My Gun is Blind But I See Clearly @twelve-starry-eyes - Tumblr Blog

*Candy stacked a pile of plates against her hip, carrying them with one hand to the dining room. Spiced aromas drifted through the house from the kitchen. She set the table, almost as inconspicuous as a human woman, were one to ignore the way tiny tendrils helped make microadjustments to perfect the place setting.*

*Satisfied with the arrangement, she smiled and nodded proudly at her work. Her host family would be pleased. She walked up to the wall by the stairs and knocked twice.*

Start coming down! Dinner's almost ready!

-🍬 @thesweetestnyarlathotep

"Thank you, Candy." *Maria decends from her room where she'd been packing.* "The boys will be here any time soon, help me grab the food from the kitchen?"

Of course! You know I always loving cooking and preparing the food with you. Señora, you have such a beautiful family!

*Candy's mouth quirked into a wistful smile as she started plating the dishes.*

I wish I had such a big family to sit at the table and eat with like this!

"Please, stop with the honorifics! Maria is just fine. You make me feel old... Señora Dolce."

*Maria jests, helping lay out the dishes. An older voice rings out from the kitchen, bringing in the last pot* "If you two have time to joke, you can wash dishes after."

She does know I'm at least a few years older than her, give or take?

*Candy giggled as she arranged the finishing touches.*

I might not look it, but I should definitely hold seniority!

"Not in this house you don't."

"Not in my house, little miss!"

Eek, hehehe!

*It excited Candy to be called young. This must be close to what having an ordinary family is like. Her skirt rippled behind her with a flourish as she skipped to the front door and opened it, calling to everyone still outside.*

Dinner! Come and get it or I'll finish it myself!

*Juan and Daniel are thankfully riding up with the cart when Candy calls, and they wave their hands to acknowledge her voice*

"They better wash up before hand! Horses eat before you do!"

Oh, goodness!

*Candy slipped back inside. It didn't look like she was doing much, just watching Maria help Ximena to the table, but silently her little army of tendrils were at work.*

*One pair were preparing a small basin of fresh water and towels to wash up in. Another were cleaning up the kitchen after herself, already scrubbing dishes and wiping the messes away. A few more still were occupied with mundane chores to keep the house tidy.*

*The god was determined to be a good house guest. She came on such short notice, and wanted to be generous with the family of her nephew, after all. Especially for the extra space she was renting for her secret in the barn.*

*The preparations are all done, table set, Maria and Ximena take their places, while Juan and Daniel are still outside*

"Are we waiting for the boys tonight?"

"They'll take forever, food is hot."

"Candy, come here, sit down with us!"

Of course!

*She took her seat next to Maria, smoothing down the ruffles of her skirt and smiling pleasantly. It was all she could do while otherwise unable to take her eyes off the plates in front of her.*

You know, I'm sure I could grab them if you want! I'm a lot stronger than I look and it would only take a few seconds!

"Let them wash up and tend to the horses, not our fault they decided to fuss around before getting home" *This is a very common occurrence by the tone of her voice*

"Grace." *Ximena's voice is stern, hold her hand out to Maria*

"Candy, are you going to pray with us tonight?" *Maria's look is a knowing one, the understanding that Candy is a being not belonging to this worlds nature, much less beholden to Catholicism.*

It would be my pleasure!

*Her voice carried the same practiced cadence as it did every night that she asked. It was incredibly sweet of the woman to consider that, but Candy's goal was to blend in, be part of the household. If this is what it took to look like a human woman, then so be it!*

*Sure, it was a little awkward at first. No matter how many times she tried, Candy couldn't quite get behind the idea of God as they believed it. It just felt nice to be part of something, and to know she was playing her role well.*

*Candy offered her hand out, too, and bowed her head, red and white curls pooling on the table.*

*Ximena bows her head, empty hand holding the rosary around her neck* "Bless us, O Lord , and these Thy gifts, which we are about to receive from Thy bounty, through Christ our Lord."

"Amen."

*Boots can be heard being taken off at the doorway as the two men enter* "Ah shit. uh... Amen"

*A smack of a hand against fabric* "Amen."

*Candy suppresses snorted laughter.*

Amen.

*She lifted her head, eyes crinkling as her smile teased them.*

Glad you finally decided to join us! There would have been questions if just three women managed to eat all this food on their own.

*Daniel immediately starts dishing himself up, knowing Juan will also be piling his plate up as well.* "Mama's cooking is that good, no one would bat an eye."

*Candy rolled her eyes.*

Well anyway, how was your day? Let's talk about pleasant things over dinner!

"There's gonna be a caravan passing through soon. They're heading up north but should have some goods for sale when they stop. That's what diners are saying."

"And I told you that if you want to haggle, leave me out of it."

*Ximena and Maria exchange a look, already knowing that if they want anything from whatever is coming through they'll have to get it themselves.*

"If a caravan is coming through, I might travel with them on the way up. saftey in numbers."

*Candy looked between the family members. She leaned over and whispered to Maria.*

What does this caravan have that everyone wants so badly?

"Who knows. Mainly it's good for business because there are more customers to feed, but some of them are also salesmen trying to set up shop somewhere north, and they'll sell on the way."

You humans are such funny little things.

*She said this while stabbing a fork through her food. It wasn't meant in any malicious or demeaning way, just a passive observation to her.*

If you wanted money, you should have just asked me for some! You know I'll always take care of my s'more's family.

*No one pays attention to the comment from Candy, too busy discussing business*

"Gonna hike the prices for the caravan, make a little extra cash. Call it a convenience fee for a good meal."

"Not if I have anything to say! You'll drive away customers and everyone in town will think we're crooks! fuck off!

"Daniel! Language! Juan! Don't scam people!"

"Mom! It's not scamming if it hurts no one, right?"

"Doesn't matter! We make pently enough as it is! We can feed ourselves and the animals, that's all we need!"

*The back and forth can go on for hours while Maria focuses more on Candy.*

"I will not take your money. you are family, and you are a guest."

Oh, you never let me have any fun! It doesn't mean anything to me! Deities of my caliber don't—

*Candy closed her eyes and took a breath. Maria was an intelligent woman, and of course she knew what she was getting into by having Jackson for a child. That didn't make certain concepts like the valuelessness of currency or summoning hard cash out of thin air any easier to permanently get across. She had to be patient with her gracious host.*

All I'm saying, is that if you should need anything from me, just ask, alright? I can get you just about anything you want!

"Unfortunately, the only things I truly want, I cannot have at the wave of your hand. So please, don't worry."

*Candy bit her tongue.*

Of course. Well, if there's anything I can do to help with preparations for the caravan, do let me know!

"If you don't mind waitressing that's be a good help"

"I was going to ask Candy if she wished to join me up north."

I could do either! ... What's up north?

Some cousins about two weeks north of us are about to have another baby, and need some help.

Finally home... *Longest week of my life, if only because of how stressed I was. Selena walks behind me, limping on her twisted leg, and JJ sleeps in my pocket while I walk up to dad* Dad? Finally back.

*They find him and start beaming.*

“Jackson! Welcome back!”

*they wrapped him in a hug then looked to Selena.*

“Ah, hello. Are you alright?”

*I look at my untucked pants with a frown.* ...Doctors orders.

“Only in tall grass. Don’t get all fussy.”

's just uncomfortable 's all.

“Y’know what’s more uncomfortable?”

*she leaned close to him.*

“Lyme disease.”

I know! I know!

“You’re just lucky you don’t live in Egypt.”

I'm almost scared to ask...

“It’s mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are essential and needed and terrible for us.”

Mosquitos were one of the worst parts of Georgia, I'll have you know. they're bigger than horse flies down there!

“Yup. Now imagine you go to a large river and there are millions of them.”

I can feel myself choking already. Point taken

“Exactly. Now, can you go ahead and stretch her leg out?”

Here ya go *I extend the non-amputated leg out*

*Daisy gently got the shots ready and put them in, gently dabbing the blood off after every one with a cotton swab.*

it looks so easy from the outside

“It is easy. It’ll just be a bit sore tomorrow. It’s nothing. A fear of needles is justified, evolutionary even. It’s the same fear of spears or thorns. Things that kept our ancestors alive. It’s just not keeping us alive anymore.”

I told ya about that time a bush pricked me and I was stuck in some pretty nasty hallucinations, right? Back in the bunker?

Ain't scared of thorns though.

“Well then that’s your own fault.”

I know, I know. Taught me to keep an eye out for that plant in the future too

“Good.”

*she finished the last injection on Selena.*

“There we go. All done.”

*I scratch between the sleeping pups ears* What a brave girl you were!

“She was asleep.”

I could not care any less. She's been very brave.

“Sure. Are you ready to be very brave?”

No, but that ain't changing.

“If you say so.”

*I sit back up on the bed* I just wanna get it over with at this point.

“I can do that.”

What's the next one?

“Cholera.”

Alright. *I look away again*

*she gave it to him.*

*I shake my arm out after that one* Alright... how many more?

“How about I just give them to you until we’re done?”

Sounds good to me. Just tell me what they're for as you do please?

“Of course. The next ones are Diptheria, Dysentery, Yellow fever, and Typhoid flu.”

No chance you can't just stick all four in at the same time?

“No. And also, I’m going to put the next ones in your other arm.”

*A small relief, this one might not be happy with me after* Sounds good to me. *I roll up the other shoulder*

*she went to the other side and gave him all the shots.*

I'm immune to everything now, right?

*I never want to do this AGAIN*

“Uh… some things. Only the ones that kill you. And you will need a yearly flu shot. And I do really want an allergy screening for you. Plus, we have to worry about 2020.”

Doctors orders are doctors orders, but that's a good 136 years off from me, I don't think we need to look that far into the future.

“Sure, but it’s an example. There are many other epidemics you’ll need to be ready for.”

Sounds like a bridge better burned when we get to it.

and... we already know I'm allergic to peanuts.

“Mhm. But you could be allergic to a bunch of other stuff too.”

Wouldn't I've figured it out by now?

“I don’t know, have you ever had an anticonvulsant?”

Smaller words please?

“Have you ever had a medication made to stop a seizure?”

Oh, then no.

“Exactly. I’m gonna have you rest for a few days because your arms are gonna need some rest, but I wanna do an allergy panel.”

Yes ma'am.

“Good. Now, go make sure your dog isn’t gonna cry when she wakes up and her legs don’t really work.”

*I cross my legs on the table, and pull Selena into my arms* I'll be right here for her when she does, don't worry.

...Do JJ and Angie need shots too?

“Oh I gave them their shots. Angie needs a hoof checkup though, I’ll get on that tomorrow.”

Ain't no need for that. I re-shoed her before me and Luci left Westport.

“Alright. In that case I’ll just make sure her shed is okay.”

Just to be safe.

“And because you probably don’t have the fancy steel comb brushes.”

I'll have you know that when it comes to Angie, it's only the best.

I know her tack looks old, but it's only because the one time I tried replacing it, she bit me. Learned my lesson then and there

“Oh I’m sure. I say that because the brushes I have would be incredibly expensive.”

Maybe we can compare when we head out to the stables. Tomorrow though, please. I want sleep. I accidentally pulled an all nighter waiting on Luci. I let him fly around a bit before we came back and he made the most of it.

“Absolutely. Go to bed, I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Not till Selena wakes up.

*Daisy smiled.*

“Sounds right.”

*I scratch behind her ears as she slowly starts to come up from the drugs, dazed and whining* Hey there baby, its okay, you're okay...

*Daisy gently soothed the fur on her side.*

“Shhh, shhh. You’re such a brave girl.”

*Selena presses into my arms for comfort, not in pain but definitely out of it* Yes you are, you did such a good job! You took all of your shots and stayed so calm while Daisy operated! You are such a good, brave girl.

“Mm. Poor thing is in pain. It’ll go away soon.”

It'll be sore for a bit, but don't ya worry.

Sometimes it'll feel like it's... still there.

*Daisy put her hand on Jackson’s shoulder.*

“But you’ll be able to sense the rain.”

Is it normal, it hurtin' when it ain't even there?

“It’s a symptom most people experience, yes. Though, I myself only know what Oliver’s told me.”

*Selena is finally calming down, leaning against me and panting heavily while I stroke her coarse fur*

Least I know it ain't a unique problem. Thanks. I was a but worried and didn't have no one who'd be able to tell me

“No, it’s normal. Your nerves think the leg is supposed to be there, and register it not being there as an open wound.”

That's just annoying then.

“Yes it is.”

It's alright baby, I'll carry you if it starts to hurt.

“You realize that wont actually help, right?”

Trust me, I know. But I also like holding animals, and I never had my own dog before.

“Oh, you’ll love it.”

I already do.

*I ease myself and selena off of the table, holding her in my arms* Are you ready to go to bed? We gonna take a nap?

a cute little orange cat would mosey over to Jackson.

it keeps leaving small blood stains on the floor wherever it walks.

it would meow at Jackson before laying down on the floor Infront of him expecting attention and treats.

meow. @raising-kaynes

*Nya...lethnotep? Keline?*

*Either way he needs a bath.*

Alright buddy, come on with me. Someone works hard to mop these floors. *I pick up the cat under my arm, scratching the top of his head while I do*

bath time.

the cat would wiggle around in Jacksons arms before planting her hands in Jacksons hair for stability. whatever the cat is they don't seem to have a collar.

well there goes easily finding the owner.

she would purr a bit before flopping like a dead fish in his arms.

*I hold the orange creature out in front of me* Ma'am. We have to do something about those paws. It ain't sanitary.

with the change in position it would stick its hands and feet straight out stretching out a bit due to the lack of support on its bum.

She is perfectly unaware she is about to get a bath.

though just being above the ground just lets her drip onto whatever’s there.

*I curl her up into my arms like a baby, all the way to my room, then to my bathroom. Where I lock the door behind us* Alright miss crawling Cat-os. Bath time.

she would shed some of her hair onto jackson. wow its going to be very hard to get out later like glitter.

she would keep moving around in jacksons arms not quite to get out but to get the zoomies out. however when she got to the bathroom she would get out of jacksons arms and.....would walk all around the space leaving little tracks everywhere.

meow she would say again to Jacksons words as if understanding.

*I turn on the tub tap, and set some shreds of jerky on the lip.* Alright, peace offering beforehand? please?

She would stare back and forth between Jackson and the jerky contemplating what one she should eat before going with the jerky.

Having explored most of the bathroom she would decide the sink would be the next thing she would explore.

*I catch her before she can hop into the sink, and plop her into the warm bath. Thanks to both JJ and Selena, I have pet shampoo already in the bathroom with me.*

Alright. Please, don't kill me?

she would look around the tub for her most..well one of her most favorite items. Apon seeing that the squeaky toy was indeed not there she would freak out splashing as much as a little cat she could before getting out of the tub spilling water everywhere

she looks very much like how wet cats look when wet….very ugly

nope nope nope nope nope *I keep her under, but the trashing knocks bottles into the tub including an old rubber duck I never used.*

You are dirty damn it!

she would try to scratch Jackson’s arm before getting back in the water. meowlathotep would spot the little rubber duck and grab it holding it tight In her paws

she would stop thrashing and start just chewing on the rubber duck. Why is she like this…

the water is quickly becoming quite red. Though it’s hard to tell if the water is cleaning this cursed cat or not.

...Fuck it, that works. *I get her lathered in the shampoo, and start rinsing her off, draining the tub and using the shower head for a gentle spray. Every time I leave I am reminded how much I miss the showers here.*

the waters still red.

meowlathotep would start purring and rolling around in the tub like one of those gas station hot dogs still holding on to her dumb duck.

She was still kinda hungry though… hm

*This did nothing, but at least her fur is cleaner? I call it a day, and wrap her like a burrito* Alright. I've gotta tell dad soon. We got a Kitty-Kayne wandering and that aint a great thing.

meowlathotep would bring her little duck into the burrito blanket not really putting much mind into the burrito she was wrapped in

she would meow at Jackson for more of his attention looking pathetic with being so soggy and wet.

Yer lucky yer so cute, you need to realize that. *I tuck the duck in a little deeper into the blanket so she doesn't loose it. Maybe dad can make one that looks like an Arthur.*

she decides taking a nap right here and now would be better than eating probably due to the blanket. It’s just so damn cozy! How could she not ?

she’s a bit of a noisy sleeper unfortunately.

Alright, lets get you to dad.

*I open the office door, bundle in hand* Hey dad, we got a new face. Sorta.

@waylay-managment-2

“Oh? And what is it?”

*jackson never brought humans home.*

...The Clawing Chaos. *I tilt the bundle so they can see the cat I've washed and swaddled*

@raising-kaynes

……wow it’s just an orange cat how exciting Jackson. Just an orange cat from the look of her head.

Her eyes dilate quite widely and she fights to get the hell out of her burrito blanket.

@waylay-managment-2

*they stifled a laugh.*

“Okay. Okay, TCC. That’s its name now.”

*they looked to the cat.*

“Doesn’t seem to like me.”

*I let her out of the blanket with a frown. My eyes have never lied to me before. No reason they'd start now* Look at the paw prints it'll leave

@raising-kaynes

meowlathotep would immediately bolt to be under the farthest and darkest place away from the manager.

Fluff you.

……..it’s very easy to track due to the little red paw prints it left on the desk and floor.

@waylay-managment-2

“… I see.”

you see what I see?

@raising-kaynes

There was a sound of hissing from where meowlathotep hid. She’s not coming out from there.

@waylay-managment-2

*they sighed and brought out a little tube of fish puree that they had for any cats that wandered in and put it outside the hiding spot.*

She liked jerky?

@raising-kaynes

meowlathotep would take the treats before retreating back under making a few sounds that sounded like eating.

she’s still afraid to come out for the manager

@waylay-managment-2

“She’s right to be afraid of me. She still sees me as someone who would kill her, way back when.”

@twelve-starry-eyes

here kitty-kitty-kitty! *I hold out some more pocket jerky*

@raising-kaynes

her curiousity overpowered her fear. Jackson would protect her from this kitty kicking monster right?

she would sniff before taking a few bites. It wasn’t the flesh she was used to but it would work.

@waylay-managment-2

*The Manager didn’t push. Just sat there.*

@twelve-starry-eyes

*I pass the Manager some of the jerky* Here, this might help

@raising-kaynes

meowlathotep would go back to her dark hidey space. Very much hoping that evil monster dosent find her.

@waylay-managment-2

*they sigh and tune into a cat themselves (where did the pink collar come from???) and sat outside the hiding spot.*

Well now I feel underdressed.

C'mon darling, Manager ain't gonna hurt ya. I wouldn't've brought ya here if I thought it was a danger to ya.

@raising-kaynes

meowlathotep would slowly come out seeing that the monster was no longer in the room.

she would sniff the other cat.

sniff sniff sniff sniff test.

@waylay-managment-2

*it smelled like the monster, but the monster didn’t smell violent. It smelled kind. A little stupid. It smelled like TCC itself.*

@twelve-starry-eyes

Looks like we got a couple of copy-cats!

@raising-kaynes

They would sniff a bit more before rubbing against the other by headbutting and touching noses.

meowlathotep would go to explorer the desk now that the manager was gone.

@waylay-managment-2

*the Manager reciprocated the headbuts and followed it.*

Didn't take much for her to start exploring. I'm almost jealous of you two.

she would look for any sort of food opening drawers… well at least trying to open drawers with her tiny paws.

then she would resign herself to take a little sit on the desk

@waylay-managment-2

*the Manager hopped back onto their chair and turned back into themselves, but the smell didn’t change.*

*I watch with baited breath, scooting back towards the wall to try and make TCC feel more secure*

@raising-kaynes

Meowlathotep was facing away from the manager not noticing much diffrent.

of course she’s getting stains on the desk.

she decides that the desk is a rather nice place to sleep.

@waylay-managment-2

*they gently began to pet her.*

@twelve-starry-eyes

Cherry varnish? I tried to give her a bath, but water wouldn't stop running red. any other creature and I'd think she was injured.

meowlathotep would continue her little before getting up and facing whatever the hecky wecky is petting her. ....and there she goes off the desk again. back over to Jackson. staring up at the poor fool. @waylay-managment-2

*they sighed.*

“Honey. I smell the same, see?”

@twelve-starry-eyes

*I scratch between her ears to try and comfort her* Well, at least we know ya ain't blind?

Come on kit-cat, if yer gonna stay here you'll have to learn to trust The Manager, they kinda run this whole joint.

@raising-kaynes

she would lean into Jackson’s scratches purring still staying near him for comfort.

………yeah staying here….

………….. all she sees is a face who hurt her not to long ago.

……..ironic another narl took her in again.

@waylay-managment-2

*they looked at her for a moment then sighed.*

“I look like him. She knows the face I wear.”

That just means she'll need time to learn how you two differ, how gentle you are.

@raising-kaynes

she would meow at Jackson clinging on his pant leg stretching up

It’s painful.

she requires attention

@waylay-managment-2

*they gently offered their hand.*

“Come closer. I don’t want to move too much, but I need to look at her leg.”

*I slowly start to scoot toward the desk, while petting her enough to hopefully keep her distracted* It's alright, we just want to help ya

@raising-kaynes

meowlathotep would just…not notice.she had a tendency to be quite a bit stupid sometimes.

She would look up at Jackson with those innocent eyes purring loudly.

he could never betray her right?

@waylay-managment-2

*The Manager gently touched the leg, feeling for any bruising or bones out of place.*

nothing out of place on any of her legs it’s just….bloody and wet and dripping for no reason. meowlathtep did not notice Jackson’s distractions blinded by his love for her.

she would purr loudly

@waylay-managment-2

*they took out their handkerchief and wiped the blood off her paw, seeing how long it would take to replenish.*

@twelve-starry-eyes

Water never ran clear in the bath, just all red.

@raising-kaynes

….it did not take long for more blood to start dripping again.

it just seemed endless. An endless stream of something’s blood.

Meowlathotep would try to swat at Jackson’s various eyes.

@waylay-managment-2

*they sighed.*

“I think I know who owned you before.”

@twelve-starry-eyes

Not so much a matter of owned, I think. This is a Nyarl... She's just a cat.

@raising-kaynes

*Satisfied with the arrangement, she smiled and nodded proudly at her work. Her host family would be pleased. She walked up to the wall by the stairs and knocked twice.*

Start coming down! Dinner's almost ready!

-🍬 @thesweetestnyarlathotep

"Thank you, Candy." *Maria decends from her room where she'd been packing.* "The boys will be here any time soon, help me grab the food from the kitchen?"

Of course! You know I always loving cooking and preparing the food with you. Señora, you have such a beautiful family!

*Candy's mouth quirked into a wistful smile as she started plating the dishes.*

I wish I had such a big family to sit at the table and eat with like this!

"Please, stop with the honorifics! Maria is just fine. You make me feel old... Señora Dolce."

*Maria jests, helping lay out the dishes. An older voice rings out from the kitchen, bringing in the last pot* "If you two have time to joke, you can wash dishes after."

She does know I'm at least a few years older than her, give or take?

*Candy giggled as she arranged the finishing touches.*

I might not look it, but I should definitely hold seniority!

"Not in this house you don't."

"Not in my house, little miss!"

Eek, hehehe!

Dinner! Come and get it or I'll finish it myself!

*Juan and Daniel are thankfully riding up with the cart when Candy calls, and they wave their hands to acknowledge her voice*

"They better wash up before hand! Horses eat before you do!"

Oh, goodness!

*Candy slipped back inside. It didn't look like she was doing much, just watching Maria help Ximena to the table, but silently her little army of tendrils were at work.*

*The preparations are all done, table set, Maria and Ximena take their places, while Juan and Daniel are still outside*

"Are we waiting for the boys tonight?"

"They'll take forever, food is hot."

"Candy, come here, sit down with us!"

Of course!

*She took her seat next to Maria, smoothing down the ruffles of her skirt and smiling pleasantly. It was all she could do while otherwise unable to take her eyes off the plates in front of her.*

You know, I'm sure I could grab them if you want! I'm a lot stronger than I look and it would only take a few seconds!

"Let them wash up and tend to the horses, not our fault they decided to fuss around before getting home" *This is a very common occurrence by the tone of her voice*

"Grace." *Ximena's voice is stern, hold her hand out to Maria*

"Candy, are you going to pray with us tonight?" *Maria's look is a knowing one, the understanding that Candy is a being not belonging to this worlds nature, much less beholden to Catholicism.*

It would be my pleasure!

*Candy offered her hand out, too, and bowed her head, red and white curls pooling on the table.*

*Ximena bows her head, empty hand holding the rosary around her neck* "Bless us, O Lord , and these Thy gifts, which we are about to receive from Thy bounty, through Christ our Lord."

"Amen."

*Boots can be heard being taken off at the doorway as the two men enter* "Ah shit. uh... Amen"

*A smack of a hand against fabric* "Amen."

*Candy suppresses snorted laughter.*

Amen.

*She lifted her head, eyes crinkling as her smile teased them.*

Glad you finally decided to join us! There would have been questions if just three women managed to eat all this food on their own.

*Daniel immediately starts dishing himself up, knowing Juan will also be piling his plate up as well.* "Mama's cooking is that good, no one would bat an eye."

*Candy rolled her eyes.*

Well anyway, how was your day? Let's talk about pleasant things over dinner!

"There's gonna be a caravan passing through soon. They're heading up north but should have some goods for sale when they stop. That's what diners are saying."

"And I told you that if you want to haggle, leave me out of it."

*Ximena and Maria exchange a look, already knowing that if they want anything from whatever is coming through they'll have to get it themselves.*

"If a caravan is coming through, I might travel with them on the way up. saftey in numbers."

*Candy looked between the family members. She leaned over and whispered to Maria.*

What does this caravan have that everyone wants so badly?

"Who knows. Mainly it's good for business because there are more customers to feed, but some of them are also salesmen trying to set up shop somewhere north, and they'll sell on the way."

You humans are such funny little things.

*She said this while stabbing a fork through her food. It wasn't meant in any malicious or demeaning way, just a passive observation to her.*

If you wanted money, you should have just asked me for some! You know I'll always take care of my s'more's family.

*No one pays attention to the comment from Candy, too busy discussing business*

"Gonna hike the prices for the caravan, make a little extra cash. Call it a convenience fee for a good meal."

"Not if I have anything to say! You'll drive away customers and everyone in town will think we're crooks! fuck off!

"Daniel! Language! Juan! Don't scam people!"

"Mom! It's not scamming if it hurts no one, right?"

"Doesn't matter! We make pently enough as it is! We can feed ourselves and the animals, that's all we need!"

*The back and forth can go on for hours while Maria focuses more on Candy.*

"I will not take your money. you are family, and you are a guest."

Oh, you never let me have any fun! It doesn't mean anything to me! Deities of my caliber don't—

All I'm saying, is that if you should need anything from me, just ask, alright? I can get you just about anything you want!

"Unfortunately, the only things I truly want, I cannot have at the wave of your hand. So please, don't worry."

*Candy bit her tongue.*

Of course. Well, if there's anything I can do to help with preparations for the caravan, do let me know!

#malevolent roleplay #malevolent rp #malevolent oc #malevolent #waylay management #the waylay #roleplay blog #malevolentrp #rp blog #the manager #Thalia

"If you don't mind waitressing that's be a good help"

"I was going to ask Candy if she wished to join me up north."

*Thalia sighed and ate the soup, tired and sick and not wanting to fight a battle of wits this late at night.*

— 🦠

*Maria doesn't sit and just watch Thalia eat. Instead she is up and moving, pulling out fresh linens and quilts, clean clothes, and pillows.*

*They find him and start beaming.*

“Jackson! Welcome back!”

*they wrapped him in a hug then looked to Selena.*

“Ah, hello. Are you alright?”

*I look at my untucked pants with a frown.* ...Doctors orders.

“Only in tall grass. Don’t get all fussy.”

's just uncomfortable 's all.

“Y’know what’s more uncomfortable?”

*she leaned close to him.*

“Lyme disease.”

I know! I know!

“You’re just lucky you don’t live in Egypt.”

I'm almost scared to ask...

“It’s mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are essential and needed and terrible for us.”

Mosquitos were one of the worst parts of Georgia, I'll have you know. they're bigger than horse flies down there!

“Yup. Now imagine you go to a large river and there are millions of them.”

I can feel myself choking already. Point taken

“Exactly. Now, can you go ahead and stretch her leg out?”

Here ya go *I extend the non-amputated leg out*

*Daisy gently got the shots ready and put them in, gently dabbing the blood off after every one with a cotton swab.*

it looks so easy from the outside

I told ya about that time a bush pricked me and I was stuck in some pretty nasty hallucinations, right? Back in the bunker?

Ain't scared of thorns though.

“Well then that’s your own fault.”

I know, I know. Taught me to keep an eye out for that plant in the future too

“Good.”

*she finished the last injection on Selena.*

“There we go. All done.”

*I scratch between the sleeping pups ears* What a brave girl you were!

“She was asleep.”

I could not care any less. She's been very brave.

“Sure. Are you ready to be very brave?”

No, but that ain't changing.

“If you say so.”

*I sit back up on the bed* I just wanna get it over with at this point.

“I can do that.”

What's the next one?

“Cholera.”

Alright. *I look away again*

*she gave it to him.*

*I shake my arm out after that one* Alright... how many more?

“How about I just give them to you until we’re done?”

Sounds good to me. Just tell me what they're for as you do please?

“Of course. The next ones are Diptheria, Dysentery, Yellow fever, and Typhoid flu.”

No chance you can't just stick all four in at the same time?

“No. And also, I’m going to put the next ones in your other arm.”

*A small relief, this one might not be happy with me after* Sounds good to me. *I roll up the other shoulder*

*she went to the other side and gave him all the shots.*

I'm immune to everything now, right?

*I never want to do this AGAIN*

“Uh… some things. Only the ones that kill you. And you will need a yearly flu shot. And I do really want an allergy screening for you. Plus, we have to worry about 2020.”

Doctors orders are doctors orders, but that's a good 136 years off from me, I don't think we need to look that far into the future.

“Sure, but it’s an example. There are many other epidemics you’ll need to be ready for.”

Sounds like a bridge better burned when we get to it.

and... we already know I'm allergic to peanuts.

“Mhm. But you could be allergic to a bunch of other stuff too.”

Wouldn't I've figured it out by now?

“I don’t know, have you ever had an anticonvulsant?”

Smaller words please?

“Have you ever had a medication made to stop a seizure?”

Oh, then no.

“Exactly. I’m gonna have you rest for a few days because your arms are gonna need some rest, but I wanna do an allergy panel.”

Yes ma'am.

“Good. Now, go make sure your dog isn’t gonna cry when she wakes up and her legs don’t really work.”

*I cross my legs on the table, and pull Selena into my arms* I'll be right here for her when she does, don't worry.

...Do JJ and Angie need shots too?

“Oh I gave them their shots. Angie needs a hoof checkup though, I’ll get on that tomorrow.”

Ain't no need for that. I re-shoed her before me and Luci left Westport.

“Alright. In that case I’ll just make sure her shed is okay.”

Just to be safe.

“And because you probably don’t have the fancy steel comb brushes.”

I'll have you know that when it comes to Angie, it's only the best.

I know her tack looks old, but it's only because the one time I tried replacing it, she bit me. Learned my lesson then and there

“Oh I’m sure. I say that because the brushes I have would be incredibly expensive.”

“Absolutely. Go to bed, I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Not till Selena wakes up.

*Daisy smiled.*

“Sounds right.”

*I scratch behind her ears as she slowly starts to come up from the drugs, dazed and whining* Hey there baby, its okay, you're okay...

*Daisy gently soothed the fur on her side.*

“Shhh, shhh. You’re such a brave girl.”

“Mm. Poor thing is in pain. It’ll go away soon.”

It'll be sore for a bit, but don't ya worry.

Sometimes it'll feel like it's... still there.

*Daisy put her hand on Jackson’s shoulder.*

“But you’ll be able to sense the rain.”

Is it normal, it hurtin' when it ain't even there?

“It’s a symptom most people experience, yes. Though, I myself only know what Oliver’s told me.”

*Selena is finally calming down, leaning against me and panting heavily while I stroke her coarse fur*

Least I know it ain't a unique problem. Thanks. I was a but worried and didn't have no one who'd be able to tell me

“No, it’s normal. Your nerves think the leg is supposed to be there, and register it not being there as an open wound.”

That's just annoying then.

“Yes it is.”

It's alright baby, I'll carry you if it starts to hurt.

“You realize that wont actually help, right?”

Trust me, I know. But I also like holding animals, and I never had my own dog before.

*They find him and start beaming.*

“Jackson! Welcome back!”

*they wrapped him in a hug then looked to Selena.*

“Ah, hello. Are you alright?”

*I look at my untucked pants with a frown.* ...Doctors orders.

“Only in tall grass. Don’t get all fussy.”

's just uncomfortable 's all.

“Y’know what’s more uncomfortable?”

*she leaned close to him.*

“Lyme disease.”

I know! I know!

“You’re just lucky you don’t live in Egypt.”

I'm almost scared to ask...

“It’s mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are essential and needed and terrible for us.”

Mosquitos were one of the worst parts of Georgia, I'll have you know. they're bigger than horse flies down there!

“Yup. Now imagine you go to a large river and there are millions of them.”

I can feel myself choking already. Point taken

“Exactly. Now, can you go ahead and stretch her leg out?”

Here ya go *I extend the non-amputated leg out*

*Daisy gently got the shots ready and put them in, gently dabbing the blood off after every one with a cotton swab.*

it looks so easy from the outside

I told ya about that time a bush pricked me and I was stuck in some pretty nasty hallucinations, right? Back in the bunker?

Ain't scared of thorns though.

“Well then that’s your own fault.”

I know, I know. Taught me to keep an eye out for that plant in the future too

“Good.”

*she finished the last injection on Selena.*

“There we go. All done.”

*I scratch between the sleeping pups ears* What a brave girl you were!

“She was asleep.”

I could not care any less. She's been very brave.

“Sure. Are you ready to be very brave?”

No, but that ain't changing.

“If you say so.”

*I sit back up on the bed* I just wanna get it over with at this point.

“I can do that.”

What's the next one?

“Cholera.”

Alright. *I look away again*

*she gave it to him.*

*I shake my arm out after that one* Alright... how many more?

“How about I just give them to you until we’re done?”

Sounds good to me. Just tell me what they're for as you do please?

“Of course. The next ones are Diptheria, Dysentery, Yellow fever, and Typhoid flu.”

No chance you can't just stick all four in at the same time?

“No. And also, I’m going to put the next ones in your other arm.”

*A small relief, this one might not be happy with me after* Sounds good to me. *I roll up the other shoulder*

*she went to the other side and gave him all the shots.*

I'm immune to everything now, right?

*I never want to do this AGAIN*

“Uh… some things. Only the ones that kill you. And you will need a yearly flu shot. And I do really want an allergy screening for you. Plus, we have to worry about 2020.”

Doctors orders are doctors orders, but that's a good 136 years off from me, I don't think we need to look that far into the future.

“Sure, but it’s an example. There are many other epidemics you’ll need to be ready for.”

Sounds like a bridge better burned when we get to it.

and... we already know I'm allergic to peanuts.

“Mhm. But you could be allergic to a bunch of other stuff too.”

Wouldn't I've figured it out by now?

“I don’t know, have you ever had an anticonvulsant?”

Smaller words please?

“Have you ever had a medication made to stop a seizure?”

Oh, then no.

“Exactly. I’m gonna have you rest for a few days because your arms are gonna need some rest, but I wanna do an allergy panel.”

Yes ma'am.

“Good. Now, go make sure your dog isn’t gonna cry when she wakes up and her legs don’t really work.”

*I cross my legs on the table, and pull Selena into my arms* I'll be right here for her when she does, don't worry.

...Do JJ and Angie need shots too?

“Oh I gave them their shots. Angie needs a hoof checkup though, I’ll get on that tomorrow.”

Ain't no need for that. I re-shoed her before me and Luci left Westport.

“Alright. In that case I’ll just make sure her shed is okay.”

Just to be safe.

“And because you probably don’t have the fancy steel comb brushes.”

I'll have you know that when it comes to Angie, it's only the best.

I know her tack looks old, but it's only because the one time I tried replacing it, she bit me. Learned my lesson then and there

“Oh I’m sure. I say that because the brushes I have would be incredibly expensive.”

“Absolutely. Go to bed, I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Not till Selena wakes up.

*Daisy smiled.*

“Sounds right.”

*I scratch behind her ears as she slowly starts to come up from the drugs, dazed and whining* Hey there baby, its okay, you're okay...

*Daisy gently soothed the fur on her side.*

“Shhh, shhh. You’re such a brave girl.”

“Mm. Poor thing is in pain. It’ll go away soon.”

It'll be sore for a bit, but don't ya worry.

Sometimes it'll feel like it's... still there.

*Daisy put her hand on Jackson’s shoulder.*

“But you’ll be able to sense the rain.”

Is it normal, it hurtin' when it ain't even there?

“It’s a symptom most people experience, yes. Though, I myself only know what Oliver’s told me.”

*Selena is finally calming down, leaning against me and panting heavily while I stroke her coarse fur*

Least I know it ain't a unique problem. Thanks. I was a but worried and didn't have no one who'd be able to tell me

“No, it’s normal. Your nerves think the leg is supposed to be there, and register it not being there as an open wound.”

That's just annoying then.

“Yes it is.”

It's alright baby, I'll carry you if it starts to hurt.

a cute little orange cat would mosey over to Jackson.

it keeps leaving small blood stains on the floor wherever it walks.

it would meow at Jackson before laying down on the floor Infront of him expecting attention and treats.

meow. @raising-kaynes

*Nya...lethnotep? Keline?*

*Either way he needs a bath.*

Alright buddy, come on with me. Someone works hard to mop these floors. *I pick up the cat under my arm, scratching the top of his head while I do*

bath time.

the cat would wiggle around in Jacksons arms before planting her hands in Jacksons hair for stability. whatever the cat is they don't seem to have a collar.

well there goes easily finding the owner.

she would purr a bit before flopping like a dead fish in his arms.

*I hold the orange creature out in front of me* Ma'am. We have to do something about those paws. It ain't sanitary.

with the change in position it would stick its hands and feet straight out stretching out a bit due to the lack of support on its bum.

She is perfectly unaware she is about to get a bath.

though just being above the ground just lets her drip onto whatever’s there.

*I curl her up into my arms like a baby, all the way to my room, then to my bathroom. Where I lock the door behind us* Alright miss crawling Cat-os. Bath time.

she would shed some of her hair onto jackson. wow its going to be very hard to get out later like glitter.

meow she would say again to Jacksons words as if understanding.

*I turn on the tub tap, and set some shreds of jerky on the lip.* Alright, peace offering beforehand? please?

She would stare back and forth between Jackson and the jerky contemplating what one she should eat before going with the jerky.

Having explored most of the bathroom she would decide the sink would be the next thing she would explore.

*I catch her before she can hop into the sink, and plop her into the warm bath. Thanks to both JJ and Selena, I have pet shampoo already in the bathroom with me.*

Alright. Please, don't kill me?

she looks very much like how wet cats look when wet….very ugly

nope nope nope nope nope *I keep her under, but the trashing knocks bottles into the tub including an old rubber duck I never used.*

You are dirty damn it!

she would try to scratch Jackson’s arm before getting back in the water. meowlathotep would spot the little rubber duck and grab it holding it tight In her paws

she would stop thrashing and start just chewing on the rubber duck. Why is she like this…

the water is quickly becoming quite red. Though it’s hard to tell if the water is cleaning this cursed cat or not.

the waters still red.

meowlathotep would start purring and rolling around in the tub like one of those gas station hot dogs still holding on to her dumb duck.

She was still kinda hungry though… hm

*This did nothing, but at least her fur is cleaner? I call it a day, and wrap her like a burrito* Alright. I've gotta tell dad soon. We got a Kitty-Kayne wandering and that aint a great thing.

meowlathotep would bring her little duck into the burrito blanket not really putting much mind into the burrito she was wrapped in

she would meow at Jackson for more of his attention looking pathetic with being so soggy and wet.

Yer lucky yer so cute, you need to realize that. *I tuck the duck in a little deeper into the blanket so she doesn't loose it. Maybe dad can make one that looks like an Arthur.*

she decides taking a nap right here and now would be better than eating probably due to the blanket. It’s just so damn cozy! How could she not ?

she’s a bit of a noisy sleeper unfortunately.

Alright, lets get you to dad.

*I open the office door, bundle in hand* Hey dad, we got a new face. Sorta.

@waylay-managment-2

“Oh? And what is it?”

*jackson never brought humans home.*

...The Clawing Chaos. *I tilt the bundle so they can see the cat I've washed and swaddled*

@raising-kaynes

……wow it’s just an orange cat how exciting Jackson. Just an orange cat from the look of her head.

Her eyes dilate quite widely and she fights to get the hell out of her burrito blanket.

@waylay-managment-2

*they stifled a laugh.*

“Okay. Okay, TCC. That’s its name now.”

*they looked to the cat.*

“Doesn’t seem to like me.”

*I let her out of the blanket with a frown. My eyes have never lied to me before. No reason they'd start now* Look at the paw prints it'll leave

@raising-kaynes

meowlathotep would immediately bolt to be under the farthest and darkest place away from the manager.

Fluff you.

……..it’s very easy to track due to the little red paw prints it left on the desk and floor.

@waylay-managment-2

“… I see.”

you see what I see?

@raising-kaynes

There was a sound of hissing from where meowlathotep hid. She’s not coming out from there.

@waylay-managment-2

*they sighed and brought out a little tube of fish puree that they had for any cats that wandered in and put it outside the hiding spot.*

She liked jerky?

@raising-kaynes

meowlathotep would take the treats before retreating back under making a few sounds that sounded like eating.

she’s still afraid to come out for the manager

@waylay-managment-2

“She’s right to be afraid of me. She still sees me as someone who would kill her, way back when.”

@twelve-starry-eyes

here kitty-kitty-kitty! *I hold out some more pocket jerky*

@raising-kaynes

her curiousity overpowered her fear. Jackson would protect her from this kitty kicking monster right?

she would sniff before taking a few bites. It wasn’t the flesh she was used to but it would work.

@waylay-managment-2

*The Manager didn’t push. Just sat there.*

@twelve-starry-eyes

*I pass the Manager some of the jerky* Here, this might help

@raising-kaynes

meowlathotep would go back to her dark hidey space. Very much hoping that evil monster dosent find her.

@waylay-managment-2

*they sigh and tune into a cat themselves (where did the pink collar come from???) and sat outside the hiding spot.*

Well now I feel underdressed.

C'mon darling, Manager ain't gonna hurt ya. I wouldn't've brought ya here if I thought it was a danger to ya.

@raising-kaynes

meowlathotep would slowly come out seeing that the monster was no longer in the room.

she would sniff the other cat.

sniff sniff sniff sniff test.

@waylay-managment-2

*it smelled like the monster, but the monster didn’t smell violent. It smelled kind. A little stupid. It smelled like TCC itself.*

@twelve-starry-eyes

Looks like we got a couple of copy-cats!

@raising-kaynes

They would sniff a bit more before rubbing against the other by headbutting and touching noses.

meowlathotep would go to explorer the desk now that the manager was gone.

@waylay-managment-2

*the Manager reciprocated the headbuts and followed it.*

Didn't take much for her to start exploring. I'm almost jealous of you two.

she would look for any sort of food opening drawers… well at least trying to open drawers with her tiny paws.

then she would resign herself to take a little sit on the desk

@waylay-managment-2

*the Manager hopped back onto their chair and turned back into themselves, but the smell didn’t change.*

*I watch with baited breath, scooting back towards the wall to try and make TCC feel more secure*

@raising-kaynes

Meowlathotep was facing away from the manager not noticing much diffrent.

of course she’s getting stains on the desk.

she decides that the desk is a rather nice place to sleep.

@waylay-managment-2

*they gently began to pet her.*

@twelve-starry-eyes

Cherry varnish? I tried to give her a bath, but water wouldn't stop running red. any other creature and I'd think she was injured.

*they sighed.*

“Honey. I smell the same, see?”

@twelve-starry-eyes

*I scratch between her ears to try and comfort her* Well, at least we know ya ain't blind?

Come on kit-cat, if yer gonna stay here you'll have to learn to trust The Manager, they kinda run this whole joint.

@raising-kaynes

she would lean into Jackson’s scratches purring still staying near him for comfort.

………yeah staying here….

………….. all she sees is a face who hurt her not to long ago.

……..ironic another narl took her in again.

@waylay-managment-2

*they looked at her for a moment then sighed.*

“I look like him. She knows the face I wear.”

That just means she'll need time to learn how you two differ, how gentle you are.

@raising-kaynes

she would meow at Jackson clinging on his pant leg stretching up

It’s painful.

she requires attention

@waylay-managment-2

*they gently offered their hand.*

“Come closer. I don’t want to move too much, but I need to look at her leg.”

*I slowly start to scoot toward the desk, while petting her enough to hopefully keep her distracted* It's alright, we just want to help ya

@raising-kaynes

meowlathotep would just…not notice.she had a tendency to be quite a bit stupid sometimes.

She would look up at Jackson with those innocent eyes purring loudly.

he could never betray her right?

@waylay-managment-2

*The Manager gently touched the leg, feeling for any bruising or bones out of place.*

nothing out of place on any of her legs it’s just….bloody and wet and dripping for no reason. meowlathtep did not notice Jackson’s distractions blinded by his love for her.

she would purr loudly

@waylay-managment-2

*they took out their handkerchief and wiped the blood off her paw, seeing how long it would take to replenish.*

@twelve-starry-eyes

Water never ran clear in the bath, just all red.

@raising-kaynes

*Satisfied with the arrangement, she smiled and nodded proudly at her work. Her host family would be pleased. She walked up to the wall by the stairs and knocked twice.*

Start coming down! Dinner's almost ready!

-🍬 @thesweetestnyarlathotep

"Thank you, Candy." *Maria decends from her room where she'd been packing.* "The boys will be here any time soon, help me grab the food from the kitchen?"

Of course! You know I always loving cooking and preparing the food with you. Señora, you have such a beautiful family!

*Candy's mouth quirked into a wistful smile as she started plating the dishes.*

I wish I had such a big family to sit at the table and eat with like this!

"Please, stop with the honorifics! Maria is just fine. You make me feel old... Señora Dolce."

*Maria jests, helping lay out the dishes. An older voice rings out from the kitchen, bringing in the last pot* "If you two have time to joke, you can wash dishes after."

She does know I'm at least a few years older than her, give or take?

*Candy giggled as she arranged the finishing touches.*

I might not look it, but I should definitely hold seniority!

"Not in this house you don't."

"Not in my house, little miss!"

Eek, hehehe!

Dinner! Come and get it or I'll finish it myself!

*Juan and Daniel are thankfully riding up with the cart when Candy calls, and they wave their hands to acknowledge her voice*

"They better wash up before hand! Horses eat before you do!"

Oh, goodness!

*Candy slipped back inside. It didn't look like she was doing much, just watching Maria help Ximena to the table, but silently her little army of tendrils were at work.*

*The preparations are all done, table set, Maria and Ximena take their places, while Juan and Daniel are still outside*

"Are we waiting for the boys tonight?"

"They'll take forever, food is hot."

"Candy, come here, sit down with us!"

Of course!

*She took her seat next to Maria, smoothing down the ruffles of her skirt and smiling pleasantly. It was all she could do while otherwise unable to take her eyes off the plates in front of her.*

You know, I'm sure I could grab them if you want! I'm a lot stronger than I look and it would only take a few seconds!

"Let them wash up and tend to the horses, not our fault they decided to fuss around before getting home" *This is a very common occurrence by the tone of her voice*

"Grace." *Ximena's voice is stern, hold her hand out to Maria*

"Candy, are you going to pray with us tonight?" *Maria's look is a knowing one, the understanding that Candy is a being not belonging to this worlds nature, much less beholden to Catholicism.*

It would be my pleasure!

*Candy offered her hand out, too, and bowed her head, red and white curls pooling on the table.*

*Ximena bows her head, empty hand holding the rosary around her neck* "Bless us, O Lord , and these Thy gifts, which we are about to receive from Thy bounty, through Christ our Lord."

"Amen."

*Boots can be heard being taken off at the doorway as the two men enter* "Ah shit. uh... Amen"

*A smack of a hand against fabric* "Amen."

*Candy suppresses snorted laughter.*

Amen.

*She lifted her head, eyes crinkling as her smile teased them.*

Glad you finally decided to join us! There would have been questions if just three women managed to eat all this food on their own.

*Daniel immediately starts dishing himself up, knowing Juan will also be piling his plate up as well.* "Mama's cooking is that good, no one would bat an eye."

*Candy rolled her eyes.*

Well anyway, how was your day? Let's talk about pleasant things over dinner!

"There's gonna be a caravan passing through soon. They're heading up north but should have some goods for sale when they stop. That's what diners are saying."

"And I told you that if you want to haggle, leave me out of it."

*Ximena and Maria exchange a look, already knowing that if they want anything from whatever is coming through they'll have to get it themselves.*

"If a caravan is coming through, I might travel with them on the way up. saftey in numbers."

*Candy looked between the family members. She leaned over and whispered to Maria.*

What does this caravan have that everyone wants so badly?

"Who knows. Mainly it's good for business because there are more customers to feed, but some of them are also salesmen trying to set up shop somewhere north, and they'll sell on the way."

You humans are such funny little things.

*She said this while stabbing a fork through her food. It wasn't meant in any malicious or demeaning way, just a passive observation to her.*

If you wanted money, you should have just asked me for some! You know I'll always take care of my s'more's family.

*No one pays attention to the comment from Candy, too busy discussing business*

"Gonna hike the prices for the caravan, make a little extra cash. Call it a convenience fee for a good meal."

"Not if I have anything to say! You'll drive away customers and everyone in town will think we're crooks! fuck off!

"Daniel! Language! Juan! Don't scam people!"

"Mom! It's not scamming if it hurts no one, right?"

"Doesn't matter! We make pently enough as it is! We can feed ourselves and the animals, that's all we need!"

*The back and forth can go on for hours while Maria focuses more on Candy.*

"I will not take your money. you are family, and you are a guest."

Oh, you never let me have any fun! It doesn't mean anything to me! Deities of my caliber don't—

All I'm saying, is that if you should need anything from me, just ask, alright? I can get you just about anything you want!

"Unfortunately, the only things I truly want, I cannot have at the wave of your hand. So please, don't worry."

"Hey Manny? It's uh... Great that you patched up that leak in the ceiling but... why'd you use a sock and duct-tape? Ain't exactly up to code." *I look up at the makeshift solution with a puzzled frown. I wouldn't have noticed it if it wasn't for the fact that the sock has grown wet from the leak and is now dripping. And it dripped on me.*

"That... would probably be Wil. You didn't get to really meet them because it was the same night as the accident. They've been trying to be more handy over the summer. I like letting them experiment... But I wish they told me the results so I'd know when to call a plumber." *Manny sighs, looking at the pipe.*

"What if I showed 'em the right way to fix it?"

"Go for it, they need friends."

*I nod, off to find the mystery child I haven't met in my self-isolation*

(Woe, modern AU upon you!)

*Wil is sitting at a booth, hunched over a math workbook. It's in deep concentration to solve these problems. Probably doesn't even realize it's sticking the tip of its tongue out.*

*Definitely looks like Manny, even the way their face scrunches up when faced with a problem. I knock twice on the table* So, we got a new handyman 'round here?

*It straightened up once it realized it was being addressed. Set the pencil in the spine of the booklet.*

That's right, I am. Wilhelmina, Wilhelm, or Wil. The Manager's eldest... gah, Manny's eldest child. Is there something I can help you with?

*I lean against the lip of the table, facing the pipe, flicking my hat up to see a bit better* Mind telling me yer thought process on that fix up there? Pretty creative solution if ya can't get a pipe cutter.

Certainly.

*It closed the packet. Folded its hands over it.*

I devised a system that would allow me to patch up the leak with renewable materials. Every time a sock is full, it goes in the laundry pile. Dirty socks can be used before clean ones, to maximize efficiency. The duct tape is stronger than any other, so it can hold the moisture until the next patch. It's one of many ideas I've had to perform maintenance around here. I like to consider myself useful.

Its a good idea, but in the long run you're wasting more water as it leaks, and washing them. Also when summer hits its gonna be disgusting.

Want me to show you the right way?

*Wil raised an eyebrow at this. It tipped its chin up at you, finally getting a better look.*

Pardon me for answering a question with a question. But if I may ask, just who might you be? You don't look like a handyman or someone my father hired for anything else.

I uh, havent been 'round much. I'm Jackson. I used to come here alot before... before this summer.

I was raised with the phrase "Do it right the first time, to never do it again". And I know a good deal on plumbing. Enough to fix a leak.

That would explain it. This is my first summer here. My brother and I are only here until our mother picks us up to take us home again... ideally, before the school year begins.

*Wil took its cane and stood from the booth. It craned its head up to see the damage.*

How should one fix a leak, then?

With a trip to the hardware store! How about we go together, I'll show ya what the difference between the stuff there is, so you know what your getting next time too

*Wil glanced over its shoulder at the table.*

I don't know. I still have my study packet to complete...

*I start peering at the packet* What grade math?

Seventh. It is imperative that I'm ready by September for it.

*I sit across from them, reading the page upside down* Oh well yer in luck! I'm pretty good with geometry!

Good enough to fix a leak?

*Wil eyed the pipe again. Maybe that would use a bit of geometry to solve. It could piece together the way a proper repair should work in its mind.*

Good enough to help you finish so we can go to the hardware store and put it to use.

*Wilhelmina walked across the bar, opened the kitchen doors, and hollered through.*

Manny! I'm going with Jackson to the hardware store! I'll have my phone on me. We'll text you the amount for the repairs when we get back!

*It turned back to you.*

Alright, then. Let's go.

...Or we'll go now! C'mon.

*I jerk my head towards the door. Outside is a very beat up, green, 90's, pickup truck, that is held together with JB Weld and rust.*

Let's get 'er done!

*Wilhelm scrambles to climb into the front passenger seat. A very undignified process. It cranes its neck to see over the dashboard.*

Is this thing... safe?

*Is this really the person I'm going to entrust the Waylay's repairs with?*

It's safe enough to go seventy down dirt roads, it can handle a little pavement.

*It's still a vehicle for me. Its an oppertinity to be trusted again. It has a tape deck and crank windows.*

*Wil tries to appreciate what it is. A transparent marvel of engineering. This truck was so old, rustic, lovingly used and repaired... It made it a little giddy. The kid wanted to pull it apart like a toy and understand what made it run, more than any other vehicle it had ever seen.*

Ahem... alright, then. You know the way?

*It waved its phone towards you, offering GPS directions if you needed them.*

I'm there once a week at least! One of my favorite places, actually.

*The truck roars to life, before settling into a loud but steady grumble. The timing belt is off, and the muffler was clearly missing, but she was reliable and drove smooth down the streets. The tape was even more modern music, a mixtape that says "For idiots who crash sedans"*

*Wilhelm narrows its eyes, and smiles. This is new. It's fun.*

How is a hardware store your favorite place? What are you doing that requires you to go that often.

I live on a farm, and there is always something that needs fixing. A fence needs mended, a roof has a hole, a pipe burst. Spent a lot of my childhood going back and forth, getting tools or materials to fix anything and everything. I became pretty darn handy too.

Now it's helping friends who live in a crappy rental, or broke a hole in the dorm wall, or their car decided to guve up the ghost. Someone broke something, asked a friend, and word gets around to me. Ain't many country kids out here so I'm easy to find!

A farm?

*It was clearly still hung up on that first detail. The car chugged along for a few hundred feet before it spoke up again.*

Then what are you doing all the way out here?

College! My mama lives here in the city, and I got some scholarships for that big shot university. I'm studying vet med.

You work with animals?

*This friendly stranger was only getting more and more interesting by the minute.*

What kind are they? Have you ever treated a lion? They have an incredibly powerful leap, and probably require a lot of sedation. Would you work at a zoo? I always have to beg my mother to go, and I only got to once because it was already planned for my school's field trip. I saved up for it myself and learned her signature to get permission, too.

*It was practically twisting off its seatbelt to talk to Jackson now. He hit the jackpot.*

When I was there, I learned that tigers and lions are actually very different, despite belonging to the same genus. They live on separate continents, and don't socialize like each other at all. Also, they aren't that closely related to domestic cats. Which I suppose makes sense. But I would have thought they would be a little closer.

So, I'm more so looking to be rural veterinary, my pa raises sheep! We also got some chickens and a few goats. We tried peacocks on a whim because I thought they were pretty and... we don't have peacocks anymore. But I'm probably gonna be working on farm animals and housepets!

oh, and I've got this little guy... *I pull into a parking space outside the hardware store. A smaller mom-and-pop run store than a Home Depot or Lowes*

Meet JJ... *From under my hat I pull out a brown squirrel, who is slowly opening his eyes*

*Wil was so excited could burst.*

He's fluffy.

*It sat on its hands to stop itself from doing anything rash.*

Is he... friendly? Can I pet him?

You can hold 'im if yer gentle enough!

*JJ's nose is twitching towards Wil, curious about the person he was woken up to meet*

He's actually illegal to own where I'm from, but hopefully when I graduate I'll be able to file him as a rescue and rehabilitation case and they won't look too close at how old he is

As you should.

*Wilhelm nodded sagely. It held its hands out for JJ to investigate.*

Pspsps, come here. I won't hurt you. You're so little. Itty bitty squirrel, oh my goodness.

He's the size of a youth football, what do you mean "itty"? The rodent wont stop breaking into his feed in the middle of the night!

*JJ tentatively steps onto Wil's hand, looking for attention.*

Don't you dare say that! This is clearly a tiny creature in need of tender loving care. Yes, hello, baby.

*Wil wriggled its nose at him. It couldn't stop smiling. You've completely lost them.*

*I take JJ back, depositing him in my shirt pocket* Alright, we came here for a job, remember?

Gah—hey.

*It pouted at losing access to the fluffy animal. Seems it has a soft spot for them.*

Hmph. Indeed. Teach me your ways, Jedi Master.

Sounds good, Skywalker. *I hop out of the pick up truck* Now, pipes are measured by diameter, did ya happen to get the circumference when you did the repair?

*Wil shut the door behind it. The truck rattled as it banged into place.*

It was about two and a half inches. I had to use a lot of tape to get the sock to stay. They're bigger than the pipes I've ever seen at home.

Alright, then use that to get our diameter! Do you remember the formula for it?

Don't you just divide it by pi? Three point one four one five nine...

That's itA *I open the door for Wil, the bell chiming lightly. Inside are labeled rows for tools, lumber, pipe, nails, and anything else someone could need for a project. It's cozy, smells like lumber, and there is a lab laying down at the counter.*

Once you have that number, we can go from there!

*Wil walked the aisles. Its neat black dress shoes clicked with every step, out of place here. It eyed the dog but didn't dare pet it yet. Everything felt unfamiliar, and it wondered if it was truly welcome in a place like this.*

Then that would be... three quarters! I did it, right?

That's it! That'd be the outside diameter, we normally take off a quarter to compensate for the pipes thickness. We're replacing a PVC pipe, so we need a new section of pipe, fittings, and contact cement!

*I lead them down to an aisle with all of these items, among others of the same type*

I've got a pipe cutter in my truck, so we've got the tools we need.

*The lab slowly gambles up to Wil, sniffing it's hand with his Grey muzzle. He wears a vest that matches the store, and a patch on the back reads "Max"*

*Wil gasped.*

Puppy!

*And... you lost it again. Wilhelm dropped to its knees, skirt flared out around it, to pet Max. Vigorously. It only stopped to look amd point at you with intensity.*

You. You're my best friend now. I've known you for twenty minutes and already I've been introduced to several adorable, fluffy animals. You're like a gateway for them or something!

I've got a knack for it. Maybe during our spring break Manny might let me take you out to the farm, ride a horse, pet a sheep.

*I can't ignore the alure of an old dog who wants pets, especially not Max, who looks more like a black bear than a black lab. He's well overfed, and favors his back left leg, but he has a big smile while me and Wil pet his incredibly thick and long fur.* Who's a good boy?

(Have one of the goodest boys who has ever graced this earth)

Spring break?

*Wil rubbed his snout. So precious.*

That's during the school year. I'll have to ask my mom. When she comes back for my brother and me, we'll have to study hard to make up for the disruption from moving this summer. But if she allows it, I'd love to come back and see the farm animals.

(That is such a good boy.)

I'll help you two both catch up, I know there're a lot of stereotypes with my accent, but I ain't too stupid when it comes to school.

*I start picking up the items we need*

I-I wasn't... I d-didn't assume...

*It might have. As with the pipe, Wil was clearly a child who acted like it knew it all, someone who certainly wanted to give off that persona, but still had much to learn about the world and how it really works.*

Thank you. I'd much appreciate that.

Huh? no, kiddo, I didn't mean that you thought I was stupid, its more an assumption people try to make. I just try and laugh about it instead of let it bother me

*Wil frowned.*

You shouldn't invite people to laugh at you. That's not fair! Well, Jackson, if no one's told you before, let me be the first. I quite like your accent and I think you're very smart. Hmph!

Not many've said the first part, but a couple have said the latter. Either way, thank you kiddo. I think you've got a pretty tough nut in there as well.

Nut...

*Wil got up, giving Max a final headpat before properly inspecting the shelves.*

Nuts and bolts! Paint, wood glue, plaster... they really have everything in here. You could get lost in a place like this.

*Not because it was particularly large. But because Wilhelmina was already scheming of other ways it could do home improvements with the right tools.*

I've spent hours in hardware stores, I come in to fix one problem, and start thinking about other issues and how to fix them. One time as a teen me and my friends went to a home depot and rated all of their fridges and stoves just for fun!

Furniture stores are really fun, too. Our mother would take us there a lot just to go looking. But my little brother, Adam, would always get too fidgety and bored, so we'd have to leave early.

*Wil gazed out at all the supplies longingly.*

Sometimes, I dream of the places I'd make if I were able to.

Got a future architect on our hands, do we? *I carry the supplies up to the front to be rung in. Max returns to the large cushion (a repurposed papasan cushion just bigger than he is) and falls over like a tree in the woods, a huff of air escaping him once he lands. You'd think he works a 9-5 and then a nightshift with that attitude. But no, he has a plan, balefully looking up at Wil, and then the free treat jar, and then Wil again.*

*That's why Max is so fat.*

Gonna need a lotta math for that. And you've gotta be able to plan on how you run all yer electrical and utility lines through the building too.

*Wil was in no position to disagree. It slipped Max a treat.*

Maybe now you understand why I study so hard. I suppose some real world practice isn't the worst interruption, though.

*It pulled a pipe off of a shelf. Then the pipe kept going, and Wil quickly realized it grabbed something with more length than it knew it had.*

W-Whoa, how does it go so far back?

Look through the hole! *I point at the actual "compartment" holding the pipes*

#check DMs

*I'm exhausted. I did just pull an all nighter afterall. I want to flop into my bed and sleep for a century. What stops me in my tracks are six small bullets on the quilt.*

"...Oh dear god..."

*I grab a few things from my bag, the bullets, and race to Wil's room, pounding on the door* Wil? Wil it's your brother! I'm back! c'mon, open up!

*Whether it was by coincidence, or some part of the Waylay listening, the door did open. But Wil was nowhere to be seen.*

*I step into the room, one hand pressed against the doorway. The Waylay has been so unstable lately... if what ever is happening with Wil can cause it to react, I need to be ready.*

Wil? I'm back, what's going on? I'm real worried about ya kiddo. You never let me hide, don't start thinking it's a one way path.

*There are some clues. Wil's closet is open, presumably to change into a different outfit from usual. Its bag is also gone. Must have taken that with it. Writing supplies are missing, the rest pulled across the desk as though taken in a hurry.*

*Dried mud trails out the entrance door. Likely from other times Wil had worn these particular shoes outside and gotten them dirty.*

...Alright. *I open my eyes, using my powers to find Wil and follow their thread. My feet take the path they trod*

[Strong.]

[I (need) to be//strong.]

[Lame//fucking//calf.]

*The dirt trail ended. Enough must have been shaken off after a few steps. But outside was still a reasonable assumption, since that's where Wil dod training woth both Jackson and Aamon.*

*I burst out the door with growing panic* WIL! PLEASE! WHATS GOING ON?

*Footprints now trailed in the grass and mud. Across the clearing, to some trees. A rhythmic thwapping sound could be heard even from here.*

[I'll get stronger.]

[Then I won't need (this) anymore.]

*I see it. Wil whacking its cane against a tree like it hit Sassy* Woah, woah, woah, Wilhemina, what'd the tree do to you?

*before the next hit I catch the cane in my hand*

*It whirls around, trying to take the cane back but only succeeding in burning its hand down the wood. Tactically, it falls back and scowls with hot red eyes instead.*

And which one are you?

*Wil looks like it's about to headbutt him(?) like a charging bull if he doesn't answer correctly, and soon.*

...Can ya not see me? It's me? Yer brother? The least favorite?

I can see just fine. In fact, I saw you just the other day, too. Why should I trust that you're not tricking me again?

[Prove it.]

*I pull out my revolver, metal and pearl shined to perfection.* Throw something.

*Wil's eyes never left his(?) as it dug a rubber eraser out of its bag. Tossed it, sent it flying high, spinning in the air.*

*I glance once at it before it disintegrates from the force of a bullet ripping through the rubber. No one in the world could ever have my aim*

That good enough, Wil?

*Wil's mouth twitched.*

Why are you here? You're supposed to be showing your world to Lucifer. And besides, I'm not ready to go yet.

I came back from that today. Got to my room, saw these.

*I hold out the six bullets.* Wil. What's going on?

*It took a shaky breath.*

No. You came back yesterday. And you told me you don't want me to go with you anymore.

*I frown in confusion, before turning towards the stables, whistling loudly.*

Definitely wasn't me, because you still need to learn how to ride Angie before we leave. Why on earth would I go back on my word like that? I've been looking forward to this for almost four years now!

Because you've grown in those four years, and I... have not.

*Wil's eyes dropped to the cane in its hands. Cracking and splintered. It looked far worse for wear than the tree it was whaling on.*

If I can't keep up on my own, then those bullets aren't going to do us any good. This walking stick won't, either. We could get worse or hurt if I can't keep up, because I'm not strong enough, because I am a lame... calf!

*It hoisted the cane above its shoulder again. Drove it back into the tree with a resounding crack!*

*I flinch back from the impact, suprised by the violence in the action, even Angie stops at the edge of the clearing, looking at Wil with concern.* Lame calf?! Wil, if you're a lame calf then what the hell does that make me? *I pull up my left pant for emphasis* They put down horses when they break their legs. At least you've got both of yers.

*Wil eyed you up and down. Then grunted.*

You still have the rest of yourself to compensate.

the "rest of myself" is scarred, and always in pain. *I sit down across from them while Angie starts to graze.*

*I pass over my arm crutches that are tucked in a bag I brought out with me.* Try these on for size if you're so sure you're useless. They might work a bit better than just a cane.

*Red eyes glare.*

I don't want to need crutches instead. I want to be able to run by myself, without tripping over my weak ankles, or my bad knees giving out. I want to be strong enough...

*Crack!*

To do this on my own!

Tough shit! I don't want a leg I can't feel! I don't want a stump that swells before a storm! I didn't want to be blind!

Who gives a fuck if you can't do something on your own?! None of us can! But we have a family who wants to help! I want to help! It's my job as your brother!

Besides. Who needs to run when you have a horse?

*Wil pinches its eyes closed, then opens them again. It walks towards Angie and reaches a hand out towards her nose.*

I'm sorry, girl. You shouldn't have to be put in the middle of this.

No, she shouldn't. *I pick Wil up by the waist, and set them on Angies back before they can give me another "reason" why I'd abandon them.* She should be under you.

*It scoffed. Cheeks turned bright red. Wrinkled its nose crossly at you.*

Give up already. The other you did. I... can't, for whatever insufferable reason. I was born sideways and determined. A doomed hero. But you don't have to "slow yourself down" for me.

...I'm gonna watch my little cousins grow old while I stay like this. Change defines every day of my life. Something is on the horizon and I've heard the gunshots of it. The people I love that arent there are either dead or gods, And I have to fight to save them.

I was born with the understanding that I am not fabric in my universe, but the thread and needle. But I was also born determined. meaning I aint giving up on you because some jackass with my voice made you think I didn't care.

My mama wants to meet her chico casita afterall. *out of my bag... comes a rosary of red and black beads, with a pendant of Saint Joseph.* She wanted you to have this.

*Wil attention snapped to the rosary. It held a hand out to pick it up. Looked at it.*

... Who's that?

*I deposit into their hands* That, is Saint Joseph. He was Jesus' dad, the human one. He's the patron saint of Fathers, woodworkers, expecting mothers... and the home.

*Wilhelmina rolled the beads between its fingers. It stared at the pendant impassively. Then a crack formed on its facade. Its lips started to waver.*

Y-Your mother got me this?

Yeah. She said that if I cared that much about you, and that you'd be living like me for a bit... she wanted to make sure you'd be protected too. We match now.

*Wil looked at the rosary. Then you. It tried to get off Angie, but thought better of it when it saw the drop from her back and considered the strength of its legs.*

Get me down.

but ya just got up there! 'Sides, you need to learn to get down yourself. Put your foot in the stirrup and use it as a sort of step, then swing your other leg over the saddle.

Jackson. If you don't let me come down right now, to hug you myself, to confirm that you are in fact real, I'll...

*It couldn't think of a threat strong enough for consequence of not doing so.*

Alright, alright some here *I get them off Angie, but don't put them on the ground. Nope. I give them a hug instead before they can give me one.*

I missed you too

*Its feet dangled in the air, all of its weight supported by wrapping its arms around your shoulders. Wilhelm buried its face against your neck.*

N-Now you've really done it. You're not allowed to leave me. Not ever again, y-you hear?

Ain't that why you're coming with me?!

Y-Yes. Yes, I am.

*It clutched the rosary behind your head.*

I had horrible visions of a you who didn't like me, Jackson. He called me names. Told me I was too weak to go with you. Took my bullets away. Even when I knew he wasn't really... stupidly, I believed him. B-Because... I trust you. I love you. Anything you say goes.

*I finally set them down with a very concerned look on my face.* Wil. Please, I am an idiot. I am impulsive and rash and have never been able to care about whether or not I get hurt. Do not trust me more than yourself.

B-But... I still need you.

*Wilhelmina looked up to you with shiny crimson eyes.*

TW// brief mention of suicidal tendencies

I need you too kiddo, but I ain't a role-model, not like that. It's no secret that when someone tells me to jump I start looking for bridges. I want you to if anything, watch me and see what not to do.

*It held your hand and tugged on it.*

Stop that. If you can't stay here forever, then wherever you're going, I'm learning to go with you. You'll do no such thing that would hurt me, understand it?

For you? Crystal clear, kiddo.

Good.

*Wil reached up a hand to pet Angie's neck.*

Now, with that out of the way: our first order of business. I believe you were just about to teach me how to ride? I simply refuse to go to your world without learning.

Alright, first ya gotta get up there, you put your foot in the stirrup, and use the horn of the saddle for leverage to haul you up, okay?

Keep in mind, Angie is tall for her breed, so if you need help it ain't yer fault.

Alright.

*It balanced precariously on one foot to bring the other up to the stirrup, then stretched across her muscular body to reach for the horn with effort.*

I've got it...

You'll be getting a horse more yer size, keep in mind

Wonderful.

*It clambered on. Sat atop Angie, Wil looked down at you smugly.*

I'm taller than you. Now who's the big brother?

I'm gonna say it's still me, given if I wanted I could pick you both up without a problem.

*Wil stuck its tongue out at you.*

Nyeh.

...Hold on tight.

Angie! Hyah!

*She takes off, carrying Wil through the glen*

*Wil yelped. It hunkered down against her neck and closed its eyes.*

Grab her reigns! Sit up straight!

*The jostling nearly threw Wil off her back. It wasn't used to such a bumpy ride. Legs clenching her sides to hold on, Wil blindly grasped for the reigns.*

[I can't look.]

[Remember how "well" I do with heights (Christmas)?]

Angie! Back 'round!

*Angelina slows her gait and returns to me* "Alright alright, that was cruel of me. C'mon now, open yer eyes and we'll start slow this time."

*A sliver of one red eye cracked open to peek at you.*

You mean it?

I mean it. No one can run before they can walk, afterall.

[That feels (personal)]

Alright. Where do we begin.

*Wil sat upright, gripping the reins better.*

*I realize the error in my wording as soon as it comes out.* Didn't mean it like that. Thinkin' more of horses.

So you're startin' good, we want a straight spine, no slouching because it'll kill yer back after two hours. *I adjust it's hands so that the loop of the reigns is fed from the back of the hands, thumbs pointed towards the front* Now there are some different positions for holding reigns, but we are starting slow. This is just a standard hold, you can steer, you can make her speed up, it's a good do-all. you want to set the back of the arch of yer foot into the stirrups, because that's where the heel of the boot starts. Kinda like the notch in the back of an arrow.

Right. So... I am the arrow, and Angie is the bow?

#I did RESEARCH #a LOT OF RESEARCH #ABOUT HORSE BRIDALS #AND BITS

Your boots are, but yeah! *I start moving Angies head to give Wil a better understanding of the harness* So, all this leatherwork is the bridal, Words are fine sure, but when we're out and about this is how you communicate with your horse. You tell her when to stop, start, go left, go right. She knows everything you tell her by how you move those reigns.

Angie and me work without a bit. Bit's are this metal contraption that secures in the- Hold on- *I whistle, snapping my fingers twice above her snout. Her nose follows as she gives me a big smile so I can show Wil the back of her teeth* It would go right here, in what's called the bars of her mouth. Some people think it's harder to steer without a bit, but in my line of life, either if we are working in a farm, or traveling, it's more convenient and comfortable for her to have her mouth compleatly free. She can eat and drink without me removing the bridle. Me and Angie work with what's called a crossover-under, it puts all of the pressure of the reigns on her whole head, instead of just the bridge of the nose or side.

She works hard and we go long hours without stopping, so making sure she is comfortable is my top priority.

I was lucky to learn bitless from pa, because this was the only saddle and bridal in the barn I got her from, and it's the only one she'll wear.

*Satisfied with the arrangement, she smiled and nodded proudly at her work. Her host family would be pleased. She walked up to the wall by the stairs and knocked twice.*

Start coming down! Dinner's almost ready!

-🍬 @thesweetestnyarlathotep

"Thank you, Candy." *Maria decends from her room where she'd been packing.* "The boys will be here any time soon, help me grab the food from the kitchen?"

Of course! You know I always loving cooking and preparing the food with you. Señora, you have such a beautiful family!

*Candy's mouth quirked into a wistful smile as she started plating the dishes.*

I wish I had such a big family to sit at the table and eat with like this!

"Please, stop with the honorifics! Maria is just fine. You make me feel old... Señora Dolce."

*Maria jests, helping lay out the dishes. An older voice rings out from the kitchen, bringing in the last pot* "If you two have time to joke, you can wash dishes after."

She does know I'm at least a few years older than her, give or take?

*Candy giggled as she arranged the finishing touches.*

I might not look it, but I should definitely hold seniority!

"Not in this house you don't."

"Not in my house, little miss!"

Eek, hehehe!

Dinner! Come and get it or I'll finish it myself!

*Juan and Daniel are thankfully riding up with the cart when Candy calls, and they wave their hands to acknowledge her voice*

"They better wash up before hand! Horses eat before you do!"

Oh, goodness!

*Candy slipped back inside. It didn't look like she was doing much, just watching Maria help Ximena to the table, but silently her little army of tendrils were at work.*

*The preparations are all done, table set, Maria and Ximena take their places, while Juan and Daniel are still outside*

"Are we waiting for the boys tonight?"

"They'll take forever, food is hot."

"Candy, come here, sit down with us!"

Of course!

*She took her seat next to Maria, smoothing down the ruffles of her skirt and smiling pleasantly. It was all she could do while otherwise unable to take her eyes off the plates in front of her.*

You know, I'm sure I could grab them if you want! I'm a lot stronger than I look and it would only take a few seconds!

"Let them wash up and tend to the horses, not our fault they decided to fuss around before getting home" *This is a very common occurrence by the tone of her voice*

"Grace." *Ximena's voice is stern, hold her hand out to Maria*

"Candy, are you going to pray with us tonight?" *Maria's look is a knowing one, the understanding that Candy is a being not belonging to this worlds nature, much less beholden to Catholicism.*

It would be my pleasure!

*Candy offered her hand out, too, and bowed her head, red and white curls pooling on the table.*

*Ximena bows her head, empty hand holding the rosary around her neck* "Bless us, O Lord , and these Thy gifts, which we are about to receive from Thy bounty, through Christ our Lord."

"Amen."

*Boots can be heard being taken off at the doorway as the two men enter* "Ah shit. uh... Amen"

*A smack of a hand against fabric* "Amen."

*Candy suppresses snorted laughter.*

Amen.

*She lifted her head, eyes crinkling as her smile teased them.*

Glad you finally decided to join us! There would have been questions if just three women managed to eat all this food on their own.

*Daniel immediately starts dishing himself up, knowing Juan will also be piling his plate up as well.* "Mama's cooking is that good, no one would bat an eye."

*Candy rolled her eyes.*

Well anyway, how was your day? Let's talk about pleasant things over dinner!

"There's gonna be a caravan passing through soon. They're heading up north but should have some goods for sale when they stop. That's what diners are saying."

"And I told you that if you want to haggle, leave me out of it."

*Ximena and Maria exchange a look, already knowing that if they want anything from whatever is coming through they'll have to get it themselves.*

"If a caravan is coming through, I might travel with them on the way up. saftey in numbers."

*Candy looked between the family members. She leaned over and whispered to Maria.*

What does this caravan have that everyone wants so badly?

"Who knows. Mainly it's good for business because there are more customers to feed, but some of them are also salesmen trying to set up shop somewhere north, and they'll sell on the way."

You humans are such funny little things.

*She said this while stabbing a fork through her food. It wasn't meant in any malicious or demeaning way, just a passive observation to her.*

If you wanted money, you should have just asked me for some! You know I'll always take care of my s'more's family.

*No one pays attention to the comment from Candy, too busy discussing business*

"Gonna hike the prices for the caravan, make a little extra cash. Call it a convenience fee for a good meal."

"Not if I have anything to say! You'll drive away customers and everyone in town will think we're crooks! fuck off!

"Daniel! Language! Juan! Don't scam people!"

"Mom! It's not scamming if it hurts no one, right?"

"Doesn't matter! We make pently enough as it is! We can feed ourselves and the animals, that's all we need!"

*The back and forth can go on for hours while Maria focuses more on Candy.*

"I will not take your money. you are family, and you are a guest."

*I'm exhausted. I did just pull an all nighter afterall. I want to flop into my bed and sleep for a century. What stops me in my tracks are six small bullets on the quilt.*

"...Oh dear god..."

*I grab a few things from my bag, the bullets, and race to Wil's room, pounding on the door* Wil? Wil it's your brother! I'm back! c'mon, open up!

*Whether it was by coincidence, or some part of the Waylay listening, the door did open. But Wil was nowhere to be seen.*

*I step into the room, one hand pressed against the doorway. The Waylay has been so unstable lately... if what ever is happening with Wil can cause it to react, I need to be ready.*

Wil? I'm back, what's going on? I'm real worried about ya kiddo. You never let me hide, don't start thinking it's a one way path.

*Dried mud trails out the entrance door. Likely from other times Wil had worn these particular shoes outside and gotten them dirty.*

...Alright. *I open my eyes, using my powers to find Wil and follow their thread. My feet take the path they trod*

[Strong.]

[I (need) to be//strong.]

[Lame//fucking//calf.]

*The dirt trail ended. Enough must have been shaken off after a few steps. But outside was still a reasonable assumption, since that's where Wil dod training woth both Jackson and Aamon.*

*I burst out the door with growing panic* WIL! PLEASE! WHATS GOING ON?

*Footprints now trailed in the grass and mud. Across the clearing, to some trees. A rhythmic thwapping sound could be heard even from here.*

[I'll get stronger.]

[Then I won't need (this) anymore.]

*I see it. Wil whacking its cane against a tree like it hit Sassy* Woah, woah, woah, Wilhemina, what'd the tree do to you?

*before the next hit I catch the cane in my hand*

*It whirls around, trying to take the cane back but only succeeding in burning its hand down the wood. Tactically, it falls back and scowls with hot red eyes instead.*

And which one are you?

*Wil looks like it's about to headbutt him(?) like a charging bull if he doesn't answer correctly, and soon.*

...Can ya not see me? It's me? Yer brother? The least favorite?

I can see just fine. In fact, I saw you just the other day, too. Why should I trust that you're not tricking me again?

[Prove it.]

*I pull out my revolver, metal and pearl shined to perfection.* Throw something.

*Wil's eyes never left his(?) as it dug a rubber eraser out of its bag. Tossed it, sent it flying high, spinning in the air.*

*I glance once at it before it disintegrates from the force of a bullet ripping through the rubber. No one in the world could ever have my aim*

That good enough, Wil?

*Wil's mouth twitched.*

Why are you here? You're supposed to be showing your world to Lucifer. And besides, I'm not ready to go yet.

I came back from that today. Got to my room, saw these.

*I hold out the six bullets.* Wil. What's going on?

*It took a shaky breath.*

No. You came back yesterday. And you told me you don't want me to go with you anymore.

*I frown in confusion, before turning towards the stables, whistling loudly.*

Because you've grown in those four years, and I... have not.

*Wil's eyes dropped to the cane in its hands. Cracking and splintered. It looked far worse for wear than the tree it was whaling on.*

*It hoisted the cane above its shoulder again. Drove it back into the tree with a resounding crack!*

*Wil eyed you up and down. Then grunted.*

You still have the rest of yourself to compensate.

the "rest of myself" is scarred, and always in pain. *I sit down across from them while Angie starts to graze.*

*I pass over my arm crutches that are tucked in a bag I brought out with me.* Try these on for size if you're so sure you're useless. They might work a bit better than just a cane.

*Red eyes glare.*

I don't want to need crutches instead. I want to be able to run by myself, without tripping over my weak ankles, or my bad knees giving out. I want to be strong enough...

*Crack!*

To do this on my own!

Tough shit! I don't want a leg I can't feel! I don't want a stump that swells before a storm! I didn't want to be blind!

Who gives a fuck if you can't do something on your own?! None of us can! But we have a family who wants to help! I want to help! It's my job as your brother!

Besides. Who needs to run when you have a horse?

*Wil pinches its eyes closed, then opens them again. It walks towards Angie and reaches a hand out towards her nose.*

I'm sorry, girl. You shouldn't have to be put in the middle of this.

No, she shouldn't. *I pick Wil up by the waist, and set them on Angies back before they can give me another "reason" why I'd abandon them.* She should be under you.

*It scoffed. Cheeks turned bright red. Wrinkled its nose crossly at you.*

Give up already. The other you did. I... can't, for whatever insufferable reason. I was born sideways and determined. A doomed hero. But you don't have to "slow yourself down" for me.

My mama wants to meet her chico casita afterall. *out of my bag... comes a rosary of red and black beads, with a pendant of Saint Joseph.* She wanted you to have this.

*Wil attention snapped to the rosary. It held a hand out to pick it up. Looked at it.*

... Who's that?

*I deposit into their hands* That, is Saint Joseph. He was Jesus' dad, the human one. He's the patron saint of Fathers, woodworkers, expecting mothers... and the home.

*Wilhelmina rolled the beads between its fingers. It stared at the pendant impassively. Then a crack formed on its facade. Its lips started to waver.*

Y-Your mother got me this?

Yeah. She said that if I cared that much about you, and that you'd be living like me for a bit... she wanted to make sure you'd be protected too. We match now.

*Wil looked at the rosary. Then you. It tried to get off Angie, but thought better of it when it saw the drop from her back and considered the strength of its legs.*

Get me down.

but ya just got up there! 'Sides, you need to learn to get down yourself. Put your foot in the stirrup and use it as a sort of step, then swing your other leg over the saddle.

Jackson. If you don't let me come down right now, to hug you myself, to confirm that you are in fact real, I'll...

*It couldn't think of a threat strong enough for consequence of not doing so.*

Alright, alright some here *I get them off Angie, but don't put them on the ground. Nope. I give them a hug instead before they can give me one.*

I missed you too

*Its feet dangled in the air, all of its weight supported by wrapping its arms around your shoulders. Wilhelm buried its face against your neck.*

N-Now you've really done it. You're not allowed to leave me. Not ever again, y-you hear?

Ain't that why you're coming with me?!

Y-Yes. Yes, I am.

*It clutched the rosary behind your head.*

B-But... I still need you.

*Wilhelmina looked up to you with shiny crimson eyes.*

TW// brief mention of suicidal tendencies

*It held your hand and tugged on it.*

Stop that. If you can't stay here forever, then wherever you're going, I'm learning to go with you. You'll do no such thing that would hurt me, understand it?

For you? Crystal clear, kiddo.

Good.

*Wil reached up a hand to pet Angie's neck.*

Now, with that out of the way: our first order of business. I believe you were just about to teach me how to ride? I simply refuse to go to your world without learning.

Alright, first ya gotta get up there, you put your foot in the stirrup, and use the horn of the saddle for leverage to haul you up, okay?

Keep in mind, Angie is tall for her breed, so if you need help it ain't yer fault.

Alright.

*It balanced precariously on one foot to bring the other up to the stirrup, then stretched across her muscular body to reach for the horn with effort.*

I've got it...

You'll be getting a horse more yer size, keep in mind

Wonderful.

*It clambered on. Sat atop Angie, Wil looked down at you smugly.*

I'm taller than you. Now who's the big brother?

I'm gonna say it's still me, given if I wanted I could pick you both up without a problem.

*Wil stuck its tongue out at you.*

Nyeh.

...Hold on tight.

Angie! Hyah!

*She takes off, carrying Wil through the glen*

*Wil yelped. It hunkered down against her neck and closed its eyes.*

Grab her reigns! Sit up straight!

*The jostling nearly threw Wil off her back. It wasn't used to such a bumpy ride. Legs clenching her sides to hold on, Wil blindly grasped for the reigns.*

[I can't look.]

[Remember how "well" I do with heights (Christmas)?]

Angie! Back 'round!

*Angelina slows her gait and returns to me* "Alright alright, that was cruel of me. C'mon now, open yer eyes and we'll start slow this time."

*A sliver of one red eye cracked open to peek at you.*

You mean it?

I mean it. No one can run before they can walk, afterall.

[That feels (personal)]

Alright. Where do we begin.

*Wil sat upright, gripping the reins better.*

*I realize the error in my wording as soon as it comes out.* Didn't mean it like that. Thinkin' more of horses.

"What if I showed 'em the right way to fix it?"

"Go for it, they need friends."

*I nod, off to find the mystery child I haven't met in my self-isolation*

(Woe, modern AU upon you!)

*Wil is sitting at a booth, hunched over a math workbook. It's in deep concentration to solve these problems. Probably doesn't even realize it's sticking the tip of its tongue out.*

*Definitely looks like Manny, even the way their face scrunches up when faced with a problem. I knock twice on the table* So, we got a new handyman 'round here?

*It straightened up once it realized it was being addressed. Set the pencil in the spine of the booklet.*

That's right, I am. Wilhelmina, Wilhelm, or Wil. The Manager's eldest... gah, Manny's eldest child. Is there something I can help you with?

Certainly.

*It closed the packet. Folded its hands over it.*

Its a good idea, but in the long run you're wasting more water as it leaks, and washing them. Also when summer hits its gonna be disgusting.

Want me to show you the right way?

*Wil raised an eyebrow at this. It tipped its chin up at you, finally getting a better look.*

Pardon me for answering a question with a question. But if I may ask, just who might you be? You don't look like a handyman or someone my father hired for anything else.

I uh, havent been 'round much. I'm Jackson. I used to come here alot before... before this summer.

I was raised with the phrase "Do it right the first time, to never do it again". And I know a good deal on plumbing. Enough to fix a leak.

That would explain it. This is my first summer here. My brother and I are only here until our mother picks us up to take us home again... ideally, before the school year begins.

*Wil took its cane and stood from the booth. It craned its head up to see the damage.*

How should one fix a leak, then?

With a trip to the hardware store! How about we go together, I'll show ya what the difference between the stuff there is, so you know what your getting next time too

*Wil glanced over its shoulder at the table.*

I don't know. I still have my study packet to complete...

*I start peering at the packet* What grade math?

Seventh. It is imperative that I'm ready by September for it.

*I sit across from them, reading the page upside down* Oh well yer in luck! I'm pretty good with geometry!

Good enough to fix a leak?

*Wil eyed the pipe again. Maybe that would use a bit of geometry to solve. It could piece together the way a proper repair should work in its mind.*

Good enough to help you finish so we can go to the hardware store and put it to use.

*Wilhelmina walked across the bar, opened the kitchen doors, and hollered through.*

Manny! I'm going with Jackson to the hardware store! I'll have my phone on me. We'll text you the amount for the repairs when we get back!

*It turned back to you.*

Alright, then. Let's go.

...Or we'll go now! C'mon.

*I jerk my head towards the door. Outside is a very beat up, green, 90's, pickup truck, that is held together with JB Weld and rust.*

Let's get 'er done!

*Wilhelm scrambles to climb into the front passenger seat. A very undignified process. It cranes its neck to see over the dashboard.*

Is this thing... safe?

*Is this really the person I'm going to entrust the Waylay's repairs with?*

It's safe enough to go seventy down dirt roads, it can handle a little pavement.

*It's still a vehicle for me. Its an oppertinity to be trusted again. It has a tape deck and crank windows.*

Ahem... alright, then. You know the way?

*It waved its phone towards you, offering GPS directions if you needed them.*

I'm there once a week at least! One of my favorite places, actually.

*Wilhelm narrows its eyes, and smiles. This is new. It's fun.*

How is a hardware store your favorite place? What are you doing that requires you to go that often.

A farm?

*It was clearly still hung up on that first detail. The car chugged along for a few hundred feet before it spoke up again.*

Then what are you doing all the way out here?

College! My mama lives here in the city, and I got some scholarships for that big shot university. I'm studying vet med.

You work with animals?

*This friendly stranger was only getting more and more interesting by the minute.*

*It was practically twisting off its seatbelt to talk to Jackson now. He hit the jackpot.*

oh, and I've got this little guy... *I pull into a parking space outside the hardware store. A smaller mom-and-pop run store than a Home Depot or Lowes*

Meet JJ... *From under my hat I pull out a brown squirrel, who is slowly opening his eyes*

*Wil was so excited could burst.*

He's fluffy.

*It sat on its hands to stop itself from doing anything rash.*

Is he... friendly? Can I pet him?

You can hold 'im if yer gentle enough!

*JJ's nose is twitching towards Wil, curious about the person he was woken up to meet*

He's actually illegal to own where I'm from, but hopefully when I graduate I'll be able to file him as a rescue and rehabilitation case and they won't look too close at how old he is

As you should.

*Wilhelm nodded sagely. It held its hands out for JJ to investigate.*

Pspsps, come here. I won't hurt you. You're so little. Itty bitty squirrel, oh my goodness.

He's the size of a youth football, what do you mean "itty"? The rodent wont stop breaking into his feed in the middle of the night!

*JJ tentatively steps onto Wil's hand, looking for attention.*

Don't you dare say that! This is clearly a tiny creature in need of tender loving care. Yes, hello, baby.

*Wil wriggled its nose at him. It couldn't stop smiling. You've completely lost them.*

*I take JJ back, depositing him in my shirt pocket* Alright, we came here for a job, remember?

Gah—hey.

*It pouted at losing access to the fluffy animal. Seems it has a soft spot for them.*

Hmph. Indeed. Teach me your ways, Jedi Master.

Sounds good, Skywalker. *I hop out of the pick up truck* Now, pipes are measured by diameter, did ya happen to get the circumference when you did the repair?

*Wil shut the door behind it. The truck rattled as it banged into place.*

It was about two and a half inches. I had to use a lot of tape to get the sock to stay. They're bigger than the pipes I've ever seen at home.

Alright, then use that to get our diameter! Do you remember the formula for it?

Don't you just divide it by pi? Three point one four one five nine...

Once you have that number, we can go from there!

Then that would be... three quarters! I did it, right?

*I lead them down to an aisle with all of these items, among others of the same type*

I've got a pipe cutter in my truck, so we've got the tools we need.

*The lab slowly gambles up to Wil, sniffing it's hand with his Grey muzzle. He wears a vest that matches the store, and a patch on the back reads "Max"*

*Wil gasped.*

Puppy!

*And... you lost it again. Wilhelm dropped to its knees, skirt flared out around it, to pet Max. Vigorously. It only stopped to look amd point at you with intensity.*

You. You're my best friend now. I've known you for twenty minutes and already I've been introduced to several adorable, fluffy animals. You're like a gateway for them or something!

I've got a knack for it. Maybe during our spring break Manny might let me take you out to the farm, ride a horse, pet a sheep.

(Have one of the goodest boys who has ever graced this earth)

Spring break?

*Wil rubbed his snout. So precious.*

(That is such a good boy.)

I'll help you two both catch up, I know there're a lot of stereotypes with my accent, but I ain't too stupid when it comes to school.

*I start picking up the items we need*

I-I wasn't... I d-didn't assume...

Thank you. I'd much appreciate that.

Huh? no, kiddo, I didn't mean that you thought I was stupid, its more an assumption people try to make. I just try and laugh about it instead of let it bother me

*Wil frowned.*

You shouldn't invite people to laugh at you. That's not fair! Well, Jackson, if no one's told you before, let me be the first. I quite like your accent and I think you're very smart. Hmph!

Not many've said the first part, but a couple have said the latter. Either way, thank you kiddo. I think you've got a pretty tough nut in there as well.

Nut...

*Wil got up, giving Max a final headpat before properly inspecting the shelves.*

Nuts and bolts! Paint, wood glue, plaster... they really have everything in here. You could get lost in a place like this.

*Not because it was particularly large. But because Wilhelmina was already scheming of other ways it could do home improvements with the right tools.*

Furniture stores are really fun, too. Our mother would take us there a lot just to go looking. But my little brother, Adam, would always get too fidgety and bored, so we'd have to leave early.

*Wil gazed out at all the supplies longingly.*

Sometimes, I dream of the places I'd make if I were able to.

#Max was 120 when he died #he would steal cups of old milk child me left out #he also stole an entire sheet cake #and an entire bag of dog food #and would army crawl under a baby gate for the cats food #he was a menace when it came to filling his mouth.

*That's why Max is so fat.*

Gonna need a lotta math for that. And you've gotta be able to plan on how you run all yer electrical and utility lines through the building too.

*You get a knock on your door as soon as you're going to open it.*

"Jackson? It's been a while, I thought I'd stop by and say hello!"

-🏔 @soaring-the-icy-skies

*I open the door for her, one crutch dangling from my forearm. I probably still smell like a campfire from my universe, but it's probably still fine... right?*

Oh hey, here to talk to your step-son?

*She smiled and shrugged.*

"I suppose I am, yes. I heard what happened to your leg, I'm sorry. Are you used to it yet?"

As used to it as anyone could be. I've had about three weeks my time to adjust, and I've got a fake one. The stump is just sore.

*Selena is curious as ever, coming up between my legs.*

"Ah, I understand. I lost my arm a little while ago. I'm fortunate enough to have limbs that regrow, so it's back now, clearly, but it still hurts like it did before it got cut off."

*She crouched down to Selena, holding out her hand to sniff.*

"Well, hello there. Who might you be?"

I ain't enough of a god to get anything back, sadly.

That's Miss Selena, *The coyote stretches to sniff her hand, then licks it once with an anticipatory look* She's down a leg too, and I've taken her as my good girl.

You probably don't know any of my old reputation, do ya?

"That's alright, I'm not, either. I'm just a big lizard with wings."

*She scratches Selena's chin for a bit before standing and stepping out of Jackson's way.*

"And no, I do not. Not much of it, at least."

You dropped your arm like ya'd drop tail?

My old reputation was bringing in animals from my world here. They'd get... a little more monstrous than they were supposed to. The real deals would come and eat them for power, but here? They can be happy, so I would drop 'em off.

Took me a year to finally step through a portal myself.

"No, Daisy cut my arm off, but it grew back like I dropped it. Anyway, I had no choice in taking the portal that brought me here, but I'm so happy this is where I've ended up.

That's a very kind thing to do, Jackson. If I may ask, though, why did you take so long to go through a portal to come here?"

Duty? Fear? I didn't think I'd belong. I knew the Waylay was an afterlife. I could see the beings that built it. I knew that I was born to contain and hunt the gods I was seeing.

But One night... I was tired, and hungry... So I finally asked for a meal. I realized then that time in my world was faster than theirs... and that they didn't give half a shit who or what I was.

"Ah, identity. That one has always been a fickle bitch."

*She laughed at her own words.*

"I'm glad you stopped in, so we could be this far down the line together. I'm glad you know who you are, or are otherwise closer to knowing such a thing.

I still struggle with that, but I hope you know by now that you don't have to follow what you were born to be to the dot. It'd be odd if you did, considering who The Manager is to you."

Did he tell you about my Pa? *I... never thought any of those details would be shared.*

"No, I believe that was left to you."

Oh thank fuck. I uh... the way you were talking made it sound like you already knew about how I was raised!

"I'm sorry for startling you, then. I suppose it's because I had similar experiences in my own life."

Not really a startle, I just could never see them telling someone that, even you. I was worried my dad was replaced!

"We know they'd never do such a thing. They're stubborn, yes, but they know when it's not their place to share."

Exactly my point!

Stubborn as a mule on the best of days...

"Indeed. They mean well, though, in regards to others, and I'm simply glad they listen to me when I tell them to stop pushing themself."

How in the hell did you achieve that?

"Oh, pfff, I have no idea. I suppose the reason is because I'm their wife and therefore my word is law. To them, anyway. No one really knows I exist, nor are aware of my relationship with them."

He only just told me about the marriage. Wil is gonna be heartbroken there'll be no wedding to plan.

"Ah, well, a wedding wouldn't be our style, I'm afraid. Hell, the circumstances under which we got married weren't at all conventional, either. At any rate, we like keeping our marriage to ourselves. I do, anyway."

Shame, I wanted to meet my new half-siblings.

"You still can. Three of them, at least. The two around your age aren't here at the moment, but I don't suppose that matters to you."

...It does? They're family now, I want to meet them all when I can. Besides, the only ones close to my age are Iris and Aamon, so I would gladly take someone closer to twenty-five.

"Fair enough. The oldest of the three here is nineteen, so she is an adult, but she's still my baby. I can bring you to her, if you'd like? Oh! And you can meet a friend of mine."

That sounds lovely, lead the way!

*Evelyn led him to a largely unpopulated lounge area where a young woman with purple skin and pointed ears was sitting. She was reading, but looked up when she heard footsteps.*

"Greeting."

"Salutation."

"Who's that guy?"

"I'll let him introduce himself."

*Curled up at the woman's feet was a truly giant crocodile. It was easily over 30 feet long with dark gray skin and yellow eyes. Evelyn sat down next to its head and started cooing at it like you would a dog.*

"Hi, buddy. Hi, big guy. Oh, you're just a big guy.."

*...Selena starts barking. She's never seen one before so it's only reasonable to crouch between my legs and defend.* Selene! Knock it off! It's just a big lizard.

*I swing closer.* I'm Jackson, can I pet 'im?

"Go for it, he's not mine. 'M Embrosia, by the way. Everyone just calls me Embry though. Crocodile's Marauder."

*Marauder lifts his head off of Evelyn's lap to investigate the source of the barking. He lays his head back down after a moment.

Embry stands and steps over him to motion to Selena.*

"Can I pet 'er?"

Sure, her name's Selena! Careful on the back left leg, she got it amputated a bit ago and it's healing! *I start scratching Mauraders head* Well aren't you a big ol' beast!

"Mhm. Unruly bastard."

*Marauder grunted appreciatively and started to happily wiggle. Evelyn pat his flank.*

"He's not actually a crocodile, though, but he is part of the species that evolved into crocodiles. He's a dinosaur."

*Embry whistled a tune to Selena as she pet behind her ears.*

I ain't think I've ever heard of those 'fore?

"Hm? Dinosaurs? They were animals that are extinct in a lot of worlds now. They're what the animals we know now came from. If you dig in certain spots, you can find their bones!"

...Selena! Don't go digging up things!

*Selena doesn't care about anything but the attention that she melts into*

*Evelyn laughed and watched Embry pet the entirety of Selena's body, careful to not disturb her healing leg.*

"It's alright, big fossils tend to be rather deep underground, although smaller ones can be found on beaches or in river beds at times."

Oh! I heard 'bout that! a megalo- sauron? Saurus! Megalosaurus!

"Mhm, you got it! Marauder is a deinosuchus. His species name translates to 'terrible crocodile', but I believe he's a good guy."

Awe he looks like a good feller! *I scratch under his jaw, admiring the big teeth*

*Marauder made a happy grumbling noise, turning his head to nudge at Jackson's arm.*

"He is. He's a sweet guy, I like him a lot."

"Selena's a sweet baby too."

You'll probably love JJ and Angie too then!

"Oh yeah? Then I'd love to meet 'em."

*I pull JJ out from under my hat. He looks around curiously* This is Jessie James, JJ for short

"Aww, just a lil guy."

*Embry held out her hand for JJ to investigate.*

*JJ crawls onto her hand, tilting his head to beg for pets* If ya got peanuts he'll love you forever

"I don't. Not right now, anyway. Sorry bud."

*She scratched his head and cheeks.*

He'll take pets too! *Selena whines, before trotting over to Evelyn in search of someone with unoccupied hands to love her*

*Evelyn took Selena's face in her hands and gave her a gentle shake, scratching behind her ears and along her jaw.*

"Hi, miss ma'am. You're a baby. You're just a sweet little baby."

"I can very easily give pets. 'M assuming that Angie is another creature of yours?"

She's my horse! Found her at a farm. The folks who lived there weren't able to care for much of anything by the time I arrived, but Angie was alive and well in her stall. Me and JJ couldn't leave her behind, and she deserved a life off the farm.

"Aww, that's real nice. My sister has a horse too! He's huge but he's also a shire so it makes sense. His name's Silhouette. Silo for short. Jackie might bring him with when I go get her."

Two Jackies with horses? sounds like things are gonna get confusing!

"Pfff yeah probably. It'll be fine though 'cause her other nickname is Jay. We can just use that. When in doubt we also specify either the werewolf or the cowboy."

If it helps, no one calls me Jackie anymore, and my horse is a mustang

"Yea that does in fact help. But even your full names sound similar. Jackson. Jacqueline. It's made funnier by us being siblings since Manny and my mother are married."

*She paused, looking confused.*

"Our mother? 'Cause you're one'a Manny's kids? Ehh, whatever. People might think you and Jackie are twins."

Do we look that alike?

"Surprisingly yea. 'Cept she has gold highlights in her hair and is kinda more on the ginger side, but it's still brown. Her eyes have this gold ring in them also but you still look similar. You're 'bout the same height."

What I'm hearing is that with a hat... We could confuse a lot of people together

"Oh yea, it'd be great."

*She smiled but it wavered when she looked over to Evelyn, who had stopped petting Selena and was now looking into the middle distance.*

*I turn, watching her carefully. My hands finally stop scratching Maurader*

...Evelyn?

*Marauder grunted and went over to her, jabbing his snout into her back. She yelped.*

"Don't.. do that. Do not. That's not very nice."

*He snapped the air and returned to Jackson to get more pets.*

"I'm sorry, I was thinking. I got lost in my own head, I suppose."

Happens to all of us, I think. Care to share, or is it somethin' yer gonna keep under wraps?

"I'll share."

"Ooh, wait, lemme guess! 'S about that weird bat kid at home!"

"Yes, it's about the weird bat kid at home, and the.. things it's connected to."

What's the kids name?

"...That's part of the problem. I don't know it. They told me their name, but I couldn't comprehend it. It was a loud, high-pitched sound in place of a name, like it was censored, like it was.."

*She sighed, running a hand through her hair and pulling at it.*

"Like it was the name of a dead god."

*I stand up, staring her dead in the eyes* ... Ĩ̷̞̅́n̴̨̩͓͊v̴̡̺̟̳̄̈́i̵̪̪͉̼̎̅͛c̷̟̯̿t̸̯̬̟͚̊̈́̉͌a̷̭̮̾͐̚?

"Well, yes, but the problem there being that I can say Invicta just fine, so what does that make the child?"

Part of the being that took my leg. *I stamp one crutch on the ground for emphasis, looking at the empty pant leg*

"No, it.. Well.."

*She gestured, trying to find the right words.*

"The entity and Invicta are separate beings in the way The Manager and I are separate beings. They share souls. Apparently, the entity does that with its friends."

Trust me, I know exactly what you mean. I'm the one that started this mess. Dad told me to ask you about Invicta in the first place, because someone named Glory has a reaction to the name.

"Yes, Glory, she's.. she's my friend. I'm not sure if I'm hers anymore, but that's neither here nor there. Whatever questions you may have, I'll do my best to answer."

As of right now... do you know of any way to sever the entity from one of its... "Favorites"?

"Yes. Each individual has scars that connect them to the entity. Remove the scar tissue to turn those scars into non-magical ones, and they'll be severed."

Why havent we done that to everyone connected to the Entity yet?

"I learned about it while I was at home and promptly had other shit to do, so it slipped my mind for a bit. That, and we don't know how many people are connected to it. It could be millions."

I can... see who is influenced by the Entity. The issue is that Anthony is in a symbiotic relationship with the Ants inside of him. Both of them are part of the entity, and the entity will kill him if we give them important information.

I want to sever him safely.

"I'm not sure that'd be possible with the ants in him, given the nature of said symbiotic relationship, but it could be worth a shot. I believe the most pertinent question now is whether or not such a procedure will work. I've only been told it would, I'm afraid."

Always a catch with these things.

Would anyone be willing to go under the knife to test this theory?

"Glory, perhaps, but it's difficult to bring up the topic of the entity or Invicta with her. I most certainly didn't win any favors with her the last time I saw her. She's very avoidant."

People's lives are on the line. Dad... compared the Entity to Kayne. surely Glory would understand. Surely she'd want freedom!

"She does. But she doesn't know what to do with it. Being controlled is what she's used to, it brings her a sense of stability. Hell, I've tried to give her a choice in what to do when I've visited her, but it only caused her distress. That's not something to throw her into. But I can try to bring it up next visit."

i... is there anyone else that we know? Someone who wont have a mental breakdown if we get them out?

"My wife would be up to it, if she hadn't cut her head off."

*Evelyn said this as though it were a normal thing to say. In fact, she even seemed a little annoyed about the inconvenient timing. Even stranger, Embry didn't seem shocked by this.*

"She's recovering in the infirmary, but I can take you to her to see if she's still under the entity's influence."

Y'don't need to take me anywhere... but put a pin in most of the rest for me?

*I focus, opening all twelve of my eyes. Searching for a person or item is easy, second nature to me. Looking for a trace, or the broad ties of something is much more... nebulous. It's not harder to see, but filtering what is and isn't what I'm looking for is a lot harder.*

*I can see the way the entity clings to dad, or to who I assume is Naga in the infirmary. but if I look deeper... i see... five people who are activley tied to it. Anthony, and a few others I don't think I've met. As my eyes close, blood trickles down my nose* Damn it!

"Easy there, my dear Jackson."

*She reached out and dabbed the blood away with her sleeve, gently holding his face as she did so.*

"You good?"

*I back away, breaking the contact* Easy there, a couple of my powers work through touch, and those are the ones I can't control too well.

*I wipe the last bit of blood away with my sleeve* I'm fine, it happens sometimes when I use my powers, mainly when I'm searching for something that really doesn't want to be seen, or if I've been home too long.

*Embry gave a thumbs up, and Evelyn smiled, pulling on a bit of her hair.*

"I'm sorry. It was force of habit. Your reaction from just a bit ago means bad news, I take it?"

The Entity and me ain't very buddy buddy, thats all. I saw Three people I don't know, Anthony, and Helm. I bet one was glory.

"Has to be. That leaves one person we both don't know, because one is Naga and the other.. well, the other could be me."

no, it wasn't either of you. I saw Ms.Naga in the infirmary, this is a lot stronger

*She nodded, weary.*

"So what could it be, then? The Manager, since they've had so much contact with it? Hell, maybe it slipped past the wards. That wouldn't surprise me."

Only way to know is to talk to them, because it definitely ain't dad.

"Mmm. No. Do you have any idea at all about who it may be?"

No? Why not?

"Well, not 'no' as in 'no, we're not talking to them', but 'no' as in 'there is a possibility what you felt could be them'. That's something we've just talked about, I'm aware, but.. I don't know. They're the only thing I can think of that might have a large trace of the entity."

I saw them, The Manager, your wife, all the people the entity has touched, but for those who got it tangled up in their soul? They look different, it's stronger, deeper. It doesn't cling, it embeds itself in them.

"It'd be better to speak to your dad about this, as you suggested, because I've had too much on my plate recently to pay attention to such things."

"...Logistical question. Do we think people that die but come back completely normal count as bein' undead?"

Dad put me on this track, asked me to look into it while he and Rosa try to end things with the Entity itself. I was hoping you might know more if you knew Glory.

And uh... I really ain't sure. I think my mama would smack me 'cross the head if I called Jesus a zombiet

"I do know a bit more, though not in regards to who's connected to it. That's out of my wheelhouse, I'm afraid, and Glory isn't keen on talking about it. Now, Embry, what in the world was that question related to?"

"I was thinkin' if that big energy source or whatever counted as bein' undead or somethin', I could do one of my things and turn it. Y'know. Scare it away from me and reveal it."

"That is a good idea, but we're back to square one without knowing if they could be called undead."

"Yea. Shucks."

Who died?!

"No one! Yet. I don't think."

"To clarify, the entity keeps its favorites alive. If they were considered to be undead, Embry could do something to cause fear in said favorites. That could be a way to reveal who or what the big source of energy you felt was."

I get it now. One of the few things I can't see is whether someone is dead or alive. But I ain't keen on hurtin' someone who is also a victim in all of this, even if it's just a scare

*They find him and start beaming.*

“Jackson! Welcome back!”

*they wrapped him in a hug then looked to Selena.*

“Ah, hello. Are you alright?”

*I look at my untucked pants with a frown.* ...Doctors orders.

“Only in tall grass. Don’t get all fussy.”

's just uncomfortable 's all.

“Y’know what’s more uncomfortable?”

*she leaned close to him.*

“Lyme disease.”

I know! I know!

“You’re just lucky you don’t live in Egypt.”

I'm almost scared to ask...

“It’s mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are essential and needed and terrible for us.”

Mosquitos were one of the worst parts of Georgia, I'll have you know. they're bigger than horse flies down there!

“Yup. Now imagine you go to a large river and there are millions of them.”

I can feel myself choking already. Point taken

“Exactly. Now, can you go ahead and stretch her leg out?”

Here ya go *I extend the non-amputated leg out*

*Daisy gently got the shots ready and put them in, gently dabbing the blood off after every one with a cotton swab.*

it looks so easy from the outside

I told ya about that time a bush pricked me and I was stuck in some pretty nasty hallucinations, right? Back in the bunker?

Ain't scared of thorns though.

“Well then that’s your own fault.”

I know, I know. Taught me to keep an eye out for that plant in the future too

“Good.”

*she finished the last injection on Selena.*

“There we go. All done.”

*I scratch between the sleeping pups ears* What a brave girl you were!

“She was asleep.”

I could not care any less. She's been very brave.

“Sure. Are you ready to be very brave?”

No, but that ain't changing.

“If you say so.”

*I sit back up on the bed* I just wanna get it over with at this point.

“I can do that.”

What's the next one?

“Cholera.”

Alright. *I look away again*

*she gave it to him.*

*I shake my arm out after that one* Alright... how many more?

“How about I just give them to you until we’re done?”

Sounds good to me. Just tell me what they're for as you do please?

“Of course. The next ones are Diptheria, Dysentery, Yellow fever, and Typhoid flu.”

No chance you can't just stick all four in at the same time?

“No. And also, I’m going to put the next ones in your other arm.”

*A small relief, this one might not be happy with me after* Sounds good to me. *I roll up the other shoulder*

*she went to the other side and gave him all the shots.*

I'm immune to everything now, right?

*I never want to do this AGAIN*

“Uh… some things. Only the ones that kill you. And you will need a yearly flu shot. And I do really want an allergy screening for you. Plus, we have to worry about 2020.”

Doctors orders are doctors orders, but that's a good 136 years off from me, I don't think we need to look that far into the future.

“Sure, but it’s an example. There are many other epidemics you’ll need to be ready for.”

Sounds like a bridge better burned when we get to it.

and... we already know I'm allergic to peanuts.

“Mhm. But you could be allergic to a bunch of other stuff too.”

Wouldn't I've figured it out by now?

“I don’t know, have you ever had an anticonvulsant?”

Smaller words please?

“Have you ever had a medication made to stop a seizure?”

Oh, then no.

“Exactly. I’m gonna have you rest for a few days because your arms are gonna need some rest, but I wanna do an allergy panel.”

Yes ma'am.

“Good. Now, go make sure your dog isn’t gonna cry when she wakes up and her legs don’t really work.”

*I cross my legs on the table, and pull Selena into my arms* I'll be right here for her when she does, don't worry.

...Do JJ and Angie need shots too?

“Oh I gave them their shots. Angie needs a hoof checkup though, I’ll get on that tomorrow.”

Ain't no need for that. I re-shoed her before me and Luci left Westport.

“Alright. In that case I’ll just make sure her shed is okay.”

Just to be safe.

“And because you probably don’t have the fancy steel comb brushes.”

I'll have you know that when it comes to Angie, it's only the best.

I know her tack looks old, but it's only because the one time I tried replacing it, she bit me. Learned my lesson then and there

“Oh I’m sure. I say that because the brushes I have would be incredibly expensive.”

“Absolutely. Go to bed, I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Not till Selena wakes up.

*Daisy smiled.*

“Sounds right.”

*I scratch behind her ears as she slowly starts to come up from the drugs, dazed and whining* Hey there baby, its okay, you're okay...

*Daisy gently soothed the fur on her side.*

“Shhh, shhh. You’re such a brave girl.”

“Mm. Poor thing is in pain. It’ll go away soon.”

It'll be sore for a bit, but don't ya worry.

Sometimes it'll feel like it's... still there.

*Daisy put her hand on Jackson’s shoulder.*

“But you’ll be able to sense the rain.”

Is it normal, it hurtin' when it ain't even there?

“It’s a symptom most people experience, yes. Though, I myself only know what Oliver’s told me.”

*Selena is finally calming down, leaning against me and panting heavily while I stroke her coarse fur*

Least I know it ain't a unique problem. Thanks. I was a but worried and didn't have no one who'd be able to tell me

“No, it’s normal. Your nerves think the leg is supposed to be there, and register it not being there as an open wound.”