cat nap Nyx, I will be here when you wake up.”

Abhorson mumbled out to their apprentice with a clandestine smile, their both arms gently wrapping around Nyx to protect their star child.

And so they sat there, keeping watch over Nyx and inadvertently helping them ignore the storm that raged outside.

Sort of.

Their heart still raced and their body felt like a coiled spring. But they felt…not alone, but perhaps that was because their apprentice was there. With them.

[the-starchild]

They relaxed with the mumbled permission from Abhorson, their drowsiness taking more and more of their energy every second that they stayed awake.

Nyx hugged their arms, comforted in their grasp as they dazed off to sleep. Though, not before an.. unexpected farewell.

"..goodnight mama."

And just like that, they were fast asleep, not even realizing the new nickname they used.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson continued to watch over Nyx, their eyes softening as their apprentice hugged their arms.

Though the executioner paused when they heard that nickname.

Mama?

Did… Did they just call them.. Mama?

Tears started to well up in their eyes, their breathing starting to become shuddered. It made Abhorson feel so small yet so loved. So much so, that they hoped that no one would notice that they’re starting to cry.

Oh, they hoped.

“………goodnight my starchild… sweet dreams.”

The executioner’s voice was soft but shaky, as though they were trying to hold back tears.

They hoped that no one would see them like this.

[the-starchild]

Though, sadly, Abhorson's hopes wouldn't stay true for long—as when they were processing the nickname, a different librarian than the one from earlier came back to the area the two of them were seated.

They seemed only the tiniest bit tense, but they were just there to put away some books and stuffed animals.

Then they looked at the two of them in silence for a moment, saw Nyx, and remarked "that must be comfortable for them, huh?"

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Ah!”

Abhorson flinched at the sudden voice, quickly snapping their head towards the librarian. They stared at the other for just a minute, before clearing their throat and responding.

“………… Yes….. It is for… them.”

The executioner glanced away, looking down at the sleeping apprentice. Before, looking over to the librarian.

Small talk…

Make small talk!

“….Please notify us if the weather becomes better..please. I would appreciate it.”

Atleast the angel was focused on Nyx and… not on the revelation of Nyx’s nickname for the executioner. Abhorson knew it wasn’t anything special of their apprentice saying ‘mama’ to them, they said ‘father’ and ‘papa’ to the previous executioner.

But that would mean confronting the fact that Nyx thought of them as their guardian, their mama.

Their starchild.

It overwhelmed them if just a bit, but they’d be strong for Nyx. They’d be better than their bastard of a father.

[the-starchild]

The librarian jumped when the executioner flinched. They thought that the angel already knew they were here by some kind of power by the way people were talking about them.

They smiled softly at the conformation, it was nice seeing someone so intimidating be sweet.

Though, their voice sounded.. They shook their head, maybe it's best not to dwell on it.

"Of course; i'm not sure if it's gonna be any better soon, but I hope so. The library's nice, but nobody can stay here forever."

They almost stood up, but couldn't leave without..

"By the way, you okay? Your voice sounds.. choked up." They faltered.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“It is none of your concern.”

Abhorson huffed out, their arms around their apprentice tightening. Their tail twitched as their ears pressed against their head, though it was mostly in annoyance.

They didn’t need the librarian’s pity.

They were fine.

“I am at a satisfactory level of emotion.”

The executioner spoke, taking care to not give any hints of their feelings. While it was true that they were.. happy, they didn’t want to show it.

It was weakness.

[the-starchild]

The librarian flinched at Abhorson's rebuttal. Even if it was to be expected (because it honestly wasn't their buisness to begin with,) they still felt bad.

"Alrighty, sorry for prying" They said, standing up.

"I'll say if the weather gets better." They sighed, "do tell if you need anything, okay?" And with a small smile and a wave, they went back to the library shelves. But they did look back a couple of times while walking away, still worried.

Even after all of this, Nyx was still sleeping in Abhorson's arms, even snoring the tiniest bit.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson nodded in response, glancing away.

“I will.”

As soon as the Librarian left, they sighed out as they turned their attention to Nyx.

They were happy that their voice didn’t wake up their apprentice, they trusted the executioner enough to sleep in their arms.

They couldn’t do that in their father’s arms, not as a child Nyx’s age.

[the-starchild]

Some librarians came to the one Abhorson just talked to after they left, and they saw them having a conversation—One of them laughed, but then the one Abby talked to got defensive after the other laughed, and after some words were thrown around, they stepped out of the conversation before it turned into an argument.. wonder what that was all about.

Anyways, Nyx was still sleeping. The child couldn't remember the last time they felt this safe than when in Abhorson's arms. Had it been weeks? Months? Years?.. Their entire life..? No matter, they slept the most sound they have in ages, and it was wonderful.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson glanced over to the sound of the librarians talking, narrowing their eyes from behind their mask at the conversation.

“Tch.”

What a bunch of gossipers.

The executioner glanced back down to Nyx in their lap, their hard gaze softening. Gently, they put a hand on the other’s head and started to pet it.

All while they hummed a lullaby tune that they had hummed for Nyx so many times.

[the-starchild]

The librarian other than the one they talked to calls out to the other one, but the other one snaps back, and the conversation ends with the former going back to doing their job.

Even though they're asleep, when Abhorson pets Nyx, they start purring and leaning closer to Abhorson.. Someone's comfortable.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson started to smile behind their mask at Nyx, continuing to both pet and hum the lullaby for them. The executioner was glad that their apprentice felt comfortable and safe with them, helping them take their mind off of the storm that raged outside.

They had heard of one of their predecessors, Venerable Brutus had been comfortable with her father, Elder Perseus. Though, they can’t say for certain, they’ll need to dig out the necessary books to fact-check. One more thing they need to do.

However, the relationship between them and their father wasn’t comfortable.

“Hm. Perhaps I do need to do some digging..”

The angel mumbled out to themselves, still petting Nyx.

[the-starchild]

Nyx was moving a bit as they were sleeping, maybe they were having a dream? Who knows—they were still purring and even chirping sometimes in their sleep.

The librarian who was previously with Abhorson and Nyx had walked in view of where they were sitting again, and got a small smile on their face before quickly attending to their duties again.

[taguroc]

How does your OC handle conflict?

[taguroc]

How does your OC handle hot temperatures?

[thescarlet-executioner]

You're just minding your buisness, running errands with your apprentice with overcast skies, when their ear twitches and they start looking around as if they just noticed something.

"Oh, I just felt a rain drop."

As if on cue: it starts drizzling rain, and you two hear a distant roll of thunder; the kid holds their paw out to feel the drops.

"Wow, it would be a really nice time to go out to the library, don't you think?" They chirped as they glanced at you.

{ @heartandstar }

Abhorson was preoccupied with picking out goods, when they glanced down to their apprentice. They paused, before sticking out their fingers to feel the raindrops.

That is until they flinched at the soft rolling of thunder.

“Yes, Nyx. That sounds like a good idea. Anything to get out of the open space.”

They quickly pay with a couple of gold and silver coins, holding Nyx’s hand. The executioner shielded their apprentice from the rain as the two made it to the library.

Anything to get out of the way of thunder and lightning.

[the-starchild]

Nyx gleefully nods and holds their mentors hand as they skipped over to the library, happy to have what others see as "gloomy" weather.

But when they arrive at the library, they slow down, and glance at Abhorson as they seem to ponder something.. yet, they shake their head, greet the librarians, and enthusiastically run off to the wide array of bookshelves; accidentally leaving their mentor in the process.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled softly as Nyx ran off to the wide array of bookshelves. In all honesty, the executioner knew that the library was at least insulated against outside.

So they had to wait until the rain passes.

They nod in greeting for the librarians, before going over to find a book that would hold them over.

[the-starchild]

As they go over to the bookshelves, they hear a few murmurs and get a few stares, but all of that is interrupted when the rain suddenly gets heavier.

Then, they hear a call of their name.

It's Nyx, who is holding a couple of different books, wanting to bring them over to a section of the library with a variety of different kinds of comfortable looking chairs.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was perusing some books, though it didn’t seem to catch their attention. Another soft roll of thunder made them flinch once more, making them glance out a stray window to see the rain get heavier.

Great. Just great.

“Hm? Nyx?”

They perked up at the call and looked over at Nyx with a softened expression hidden behind their mask. The executioner followed the other, sitting down on one of the comfy chairs.

“What is it that you wish to show me Nyx.”

The angel still held a flat tone, but there was a softer undertone whenever they spoke to the child. It was like looking into a mirror, and Abhorson made sure that this time.

That they would never be like their father.

[the-starchild]

The kid put down their books near their mentor, and walked to a tan basket.

"Well first I wanted to show you this area, its my favorite! It even has blankets!!"

They walked over back to Abhorson with a space-themed blanket, and cover Abhorson's body with it, as if they were tucking them in.

They giggle looking at what they've done, grab a book, and then sit on Abhorsons lap.

They point to the cover of the book, it's a book about sea slugs with a sea bunny on the cover.

"It's you!! Or at least like you!.." :3

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson’s face softened at Nyx ‘tucking’ them in, noticing that it looks soft and fluffy. They glanced around at the other angels that are in the library, feeling the stares and the hearing the not so quiet whispers.

Everything that made them feel so small.

Their thoughts were interrupted when Nyx sat on their lap, making them focus on them instead of the other angels.

And the thunderstorm.

Well, sorta.

The executioner hummed at the cover, before lightly moving one of their hands to gently pat Nyx’s head.

“I suppose you are right Nyx. If I did not know any better, I would say that sea bunny was a cousin of mine.”

They mused, joking that they were related to the sea bunny on the cover. They knew it wasn’t true, they were an Angel and the sea bunny went extinct.

But they didn’t have the heart to break that news to their apprentice.

“Are you going to read it to me?”

[the-starchild]

Nyx chuckles at the comment and leans into Abhorson's hand, but their eyes widen at the question.

"Oh! Well do you want me to?.."

Without notice—the lights flicker a bit, most likely from the storm.

Nyx flinches, and gets a bit squeamish.

"Uh—I'll.. Just, read it anyways."

They grab another blanket and settle themselves into Abhorson's lap more.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“If you-“

Abhorson began to answer, flinching at the sudden flickering of lights. Fear slowly creeped into their mind, but they shook it off when Nyx settled more into their lap more.

To show fear, especially in a public place like this? They would truly be pathetic.

But they didn’t think about that too much.

“After you read, might I tell you a story?”

The executioner hummed out, patting Nyx’s head gently as they settled a tad more. They had a story brewing just for the apprentice, well, ever since they mentioned off-handedly that star liked listening to lullabies.

[the-starchild]

The child looked up to Abhorson, and their poise softened.

"Sure, I like your stories." They said, their eyes softening under their mask

They started reading, talking about all different kinds of sea slugs as the rain poured outside.

They finished, but as they were going to close the book, a librarian comes by the area.

"H-" They jump at actually seeing the larger executioner. "-..ey. just to let you two know that its not very..uh, safe to go out, so its best for you two to stay in here." They give a thumbs up, and then quickly leave the two of them alone once again.

...

"..Oh." ...They mutter.

They close the book, and just..sit there for a moment.

Normally they like the storms, but..this? What were they going to do about food and water, how would the council react?

Oh God how would the council react?? How would they punish them for staying out of their sight for too long; how long, ho—

Shakily, they fold their blanket, put it and their book on the ground, and wiggle themselves under the blanket Abhorson is tucked under.

"You can..tell your story now."

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was glad to have the mask on, otherwise angels would think they were going soft. Though they paused when Nyx spoke.

Star… likes the stories they always tell??

Their stories were already rudimentary, spoken stilted, and spoken few and far between. They’ve tried to make stories for their apprentice, but that was rare. So they stuck to what generational stories their family passed down.

Which isn’t a whole lot.

The executioner shook off the growing thoughts, focusing as Nyx began to read the book and talk about Nudibranchs. It mostly seemed to overshadow the storm that was raging outside.

Mostly.

Abhorson still flinched silently at every rumble of thunder and every flash of lightning. They couldn’t help it really, after all, it reminded them of the all too familiar feeling of their father.

When Nyx was done, the executioner smiled lightly beneath their mask and gave a soft applause.

“That was wonderful Nyx, thank-“

The sound of someone approaching made their words of praise fall flat, seeing the librarian appear to give the news that it wasn’t safe to go outside right now.

No shit Sherlock.

Though that raised the question, how WOULD the council react. With annoyance, mostly. The group was one who the most insignificant thing would set them off. Even if it was out of control. They absentmindedly remembered when they were late to a meeting the first time, they were berated. And beaten.

And they never were late again. That is how they solved their problems, through threats and violence.

However, the council was going to be annoyed. The best case scenario is that they get berated, the worst case scenario is.. punishment. Either way, the angel knew that the other was taking this harder than they were.

The executioner sighed lightly, the feeling of Nyx shifting pulling them out of their thoughts. Oh right, they had to tell a story.

Silently they hoped that it raised their apprentice’s spirits.

“Ah yes, hm.. let’s see.”

Abhorson began, humming as they thought quickly of a concept.

“Well… Once upon a time, there was a bustling kingdom full of creatures of many shapes and sizes. It lived up in the clouds, far from the ground and saw many wonderful things. From the rainbows that danced across the skies, to the quiet lulls in the summer day.”

Abhorson faltered, before they cleared their throat and continued.

“..Among the people, was the knight in red. They were a fearsome warrior, feared by all and was the right-hand of the Council. Right next to the King and Queen of this glorious paradise. One night, when the knight in red went outside, they looked up at the sky. A beautiful night sky shined back, the array of stars that speckled it making them smile if but a little… but while they looked they heard a small zoom.”

The executioner made a soft ‘zooming’ sound.

“A star zipped across the sky,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“Then another,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“The knight in red could not believe it. For the sky was filled with moving stars, creating a beautiful array as they shot across the glittering night sky. All for one star. One that was heading straight for the knight in red.”

Abhorson opened their mouth to make a ‘boom’ sound, though they were interrupted by an unexpectedly large clap of thunder.

BOOM!!!

The executioner flinched at the sound before continuing.

“..They were sent flying back, knocking back into the ground with a groan. But heard a soft giggle.”

They made a stilted giggle, before continuing.

“At the source of the sound, the knight in red looked down and saw a child that now rested on top their stomach. A child that was from the night sky itself. A star child.”

They glanced at Nyx, before glancing away and continuing.

“For a while, the knight in red did not get along with the star child. But as time passed, they warmed up to the star child and realized something. Something that made their steel-covered heart break.”

Abhorson glanced back to Nyx, a soft smile behind their mask.

“The knight in red saw themselves in them, the tragedy and pain someone so young had to endure. The fearsome warrior vowed that no one was going to hurt the star child for as long as they lived. And so, they stayed in the kingdom in the clouds, living happily ever after. And some say, they still live there to this day.”

The angel finished their story, still looking at Nyx.

“How was that? Did you like it?”

[the-starchild]

As the large executioner was telling the story, a couple of bystanders were staring at the two of them. Some in concern, though, some were looking with curiosity and even wonder.

Nyx was attentively litsening to the story, and at the end, they clapped and said "Horray, I loved it!!"

Abhorson even heard a few of the starers started quietly clapping, but when they looked up at them, they either jumped and quickly looked away, or were already being taken elsewhere by their parents.

Nyx then covered their "mouth," noticing that they were a little louder than what would be appropriate in this setting.

"I loved it," they whispered, smiling.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled at Nyx’s enthusiasm, before hearing the applause from a select few of the bystanders. It felt, weird, in a way…. Having others applaud instead of the suffocating silence that they seem to always illicit.

“I am glad you liked it Nyx.”

The Executioner spoke calmly, tilting their head slightly as they looked at their apprentice. Ever since star had mentioned that they liked lullabies, they’ve tried to find some, but they’ve never found any that were of calliper for Nyx. So they made up their own.

Sorta.

But that’s something they wouldn’t say outright. Maybe when they’re alone.

“What do you wish to do now Nyx? The weather is still not viable to go through.”

The larger angel asked, their voice a touch bit softer. They moved to lean forward towards the smaller angel, putting a hand on star’s head gently.

They won’t be like their father.

They’ll NEVER be like him.

[the-starchild]

The lean onto Abhorson's hand, smiling widely.

"I would ask for another story.." They purred

They then stretched, yawning.

"..but honestly, all I want now is to just nap." They mumbled before cuddling up to Abhorson, ready to go off to lala land.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Then take a cat nap Nyx, I will be here when you wake up.”

Abhorson mumbled out to their apprentice with a clandestine smile, their both arms gently wrapping around Nyx to protect their star child.

And so they sat there, keeping watch over Nyx and inadvertently helping them ignore the storm that raged outside.

Sort of.

Their heart still raced and their body felt like a coiled spring. But they felt…not alone, but perhaps that was because their apprentice was there. With them.

[the-starchild]

They relaxed with the mumbled permission from Abhorson, their drowsiness taking more and more of their energy every second that they stayed awake.

Nyx hugged their arms, comforted in their grasp as they dazed off to sleep. Though, not before an.. unexpected farewell.

"..goodnight mama."

And just like that, they were fast asleep, not even realizing the new nickname they used.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson continued to watch over Nyx, their eyes softening as their apprentice hugged their arms.

Though the executioner paused when they heard that nickname.

Mama?

Did… Did they just call them.. Mama?

Tears started to well up in their eyes, their breathing starting to become shuddered. It made Abhorson feel so small yet so loved. So much so, that they hoped that no one would notice that they’re starting to cry.

Oh, they hoped.

“………goodnight my starchild… sweet dreams.”

The executioner’s voice was soft but shaky, as though they were trying to hold back tears.

They hoped that no one would see them like this.

[the-starchild]

Though, sadly, Abhorson's hopes wouldn't stay true for long—as when they were processing the nickname, a different librarian than the one from earlier came back to the area the two of them were seated.

They seemed only the tiniest bit tense, but they were just there to put away some books and stuffed animals.

Then they looked at the two of them in silence for a moment, saw Nyx, and remarked "that must be comfortable for them, huh?"

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Ah!”

Abhorson flinched at the sudden voice, quickly snapping their head towards the librarian. They stared at the other for just a minute, before clearing their throat and responding.

“………… Yes….. It is for… them.”

The executioner glanced away, looking down at the sleeping apprentice. Before, looking over to the librarian.

Small talk…

Make small talk!

“….Please notify us if the weather becomes better..please. I would appreciate it.”

Atleast the angel was focused on Nyx and… not on the revelation of Nyx’s nickname for the executioner. Abhorson knew it wasn’t anything special of their apprentice saying ‘mama’ to them, they said ‘father’ and ‘papa’ to the previous executioner.

But that would mean confronting the fact that Nyx thought of them as their guardian, their mama.

Their starchild.

It overwhelmed them if just a bit, but they’d be strong for Nyx. They’d be better than their bastard of a father.

[the-starchild]

The librarian jumped when the executioner flinched. They thought that the angel already knew they were here by some kind of power by the way people were talking about them.

They smiled softly at the conformation, it was nice seeing someone so intimidating be sweet.

Though, their voice sounded.. They shook their head, maybe it's best not to dwell on it.

"Of course; i'm not sure if it's gonna be any better soon, but I hope so. The library's nice, but nobody can stay here forever."

They almost stood up, but couldn't leave without..

"By the way, you okay? Your voice sounds.. choked up." They faltered.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“It is none of your concern.”

Abhorson huffed out, their arms around their apprentice tightening. Their tail twitched as their ears pressed against their head, though it was mostly in annoyance.

They didn’t need the librarian’s pity.

They were fine.

“I am at a satisfactory level of emotion.”

The executioner spoke, taking care to not give any hints of their feelings. While it was true that they were.. happy, they didn’t want to show it.

It was weakness.

[the-starchild]

The librarian flinched at Abhorson's rebuttal. Even if it was to be expected (because it honestly wasn't their buisness to begin with,) they still felt bad.

"Alrighty, sorry for prying" They said, standing up.

"I'll say if the weather gets better." They sighed, "do tell if you need anything, okay?" And with a small smile and a wave, they went back to the library shelves. But they did look back a couple of times while walking away, still worried.

Even after all of this, Nyx was still sleeping in Abhorson's arms, even snoring the tiniest bit.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson nodded in response, glancing away.

“I will.”

As soon as the Librarian left, they sighed out as they turned their attention to Nyx.

They were happy that their voice didn’t wake up their apprentice, they trusted the executioner enough to sleep in their arms.

They couldn’t do that in their father’s arms, not as a child Nyx’s age.

[the-starchild]

Some librarians came to the one Abhorson just talked to after they left, and they saw them having a conversation—One of them laughed, but then the one Abby talked to got defensive after the other laughed, and after some words were thrown around, they stepped out of the conversation before it turned into an argument.. wonder what that was all about.

Anyways, Nyx was still sleeping. The child couldn't remember the last time they felt this safe than when in Abhorson's arms. Had it been weeks? Months? Years?.. Their entire life..? No matter, they slept the most sound they have in ages, and it was wonderful.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson glanced over to the sound of the librarians talking, narrowing their eyes from behind their mask at the conversation.

“Tch.”

What a bunch of gossipers.

The executioner glanced back down to Nyx in their lap, their hard gaze softening. Gently, they put a hand on the other’s head and started to pet it.

All while they hummed a lullaby tune that they had hummed for Nyx so many times.

[the-starchild]

The librarian other than the one they talked to calls out to the other one, but the other one snaps back, and the conversation ends with the former going back to doing their job.

Even though they're asleep, when Abhorson pets Nyx, they start purring and leaning closer to Abhorson.. Someone's comfortable.

[thescarlet-executioner]

You're just minding your buisness, running errands with your apprentice with overcast skies, when their ear twitches and they start looking around as if they just noticed something.

"Oh, I just felt a rain drop."

As if on cue: it starts drizzling rain, and you two hear a distant roll of thunder; the kid holds their paw out to feel the drops.

"Wow, it would be a really nice time to go out to the library, don't you think?" They chirped as they glanced at you.

{ @heartandstar }

Abhorson was preoccupied with picking out goods, when they glanced down to their apprentice. They paused, before sticking out their fingers to feel the raindrops.

That is until they flinched at the soft rolling of thunder.

“Yes, Nyx. That sounds like a good idea. Anything to get out of the open space.”

They quickly pay with a couple of gold and silver coins, holding Nyx’s hand. The executioner shielded their apprentice from the rain as the two made it to the library.

Anything to get out of the way of thunder and lightning.

[the-starchild]

Nyx gleefully nods and holds their mentors hand as they skipped over to the library, happy to have what others see as "gloomy" weather.

But when they arrive at the library, they slow down, and glance at Abhorson as they seem to ponder something.. yet, they shake their head, greet the librarians, and enthusiastically run off to the wide array of bookshelves; accidentally leaving their mentor in the process.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled softly as Nyx ran off to the wide array of bookshelves. In all honesty, the executioner knew that the library was at least insulated against outside.

So they had to wait until the rain passes.

They nod in greeting for the librarians, before going over to find a book that would hold them over.

[the-starchild]

As they go over to the bookshelves, they hear a few murmurs and get a few stares, but all of that is interrupted when the rain suddenly gets heavier.

Then, they hear a call of their name.

It's Nyx, who is holding a couple of different books, wanting to bring them over to a section of the library with a variety of different kinds of comfortable looking chairs.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was perusing some books, though it didn’t seem to catch their attention. Another soft roll of thunder made them flinch once more, making them glance out a stray window to see the rain get heavier.

Great. Just great.

“Hm? Nyx?”

They perked up at the call and looked over at Nyx with a softened expression hidden behind their mask. The executioner followed the other, sitting down on one of the comfy chairs.

“What is it that you wish to show me Nyx.”

The angel still held a flat tone, but there was a softer undertone whenever they spoke to the child. It was like looking into a mirror, and Abhorson made sure that this time.

That they would never be like their father.

[the-starchild]

The kid put down their books near their mentor, and walked to a tan basket.

"Well first I wanted to show you this area, its my favorite! It even has blankets!!"

They walked over back to Abhorson with a space-themed blanket, and cover Abhorson's body with it, as if they were tucking them in.

They giggle looking at what they've done, grab a book, and then sit on Abhorsons lap.

They point to the cover of the book, it's a book about sea slugs with a sea bunny on the cover.

"It's you!! Or at least like you!.." :3

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson’s face softened at Nyx ‘tucking’ them in, noticing that it looks soft and fluffy. They glanced around at the other angels that are in the library, feeling the stares and the hearing the not so quiet whispers.

Everything that made them feel so small.

Their thoughts were interrupted when Nyx sat on their lap, making them focus on them instead of the other angels.

And the thunderstorm.

Well, sorta.

The executioner hummed at the cover, before lightly moving one of their hands to gently pat Nyx’s head.

“I suppose you are right Nyx. If I did not know any better, I would say that sea bunny was a cousin of mine.”

They mused, joking that they were related to the sea bunny on the cover. They knew it wasn’t true, they were an Angel and the sea bunny went extinct.

But they didn’t have the heart to break that news to their apprentice.

“Are you going to read it to me?”

[the-starchild]

Nyx chuckles at the comment and leans into Abhorson's hand, but their eyes widen at the question.

"Oh! Well do you want me to?.."

Without notice—the lights flicker a bit, most likely from the storm.

Nyx flinches, and gets a bit squeamish.

"Uh—I'll.. Just, read it anyways."

They grab another blanket and settle themselves into Abhorson's lap more.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“If you-“

Abhorson began to answer, flinching at the sudden flickering of lights. Fear slowly creeped into their mind, but they shook it off when Nyx settled more into their lap more.

To show fear, especially in a public place like this? They would truly be pathetic.

But they didn’t think about that too much.

“After you read, might I tell you a story?”

The executioner hummed out, patting Nyx’s head gently as they settled a tad more. They had a story brewing just for the apprentice, well, ever since they mentioned off-handedly that star liked listening to lullabies.

[the-starchild]

The child looked up to Abhorson, and their poise softened.

"Sure, I like your stories." They said, their eyes softening under their mask

They started reading, talking about all different kinds of sea slugs as the rain poured outside.

They finished, but as they were going to close the book, a librarian comes by the area.

"H-" They jump at actually seeing the larger executioner. "-..ey. just to let you two know that its not very..uh, safe to go out, so its best for you two to stay in here." They give a thumbs up, and then quickly leave the two of them alone once again.

...

"..Oh." ...They mutter.

They close the book, and just..sit there for a moment.

Normally they like the storms, but..this? What were they going to do about food and water, how would the council react?

Oh God how would the council react?? How would they punish them for staying out of their sight for too long; how long, ho—

Shakily, they fold their blanket, put it and their book on the ground, and wiggle themselves under the blanket Abhorson is tucked under.

"You can..tell your story now."

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was glad to have the mask on, otherwise angels would think they were going soft. Though they paused when Nyx spoke.

Star… likes the stories they always tell??

Their stories were already rudimentary, spoken stilted, and spoken few and far between. They’ve tried to make stories for their apprentice, but that was rare. So they stuck to what generational stories their family passed down.

Which isn’t a whole lot.

The executioner shook off the growing thoughts, focusing as Nyx began to read the book and talk about Nudibranchs. It mostly seemed to overshadow the storm that was raging outside.

Mostly.

Abhorson still flinched silently at every rumble of thunder and every flash of lightning. They couldn’t help it really, after all, it reminded them of the all too familiar feeling of their father.

When Nyx was done, the executioner smiled lightly beneath their mask and gave a soft applause.

“That was wonderful Nyx, thank-“

The sound of someone approaching made their words of praise fall flat, seeing the librarian appear to give the news that it wasn’t safe to go outside right now.

No shit Sherlock.

Though that raised the question, how WOULD the council react. With annoyance, mostly. The group was one who the most insignificant thing would set them off. Even if it was out of control. They absentmindedly remembered when they were late to a meeting the first time, they were berated. And beaten.

And they never were late again. That is how they solved their problems, through threats and violence.

However, the council was going to be annoyed. The best case scenario is that they get berated, the worst case scenario is.. punishment. Either way, the angel knew that the other was taking this harder than they were.

The executioner sighed lightly, the feeling of Nyx shifting pulling them out of their thoughts. Oh right, they had to tell a story.

Silently they hoped that it raised their apprentice’s spirits.

“Ah yes, hm.. let’s see.”

Abhorson began, humming as they thought quickly of a concept.

“Well… Once upon a time, there was a bustling kingdom full of creatures of many shapes and sizes. It lived up in the clouds, far from the ground and saw many wonderful things. From the rainbows that danced across the skies, to the quiet lulls in the summer day.”

Abhorson faltered, before they cleared their throat and continued.

“..Among the people, was the knight in red. They were a fearsome warrior, feared by all and was the right-hand of the Council. Right next to the King and Queen of this glorious paradise. One night, when the knight in red went outside, they looked up at the sky. A beautiful night sky shined back, the array of stars that speckled it making them smile if but a little… but while they looked they heard a small zoom.”

The executioner made a soft ‘zooming’ sound.

“A star zipped across the sky,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“Then another,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“The knight in red could not believe it. For the sky was filled with moving stars, creating a beautiful array as they shot across the glittering night sky. All for one star. One that was heading straight for the knight in red.”

Abhorson opened their mouth to make a ‘boom’ sound, though they were interrupted by an unexpectedly large clap of thunder.

BOOM!!!

The executioner flinched at the sound before continuing.

“..They were sent flying back, knocking back into the ground with a groan. But heard a soft giggle.”

They made a stilted giggle, before continuing.

“At the source of the sound, the knight in red looked down and saw a child that now rested on top their stomach. A child that was from the night sky itself. A star child.”

They glanced at Nyx, before glancing away and continuing.

“For a while, the knight in red did not get along with the star child. But as time passed, they warmed up to the star child and realized something. Something that made their steel-covered heart break.”

Abhorson glanced back to Nyx, a soft smile behind their mask.

“The knight in red saw themselves in them, the tragedy and pain someone so young had to endure. The fearsome warrior vowed that no one was going to hurt the star child for as long as they lived. And so, they stayed in the kingdom in the clouds, living happily ever after. And some say, they still live there to this day.”

The angel finished their story, still looking at Nyx.

“How was that? Did you like it?”

[the-starchild]

As the large executioner was telling the story, a couple of bystanders were staring at the two of them. Some in concern, though, some were looking with curiosity and even wonder.

Nyx was attentively litsening to the story, and at the end, they clapped and said "Horray, I loved it!!"

Abhorson even heard a few of the starers started quietly clapping, but when they looked up at them, they either jumped and quickly looked away, or were already being taken elsewhere by their parents.

Nyx then covered their "mouth," noticing that they were a little louder than what would be appropriate in this setting.

"I loved it," they whispered, smiling.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled at Nyx’s enthusiasm, before hearing the applause from a select few of the bystanders. It felt, weird, in a way…. Having others applaud instead of the suffocating silence that they seem to always illicit.

“I am glad you liked it Nyx.”

The Executioner spoke calmly, tilting their head slightly as they looked at their apprentice. Ever since star had mentioned that they liked lullabies, they’ve tried to find some, but they’ve never found any that were of calliper for Nyx. So they made up their own.

Sorta.

But that’s something they wouldn’t say outright. Maybe when they’re alone.

“What do you wish to do now Nyx? The weather is still not viable to go through.”

The larger angel asked, their voice a touch bit softer. They moved to lean forward towards the smaller angel, putting a hand on star’s head gently.

They won’t be like their father.

They’ll NEVER be like him.

[the-starchild]

The lean onto Abhorson's hand, smiling widely.

"I would ask for another story.." They purred

They then stretched, yawning.

"..but honestly, all I want now is to just nap." They mumbled before cuddling up to Abhorson, ready to go off to lala land.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Then take a cat nap Nyx, I will be here when you wake up.”

Abhorson mumbled out to their apprentice with a clandestine smile, their both arms gently wrapping around Nyx to protect their star child.

And so they sat there, keeping watch over Nyx and inadvertently helping them ignore the storm that raged outside.

Sort of.

Their heart still raced and their body felt like a coiled spring. But they felt…not alone, but perhaps that was because their apprentice was there. With them.

[the-starchild]

They relaxed with the mumbled permission from Abhorson, their drowsiness taking more and more of their energy every second that they stayed awake.

Nyx hugged their arms, comforted in their grasp as they dazed off to sleep. Though, not before an.. unexpected farewell.

"..goodnight mama."

And just like that, they were fast asleep, not even realizing the new nickname they used.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson continued to watch over Nyx, their eyes softening as their apprentice hugged their arms.

Though the executioner paused when they heard that nickname.

Mama?

Did… Did they just call them.. Mama?

Tears started to well up in their eyes, their breathing starting to become shuddered. It made Abhorson feel so small yet so loved. So much so, that they hoped that no one would notice that they’re starting to cry.

Oh, they hoped.

“………goodnight my starchild… sweet dreams.”

The executioner’s voice was soft but shaky, as though they were trying to hold back tears.

They hoped that no one would see them like this.

[the-starchild]

Though, sadly, Abhorson's hopes wouldn't stay true for long—as when they were processing the nickname, a different librarian than the one from earlier came back to the area the two of them were seated.

They seemed only the tiniest bit tense, but they were just there to put away some books and stuffed animals.

Then they looked at the two of them in silence for a moment, saw Nyx, and remarked "that must be comfortable for them, huh?"

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Ah!”

Abhorson flinched at the sudden voice, quickly snapping their head towards the librarian. They stared at the other for just a minute, before clearing their throat and responding.

“………… Yes….. It is for… them.”

The executioner glanced away, looking down at the sleeping apprentice. Before, looking over to the librarian.

Small talk…

Make small talk!

“….Please notify us if the weather becomes better..please. I would appreciate it.”

Atleast the angel was focused on Nyx and… not on the revelation of Nyx’s nickname for the executioner. Abhorson knew it wasn’t anything special of their apprentice saying ‘mama’ to them, they said ‘father’ and ‘papa’ to the previous executioner.

But that would mean confronting the fact that Nyx thought of them as their guardian, their mama.

Their starchild.

It overwhelmed them if just a bit, but they’d be strong for Nyx. They’d be better than their bastard of a father.

[the-starchild]

The librarian jumped when the executioner flinched. They thought that the angel already knew they were here by some kind of power by the way people were talking about them.

They smiled softly at the conformation, it was nice seeing someone so intimidating be sweet.

Though, their voice sounded.. They shook their head, maybe it's best not to dwell on it.

"Of course; i'm not sure if it's gonna be any better soon, but I hope so. The library's nice, but nobody can stay here forever."

They almost stood up, but couldn't leave without..

"By the way, you okay? Your voice sounds.. choked up." They faltered.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“It is none of your concern.”

Abhorson huffed out, their arms around their apprentice tightening. Their tail twitched as their ears pressed against their head, though it was mostly in annoyance.

They didn’t need the librarian’s pity.

They were fine.

“I am at a satisfactory level of emotion.”

The executioner spoke, taking care to not give any hints of their feelings. While it was true that they were.. happy, they didn’t want to show it.

It was weakness.

[the-starchild]

The librarian flinched at Abhorson's rebuttal. Even if it was to be expected (because it honestly wasn't their buisness to begin with,) they still felt bad.

"Alrighty, sorry for prying" They said, standing up.

"I'll say if the weather gets better." They sighed, "do tell if you need anything, okay?" And with a small smile and a wave, they went back to the library shelves. But they did look back a couple of times while walking away, still worried.

Even after all of this, Nyx was still sleeping in Abhorson's arms, even snoring the tiniest bit.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson nodded in response, glancing away.

“I will.”

As soon as the Librarian left, they sighed out as they turned their attention to Nyx.

They were happy that their voice didn’t wake up their apprentice, they trusted the executioner enough to sleep in their arms.

They couldn’t do that in their father’s arms, not as a child Nyx’s age.

[the-starchild]

Some librarians came to the one Abhorson just talked to after they left, and they saw them having a conversation—One of them laughed, but then the one Abby talked to got defensive after the other laughed, and after some words were thrown around, they stepped out of the conversation before it turned into an argument.. wonder what that was all about.

Anyways, Nyx was still sleeping. The child couldn't remember the last time they felt this safe than when in Abhorson's arms. Had it been weeks? Months? Years?.. Their entire life..? No matter, they slept the most sound they have in ages, and it was wonderful.

[thescarlet-executioner]

You're just minding your buisness, running errands with your apprentice with overcast skies, when their ear twitches and they start looking around as if they just noticed something.

"Oh, I just felt a rain drop."

As if on cue: it starts drizzling rain, and you two hear a distant roll of thunder; the kid holds their paw out to feel the drops.

"Wow, it would be a really nice time to go out to the library, don't you think?" They chirped as they glanced at you.

{ @heartandstar }

Abhorson was preoccupied with picking out goods, when they glanced down to their apprentice. They paused, before sticking out their fingers to feel the raindrops.

That is until they flinched at the soft rolling of thunder.

“Yes, Nyx. That sounds like a good idea. Anything to get out of the open space.”

They quickly pay with a couple of gold and silver coins, holding Nyx’s hand. The executioner shielded their apprentice from the rain as the two made it to the library.

Anything to get out of the way of thunder and lightning.

[the-starchild]

Nyx gleefully nods and holds their mentors hand as they skipped over to the library, happy to have what others see as "gloomy" weather.

But when they arrive at the library, they slow down, and glance at Abhorson as they seem to ponder something.. yet, they shake their head, greet the librarians, and enthusiastically run off to the wide array of bookshelves; accidentally leaving their mentor in the process.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled softly as Nyx ran off to the wide array of bookshelves. In all honesty, the executioner knew that the library was at least insulated against outside.

So they had to wait until the rain passes.

They nod in greeting for the librarians, before going over to find a book that would hold them over.

[the-starchild]

As they go over to the bookshelves, they hear a few murmurs and get a few stares, but all of that is interrupted when the rain suddenly gets heavier.

Then, they hear a call of their name.

It's Nyx, who is holding a couple of different books, wanting to bring them over to a section of the library with a variety of different kinds of comfortable looking chairs.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was perusing some books, though it didn’t seem to catch their attention. Another soft roll of thunder made them flinch once more, making them glance out a stray window to see the rain get heavier.

Great. Just great.

“Hm? Nyx?”

They perked up at the call and looked over at Nyx with a softened expression hidden behind their mask. The executioner followed the other, sitting down on one of the comfy chairs.

“What is it that you wish to show me Nyx.”

The angel still held a flat tone, but there was a softer undertone whenever they spoke to the child. It was like looking into a mirror, and Abhorson made sure that this time.

That they would never be like their father.

[the-starchild]

The kid put down their books near their mentor, and walked to a tan basket.

"Well first I wanted to show you this area, its my favorite! It even has blankets!!"

They walked over back to Abhorson with a space-themed blanket, and cover Abhorson's body with it, as if they were tucking them in.

They giggle looking at what they've done, grab a book, and then sit on Abhorsons lap.

They point to the cover of the book, it's a book about sea slugs with a sea bunny on the cover.

"It's you!! Or at least like you!.." :3

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson’s face softened at Nyx ‘tucking’ them in, noticing that it looks soft and fluffy. They glanced around at the other angels that are in the library, feeling the stares and the hearing the not so quiet whispers.

Everything that made them feel so small.

Their thoughts were interrupted when Nyx sat on their lap, making them focus on them instead of the other angels.

And the thunderstorm.

Well, sorta.

The executioner hummed at the cover, before lightly moving one of their hands to gently pat Nyx’s head.

“I suppose you are right Nyx. If I did not know any better, I would say that sea bunny was a cousin of mine.”

They mused, joking that they were related to the sea bunny on the cover. They knew it wasn’t true, they were an Angel and the sea bunny went extinct.

But they didn’t have the heart to break that news to their apprentice.

“Are you going to read it to me?”

[the-starchild]

Nyx chuckles at the comment and leans into Abhorson's hand, but their eyes widen at the question.

"Oh! Well do you want me to?.."

Without notice—the lights flicker a bit, most likely from the storm.

Nyx flinches, and gets a bit squeamish.

"Uh—I'll.. Just, read it anyways."

They grab another blanket and settle themselves into Abhorson's lap more.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“If you-“

Abhorson began to answer, flinching at the sudden flickering of lights. Fear slowly creeped into their mind, but they shook it off when Nyx settled more into their lap more.

To show fear, especially in a public place like this? They would truly be pathetic.

But they didn’t think about that too much.

“After you read, might I tell you a story?”

The executioner hummed out, patting Nyx’s head gently as they settled a tad more. They had a story brewing just for the apprentice, well, ever since they mentioned off-handedly that star liked listening to lullabies.

[the-starchild]

The child looked up to Abhorson, and their poise softened.

"Sure, I like your stories." They said, their eyes softening under their mask

They started reading, talking about all different kinds of sea slugs as the rain poured outside.

They finished, but as they were going to close the book, a librarian comes by the area.

"H-" They jump at actually seeing the larger executioner. "-..ey. just to let you two know that its not very..uh, safe to go out, so its best for you two to stay in here." They give a thumbs up, and then quickly leave the two of them alone once again.

...

"..Oh." ...They mutter.

They close the book, and just..sit there for a moment.

Normally they like the storms, but..this? What were they going to do about food and water, how would the council react?

Oh God how would the council react?? How would they punish them for staying out of their sight for too long; how long, ho—

Shakily, they fold their blanket, put it and their book on the ground, and wiggle themselves under the blanket Abhorson is tucked under.

"You can..tell your story now."

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was glad to have the mask on, otherwise angels would think they were going soft. Though they paused when Nyx spoke.

Star… likes the stories they always tell??

Their stories were already rudimentary, spoken stilted, and spoken few and far between. They’ve tried to make stories for their apprentice, but that was rare. So they stuck to what generational stories their family passed down.

Which isn’t a whole lot.

The executioner shook off the growing thoughts, focusing as Nyx began to read the book and talk about Nudibranchs. It mostly seemed to overshadow the storm that was raging outside.

Mostly.

Abhorson still flinched silently at every rumble of thunder and every flash of lightning. They couldn’t help it really, after all, it reminded them of the all too familiar feeling of their father.

When Nyx was done, the executioner smiled lightly beneath their mask and gave a soft applause.

“That was wonderful Nyx, thank-“

The sound of someone approaching made their words of praise fall flat, seeing the librarian appear to give the news that it wasn’t safe to go outside right now.

No shit Sherlock.

Though that raised the question, how WOULD the council react. With annoyance, mostly. The group was one who the most insignificant thing would set them off. Even if it was out of control. They absentmindedly remembered when they were late to a meeting the first time, they were berated. And beaten.

And they never were late again. That is how they solved their problems, through threats and violence.

However, the council was going to be annoyed. The best case scenario is that they get berated, the worst case scenario is.. punishment. Either way, the angel knew that the other was taking this harder than they were.

The executioner sighed lightly, the feeling of Nyx shifting pulling them out of their thoughts. Oh right, they had to tell a story.

Silently they hoped that it raised their apprentice’s spirits.

“Ah yes, hm.. let’s see.”

Abhorson began, humming as they thought quickly of a concept.

“Well… Once upon a time, there was a bustling kingdom full of creatures of many shapes and sizes. It lived up in the clouds, far from the ground and saw many wonderful things. From the rainbows that danced across the skies, to the quiet lulls in the summer day.”

Abhorson faltered, before they cleared their throat and continued.

“..Among the people, was the knight in red. They were a fearsome warrior, feared by all and was the right-hand of the Council. Right next to the King and Queen of this glorious paradise. One night, when the knight in red went outside, they looked up at the sky. A beautiful night sky shined back, the array of stars that speckled it making them smile if but a little… but while they looked they heard a small zoom.”

The executioner made a soft ‘zooming’ sound.

“A star zipped across the sky,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“Then another,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“The knight in red could not believe it. For the sky was filled with moving stars, creating a beautiful array as they shot across the glittering night sky. All for one star. One that was heading straight for the knight in red.”

Abhorson opened their mouth to make a ‘boom’ sound, though they were interrupted by an unexpectedly large clap of thunder.

BOOM!!!

The executioner flinched at the sound before continuing.

“..They were sent flying back, knocking back into the ground with a groan. But heard a soft giggle.”

They made a stilted giggle, before continuing.

“At the source of the sound, the knight in red looked down and saw a child that now rested on top their stomach. A child that was from the night sky itself. A star child.”

They glanced at Nyx, before glancing away and continuing.

“For a while, the knight in red did not get along with the star child. But as time passed, they warmed up to the star child and realized something. Something that made their steel-covered heart break.”

Abhorson glanced back to Nyx, a soft smile behind their mask.

“The knight in red saw themselves in them, the tragedy and pain someone so young had to endure. The fearsome warrior vowed that no one was going to hurt the star child for as long as they lived. And so, they stayed in the kingdom in the clouds, living happily ever after. And some say, they still live there to this day.”

The angel finished their story, still looking at Nyx.

“How was that? Did you like it?”

[the-starchild]

As the large executioner was telling the story, a couple of bystanders were staring at the two of them. Some in concern, though, some were looking with curiosity and even wonder.

Nyx was attentively litsening to the story, and at the end, they clapped and said "Horray, I loved it!!"

Abhorson even heard a few of the starers started quietly clapping, but when they looked up at them, they either jumped and quickly looked away, or were already being taken elsewhere by their parents.

Nyx then covered their "mouth," noticing that they were a little louder than what would be appropriate in this setting.

"I loved it," they whispered, smiling.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled at Nyx’s enthusiasm, before hearing the applause from a select few of the bystanders. It felt, weird, in a way…. Having others applaud instead of the suffocating silence that they seem to always illicit.

“I am glad you liked it Nyx.”

The Executioner spoke calmly, tilting their head slightly as they looked at their apprentice. Ever since star had mentioned that they liked lullabies, they’ve tried to find some, but they’ve never found any that were of calliper for Nyx. So they made up their own.

Sorta.

But that’s something they wouldn’t say outright. Maybe when they’re alone.

“What do you wish to do now Nyx? The weather is still not viable to go through.”

The larger angel asked, their voice a touch bit softer. They moved to lean forward towards the smaller angel, putting a hand on star’s head gently.

They won’t be like their father.

They’ll NEVER be like him.

[the-starchild]

The lean onto Abhorson's hand, smiling widely.

"I would ask for another story.." They purred

They then stretched, yawning.

"..but honestly, all I want now is to just nap." They mumbled before cuddling up to Abhorson, ready to go off to lala land.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Then take a cat nap Nyx, I will be here when you wake up.”

Abhorson mumbled out to their apprentice with a clandestine smile, their both arms gently wrapping around Nyx to protect their star child.

And so they sat there, keeping watch over Nyx and inadvertently helping them ignore the storm that raged outside.

Sort of.

Their heart still raced and their body felt like a coiled spring. But they felt…not alone, but perhaps that was because their apprentice was there. With them.

[the-starchild]

They relaxed with the mumbled permission from Abhorson, their drowsiness taking more and more of their energy every second that they stayed awake.

Nyx hugged their arms, comforted in their grasp as they dazed off to sleep. Though, not before an.. unexpected farewell.

"..goodnight mama."

And just like that, they were fast asleep, not even realizing the new nickname they used.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson continued to watch over Nyx, their eyes softening as their apprentice hugged their arms.

Though the executioner paused when they heard that nickname.

Mama?

Did… Did they just call them.. Mama?

Tears started to well up in their eyes, their breathing starting to become shuddered. It made Abhorson feel so small yet so loved. So much so, that they hoped that no one would notice that they’re starting to cry.

Oh, they hoped.

“………goodnight my starchild… sweet dreams.”

The executioner’s voice was soft but shaky, as though they were trying to hold back tears.

They hoped that no one would see them like this.

[the-starchild]

Though, sadly, Abhorson's hopes wouldn't stay true for long—as when they were processing the nickname, a different librarian than the one from earlier came back to the area the two of them were seated.

They seemed only the tiniest bit tense, but they were just there to put away some books and stuffed animals.

Then they looked at the two of them in silence for a moment, saw Nyx, and remarked "that must be comfortable for them, huh?"

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Ah!”

Abhorson flinched at the sudden voice, quickly snapping their head towards the librarian. They stared at the other for just a minute, before clearing their throat and responding.

“………… Yes….. It is for… them.”

The executioner glanced away, looking down at the sleeping apprentice. Before, looking over to the librarian.

Small talk…

Make small talk!

“….Please notify us if the weather becomes better..please. I would appreciate it.”

Atleast the angel was focused on Nyx and… not on the revelation of Nyx’s nickname for the executioner. Abhorson knew it wasn’t anything special of their apprentice saying ‘mama’ to them, they said ‘father’ and ‘papa’ to the previous executioner.

But that would mean confronting the fact that Nyx thought of them as their guardian, their mama.

Their starchild.

It overwhelmed them if just a bit, but they’d be strong for Nyx. They’d be better than their bastard of a father.

[the-starchild]

The librarian jumped when the executioner flinched. They thought that the angel already knew they were here by some kind of power by the way people were talking about them.

They smiled softly at the conformation, it was nice seeing someone so intimidating be sweet.

Though, their voice sounded.. They shook their head, maybe it's best not to dwell on it.

"Of course; i'm not sure if it's gonna be any better soon, but I hope so. The library's nice, but nobody can stay here forever."

They almost stood up, but couldn't leave without..

"By the way, you okay? Your voice sounds.. choked up." They faltered.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“It is none of your concern.”

Abhorson huffed out, their arms around their apprentice tightening. Their tail twitched as their ears pressed against their head, though it was mostly in annoyance.

They didn’t need the librarian’s pity.

They were fine.

“I am at a satisfactory level of emotion.”

The executioner spoke, taking care to not give any hints of their feelings. While it was true that they were.. happy, they didn’t want to show it.

It was weakness.

[the-starchild]

The librarian flinched at Abhorson's rebuttal. Even if it was to be expected (because it honestly wasn't their buisness to begin with,) they still felt bad.

"Alrighty, sorry for prying" They said, standing up.

"I'll say if the weather gets better." They sighed, "do tell if you need anything, okay?" And with a small smile and a wave, they went back to the library shelves. But they did look back a couple of times while walking away, still worried.

Even after all of this, Nyx was still sleeping in Abhorson's arms, even snoring the tiniest bit.

[thescarlet-executioner]

You're just minding your buisness, running errands with your apprentice with overcast skies, when their ear twitches and they start looking around as if they just noticed something.

"Oh, I just felt a rain drop."

As if on cue: it starts drizzling rain, and you two hear a distant roll of thunder; the kid holds their paw out to feel the drops.

"Wow, it would be a really nice time to go out to the library, don't you think?" They chirped as they glanced at you.

{ @heartandstar }

Abhorson was preoccupied with picking out goods, when they glanced down to their apprentice. They paused, before sticking out their fingers to feel the raindrops.

That is until they flinched at the soft rolling of thunder.

“Yes, Nyx. That sounds like a good idea. Anything to get out of the open space.”

They quickly pay with a couple of gold and silver coins, holding Nyx’s hand. The executioner shielded their apprentice from the rain as the two made it to the library.

Anything to get out of the way of thunder and lightning.

[the-starchild]

Nyx gleefully nods and holds their mentors hand as they skipped over to the library, happy to have what others see as "gloomy" weather.

But when they arrive at the library, they slow down, and glance at Abhorson as they seem to ponder something.. yet, they shake their head, greet the librarians, and enthusiastically run off to the wide array of bookshelves; accidentally leaving their mentor in the process.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled softly as Nyx ran off to the wide array of bookshelves. In all honesty, the executioner knew that the library was at least insulated against outside.

So they had to wait until the rain passes.

They nod in greeting for the librarians, before going over to find a book that would hold them over.

[the-starchild]

As they go over to the bookshelves, they hear a few murmurs and get a few stares, but all of that is interrupted when the rain suddenly gets heavier.

Then, they hear a call of their name.

It's Nyx, who is holding a couple of different books, wanting to bring them over to a section of the library with a variety of different kinds of comfortable looking chairs.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was perusing some books, though it didn’t seem to catch their attention. Another soft roll of thunder made them flinch once more, making them glance out a stray window to see the rain get heavier.

Great. Just great.

“Hm? Nyx?”

They perked up at the call and looked over at Nyx with a softened expression hidden behind their mask. The executioner followed the other, sitting down on one of the comfy chairs.

“What is it that you wish to show me Nyx.”

The angel still held a flat tone, but there was a softer undertone whenever they spoke to the child. It was like looking into a mirror, and Abhorson made sure that this time.

That they would never be like their father.

[the-starchild]

The kid put down their books near their mentor, and walked to a tan basket.

"Well first I wanted to show you this area, its my favorite! It even has blankets!!"

They walked over back to Abhorson with a space-themed blanket, and cover Abhorson's body with it, as if they were tucking them in.

They giggle looking at what they've done, grab a book, and then sit on Abhorsons lap.

They point to the cover of the book, it's a book about sea slugs with a sea bunny on the cover.

"It's you!! Or at least like you!.." :3

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson’s face softened at Nyx ‘tucking’ them in, noticing that it looks soft and fluffy. They glanced around at the other angels that are in the library, feeling the stares and the hearing the not so quiet whispers.

Everything that made them feel so small.

Their thoughts were interrupted when Nyx sat on their lap, making them focus on them instead of the other angels.

And the thunderstorm.

Well, sorta.

The executioner hummed at the cover, before lightly moving one of their hands to gently pat Nyx’s head.

“I suppose you are right Nyx. If I did not know any better, I would say that sea bunny was a cousin of mine.”

They mused, joking that they were related to the sea bunny on the cover. They knew it wasn’t true, they were an Angel and the sea bunny went extinct.

But they didn’t have the heart to break that news to their apprentice.

“Are you going to read it to me?”

[the-starchild]

Nyx chuckles at the comment and leans into Abhorson's hand, but their eyes widen at the question.

"Oh! Well do you want me to?.."

Without notice—the lights flicker a bit, most likely from the storm.

Nyx flinches, and gets a bit squeamish.

"Uh—I'll.. Just, read it anyways."

They grab another blanket and settle themselves into Abhorson's lap more.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“If you-“

Abhorson began to answer, flinching at the sudden flickering of lights. Fear slowly creeped into their mind, but they shook it off when Nyx settled more into their lap more.

To show fear, especially in a public place like this? They would truly be pathetic.

But they didn’t think about that too much.

“After you read, might I tell you a story?”

The executioner hummed out, patting Nyx’s head gently as they settled a tad more. They had a story brewing just for the apprentice, well, ever since they mentioned off-handedly that star liked listening to lullabies.

[the-starchild]

The child looked up to Abhorson, and their poise softened.

"Sure, I like your stories." They said, their eyes softening under their mask

They started reading, talking about all different kinds of sea slugs as the rain poured outside.

They finished, but as they were going to close the book, a librarian comes by the area.

"H-" They jump at actually seeing the larger executioner. "-..ey. just to let you two know that its not very..uh, safe to go out, so its best for you two to stay in here." They give a thumbs up, and then quickly leave the two of them alone once again.

...

"..Oh." ...They mutter.

They close the book, and just..sit there for a moment.

Normally they like the storms, but..this? What were they going to do about food and water, how would the council react?

Oh God how would the council react?? How would they punish them for staying out of their sight for too long; how long, ho—

Shakily, they fold their blanket, put it and their book on the ground, and wiggle themselves under the blanket Abhorson is tucked under.

"You can..tell your story now."

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was glad to have the mask on, otherwise angels would think they were going soft. Though they paused when Nyx spoke.

Star… likes the stories they always tell??

Their stories were already rudimentary, spoken stilted, and spoken few and far between. They’ve tried to make stories for their apprentice, but that was rare. So they stuck to what generational stories their family passed down.

Which isn’t a whole lot.

The executioner shook off the growing thoughts, focusing as Nyx began to read the book and talk about Nudibranchs. It mostly seemed to overshadow the storm that was raging outside.

Mostly.

Abhorson still flinched silently at every rumble of thunder and every flash of lightning. They couldn’t help it really, after all, it reminded them of the all too familiar feeling of their father.

When Nyx was done, the executioner smiled lightly beneath their mask and gave a soft applause.

“That was wonderful Nyx, thank-“

The sound of someone approaching made their words of praise fall flat, seeing the librarian appear to give the news that it wasn’t safe to go outside right now.

No shit Sherlock.

Though that raised the question, how WOULD the council react. With annoyance, mostly. The group was one who the most insignificant thing would set them off. Even if it was out of control. They absentmindedly remembered when they were late to a meeting the first time, they were berated. And beaten.

And they never were late again. That is how they solved their problems, through threats and violence.

However, the council was going to be annoyed. The best case scenario is that they get berated, the worst case scenario is.. punishment. Either way, the angel knew that the other was taking this harder than they were.

The executioner sighed lightly, the feeling of Nyx shifting pulling them out of their thoughts. Oh right, they had to tell a story.

Silently they hoped that it raised their apprentice’s spirits.

“Ah yes, hm.. let’s see.”

Abhorson began, humming as they thought quickly of a concept.

“Well… Once upon a time, there was a bustling kingdom full of creatures of many shapes and sizes. It lived up in the clouds, far from the ground and saw many wonderful things. From the rainbows that danced across the skies, to the quiet lulls in the summer day.”

Abhorson faltered, before they cleared their throat and continued.

“..Among the people, was the knight in red. They were a fearsome warrior, feared by all and was the right-hand of the Council. Right next to the King and Queen of this glorious paradise. One night, when the knight in red went outside, they looked up at the sky. A beautiful night sky shined back, the array of stars that speckled it making them smile if but a little… but while they looked they heard a small zoom.”

The executioner made a soft ‘zooming’ sound.

“A star zipped across the sky,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“Then another,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“The knight in red could not believe it. For the sky was filled with moving stars, creating a beautiful array as they shot across the glittering night sky. All for one star. One that was heading straight for the knight in red.”

Abhorson opened their mouth to make a ‘boom’ sound, though they were interrupted by an unexpectedly large clap of thunder.

BOOM!!!

The executioner flinched at the sound before continuing.

“..They were sent flying back, knocking back into the ground with a groan. But heard a soft giggle.”

They made a stilted giggle, before continuing.

“At the source of the sound, the knight in red looked down and saw a child that now rested on top their stomach. A child that was from the night sky itself. A star child.”

They glanced at Nyx, before glancing away and continuing.

“For a while, the knight in red did not get along with the star child. But as time passed, they warmed up to the star child and realized something. Something that made their steel-covered heart break.”

Abhorson glanced back to Nyx, a soft smile behind their mask.

“The knight in red saw themselves in them, the tragedy and pain someone so young had to endure. The fearsome warrior vowed that no one was going to hurt the star child for as long as they lived. And so, they stayed in the kingdom in the clouds, living happily ever after. And some say, they still live there to this day.”

The angel finished their story, still looking at Nyx.

“How was that? Did you like it?”

[the-starchild]

As the large executioner was telling the story, a couple of bystanders were staring at the two of them. Some in concern, though, some were looking with curiosity and even wonder.

Nyx was attentively litsening to the story, and at the end, they clapped and said "Horray, I loved it!!"

Abhorson even heard a few of the starers started quietly clapping, but when they looked up at them, they either jumped and quickly looked away, or were already being taken elsewhere by their parents.

Nyx then covered their "mouth," noticing that they were a little louder than what would be appropriate in this setting.

"I loved it," they whispered, smiling.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled at Nyx’s enthusiasm, before hearing the applause from a select few of the bystanders. It felt, weird, in a way…. Having others applaud instead of the suffocating silence that they seem to always illicit.

“I am glad you liked it Nyx.”

The Executioner spoke calmly, tilting their head slightly as they looked at their apprentice. Ever since star had mentioned that they liked lullabies, they’ve tried to find some, but they’ve never found any that were of calliper for Nyx. So they made up their own.

Sorta.

But that’s something they wouldn’t say outright. Maybe when they’re alone.

“What do you wish to do now Nyx? The weather is still not viable to go through.”

The larger angel asked, their voice a touch bit softer. They moved to lean forward towards the smaller angel, putting a hand on star’s head gently.

They won’t be like their father.

They’ll NEVER be like him.

[the-starchild]

The lean onto Abhorson's hand, smiling widely.

"I would ask for another story.." They purred

They then stretched, yawning.

"..but honestly, all I want now is to just nap." They mumbled before cuddling up to Abhorson, ready to go off to lala land.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Then take a cat nap Nyx, I will be here when you wake up.”

Abhorson mumbled out to their apprentice with a clandestine smile, their both arms gently wrapping around Nyx to protect their star child.

And so they sat there, keeping watch over Nyx and inadvertently helping them ignore the storm that raged outside.

Sort of.

Their heart still raced and their body felt like a coiled spring. But they felt…not alone, but perhaps that was because their apprentice was there. With them.

[the-starchild]

They relaxed with the mumbled permission from Abhorson, their drowsiness taking more and more of their energy every second that they stayed awake.

Nyx hugged their arms, comforted in their grasp as they dazed off to sleep. Though, not before an.. unexpected farewell.

"..goodnight mama."

And just like that, they were fast asleep, not even realizing the new nickname they used.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson continued to watch over Nyx, their eyes softening as their apprentice hugged their arms.

Though the executioner paused when they heard that nickname.

Mama?

Did… Did they just call them.. Mama?

Tears started to well up in their eyes, their breathing starting to become shuddered. It made Abhorson feel so small yet so loved. So much so, that they hoped that no one would notice that they’re starting to cry.

Oh, they hoped.

“………goodnight my starchild… sweet dreams.”

The executioner’s voice was soft but shaky, as though they were trying to hold back tears.

They hoped that no one would see them like this.

[the-starchild]

Though, sadly, Abhorson's hopes wouldn't stay true for long—as when they were processing the nickname, a different librarian than the one from earlier came back to the area the two of them were seated.

They seemed only the tiniest bit tense, but they were just there to put away some books and stuffed animals.

Then they looked at the two of them in silence for a moment, saw Nyx, and remarked "that must be comfortable for them, huh?"

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Ah!”

Abhorson flinched at the sudden voice, quickly snapping their head towards the librarian. They stared at the other for just a minute, before clearing their throat and responding.

“………… Yes….. It is for… them.”

The executioner glanced away, looking down at the sleeping apprentice. Before, looking over to the librarian.

Small talk…

Make small talk!

“….Please notify us if the weather becomes better..please. I would appreciate it.”

Atleast the angel was focused on Nyx and… not on the revelation of Nyx’s nickname for the executioner. Abhorson knew it wasn’t anything special of their apprentice saying ‘mama’ to them, they said ‘father’ and ‘papa’ to the previous executioner.

But that would mean confronting the fact that Nyx thought of them as their guardian, their mama.

Their starchild.

It overwhelmed them if just a bit, but they’d be strong for Nyx. They’d be better than their bastard of a father.

[the-starchild]

The librarian jumped when the executioner flinched. They thought that the angel already knew they were here by some kind of power by the way people were talking about them.

They smiled softly at the conformation, it was nice seeing someone so intimidating be sweet.

Though, their voice sounded.. They shook their head, maybe it's best not to dwell on it.

"Of course; i'm not sure if it's gonna be any better soon, but I hope so. The library's nice, but nobody can stay here forever."

They almost stood up, but couldn't leave without..

"By the way, you okay? Your voice sounds.. choked up." They faltered.

[thescarlet-executioner]

You're just minding your buisness, running errands with your apprentice with overcast skies, when their ear twitches and they start looking around as if they just noticed something.

"Oh, I just felt a rain drop."

As if on cue: it starts drizzling rain, and you two hear a distant roll of thunder; the kid holds their paw out to feel the drops.

"Wow, it would be a really nice time to go out to the library, don't you think?" They chirped as they glanced at you.

{ @heartandstar }

Abhorson was preoccupied with picking out goods, when they glanced down to their apprentice. They paused, before sticking out their fingers to feel the raindrops.

That is until they flinched at the soft rolling of thunder.

“Yes, Nyx. That sounds like a good idea. Anything to get out of the open space.”

They quickly pay with a couple of gold and silver coins, holding Nyx’s hand. The executioner shielded their apprentice from the rain as the two made it to the library.

Anything to get out of the way of thunder and lightning.

[the-starchild]

Nyx gleefully nods and holds their mentors hand as they skipped over to the library, happy to have what others see as "gloomy" weather.

But when they arrive at the library, they slow down, and glance at Abhorson as they seem to ponder something.. yet, they shake their head, greet the librarians, and enthusiastically run off to the wide array of bookshelves; accidentally leaving their mentor in the process.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled softly as Nyx ran off to the wide array of bookshelves. In all honesty, the executioner knew that the library was at least insulated against outside.

So they had to wait until the rain passes.

They nod in greeting for the librarians, before going over to find a book that would hold them over.

[the-starchild]

As they go over to the bookshelves, they hear a few murmurs and get a few stares, but all of that is interrupted when the rain suddenly gets heavier.

Then, they hear a call of their name.

It's Nyx, who is holding a couple of different books, wanting to bring them over to a section of the library with a variety of different kinds of comfortable looking chairs.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was perusing some books, though it didn’t seem to catch their attention. Another soft roll of thunder made them flinch once more, making them glance out a stray window to see the rain get heavier.

Great. Just great.

“Hm? Nyx?”

They perked up at the call and looked over at Nyx with a softened expression hidden behind their mask. The executioner followed the other, sitting down on one of the comfy chairs.

“What is it that you wish to show me Nyx.”

The angel still held a flat tone, but there was a softer undertone whenever they spoke to the child. It was like looking into a mirror, and Abhorson made sure that this time.

That they would never be like their father.

[the-starchild]

The kid put down their books near their mentor, and walked to a tan basket.

"Well first I wanted to show you this area, its my favorite! It even has blankets!!"

They walked over back to Abhorson with a space-themed blanket, and cover Abhorson's body with it, as if they were tucking them in.

They giggle looking at what they've done, grab a book, and then sit on Abhorsons lap.

They point to the cover of the book, it's a book about sea slugs with a sea bunny on the cover.

"It's you!! Or at least like you!.." :3

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson’s face softened at Nyx ‘tucking’ them in, noticing that it looks soft and fluffy. They glanced around at the other angels that are in the library, feeling the stares and the hearing the not so quiet whispers.

Everything that made them feel so small.

Their thoughts were interrupted when Nyx sat on their lap, making them focus on them instead of the other angels.

And the thunderstorm.

Well, sorta.

The executioner hummed at the cover, before lightly moving one of their hands to gently pat Nyx’s head.

“I suppose you are right Nyx. If I did not know any better, I would say that sea bunny was a cousin of mine.”

They mused, joking that they were related to the sea bunny on the cover. They knew it wasn’t true, they were an Angel and the sea bunny went extinct.

But they didn’t have the heart to break that news to their apprentice.

“Are you going to read it to me?”

[the-starchild]

Nyx chuckles at the comment and leans into Abhorson's hand, but their eyes widen at the question.

"Oh! Well do you want me to?.."

Without notice—the lights flicker a bit, most likely from the storm.

Nyx flinches, and gets a bit squeamish.

"Uh—I'll.. Just, read it anyways."

They grab another blanket and settle themselves into Abhorson's lap more.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“If you-“

Abhorson began to answer, flinching at the sudden flickering of lights. Fear slowly creeped into their mind, but they shook it off when Nyx settled more into their lap more.

To show fear, especially in a public place like this? They would truly be pathetic.

But they didn’t think about that too much.

“After you read, might I tell you a story?”

The executioner hummed out, patting Nyx’s head gently as they settled a tad more. They had a story brewing just for the apprentice, well, ever since they mentioned off-handedly that star liked listening to lullabies.

[the-starchild]

The child looked up to Abhorson, and their poise softened.

"Sure, I like your stories." They said, their eyes softening under their mask

They started reading, talking about all different kinds of sea slugs as the rain poured outside.

They finished, but as they were going to close the book, a librarian comes by the area.

"H-" They jump at actually seeing the larger executioner. "-..ey. just to let you two know that its not very..uh, safe to go out, so its best for you two to stay in here." They give a thumbs up, and then quickly leave the two of them alone once again.

...

"..Oh." ...They mutter.

They close the book, and just..sit there for a moment.

Normally they like the storms, but..this? What were they going to do about food and water, how would the council react?

Oh God how would the council react?? How would they punish them for staying out of their sight for too long; how long, ho—

Shakily, they fold their blanket, put it and their book on the ground, and wiggle themselves under the blanket Abhorson is tucked under.

"You can..tell your story now."

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was glad to have the mask on, otherwise angels would think they were going soft. Though they paused when Nyx spoke.

Star… likes the stories they always tell??

Their stories were already rudimentary, spoken stilted, and spoken few and far between. They’ve tried to make stories for their apprentice, but that was rare. So they stuck to what generational stories their family passed down.

Which isn’t a whole lot.

The executioner shook off the growing thoughts, focusing as Nyx began to read the book and talk about Nudibranchs. It mostly seemed to overshadow the storm that was raging outside.

Mostly.

Abhorson still flinched silently at every rumble of thunder and every flash of lightning. They couldn’t help it really, after all, it reminded them of the all too familiar feeling of their father.

When Nyx was done, the executioner smiled lightly beneath their mask and gave a soft applause.

“That was wonderful Nyx, thank-“

The sound of someone approaching made their words of praise fall flat, seeing the librarian appear to give the news that it wasn’t safe to go outside right now.

No shit Sherlock.

Though that raised the question, how WOULD the council react. With annoyance, mostly. The group was one who the most insignificant thing would set them off. Even if it was out of control. They absentmindedly remembered when they were late to a meeting the first time, they were berated. And beaten.

And they never were late again. That is how they solved their problems, through threats and violence.

However, the council was going to be annoyed. The best case scenario is that they get berated, the worst case scenario is.. punishment. Either way, the angel knew that the other was taking this harder than they were.

The executioner sighed lightly, the feeling of Nyx shifting pulling them out of their thoughts. Oh right, they had to tell a story.

Silently they hoped that it raised their apprentice’s spirits.

“Ah yes, hm.. let’s see.”

Abhorson began, humming as they thought quickly of a concept.

“Well… Once upon a time, there was a bustling kingdom full of creatures of many shapes and sizes. It lived up in the clouds, far from the ground and saw many wonderful things. From the rainbows that danced across the skies, to the quiet lulls in the summer day.”

Abhorson faltered, before they cleared their throat and continued.

“..Among the people, was the knight in red. They were a fearsome warrior, feared by all and was the right-hand of the Council. Right next to the King and Queen of this glorious paradise. One night, when the knight in red went outside, they looked up at the sky. A beautiful night sky shined back, the array of stars that speckled it making them smile if but a little… but while they looked they heard a small zoom.”

The executioner made a soft ‘zooming’ sound.

“A star zipped across the sky,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“Then another,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“The knight in red could not believe it. For the sky was filled with moving stars, creating a beautiful array as they shot across the glittering night sky. All for one star. One that was heading straight for the knight in red.”

Abhorson opened their mouth to make a ‘boom’ sound, though they were interrupted by an unexpectedly large clap of thunder.

BOOM!!!

The executioner flinched at the sound before continuing.

“..They were sent flying back, knocking back into the ground with a groan. But heard a soft giggle.”

They made a stilted giggle, before continuing.

“At the source of the sound, the knight in red looked down and saw a child that now rested on top their stomach. A child that was from the night sky itself. A star child.”

They glanced at Nyx, before glancing away and continuing.

“For a while, the knight in red did not get along with the star child. But as time passed, they warmed up to the star child and realized something. Something that made their steel-covered heart break.”

Abhorson glanced back to Nyx, a soft smile behind their mask.

“The knight in red saw themselves in them, the tragedy and pain someone so young had to endure. The fearsome warrior vowed that no one was going to hurt the star child for as long as they lived. And so, they stayed in the kingdom in the clouds, living happily ever after. And some say, they still live there to this day.”

The angel finished their story, still looking at Nyx.

“How was that? Did you like it?”

[the-starchild]

As the large executioner was telling the story, a couple of bystanders were staring at the two of them. Some in concern, though, some were looking with curiosity and even wonder.

Nyx was attentively litsening to the story, and at the end, they clapped and said "Horray, I loved it!!"

Abhorson even heard a few of the starers started quietly clapping, but when they looked up at them, they either jumped and quickly looked away, or were already being taken elsewhere by their parents.

Nyx then covered their "mouth," noticing that they were a little louder than what would be appropriate in this setting.

"I loved it," they whispered, smiling.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled at Nyx’s enthusiasm, before hearing the applause from a select few of the bystanders. It felt, weird, in a way…. Having others applaud instead of the suffocating silence that they seem to always illicit.

“I am glad you liked it Nyx.”

The Executioner spoke calmly, tilting their head slightly as they looked at their apprentice. Ever since star had mentioned that they liked lullabies, they’ve tried to find some, but they’ve never found any that were of calliper for Nyx. So they made up their own.

Sorta.

But that’s something they wouldn’t say outright. Maybe when they’re alone.

“What do you wish to do now Nyx? The weather is still not viable to go through.”

The larger angel asked, their voice a touch bit softer. They moved to lean forward towards the smaller angel, putting a hand on star’s head gently.

They won’t be like their father.

They’ll NEVER be like him.

[the-starchild]

The lean onto Abhorson's hand, smiling widely.

"I would ask for another story.." They purred

They then stretched, yawning.

"..but honestly, all I want now is to just nap." They mumbled before cuddling up to Abhorson, ready to go off to lala land.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Then take a cat nap Nyx, I will be here when you wake up.”

Abhorson mumbled out to their apprentice with a clandestine smile, their both arms gently wrapping around Nyx to protect their star child.

And so they sat there, keeping watch over Nyx and inadvertently helping them ignore the storm that raged outside.

Sort of.

Their heart still raced and their body felt like a coiled spring. But they felt…not alone, but perhaps that was because their apprentice was there. With them.

[the-starchild]

They relaxed with the mumbled permission from Abhorson, their drowsiness taking more and more of their energy every second that they stayed awake.

Nyx hugged their arms, comforted in their grasp as they dazed off to sleep. Though, not before an.. unexpected farewell.

"..goodnight mama."

And just like that, they were fast asleep, not even realizing the new nickname they used.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson continued to watch over Nyx, their eyes softening as their apprentice hugged their arms.

Though the executioner paused when they heard that nickname.

Mama?

Did… Did they just call them.. Mama?

Tears started to well up in their eyes, their breathing starting to become shuddered. It made Abhorson feel so small yet so loved. So much so, that they hoped that no one would notice that they’re starting to cry.

Oh, they hoped.

“………goodnight my starchild… sweet dreams.”

The executioner’s voice was soft but shaky, as though they were trying to hold back tears.

They hoped that no one would see them like this.

[the-starchild]

Though, sadly, Abhorson's hopes wouldn't stay true for long—as when they were processing the nickname, a different librarian than the one from earlier came back to the area the two of them were seated.

They seemed only the tiniest bit tense, but they were just there to put away some books and stuffed animals.

Then they looked at the two of them in silence for a moment, saw Nyx, and remarked "that must be comfortable for them, huh?"

[thescarlet-executioner]

You're just minding your buisness, running errands with your apprentice with overcast skies, when their ear twitches and they start looking around as if they just noticed something.

"Oh, I just felt a rain drop."

As if on cue: it starts drizzling rain, and you two hear a distant roll of thunder; the kid holds their paw out to feel the drops.

"Wow, it would be a really nice time to go out to the library, don't you think?" They chirped as they glanced at you.

{ @heartandstar }

Abhorson was preoccupied with picking out goods, when they glanced down to their apprentice. They paused, before sticking out their fingers to feel the raindrops.

That is until they flinched at the soft rolling of thunder.

“Yes, Nyx. That sounds like a good idea. Anything to get out of the open space.”

They quickly pay with a couple of gold and silver coins, holding Nyx’s hand. The executioner shielded their apprentice from the rain as the two made it to the library.

Anything to get out of the way of thunder and lightning.

[the-starchild]

Nyx gleefully nods and holds their mentors hand as they skipped over to the library, happy to have what others see as "gloomy" weather.

But when they arrive at the library, they slow down, and glance at Abhorson as they seem to ponder something.. yet, they shake their head, greet the librarians, and enthusiastically run off to the wide array of bookshelves; accidentally leaving their mentor in the process.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled softly as Nyx ran off to the wide array of bookshelves. In all honesty, the executioner knew that the library was at least insulated against outside.

So they had to wait until the rain passes.

They nod in greeting for the librarians, before going over to find a book that would hold them over.

[the-starchild]

As they go over to the bookshelves, they hear a few murmurs and get a few stares, but all of that is interrupted when the rain suddenly gets heavier.

Then, they hear a call of their name.

It's Nyx, who is holding a couple of different books, wanting to bring them over to a section of the library with a variety of different kinds of comfortable looking chairs.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was perusing some books, though it didn’t seem to catch their attention. Another soft roll of thunder made them flinch once more, making them glance out a stray window to see the rain get heavier.

Great. Just great.

“Hm? Nyx?”

They perked up at the call and looked over at Nyx with a softened expression hidden behind their mask. The executioner followed the other, sitting down on one of the comfy chairs.

“What is it that you wish to show me Nyx.”

The angel still held a flat tone, but there was a softer undertone whenever they spoke to the child. It was like looking into a mirror, and Abhorson made sure that this time.

That they would never be like their father.

[the-starchild]

The kid put down their books near their mentor, and walked to a tan basket.

"Well first I wanted to show you this area, its my favorite! It even has blankets!!"

They walked over back to Abhorson with a space-themed blanket, and cover Abhorson's body with it, as if they were tucking them in.

They giggle looking at what they've done, grab a book, and then sit on Abhorsons lap.

They point to the cover of the book, it's a book about sea slugs with a sea bunny on the cover.

"It's you!! Or at least like you!.." :3

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson’s face softened at Nyx ‘tucking’ them in, noticing that it looks soft and fluffy. They glanced around at the other angels that are in the library, feeling the stares and the hearing the not so quiet whispers.

Everything that made them feel so small.

Their thoughts were interrupted when Nyx sat on their lap, making them focus on them instead of the other angels.

And the thunderstorm.

Well, sorta.

The executioner hummed at the cover, before lightly moving one of their hands to gently pat Nyx’s head.

“I suppose you are right Nyx. If I did not know any better, I would say that sea bunny was a cousin of mine.”

They mused, joking that they were related to the sea bunny on the cover. They knew it wasn’t true, they were an Angel and the sea bunny went extinct.

But they didn’t have the heart to break that news to their apprentice.

“Are you going to read it to me?”

[the-starchild]

Nyx chuckles at the comment and leans into Abhorson's hand, but their eyes widen at the question.

"Oh! Well do you want me to?.."

Without notice—the lights flicker a bit, most likely from the storm.

Nyx flinches, and gets a bit squeamish.

"Uh—I'll.. Just, read it anyways."

They grab another blanket and settle themselves into Abhorson's lap more.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“If you-“

Abhorson began to answer, flinching at the sudden flickering of lights. Fear slowly creeped into their mind, but they shook it off when Nyx settled more into their lap more.

To show fear, especially in a public place like this? They would truly be pathetic.

But they didn’t think about that too much.

“After you read, might I tell you a story?”

The executioner hummed out, patting Nyx’s head gently as they settled a tad more. They had a story brewing just for the apprentice, well, ever since they mentioned off-handedly that star liked listening to lullabies.

[the-starchild]

The child looked up to Abhorson, and their poise softened.

"Sure, I like your stories." They said, their eyes softening under their mask

They started reading, talking about all different kinds of sea slugs as the rain poured outside.

They finished, but as they were going to close the book, a librarian comes by the area.

"H-" They jump at actually seeing the larger executioner. "-..ey. just to let you two know that its not very..uh, safe to go out, so its best for you two to stay in here." They give a thumbs up, and then quickly leave the two of them alone once again.

...

"..Oh." ...They mutter.

They close the book, and just..sit there for a moment.

Normally they like the storms, but..this? What were they going to do about food and water, how would the council react?

Oh God how would the council react?? How would they punish them for staying out of their sight for too long; how long, ho—

Shakily, they fold their blanket, put it and their book on the ground, and wiggle themselves under the blanket Abhorson is tucked under.

"You can..tell your story now."

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was glad to have the mask on, otherwise angels would think they were going soft. Though they paused when Nyx spoke.

Star… likes the stories they always tell??

Their stories were already rudimentary, spoken stilted, and spoken few and far between. They’ve tried to make stories for their apprentice, but that was rare. So they stuck to what generational stories their family passed down.

Which isn’t a whole lot.

The executioner shook off the growing thoughts, focusing as Nyx began to read the book and talk about Nudibranchs. It mostly seemed to overshadow the storm that was raging outside.

Mostly.

Abhorson still flinched silently at every rumble of thunder and every flash of lightning. They couldn’t help it really, after all, it reminded them of the all too familiar feeling of their father.

When Nyx was done, the executioner smiled lightly beneath their mask and gave a soft applause.

“That was wonderful Nyx, thank-“

The sound of someone approaching made their words of praise fall flat, seeing the librarian appear to give the news that it wasn’t safe to go outside right now.

No shit Sherlock.

Though that raised the question, how WOULD the council react. With annoyance, mostly. The group was one who the most insignificant thing would set them off. Even if it was out of control. They absentmindedly remembered when they were late to a meeting the first time, they were berated. And beaten.

And they never were late again. That is how they solved their problems, through threats and violence.

However, the council was going to be annoyed. The best case scenario is that they get berated, the worst case scenario is.. punishment. Either way, the angel knew that the other was taking this harder than they were.

The executioner sighed lightly, the feeling of Nyx shifting pulling them out of their thoughts. Oh right, they had to tell a story.

Silently they hoped that it raised their apprentice’s spirits.

“Ah yes, hm.. let’s see.”

Abhorson began, humming as they thought quickly of a concept.

“Well… Once upon a time, there was a bustling kingdom full of creatures of many shapes and sizes. It lived up in the clouds, far from the ground and saw many wonderful things. From the rainbows that danced across the skies, to the quiet lulls in the summer day.”

Abhorson faltered, before they cleared their throat and continued.

“..Among the people, was the knight in red. They were a fearsome warrior, feared by all and was the right-hand of the Council. Right next to the King and Queen of this glorious paradise. One night, when the knight in red went outside, they looked up at the sky. A beautiful night sky shined back, the array of stars that speckled it making them smile if but a little… but while they looked they heard a small zoom.”

The executioner made a soft ‘zooming’ sound.

“A star zipped across the sky,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“Then another,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“The knight in red could not believe it. For the sky was filled with moving stars, creating a beautiful array as they shot across the glittering night sky. All for one star. One that was heading straight for the knight in red.”

Abhorson opened their mouth to make a ‘boom’ sound, though they were interrupted by an unexpectedly large clap of thunder.

BOOM!!!

The executioner flinched at the sound before continuing.

“..They were sent flying back, knocking back into the ground with a groan. But heard a soft giggle.”

They made a stilted giggle, before continuing.

“At the source of the sound, the knight in red looked down and saw a child that now rested on top their stomach. A child that was from the night sky itself. A star child.”

They glanced at Nyx, before glancing away and continuing.

“For a while, the knight in red did not get along with the star child. But as time passed, they warmed up to the star child and realized something. Something that made their steel-covered heart break.”

Abhorson glanced back to Nyx, a soft smile behind their mask.

“The knight in red saw themselves in them, the tragedy and pain someone so young had to endure. The fearsome warrior vowed that no one was going to hurt the star child for as long as they lived. And so, they stayed in the kingdom in the clouds, living happily ever after. And some say, they still live there to this day.”

The angel finished their story, still looking at Nyx.

“How was that? Did you like it?”

[the-starchild]

As the large executioner was telling the story, a couple of bystanders were staring at the two of them. Some in concern, though, some were looking with curiosity and even wonder.

Nyx was attentively litsening to the story, and at the end, they clapped and said "Horray, I loved it!!"

Abhorson even heard a few of the starers started quietly clapping, but when they looked up at them, they either jumped and quickly looked away, or were already being taken elsewhere by their parents.

Nyx then covered their "mouth," noticing that they were a little louder than what would be appropriate in this setting.

"I loved it," they whispered, smiling.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled at Nyx’s enthusiasm, before hearing the applause from a select few of the bystanders. It felt, weird, in a way…. Having others applaud instead of the suffocating silence that they seem to always illicit.

“I am glad you liked it Nyx.”

The Executioner spoke calmly, tilting their head slightly as they looked at their apprentice. Ever since star had mentioned that they liked lullabies, they’ve tried to find some, but they’ve never found any that were of calliper for Nyx. So they made up their own.

Sorta.

But that’s something they wouldn’t say outright. Maybe when they’re alone.

“What do you wish to do now Nyx? The weather is still not viable to go through.”

The larger angel asked, their voice a touch bit softer. They moved to lean forward towards the smaller angel, putting a hand on star’s head gently.

They won’t be like their father.

They’ll NEVER be like him.

[the-starchild]

The lean onto Abhorson's hand, smiling widely.

"I would ask for another story.." They purred

They then stretched, yawning.

"..but honestly, all I want now is to just nap." They mumbled before cuddling up to Abhorson, ready to go off to lala land.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“Then take a cat nap Nyx, I will be here when you wake up.”

Abhorson mumbled out to their apprentice with a clandestine smile, their both arms gently wrapping around Nyx to protect their star child.

And so they sat there, keeping watch over Nyx and inadvertently helping them ignore the storm that raged outside.

Sort of.

Their heart still raced and their body felt like a coiled spring. But they felt…not alone, but perhaps that was because their apprentice was there. With them.

[the-starchild]

They relaxed with the mumbled permission from Abhorson, their drowsiness taking more and more of their energy every second that they stayed awake.

Nyx hugged their arms, comforted in their grasp as they dazed off to sleep. Though, not before an.. unexpected farewell.

"..goodnight mama."

And just like that, they were fast asleep, not even realizing the new nickname they used.

[thescarlet-executioner]

You're just minding your buisness, running errands with your apprentice with overcast skies, when their ear twitches and they start looking around as if they just noticed something.

"Oh, I just felt a rain drop."

As if on cue: it starts drizzling rain, and you two hear a distant roll of thunder; the kid holds their paw out to feel the drops.

"Wow, it would be a really nice time to go out to the library, don't you think?" They chirped as they glanced at you.

{ @heartandstar }

Abhorson was preoccupied with picking out goods, when they glanced down to their apprentice. They paused, before sticking out their fingers to feel the raindrops.

That is until they flinched at the soft rolling of thunder.

“Yes, Nyx. That sounds like a good idea. Anything to get out of the open space.”

They quickly pay with a couple of gold and silver coins, holding Nyx’s hand. The executioner shielded their apprentice from the rain as the two made it to the library.

Anything to get out of the way of thunder and lightning.

[the-starchild]

Nyx gleefully nods and holds their mentors hand as they skipped over to the library, happy to have what others see as "gloomy" weather.

But when they arrive at the library, they slow down, and glance at Abhorson as they seem to ponder something.. yet, they shake their head, greet the librarians, and enthusiastically run off to the wide array of bookshelves; accidentally leaving their mentor in the process.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled softly as Nyx ran off to the wide array of bookshelves. In all honesty, the executioner knew that the library was at least insulated against outside.

So they had to wait until the rain passes.

They nod in greeting for the librarians, before going over to find a book that would hold them over.

[the-starchild]

As they go over to the bookshelves, they hear a few murmurs and get a few stares, but all of that is interrupted when the rain suddenly gets heavier.

Then, they hear a call of their name.

It's Nyx, who is holding a couple of different books, wanting to bring them over to a section of the library with a variety of different kinds of comfortable looking chairs.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was perusing some books, though it didn’t seem to catch their attention. Another soft roll of thunder made them flinch once more, making them glance out a stray window to see the rain get heavier.

Great. Just great.

“Hm? Nyx?”

They perked up at the call and looked over at Nyx with a softened expression hidden behind their mask. The executioner followed the other, sitting down on one of the comfy chairs.

“What is it that you wish to show me Nyx.”

The angel still held a flat tone, but there was a softer undertone whenever they spoke to the child. It was like looking into a mirror, and Abhorson made sure that this time.

That they would never be like their father.

[the-starchild]

The kid put down their books near their mentor, and walked to a tan basket.

"Well first I wanted to show you this area, its my favorite! It even has blankets!!"

They walked over back to Abhorson with a space-themed blanket, and cover Abhorson's body with it, as if they were tucking them in.

They giggle looking at what they've done, grab a book, and then sit on Abhorsons lap.

They point to the cover of the book, it's a book about sea slugs with a sea bunny on the cover.

"It's you!! Or at least like you!.." :3

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson’s face softened at Nyx ‘tucking’ them in, noticing that it looks soft and fluffy. They glanced around at the other angels that are in the library, feeling the stares and the hearing the not so quiet whispers.

Everything that made them feel so small.

Their thoughts were interrupted when Nyx sat on their lap, making them focus on them instead of the other angels.

And the thunderstorm.

Well, sorta.

The executioner hummed at the cover, before lightly moving one of their hands to gently pat Nyx’s head.

“I suppose you are right Nyx. If I did not know any better, I would say that sea bunny was a cousin of mine.”

They mused, joking that they were related to the sea bunny on the cover. They knew it wasn’t true, they were an Angel and the sea bunny went extinct.

But they didn’t have the heart to break that news to their apprentice.

“Are you going to read it to me?”

[the-starchild]

Nyx chuckles at the comment and leans into Abhorson's hand, but their eyes widen at the question.

"Oh! Well do you want me to?.."

Without notice—the lights flicker a bit, most likely from the storm.

Nyx flinches, and gets a bit squeamish.

"Uh—I'll.. Just, read it anyways."

They grab another blanket and settle themselves into Abhorson's lap more.

[thescarlet-executioner]

“If you-“

Abhorson began to answer, flinching at the sudden flickering of lights. Fear slowly creeped into their mind, but they shook it off when Nyx settled more into their lap more.

To show fear, especially in a public place like this? They would truly be pathetic.

But they didn’t think about that too much.

“After you read, might I tell you a story?”

The executioner hummed out, patting Nyx’s head gently as they settled a tad more. They had a story brewing just for the apprentice, well, ever since they mentioned off-handedly that star liked listening to lullabies.

[the-starchild]

The child looked up to Abhorson, and their poise softened.

"Sure, I like your stories." They said, their eyes softening under their mask

They started reading, talking about all different kinds of sea slugs as the rain poured outside.

They finished, but as they were going to close the book, a librarian comes by the area.

"H-" They jump at actually seeing the larger executioner. "-..ey. just to let you two know that its not very..uh, safe to go out, so its best for you two to stay in here." They give a thumbs up, and then quickly leave the two of them alone once again.

...

"..Oh." ...They mutter.

They close the book, and just..sit there for a moment.

Normally they like the storms, but..this? What were they going to do about food and water, how would the council react?

Oh God how would the council react?? How would they punish them for staying out of their sight for too long; how long, ho—

Shakily, they fold their blanket, put it and their book on the ground, and wiggle themselves under the blanket Abhorson is tucked under.

"You can..tell your story now."

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson was glad to have the mask on, otherwise angels would think they were going soft. Though they paused when Nyx spoke.

Star… likes the stories they always tell??

Their stories were already rudimentary, spoken stilted, and spoken few and far between. They’ve tried to make stories for their apprentice, but that was rare. So they stuck to what generational stories their family passed down.

Which isn’t a whole lot.

The executioner shook off the growing thoughts, focusing as Nyx began to read the book and talk about Nudibranchs. It mostly seemed to overshadow the storm that was raging outside.

Mostly.

Abhorson still flinched silently at every rumble of thunder and every flash of lightning. They couldn’t help it really, after all, it reminded them of the all too familiar feeling of their father.

When Nyx was done, the executioner smiled lightly beneath their mask and gave a soft applause.

“That was wonderful Nyx, thank-“

The sound of someone approaching made their words of praise fall flat, seeing the librarian appear to give the news that it wasn’t safe to go outside right now.

No shit Sherlock.

Though that raised the question, how WOULD the council react. With annoyance, mostly. The group was one who the most insignificant thing would set them off. Even if it was out of control. They absentmindedly remembered when they were late to a meeting the first time, they were berated. And beaten.

And they never were late again. That is how they solved their problems, through threats and violence.

However, the council was going to be annoyed. The best case scenario is that they get berated, the worst case scenario is.. punishment. Either way, the angel knew that the other was taking this harder than they were.

The executioner sighed lightly, the feeling of Nyx shifting pulling them out of their thoughts. Oh right, they had to tell a story.

Silently they hoped that it raised their apprentice’s spirits.

“Ah yes, hm.. let’s see.”

Abhorson began, humming as they thought quickly of a concept.

“Well… Once upon a time, there was a bustling kingdom full of creatures of many shapes and sizes. It lived up in the clouds, far from the ground and saw many wonderful things. From the rainbows that danced across the skies, to the quiet lulls in the summer day.”

Abhorson faltered, before they cleared their throat and continued.

“..Among the people, was the knight in red. They were a fearsome warrior, feared by all and was the right-hand of the Council. Right next to the King and Queen of this glorious paradise. One night, when the knight in red went outside, they looked up at the sky. A beautiful night sky shined back, the array of stars that speckled it making them smile if but a little… but while they looked they heard a small zoom.”

The executioner made a soft ‘zooming’ sound.

“A star zipped across the sky,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“Then another,”

The ‘zooming’ sound they did once again increased in sound.

“The knight in red could not believe it. For the sky was filled with moving stars, creating a beautiful array as they shot across the glittering night sky. All for one star. One that was heading straight for the knight in red.”

Abhorson opened their mouth to make a ‘boom’ sound, though they were interrupted by an unexpectedly large clap of thunder.

BOOM!!!

The executioner flinched at the sound before continuing.

“..They were sent flying back, knocking back into the ground with a groan. But heard a soft giggle.”

They made a stilted giggle, before continuing.

“At the source of the sound, the knight in red looked down and saw a child that now rested on top their stomach. A child that was from the night sky itself. A star child.”

They glanced at Nyx, before glancing away and continuing.

“For a while, the knight in red did not get along with the star child. But as time passed, they warmed up to the star child and realized something. Something that made their steel-covered heart break.”

Abhorson glanced back to Nyx, a soft smile behind their mask.

“The knight in red saw themselves in them, the tragedy and pain someone so young had to endure. The fearsome warrior vowed that no one was going to hurt the star child for as long as they lived. And so, they stayed in the kingdom in the clouds, living happily ever after. And some say, they still live there to this day.”

The angel finished their story, still looking at Nyx.

“How was that? Did you like it?”

[the-starchild]

As the large executioner was telling the story, a couple of bystanders were staring at the two of them. Some in concern, though, some were looking with curiosity and even wonder.

Nyx was attentively litsening to the story, and at the end, they clapped and said "Horray, I loved it!!"

Abhorson even heard a few of the starers started quietly clapping, but when they looked up at them, they either jumped and quickly looked away, or were already being taken elsewhere by their parents.

Nyx then covered their "mouth," noticing that they were a little louder than what would be appropriate in this setting.

"I loved it," they whispered, smiling.

[thescarlet-executioner]

Abhorson chuckled at Nyx’s enthusiasm, before hearing the applause from a select few of the bystanders. It felt, weird, in a way…. Having others applaud instead of the suffocating silence that they seem to always illicit.

“I am glad you liked it Nyx.”

The Executioner spoke calmly, tilting their head slightly as they looked at their apprentice. Ever since star had mentioned that they liked lullabies, they’ve tried to find some, but they’ve never found any that were of calliper for Nyx. So they made up their own.

Sorta.

But that’s something they wouldn’t say outright. Maybe when they’re alone.

“What do you wish to do now Nyx? The weather is still not viable to go through.”

The larger angel asked, their voice a touch bit softer. They moved to lean forward towards the smaller angel, putting a hand on star’s head gently.

They won’t be like their father.

They’ll NEVER be like him.

[the-starchild]

The lean onto Abhorson's hand, smiling widely.

"I would ask for another story.." They purred

They then stretched, yawning.

"..but honestly, all I want now is to just nap." They mumbled before cuddling up to Abhorson, ready to go off to lala land.

[heavenly-scribe]

...Today's the day, the one that they've been loathing ever since the day they met the executioner's apprentice.

The day that the tradition is passed on, the day that the kid will become a real executioner.. the day that Abhorson dies by Nyx's paw.

They trudged through the path they must have walked through hundreds of times by now, their mind wandering as they think of many things about Abhorson and Nyx.

Selfishly, they didn't want Abhorson, the angel they've been taking care of since they were just a fledgling, to die; but it's necessary for them to pass the baton. Though, honestly, Nyx seemed to care about Abhorson so much that they could see them agreeing with that statement..

But that thought is shaken off, as it's most certainly just wishful thinking on their part; what needs to be done needs to be done.

They pass by Nyx walking the opposite direction, seeming to be in a hurry. It's odd seeing them considering how protective Abhorson is of the kid, and would almost never let them leave their sight like that. God, how would Nyx even feel after all of thi—

...

Wait, what???

{ @heartandstar }

Ephraim had felt sick the entire day, both physically and mentally. They had no say in the word of the Council, they knew how this worked, but that didn't stop them from being mortified.

They had refused to document the execution. Of course this didn't work. They were met with severe backlash and repercussions, but they didn't care. Nothing could hurt as much as what was about to occur.

As the seraph walked to the supposed site of the execution, their head was hung low, notebook and pen all gripped tightly to their chest. Their wings were pulled stiffly to their back, their tail low and practically between their legs.

They were so lost in thought they almost didn't notice the blue flurry that passed by them. Once they had processed who had passed, they stopped in their tracks, whipping around to face-

"Nyx??"

Ephraim called out to the young angel, trying to ignore the trembling in they own hands.

[the-starchild]

The blue blur turned around, and speak of the devil, it was them.

They had their executioner outfit on, their glowing eyes and star markings piercing through the shade from their hood. They held nothing but their rabbit plush, North, in their arms.

Their star-shaped pupils darted around the scribe's shape and seemed to almost mutter their name, but as soon as they realized the situation they darted.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim barely had time to process the situation before Nyx started running, immediately starting to follow.

"W-Wait!! Don't go!"

They tried to keep their voice as quiet as possible, but loud enough for the young angel to hear. It didn't take long for them to reach Nyx, however, coming up from behind and scooping them up into their arms before starting to fly. They were running on straight instinct, not considering how terrifying this must be for Nyx.

"I-I'm sorry."

If they were running, this meant that the execution hadn't happened. And if it hadn't happened, that meant the Council was almost certainly after them.

"I'm not going to take you back, I promise."

[the-starchild]

The kid sprinted as fast as they could, running as if their life was the line (because it very well could've been.) But of course, adrenaline runs out eventually, and their pace slowing down was what made Ephraim able to catch Nyx.

They yelped when they got picked up, squirming and whining around the bigger angel's arms the seconds before they assured that they weren't going to take them back.

Ephraim could immediately feel Nyx relax once they said that, their rapid panting slowing down and a few tears dropping on the angel's arms and their plush.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim flew in place for a moment, gently hugging Nyx as they held them.

“I…I’m going to take you to my quarters. It’s in the second highest circle of Heaven, where only seraphim are allowed.”

They started flying up, passing by each circle of Heaven. The stars could be seen surrounding the two. It was quite the sight.

Eventually, they reached the eighth layer, Ephraim gently landing down on the marble floors. They still held Nyx close to their chest, their wings folding forward to try and shield them.

[the-starchild]

The kid's breathing had slowed down significantly, yet they were only able to quietly hum in response to the explanation.

Though, right as they were about to question their place of landing, they noticed the stars that surrounded the two.

They were entranced by the stars, they were as comforting to the child to a blanket being wrapped around the two of them.

They felt an odd sense of deja vu, but that was shaken off once Ephraim landed on the marble floors.

[heavenly-scribe]

After a bit, Ephriam made it vain to their quarters, unlocking the door and bringing Nyx in. Once they were inside and the door was shut, they set the young angel down, sighing.

“I’m sorry it’s a mess, I wasn’t…I wasn’t really expecting to have company.”

They laughed softly, through a certain pain enveloped their tone.

The room wasn’t necessarily neat, but it wasn’t terrible. The bed was made, with many pillows set atop it, but the desk was in shambles, various papers, notebooks, and writing utensils strewn across it. The only lighting in the room was a lamp that sat on the desk, emanating a warm yellow light without being overwhelmingly bright. While it wasn’t the neatest room, it was undeniably cozy.

“Make yourself comfortable, I…I presume you don’t like tea. Maybe hot chocolate?”

As the seraph spoke, they moved to the other side of their quarters where a small kitchen-like setup could be seen, only holding a singular stove where a kettle lay. They turned on the stove as they started to prepare tea for themself.

[the-starchild]

The kid got set on the bed, looked around the warm room, and took a deep breath before finally speaking.

"You're fine, this is a.. really nice room." They said in a tone where you could hear their smile.

They put down their hood, and moved themselves and their plush to the pillows on the bed. They span multiple times before curling up on top of the pillows, and started making biscuits on them.

"Hot chocolate would be great,," They purred.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim hummed softly as they prepared a hot chocolate for Nyx, their tail swishing behind them. They had become significantly less tense, partially because they knew that Nyx was safe, but also because they did not want to signal to the young angel that they were anxious. Best not to scare them.

Once it was ready, Ephraim brought over the hot chocolate mug, along with their own mug of tea. They reached out the hot chocolate, offering it to Nyx.

“My apologies, I don’t have uh..marshmallows, or whipped cream, I believe humans do typically have those with hot chocolate…?”

They sighed, laughing softly before speaking again.

“I do not drink it myself, so I do not have any of the add-ons.”

The hot chocolate was reserved for guests. One specific guest, in fact.

[the-starchild]

The kid is mostly relaxed, but the looming presence of their questions still loomed in the back of their mind, and they knew that they'd have to face those anxieties eventually..

But for now, they can just sit in the comfiest bed they've sat in for years, and drink hot chocolate with a creature they trust.

"Thank you!" They chirped as they grabbed the mug, "yeah, humans do like having hot chocolate with those those toppings." They take a sip of the hot chocolate, "I do like whipped cream, but it's still good without it." They move the mug away from their face, revealing a milk-mustache over where their mouth would be.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephaim hummed, nodding as they sat down. They took a "sip" from their tea (despite not having a mouth, don't question it), letting out a sigh. They laughed a bit at the sight of Nyx's face, handing them a napkin from the side table.

"You got a bit on your face-"

They smiled with their eyes, their tail thumping softly against the bed. Just seeing the happiness emanating from the young angel brought the seraph so much joy. Then a memory started to resurface.

A memory of Abhorson, around the same age, finding comfort by Ephraim's side. In the same uniform.

It felt so foreign now, so many years having passed but to the seraph, it felt as if it were just yesterday.

[the-starchild]

Nyx had a relaxed demeanor and was still purring; they were indeed delighted, this has been wonderful so far.

They take the napkin and wipe it over their own "mouth," though when they look up, they see Ephraim...checked out.

It took them off guard for a second, as they weren't very used to seeing this in creatures other than Abhorson, but they knew what to do.

"Bap." They say as they put a paw on Ephraim's bright head. "You okay?"

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim was snapped out of their thoughts, eyes going wide a bit before they laughed.

“Y-Yes, I am alright, just- lost in thought for a moment, that’s all.”

They sighed, taking another sip of their tea.

“How…how are you holding up?”

They didn’t want to ask that question. They knew the answer. But they had to.

[the-starchild]

"Alrighty!" They take their paw away from Ephraim's face. This was standard procedure when this type of stuff happens, at least with Abhorson it was.

They then hear the wretched question.

"I.. uhm..." They fall quiet.

..They tried to run away from their feelings before, but now they're tasked to finally face them.

They put their knees to their head, making themself into a ball, "I..I woke up early in the morning so I could go without anyone seeing me.."

They look down,"I wonder how mama's doing, I didn't even get to say goodbye to them.."

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim froze for a moment, their heart sinking deep into their chest. They couldn't even begin to imagine how Nyx was feeling, all of the emotions coming down on them at once. But they had to be strong.

They set their mug down on their nightstand before moving closer to Nyx, wrapping their arms around the young angel in a gentle hug.

Ephraim found it hard to speak, no words coming to mind and their voice choking up. So they remained silent. They just embraced Nyx, letting them know that they were not alone, and would never be alone. They were safe.

[the-starchild]

They sat there for a second, their thoughts racing through their head.

'What will Abhorson think? Would they feel betrayed? Do they think I'm dead? Would they not care? Would the council just find a new apprentice to replace me? Would they have just killed them already? Would they have killed them already and are coming to get me too? Wo—'

They get wrapped in a hug.

..Their thoughts go quiet as a few tears drop down on the scibes back.

"I don't want to kill my mama. I never wanted to kill them. I never wanted to kill anyone."

More and more tears fall onto Ephraim's back, their grip on Ephraim tightens, and their claws protract.

"I never wanted to kill. I never wanted to be with the council. I just want to be a kid."

"I just want to be happy with my mama forever and ever. I don't want to grow up."

"I don't want to be alone."

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim just held Nyx for a while, letting them cry into their shoulder. They held the young angel tight as they spoke, their wings wrapping around similar to a weighted blanket.

"You will never be alone. As long as both me and Abhorson exist, you will never be alone. I swear on it."

Their voice was gentle, akin to a parent comforting their child. What was happening wasn't to far from that, anyway.

"I won't let the Council find you. I won't let you get hurt ever again."

I already failed once, I cannot fail again.

[the-starchild]

They bawled more words; but after a while they just sat there moping.

Ephraim's reassurance helped to relax star quite a lot, to the point that they were about to fall asleep, but they powered through.

"..Thank you."

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim noticed Nyx getting a bit sleepy, loosening their grip on the young angel.

"You can sleep if you'd like, it's alright. You're safe."

The seraph's voice was more hushed now. There were plenty of pillows and soft blankets on the bed, so inviting for a nap...Ephraim knew this very well themself.

[the-starchild]

"Mmm..." The kid looked at the angel with half-closed eyes.

"But..I..." they want to ask questions about..everything regarding their situation—

"..Fine.." they cant say no to that offer.

They go on all four paws, stretch their entire body with an arch, and curled up on Ephraim's lap to sleep.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim laughed a little, grabbing one of the blankets and draping it over Nyx's body. They repositioned themself so they were comfortably leaning against some of the pillows, their eyes smiling as they watched Nyx get comfortable.

They let out a small yawn, it seems that exhaustion was catching up to them as well.

[the-starchild]

Nyx was asleep surprisingly quickly.

Though, it actually isn't very surprising considering that crying is exhausting, their journey to get to where they are now must've been exhausting..

and when Ephraim remembers how Abhorson and Nyx's beds are with the council: literally just two mattresses on the floor with pillows and blankets they had to STEAL FROM THE COUNCIL'S ROOMS.. It makes sense.

[heavenly-scribe]

It didn't take long for Ephraim to fall asleep as well, content to see Nyx sleeping comfortably. They didn't know exactly how long it had been since the young angel had gotten a good night's sleep, but they presumed it had been quite a while. So it brought them a lot of joy.

Seeing that Nyx was comfortable and fast asleep allowed them to drift off as well, but not before quietly murmuring something under their breath.

"I won't fail again. Not this time."

[the-starchild]

It was safe to say that this was easily the best sleep that Nyx had in a long time.

Not necessarily because they had no worries before then, but it was still exceptionally comfortable nonetheless.

[heavenly-scribe]

It was the best sleep Ephraim had gotten in quite a while. For the first time in decades, they dreamed.

They dreamt of their first time meeting Nyx, and the small bits of joy that managed to peek through while witnessing Nyx and Abhorson’s bond.

They dreamt of Abhorson’s youth, the days the two would spend by the lakes of the first circle, the sickly sweet smile on the young angel’s face.

They dreamt of Solstice…oh, Solstice….so many fond memories lost to time. How they yearned to see their face once again.

They dreamt of warmth, of comfort, of a hopeful and bright future. Maybe one day, that would come.

[the-starchild]

Nyx had also dreamt, but it was different.

They were being cradled.

They felt arms wrapped around them in a perfect shape, and soft murmurs of them being so very loved, it was wonderful. They didn't understand the words very well, nor did they know who was holding them, but they felt so very warm.

Until they felt how cold it was.

The rooms air was cold, many eyes were looking at them in shock and horror, and for some reason they felt the top of their head getting wetter and wetter. They then realized how familiar the rough hands holding them were, and they looked up to see that Abhorson was the one cradling them.

They were sobbing more than they had ever seen anyone cry before in their life.

The words started to get louder.

"Why?? Why!! You're too young to be taken like this, it was supposed to be me!!"

They felt a gaping hole in their stomach.

They looked down, and saw a sword pierced through their stomach, blood dripping down to the floor.

They did this to themself.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim, as if on instinct, woke up a bit, looking down at Nyx as they slept. While there was no physical indication of the nightmare, Ephraim still pulled Nyx closer to them, draping their wings over the two like a weighted blanket. They knew Nyx’s first night after…everything…would be difficult. It was best to provide as much comfort as they possibly could.

They tried to fall asleep again, but a sense of unease took over the seraph. For what reason, they were unaware. But they just stayed awake, cradling Nyx in their arms.

[the-starchild]

Once they fell unconscious in the dream from the blood loss, they woke up.

They didn't do much to not disturb the seraphim, but they did start purring when they feel Ephraim holding them.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim noticed Nyx wake, looking down at the young angel. Their eyes curved up in a smile as they noticed the purring, returning with a purr as well.

Their tail curled around the two as well, a small yawn coming from the seraph.

"Mm...you also awake...?

Their speech was significantly less formal than usual.

[the-starchild]

"Mrrrp?" The blue kitty chirped.

"Yup..." they groggily say, while starting to do biscuits on Ephraim.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim hummed, nodding as they yawned again. Their tail tapped lazily against the bed, murmuring as they tried to fall asleep again. No luck.

They turned ever so slightly to try and see through the window. It was quite dark out, most likely the middle of the night at this point. A very inconvenient time to wake up.

“I’m sorry if I woke you up…”

They mumbled quietly, stretching out their wings a bit.

[the-starchild]

The kid woke up as well with Ephraims shuffling. They let out another little noise before glancing out of the window, seeing the darkness cover the outside.

"..'s okay.." they groggily say. As the bigger angel stretched their wings, they turn their body so their back faced the bed, stretching their arms before having them cover their face. "My dream wasn't very nice anyway." They turn around again, continuing the never-ending biscuits.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim laid down again, getting more comfortable.

“Would…would you want to talk about it?”

While they never had nightmares themself (on account of the usual lack of dreams), they remembered Abhorson confiding in them as a child about their nightmares…so they at least knew how to handle it a little bit.

Every moment with Nyx managed to bring back old memories for Ephraim.

[the-starchild]

They put a pensive face.

Honestly, all Nyx wanted to do was forget the nightmare, but they don't forget dreams like these very often; neither good nor bad.

Most of the time, even if these dreams felt real, they never could've been.

Though, this? This was different.

"Mmm..."

[heavenly-scribe]

“You don’t have to…only if you want.”

Ephraim sat up a little, grabbing North from across the bed and giving the plushie back to Nyx. If they couldn’t give the comfort the child needed, hopefully their plushie could help.

[the-starchild]

They stay quiet, thinking, until North is given to them.

"..Thank you."

They stayed quiet for a little longer, playing with North, trying to figure out how to even try to explain it.

"It.. my dream was my plan B..If I decided not to run away."

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim thought for a moment, wanting to ask Nyx to elaborate before the realization hit them.

Oh.

Their hands began to tremble a bit, but they kept their composure, letting out a sigh before speaking.

“You won’t have to resort to that, not now, not ever. I swear on my life.”

[the-starchild]

They didnt know how to explain it any more than that, the words were just stuck in their throat..

..but somehow, Ephraim seemed to know immediately after just the one sentence.

They felt a sense of relief for not having fully explain it, but the deer-in-headlights feeling gave them a sucker punch right to the gut right after that.

They definitely couldn't speak after that, so they hugged North tightly, curling themself into a ball and nodded.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim noticed how Nyx had frozen, not expecting them to speak any time soon. So they decided to pivot the conversation.

"...would you like me to re-heat your hot chocolate?"

They sat up as they spoke, stretching their wings once again. They were definitely not falling back asleep anymore, and they were unsure if Nyx would be able to as well, so they might as well have made the offer.

The seraph grabbed their own tea mug and started getting up off of the bed to re-heat their own drink, holding onto Nyx's mug as well.

[the-starchild]

Nyx nodded once more, but they didn't know if they even could drink anything with how they feel.

Even if telling Ephraim went alright, they still feel so nauseous they couldn't even talk.

So they layed down to a circle on the bed, curled up with North to look like a throw pillow.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim nodded back, standing up and taking the mugs over. Once both of the drinks were heated up, they came back to the bed, sitting on the edge of it and setting the hot chocolate down on the nightstand so that Nyx could grab it if they wanted.

"You don't have to speak."

Their voice was soft and quiet, as not to alarm the younger angel.

"I...I don't exactly know what you're feeling right now, but I do know how the body and mind reacts to hurt. Your body just freezes up, and time moves slow, and everything is just...too much. I know that feeling."

Ephraim took a small sip from their tea, turning to fully face Nyx.

"But you don't have to go through this alone."

Not like I chose to do.

[the-starchild]

Nyx looked up at Ephraim from their throw-pillow position, attentive to the larger angel's words.

They put their head under the larger angel's hand to make it so they're petting them, took deep breaths to try and calm themselves, and mumbled a very tiny "thank you."

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim hummed in acknowledgement, gently petting Nyx to help calm them.

"Don't force yourself to speak, it's alright. Take all the time you need."

As if on instinct, they began to hum a lullaby, their voice still quiet but noticeable enough. It was some sort of human tune they had heard hundreds of years ago, maybe even more. While they couldn't pinpoint the exact origin, they knew deep down why it came to them so naturally.

The last time they hummed this lullaby was for Abhorson.

[the-starchild]

Nyx was settling down, trying to calm themselves more, but it was hard...

Until Ephraim started humming.

They were caught off guard to hear it so out of the blue; Abhorson sung this to them along with other lullabies after stressful days ever since they learnt that they loved them.

Even with their surprise, the humming caused them to calm down much more than they could've on their own, and they even started humming along.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim suddenly paused in their humming, eyes going wide a bit.

"You...you know it?"

They had no idea how Nyx could have been able to follow the lullaby, they had never hummed it around Nyx, they hadn't actually recreated the melody in years.

Unless....had Abhorson....

No, that couldn't have been possible. Ephraim wasn't even sure that Abhorson remembered the tune.

[the-starchild]

"Mm?..." They opened a pair of their eyes to look at Ephraim.

Well, of course they would know this lullaby: "Mama used to sing it to me all the time, I love it alot."

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim just stared at Nyx for a moment, trying to process what they had said.

After all these years...Abhorson still remembered.

Tears started pricking the corner's of the seraph's eyes, quickly turning and wiping their face.

"I'm sorry I just- I didn't expect-"

Once they had recollected themself, they sighed as they began to speak again.

"I used to hum that lullaby to Abhorson when they were young...I didn't think they would have remembered it."

[the-starchild]

Nyx had closed their eyes to go back to sleep again, but that was before they heard Ephraim's voice break.

They looked up at Ephraim with worried eyes.

"Wh—.."

Ohh.. so that's where they got it from. Abby always told them stories and lullabies, but it wasn't often that they remembered where one came from.

They bumped their head under Ephram's hand and purred, trying to reassure them.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim laughed softly, gently petting the back of Nyx's head.

"I am alright, little one, don't worry...if I cry they are tears of joy, I promise."

It was true. The thought that Abhorson had remembered the lullaby and passed it on to Nyx...it meant a lot to them.

"Try to sleep again if you can, alright?"

They said this before going back to humming the tune, setting their tea down and laying back down besides Nyx.

[the-starchild]

They let out a "mmrp" of understanding, and layed down once more.

They were much more relaxed, and with the spell of the lullaby, they were able to fall asleep once more.

[heavenly-scribe]

...Today's the day, the one that they've been loathing ever since the day they met the executioner's apprentice.

The day that the tradition is passed on, the day that the kid will become a real executioner.. the day that Abhorson dies by Nyx's paw.

They trudged through the path they must have walked through hundreds of times by now, their mind wandering as they think of many things about Abhorson and Nyx.

Selfishly, they didn't want Abhorson, the angel they've been taking care of since they were just a fledgling, to die; but it's necessary for them to pass the baton. Though, honestly, Nyx seemed to care about Abhorson so much that they could see them agreeing with that statement..

But that thought is shaken off, as it's most certainly just wishful thinking on their part; what needs to be done needs to be done.

They pass by Nyx walking the opposite direction, seeming to be in a hurry. It's odd seeing them considering how protective Abhorson is of the kid, and would almost never let them leave their sight like that. God, how would Nyx even feel after all of thi—

...

Wait, what???

{ @heartandstar }

Ephraim had felt sick the entire day, both physically and mentally. They had no say in the word of the Council, they knew how this worked, but that didn't stop them from being mortified.

They had refused to document the execution. Of course this didn't work. They were met with severe backlash and repercussions, but they didn't care. Nothing could hurt as much as what was about to occur.

As the seraph walked to the supposed site of the execution, their head was hung low, notebook and pen all gripped tightly to their chest. Their wings were pulled stiffly to their back, their tail low and practically between their legs.

They were so lost in thought they almost didn't notice the blue flurry that passed by them. Once they had processed who had passed, they stopped in their tracks, whipping around to face-

"Nyx??"

Ephraim called out to the young angel, trying to ignore the trembling in they own hands.

[the-starchild]

The blue blur turned around, and speak of the devil, it was them.

They had their executioner outfit on, their glowing eyes and star markings piercing through the shade from their hood. They held nothing but their rabbit plush, North, in their arms.

Their star-shaped pupils darted around the scribe's shape and seemed to almost mutter their name, but as soon as they realized the situation they darted.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim barely had time to process the situation before Nyx started running, immediately starting to follow.

"W-Wait!! Don't go!"

They tried to keep their voice as quiet as possible, but loud enough for the young angel to hear. It didn't take long for them to reach Nyx, however, coming up from behind and scooping them up into their arms before starting to fly. They were running on straight instinct, not considering how terrifying this must be for Nyx.

"I-I'm sorry."

If they were running, this meant that the execution hadn't happened. And if it hadn't happened, that meant the Council was almost certainly after them.

"I'm not going to take you back, I promise."

[the-starchild]

The kid sprinted as fast as they could, running as if their life was the line (because it very well could've been.) But of course, adrenaline runs out eventually, and their pace slowing down was what made Ephraim able to catch Nyx.

They yelped when they got picked up, squirming and whining around the bigger angel's arms the seconds before they assured that they weren't going to take them back.

Ephraim could immediately feel Nyx relax once they said that, their rapid panting slowing down and a few tears dropping on the angel's arms and their plush.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim flew in place for a moment, gently hugging Nyx as they held them.

“I…I’m going to take you to my quarters. It’s in the second highest circle of Heaven, where only seraphim are allowed.”

They started flying up, passing by each circle of Heaven. The stars could be seen surrounding the two. It was quite the sight.

Eventually, they reached the eighth layer, Ephraim gently landing down on the marble floors. They still held Nyx close to their chest, their wings folding forward to try and shield them.

[the-starchild]

The kid's breathing had slowed down significantly, yet they were only able to quietly hum in response to the explanation.

Though, right as they were about to question their place of landing, they noticed the stars that surrounded the two.

They were entranced by the stars, they were as comforting to the child to a blanket being wrapped around the two of them.

They felt an odd sense of deja vu, but that was shaken off once Ephraim landed on the marble floors.

[heavenly-scribe]

After a bit, Ephriam made it vain to their quarters, unlocking the door and bringing Nyx in. Once they were inside and the door was shut, they set the young angel down, sighing.

“I’m sorry it’s a mess, I wasn’t…I wasn’t really expecting to have company.”

They laughed softly, through a certain pain enveloped their tone.

The room wasn’t necessarily neat, but it wasn’t terrible. The bed was made, with many pillows set atop it, but the desk was in shambles, various papers, notebooks, and writing utensils strewn across it. The only lighting in the room was a lamp that sat on the desk, emanating a warm yellow light without being overwhelmingly bright. While it wasn’t the neatest room, it was undeniably cozy.

“Make yourself comfortable, I…I presume you don’t like tea. Maybe hot chocolate?”

As the seraph spoke, they moved to the other side of their quarters where a small kitchen-like setup could be seen, only holding a singular stove where a kettle lay. They turned on the stove as they started to prepare tea for themself.

[the-starchild]

The kid got set on the bed, looked around the warm room, and took a deep breath before finally speaking.

"You're fine, this is a.. really nice room." They said in a tone where you could hear their smile.

They put down their hood, and moved themselves and their plush to the pillows on the bed. They span multiple times before curling up on top of the pillows, and started making biscuits on them.

"Hot chocolate would be great,," They purred.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim hummed softly as they prepared a hot chocolate for Nyx, their tail swishing behind them. They had become significantly less tense, partially because they knew that Nyx was safe, but also because they did not want to signal to the young angel that they were anxious. Best not to scare them.

Once it was ready, Ephraim brought over the hot chocolate mug, along with their own mug of tea. They reached out the hot chocolate, offering it to Nyx.

“My apologies, I don’t have uh..marshmallows, or whipped cream, I believe humans do typically have those with hot chocolate…?”

They sighed, laughing softly before speaking again.

“I do not drink it myself, so I do not have any of the add-ons.”

The hot chocolate was reserved for guests. One specific guest, in fact.

[the-starchild]

The kid is mostly relaxed, but the looming presence of their questions still loomed in the back of their mind, and they knew that they'd have to face those anxieties eventually..

But for now, they can just sit in the comfiest bed they've sat in for years, and drink hot chocolate with a creature they trust.

"Thank you!" They chirped as they grabbed the mug, "yeah, humans do like having hot chocolate with those those toppings." They take a sip of the hot chocolate, "I do like whipped cream, but it's still good without it." They move the mug away from their face, revealing a milk-mustache over where their mouth would be.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephaim hummed, nodding as they sat down. They took a "sip" from their tea (despite not having a mouth, don't question it), letting out a sigh. They laughed a bit at the sight of Nyx's face, handing them a napkin from the side table.

"You got a bit on your face-"

They smiled with their eyes, their tail thumping softly against the bed. Just seeing the happiness emanating from the young angel brought the seraph so much joy. Then a memory started to resurface.

A memory of Abhorson, around the same age, finding comfort by Ephraim's side. In the same uniform.

It felt so foreign now, so many years having passed but to the seraph, it felt as if it were just yesterday.

[the-starchild]

Nyx had a relaxed demeanor and was still purring; they were indeed delighted, this has been wonderful so far.

They take the napkin and wipe it over their own "mouth," though when they look up, they see Ephraim...checked out.

It took them off guard for a second, as they weren't very used to seeing this in creatures other than Abhorson, but they knew what to do.

"Bap." They say as they put a paw on Ephraim's bright head. "You okay?"

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim was snapped out of their thoughts, eyes going wide a bit before they laughed.

“Y-Yes, I am alright, just- lost in thought for a moment, that’s all.”

They sighed, taking another sip of their tea.

“How…how are you holding up?”

They didn’t want to ask that question. They knew the answer. But they had to.

[the-starchild]

"Alrighty!" They take their paw away from Ephraim's face. This was standard procedure when this type of stuff happens, at least with Abhorson it was.

They then hear the wretched question.

"I.. uhm..." They fall quiet.

..They tried to run away from their feelings before, but now they're tasked to finally face them.

They put their knees to their head, making themself into a ball, "I..I woke up early in the morning so I could go without anyone seeing me.."

They look down,"I wonder how mama's doing, I didn't even get to say goodbye to them.."

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim froze for a moment, their heart sinking deep into their chest. They couldn't even begin to imagine how Nyx was feeling, all of the emotions coming down on them at once. But they had to be strong.

They set their mug down on their nightstand before moving closer to Nyx, wrapping their arms around the young angel in a gentle hug.

Ephraim found it hard to speak, no words coming to mind and their voice choking up. So they remained silent. They just embraced Nyx, letting them know that they were not alone, and would never be alone. They were safe.

[the-starchild]

They sat there for a second, their thoughts racing through their head.

'What will Abhorson think? Would they feel betrayed? Do they think I'm dead? Would they not care? Would the council just find a new apprentice to replace me? Would they have just killed them already? Would they have killed them already and are coming to get me too? Wo—'

They get wrapped in a hug.

..Their thoughts go quiet as a few tears drop down on the scibes back.

"I don't want to kill my mama. I never wanted to kill them. I never wanted to kill anyone."

More and more tears fall onto Ephraim's back, their grip on Ephraim tightens, and their claws protract.

"I never wanted to kill. I never wanted to be with the council. I just want to be a kid."

"I just want to be happy with my mama forever and ever. I don't want to grow up."

"I don't want to be alone."

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim just held Nyx for a while, letting them cry into their shoulder. They held the young angel tight as they spoke, their wings wrapping around similar to a weighted blanket.

"You will never be alone. As long as both me and Abhorson exist, you will never be alone. I swear on it."

Their voice was gentle, akin to a parent comforting their child. What was happening wasn't to far from that, anyway.

"I won't let the Council find you. I won't let you get hurt ever again."

I already failed once, I cannot fail again.

[the-starchild]

They bawled more words; but after a while they just sat there moping.

Ephraim's reassurance helped to relax star quite a lot, to the point that they were about to fall asleep, but they powered through.

"..Thank you."

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim noticed Nyx getting a bit sleepy, loosening their grip on the young angel.

"You can sleep if you'd like, it's alright. You're safe."

The seraph's voice was more hushed now. There were plenty of pillows and soft blankets on the bed, so inviting for a nap...Ephraim knew this very well themself.

[the-starchild]

"Mmm..." The kid looked at the angel with half-closed eyes.

"But..I..." they want to ask questions about..everything regarding their situation—

"..Fine.." they cant say no to that offer.

They go on all four paws, stretch their entire body with an arch, and curled up on Ephraim's lap to sleep.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim laughed a little, grabbing one of the blankets and draping it over Nyx's body. They repositioned themself so they were comfortably leaning against some of the pillows, their eyes smiling as they watched Nyx get comfortable.

They let out a small yawn, it seems that exhaustion was catching up to them as well.

[the-starchild]

Nyx was asleep surprisingly quickly.

Though, it actually isn't very surprising considering that crying is exhausting, their journey to get to where they are now must've been exhausting..

and when Ephraim remembers how Abhorson and Nyx's beds are with the council: literally just two mattresses on the floor with pillows and blankets they had to STEAL FROM THE COUNCIL'S ROOMS.. It makes sense.

[heavenly-scribe]

It didn't take long for Ephraim to fall asleep as well, content to see Nyx sleeping comfortably. They didn't know exactly how long it had been since the young angel had gotten a good night's sleep, but they presumed it had been quite a while. So it brought them a lot of joy.

Seeing that Nyx was comfortable and fast asleep allowed them to drift off as well, but not before quietly murmuring something under their breath.

"I won't fail again. Not this time."

[the-starchild]

It was safe to say that this was easily the best sleep that Nyx had in a long time.

Not necessarily because they had no worries before then, but it was still exceptionally comfortable nonetheless.

[heavenly-scribe]

It was the best sleep Ephraim had gotten in quite a while. For the first time in decades, they dreamed.

They dreamt of their first time meeting Nyx, and the small bits of joy that managed to peek through while witnessing Nyx and Abhorson’s bond.

They dreamt of Abhorson’s youth, the days the two would spend by the lakes of the first circle, the sickly sweet smile on the young angel’s face.

They dreamt of Solstice…oh, Solstice….so many fond memories lost to time. How they yearned to see their face once again.

They dreamt of warmth, of comfort, of a hopeful and bright future. Maybe one day, that would come.

[the-starchild]

Nyx had also dreamt, but it was different.

They were being cradled.

They felt arms wrapped around them in a perfect shape, and soft murmurs of them being so very loved, it was wonderful. They didn't understand the words very well, nor did they know who was holding them, but they felt so very warm.

Until they felt how cold it was.

The rooms air was cold, many eyes were looking at them in shock and horror, and for some reason they felt the top of their head getting wetter and wetter. They then realized how familiar the rough hands holding them were, and they looked up to see that Abhorson was the one cradling them.

They were sobbing more than they had ever seen anyone cry before in their life.

The words started to get louder.

"Why?? Why!! You're too young to be taken like this, it was supposed to be me!!"

They felt a gaping hole in their stomach.

They looked down, and saw a sword pierced through their stomach, blood dripping down to the floor.

They did this to themself.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim, as if on instinct, woke up a bit, looking down at Nyx as they slept. While there was no physical indication of the nightmare, Ephraim still pulled Nyx closer to them, draping their wings over the two like a weighted blanket. They knew Nyx’s first night after…everything…would be difficult. It was best to provide as much comfort as they possibly could.

They tried to fall asleep again, but a sense of unease took over the seraph. For what reason, they were unaware. But they just stayed awake, cradling Nyx in their arms.

[the-starchild]

Once they fell unconscious in the dream from the blood loss, they woke up.

They didn't do much to not disturb the seraphim, but they did start purring when they feel Ephraim holding them.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim noticed Nyx wake, looking down at the young angel. Their eyes curved up in a smile as they noticed the purring, returning with a purr as well.

Their tail curled around the two as well, a small yawn coming from the seraph.

"Mm...you also awake...?

Their speech was significantly less formal than usual.

[the-starchild]

"Mrrrp?" The blue kitty chirped.

"Yup..." they groggily say, while starting to do biscuits on Ephraim.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim hummed, nodding as they yawned again. Their tail tapped lazily against the bed, murmuring as they tried to fall asleep again. No luck.

They turned ever so slightly to try and see through the window. It was quite dark out, most likely the middle of the night at this point. A very inconvenient time to wake up.

“I’m sorry if I woke you up…”

They mumbled quietly, stretching out their wings a bit.

[the-starchild]

The kid woke up as well with Ephraims shuffling. They let out another little noise before glancing out of the window, seeing the darkness cover the outside.

"..'s okay.." they groggily say. As the bigger angel stretched their wings, they turn their body so their back faced the bed, stretching their arms before having them cover their face. "My dream wasn't very nice anyway." They turn around again, continuing the never-ending biscuits.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim laid down again, getting more comfortable.

“Would…would you want to talk about it?”

While they never had nightmares themself (on account of the usual lack of dreams), they remembered Abhorson confiding in them as a child about their nightmares…so they at least knew how to handle it a little bit.

Every moment with Nyx managed to bring back old memories for Ephraim.

[the-starchild]

They put a pensive face.

Honestly, all Nyx wanted to do was forget the nightmare, but they don't forget dreams like these very often; neither good nor bad.

Most of the time, even if these dreams felt real, they never could've been.

Though, this? This was different.

"Mmm..."

[heavenly-scribe]

“You don’t have to…only if you want.”

Ephraim sat up a little, grabbing North from across the bed and giving the plushie back to Nyx. If they couldn’t give the comfort the child needed, hopefully their plushie could help.

[the-starchild]

They stay quiet, thinking, until North is given to them.

"..Thank you."

They stayed quiet for a little longer, playing with North, trying to figure out how to even try to explain it.

"It.. my dream was my plan B..If I decided not to run away."

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim thought for a moment, wanting to ask Nyx to elaborate before the realization hit them.

Oh.

Their hands began to tremble a bit, but they kept their composure, letting out a sigh before speaking.

“You won’t have to resort to that, not now, not ever. I swear on my life.”

[the-starchild]

They didnt know how to explain it any more than that, the words were just stuck in their throat..

..but somehow, Ephraim seemed to know immediately after just the one sentence.

They felt a sense of relief for not having fully explain it, but the deer-in-headlights feeling gave them a sucker punch right to the gut right after that.

They definitely couldn't speak after that, so they hugged North tightly, curling themself into a ball and nodded.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim noticed how Nyx had frozen, not expecting them to speak any time soon. So they decided to pivot the conversation.

"...would you like me to re-heat your hot chocolate?"

They sat up as they spoke, stretching their wings once again. They were definitely not falling back asleep anymore, and they were unsure if Nyx would be able to as well, so they might as well have made the offer.

The seraph grabbed their own tea mug and started getting up off of the bed to re-heat their own drink, holding onto Nyx's mug as well.

[the-starchild]

Nyx nodded once more, but they didn't know if they even could drink anything with how they feel.

Even if telling Ephraim went alright, they still feel so nauseous they couldn't even talk.

So they layed down to a circle on the bed, curled up with North to look like a throw pillow.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim nodded back, standing up and taking the mugs over. Once both of the drinks were heated up, they came back to the bed, sitting on the edge of it and setting the hot chocolate down on the nightstand so that Nyx could grab it if they wanted.

"You don't have to speak."

Their voice was soft and quiet, as not to alarm the younger angel.

"I...I don't exactly know what you're feeling right now, but I do know how the body and mind reacts to hurt. Your body just freezes up, and time moves slow, and everything is just...too much. I know that feeling."

Ephraim took a small sip from their tea, turning to fully face Nyx.

"But you don't have to go through this alone."

Not like I chose to do.

[the-starchild]

Nyx looked up at Ephraim from their throw-pillow position, attentive to the larger angel's words.

They put their head under the larger angel's hand to make it so they're petting them, took deep breaths to try and calm themselves, and mumbled a very tiny "thank you."

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim hummed in acknowledgement, gently petting Nyx to help calm them.

"Don't force yourself to speak, it's alright. Take all the time you need."

As if on instinct, they began to hum a lullaby, their voice still quiet but noticeable enough. It was some sort of human tune they had heard hundreds of years ago, maybe even more. While they couldn't pinpoint the exact origin, they knew deep down why it came to them so naturally.

The last time they hummed this lullaby was for Abhorson.

[the-starchild]

Nyx was settling down, trying to calm themselves more, but it was hard...

Until Ephraim started humming.

They were caught off guard to hear it so out of the blue; Abhorson sung this to them along with other lullabies after stressful days ever since they learnt that they loved them.

Even with their surprise, the humming caused them to calm down much more than they could've on their own, and they even started humming along.

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim suddenly paused in their humming, eyes going wide a bit.

"You...you know it?"

They had no idea how Nyx could have been able to follow the lullaby, they had never hummed it around Nyx, they hadn't actually recreated the melody in years.

Unless....had Abhorson....

No, that couldn't have been possible. Ephraim wasn't even sure that Abhorson remembered the tune.

[the-starchild]

"Mm?..." They opened a pair of their eyes to look at Ephraim.

Well, of course they would know this lullaby: "Mama used to sing it to me all the time, I love it alot."

[heavenly-scribe]

Ephraim just stared at Nyx for a moment, trying to process what they had said.

After all these years...Abhorson still remembered.

Tears started pricking the corner's of the seraph's eyes, quickly turning and wiping their face.

"I'm sorry I just- I didn't expect-"

Once they had recollected themself, they sighed as they began to speak again.

"I used to hum that lullaby to Abhorson when they were young...I didn't think they would have remembered it."

[the-starchild]

Nyx had closed their eyes to go back to sleep again, but that was before they heard Ephraim's voice break.

They looked up at Ephraim with worried eyes.

"Wh—.."

Ohh.. so that's where they got it from. Abby always told them stories and lullabies, but it wasn't often that they remembered where one came from.

They bumped their head under Ephram's hand and purred, trying to reassure them.