RO POVs Disenchanted

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<<nobr>> <<set $gamechapter to "Selection Menu">> //Choose your character:// <div class="choice">[[Viktor's POV: Bringing You Home (Pre-Game)|Viktor Pre-Game]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Luci's POV: Watching You Leave (Pre-Game)|Luci Pre-Game]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Cameron's POV: This Feels Targeted (Chapter One)|Cameron Ch 1]]</div> <</nobr>> Insert achievements here<<link "Info">> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Info"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Info").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>> <</link>> by Dakota Smith Disenchanted RO POVs The other side of the story...<<set $gamechapter to "Selection Menu">> <<set $name to "">> <<set $charliename to "Unknown">> <<set $charlie_isfemale to false>> <<set $charlie_ismale to false>> <<set $charlie_malefemale to "">> <<set $charlie_manwoman to "">> <<set $charlie_menwomen to "">> <<set $charlie_boygirl to "">> <<set $charlie_sondaughter to "">> <<set $charlie_capsondaughter to "">> <<set $charlie_fathermother to "">> <<set $charlie_brothersister to "">> <<set $charlie_husbandwife to "">> <<set $charlie_heshe to "">> <<set $charlie_hisher to "">> <<set $charlie_himher to "">> <<set $charlie_hesshes to "">> <<set $charlie_caphisher to "">> <<set $charlie_capheshe to "">> <<set $charlie_caphesshes to "">> <<set $charlie_himherself to "">> <<set $luciname to "Unknown">> <<set $luci_isfemale to false>> <<set $luci_ismale to false>> <<set $luci_malefemale to "">> <<set $luci_manwoman to "">> <<set $luci_menwomen to "">> <<set $luci_boygirl to "">> <<set $luci_sondaughter to "">> <<set $luci_capsondaughter to "">> <<set $luci_fathermother to "">> <<set $luci_brothersister to "">> <<set $luci_husbandwife to "">> <<set $luci_heshe to "">> <<set $luci_hisher to "">> <<set $luci_himher to "">> <<set $luci_hesshes to "">> <<set $luci_capheshe to "">> <<set $luci_caphisher to "">> <<set $aminame to "Unknown">> <<set $ami_isfemale to false>> <<set $ami_ismale to false>> <<set $ami_malefemale to "">> <<set $ami_manwoman to "">> <<set $ami_menwomen to "">> <<set $ami_boygirl to "">> <<set $ami_sondaughter to "">> <<set $ami_capsondaughter to "">> <<set $ami_fathermother to "">> <<set $ami_brothersister to "">> <<set $ami_husbandwife to "">> <<set $ami_heshe to "">> <<set $ami_hisher to "">> <<set $ami_himher to "">> <<set $ami_hesshes to "">> <<set $ami_capheshe to "">> <<set $ami_caphisher to "">> <<set $ami_hesshes to "">> <<set $theoname to "Unknown">> <<set $theo_isfemale to false>> <<set $theo_ismale to false>> <<set $theo_malefemale to "">> <<set $theo_manwoman to "">> <<set $theo_menwomen to "">> <<set $theo_boygirl to "">> <<set $theo_sondaughter to "">> <<set $theo_capsondaughter to "">> <<set $theo_fathermother to "">> <<set $theo_brothersister to "">> <<set $theo_husbandwife to "">> <<set $theo_heshe to "">> <<set $theo_capheshe to "">> <<set $theo_hisher to "">> <<set $theo_himher to "">> <<set $theo_hesshes to "">> <<set $theo_capheshe to "">> <<set $theo_caphisher to "">> <<set $theo_mrms to "">> <<set $averyname to "Unknown">> <<set $avery_isfemale to false>> <<set $avery_ismale to false>> <<set $avery_malefemale to "">> <<set $avery_manwoman to "">> <<set $avery_menwomen to "">> <<set $avery_boygirl to "">> <<set $avery_sondaughter to "">> <<set $avery_capsondaughter to "">> <<set $avery_fathermother to "">> <<set $avery_brothersister to "">> <<set $avery_husbandwife to "">> <<set $avery_heshe to "">> <<set $avery_hisher to "">> <<set $avery_himher to "">> <<set $avery_hesshes to "">> <<set $wraithname to "Unknown">> <<set $wraith_isfemale to false>> <<set $wraith_ismale to false>> <<set $wraith_malefemale to "">> <<set $wraith_manwoman to "">> <<set $wraith_menwomen to "">> <<set $wraith_boygirl to "">> <<set $wraith_sondaughter to "">> <<set $wraith_capsondaughter to "">> <<set $wraith_fathermother to "">> <<set $wraith_brothersister to "">> <<set $wraith_husbandwife to "">> <<set $wraith_heshe to "">> <<set $wraith_hisher to "">> <<set $wraith_himher to "">> <<set $wraith_hesshes to "">> <<set $wraith_capheshe to "">> <<set $wraith_caphisher to "">> <<set $wraith_hesshes to "">> <<set $cameronname to "Unknown">> <<set $cameron_isfemale to false>> <<set $cameron_ismale to false>> <<set $cameron_isnonbinary to false>> <<set $cameron_malefemalenb to "">> <<set $cameron_manwomannb to "">> <<set $cameron_menwomennb to "">> <<set $cameron_boygirlperson to "">> <<set $cameron_sondaughterchild to "">> <<set $cameron_capsondaughterchild to "">> <<set $cameron_fathermotherparent to "">> <<set $cameron_brothersistersibling to "">> <<set $cameron_husbandwifespouse to "">> <<set $cameron_heshethey to "">> <<set $cameron_hishertheir to "">> <<set $cameron_himherthem to "">> <<set $cameron_hesshestheyre to "">> <<set $cameron_capheshethey to "">> <<set $harlowname to "Unknown">> <<set $harlow_isfemale to false>> <<set $harlow_ismale to false>> <<set $harlow_isnonbinary to false>> <<set $harlow_malefemalenb to "">> <<set $harlow_manwomannb to "">> <<set $harlow_menwomennb to "">> <<set $harlow_boygirlperson to "">> <<set $harlow_sondaughterchild to "">> <<set $harlow_capsondaughterchild to "">> <<set $harlow_fathermotherparent to "">> <<set $harlow_brothersistersibling to "">> <<set $harlow_husbandwifespouse to "">> <<set $harlow_heshethey to "">> <<set $harlow_hishertheir to "">> <<set $harlow_himherthem to "">> <<set $harlow_hesshestheyre to "">> <<set $harlow_capheshe to "">> <<set $harlow_caphisher to "">> <<set $mor_hisher to "">> <<set $mor_heshe to "">> <<set $mor_capheshe to "">> <<set $mor_hishers to "">> <<set $mor_caphisher to "">> <<set $mor_himher to "">> <<set $lucirelationship to "">><<widget "are">><<switch $plural>><<case true>>are<<case false>>is<</switch>><</widget>> <<widget "were">><<switch $plural>><<case true>>were<<case false>>was<</switch>><</widget>> <<widget "s">><<switch $plural>><<case true>><<case false>>s<</switch>><</widget>><span class="foo">$gamechapter</span><a href="https://www.motoslave.net/sugarcube/2/docs/">My Patreon</a> Thank you for all your support! It means the world <3//Configure the story below:// Cameron is <<listbox "$cameron_malefemalenb" autoselect>> [<<option "male">> <<option "female">> <<option "nonbinary">> <</listbox>>, and Luci is <<listbox "$luci_malefemale" autoselect>> [<<option "male">> <<option "female">> <</listbox>>. [[Continue to story...|cam one]]<<nobr>> <<if $luci_malefemale is "female">> <<set $luciname to "Lucia">> <<set $luci_isfemale to true>> <<set $luci_malefemale to "female">> <<set $luci_manwoman to "woman">> <<set $luci_menwomen to "women">> <<set $luci_boygirl to "girl">> <<set $luci_sondaughter to "daughter">> <<set $luci_capsondaughter to "Daughter">> <<set $luci_fathermother to "mother">> <<set $luci_brothersister to "sister">> <<set $luci_husbandwife to "wife">> <<set $luci_heshe to "she">> <<set $luci_hisher to "her">> <<set $luci_himher to "her">> <<set $luci_hesshes to "she's">> <<set $luci_capheshe to "She">> <<set $luci_caphisher to "Her">> <<else>> <<set $luciname to "Lucien">> <<set $luci_ismale to true>> <<set $luci_malefemale to "male">> <<set $luci_manwoman to "man">> <<set $luci_menwomen to "men">> <<set $luci_boygirl to "boy">> <<set $luci_sondaughter to "son">> <<set $luci_capsondaughter to "Son">> <<set $luci_fathermother to "father">> <<set $luci_brothersister to "brother">> <<set $luci_husbandwife to "husband">> <<set $luci_heshe to "he">> <<set $luci_hisher to "his">> <<set $luci_himher to "him">> <<set $luci_hesshes to "he's">> <<set $luci_capheshe to "He">> <<set $luci_caphisher to "His">> <</if>> <<if $cameron_malefemalenb is "male">> <<set $gamechapter to "Cameron Fletcher: <br> This Feels Targeted">> <div class="centered-image"> [img[images/malecam1.png]] </div> <<set $cameronname to "Cameron">> <<set $cameron_ismale to true>> <<set $cameron_malefemalenb to "male">> <<set $cameron_manwomannb to "man">> <<set $cameron_menwomennb to "men">> <<set $cameron_boygirlperson to "boy">> <<set $cameron_sondaughterchild to "son">> <<set $cameron_capsondaughterchild to "Son">> <<set $cameron_fathermotherparent to "father">> <<set $cameron_brothersistersibling to "brother">> <<set $cameron_husbandwifespouse to "husband">> <<set $cameron_heshethey to "he">> <<set $cameron_hishertheir to "his">> <<set $cameron_himherthem to "him">> <<set $cameron_hesshestheyre to "he's">> <<set $cameron_capheshethey to "He">> <<set $cameron_caphishertheir to "His">> <br> <<elseif $cameron_malefemalenb is "female">> <<set $gamechapter to "Cameron Fletcher: <br> This Feels Targeted">> <div class="centered-image"> [img[images/femcam1.png]] </div> <<set $cameronname to "Cameron">> <<set $cameron_isfemale to true>> <<set $cameron_malefemalenb to "female">> <<set $cameron_manwomannb to "woman">> <<set $cameron_menwomennb to "women">> <<set $cameron_boygirlperson to "girl">> <<set $cameron_sondaughterchild to "daughter">> <<set $cameron_capsondaughterchild to "Daughter">> <<set $cameron_fathermotherparent to "mother">> <<set $cameron_brothersistersibling to "sister">> <<set $cameron_husbandwifespouse to "wife">> <<set $cameron_heshethey to "she">> <<set $cameron_hishertheir to "her">> <<set $cameron_himherthem to "her">> <<set $cameron_hesshestheyre to "she's">> <<set $cameron_capheshethey to "She">> <<set $cameron_caphishertheir to "Her">> <<else>> <<set $gamechapter to "Cameron Fletcher: <br> This Feels Targeted">> <div class="centered-image"> [img[images/nbcam1.png]] </div> <<set $cameronname to "Cameron">> <<set $cameron_isnonbinary to true>> <<set $cameron_malefemalenb to "nonbinary">> <<set $cameron_manwomannb to "person">> <<set $cameron_menwomennb to "people">> <<set $cameron_boygirlperson to "child">> <<set $cameron_sondaughterchild to "child">> <<set $cameron_capsondaughterchild to "Child">> <<set $cameron_fathermotherparent to "parent">> <<set $cameron_brothersistersibling to "sibling">> <<set $cameron_husbandwifespouse to "spouse">> <<set $cameron_heshethey to "they">> <<set $cameron_hishertheir to "their">> <<set $cameron_himherthem to "them">> <<set $cameron_hesshestheyre to "they're">> <<set $cameron_capheshethey to "They">> <<set $cameron_caphishertheir to "Their">> <br> <</if>> The first sign that something is horribly wrong is definitely seeing $cameron_hishertheir best friend vomiting into a potted plant. <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> “Are you okay?” Cameron whispers as they kneel down, placing a hesitant hand on $luciname’s shoulder, “Were you poisoned? Was it your mom?” <<else>> “Are you okay?” Cameron whispers as $cameron_heshethey kneels down, placing a hesitant hand on $luciname’s shoulder, “Were you poisoned? Was it your mom?” <</if>> <br><br> As expected, $cameron_heshethey got a small huff of laughter from the downed nephilim. <br><br> “No, my mother wouldn’t make my death ambiguous.” $luci_capheshe mutters, grimacing at the likely acidic taste in his mouth, “She’d want me to be sure it was her.” <br><br> “Okay, that got dark quicker than usual. I hate to be that guy, but you look rough.” Cameron sighs, “What’s goin’ on, buddy? Let me help.” <br><br> $luciname just grimaces, reality apparently crashing back into $luci_himher as $luci_heshe makes to stand, “I just…you can’t help. I can’t help. No one can help.” <br><br> “See, you say that a lot, like when you got that funky ass haircut right before graduation. And guess what?” Cameron reasons, “You were fine.” <br><br> “You still didn’t help,” $luci_caphisher eyebrow twitches in annoyance, “We just hid the side bangs under my cap.” <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> “It was fixed,” They retroactively defend their advice, pointing at where $luciname’s hair is still a little shorter in the front, “And it’s grown out! Look on the bright side, gloomy.” <<else>> “It was fixed,” $cameron_capheshethey retroactively defends $cameron_hishertheir advice, pointing at where $luciname’s hair is still a little shorter in the front, “And it’s grown out! Look on the bright side, gloomy.” <</if>> <br><br> $luci_capheshe shoves Cameron’s finger away, $luci_hisher face dark, “This isn’t just an awful haircut. Someone is…” <br><br> $luciname looks away, $luci_hisher jaw clenching as if $luci_hesshes trying to physically hold back $luci_hisher nausea. Cameron stills, dropping $cameron_hishertheir hand back to $cameron_hishertheir side. Serious concern begins to bloom in the very pit of $cameron_hishertheir stomach. <br><br> “You’re making me worried,” Cameron says quietly. <br><br> “Don’t worry,” $luciname says morosely, slowly getting to $luci_hisher feet, “It won’t change anything.” <br><br> Holy hell. Cameron really does love $luci_himher, that’s $cameron_hishertheir best friend, after all. However, occasionally, whenever $luciname decides to be a cryptic ass, the sorcerer definitely feels like shaking $luci_himher until $luci_heshe listens to sense. <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> Standing slowly, Cameron watches $luciname rush away on unsteady feet. Tonight is almost certainly going to be rough, one way or another. Running a hand through their hair, they look around at where the set up for Weekend of Welcome is nearly done. Soon it’ll be in full swing, other freshmen packing into the Student Center, and it looks like Cameron’s going it alone. <br><br> Per usual, they think with a rough sigh. $luciname is a good friend, really, but $luci_heshe gets so inside $luci_hisher own head and then Cameron is left to flounder on their own when $luci_heshe runs off like this. It’s not like the so-called Chosen One has any other friends, or wants anymore to begin with. <br><br> <<else>> Standing slowly, Cameron watches $luciname rush away on unsteady feet. Tonight is almost certainly going to be rough, one way or another. Running a hand through $cameron_hishertheir hair, $cameron_heshethey looks around at where the set up for Weekend of Welcome is nearly done. Soon it’ll be in full swing, other freshmen packing into the Student Center, and it looks like Cameron’s going it alone. <br><br> Per usual, $cameron_heshethey thinks with a rough sigh. $luciname is a good friend, really, but $luci_heshe gets so inside $luci_hisher own head and then Cameron is left to flounder on $cameron_hishertheir own when $luci_heshe runs off like this. It’s not like the so-called Chosen One has any other friends, or wants anymore to begin with. <br><br> <</if>> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> [[Are they pathetic? Maybe. Almost certainly, in truth.|see you]] <<elseif $cameron_ismale is true>> [[Is he patheic? Maybe. Almost certainly, in truth.|see you]] <<else>> [[Is she patheic? Maybe. Almost certainly, in truth.|see you]] <</if>> <</nobr>><<nobr>> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They need to get this table set up so they, too, can flee at the first opportunity. God forbid they don’t finish their work; they definitely saw cameras earlier, and they really don’t want to end up on a splash page tomorrow reading about how lazy they is. <br><br> That’s when they see you. <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey needs to get this table set up so $cameron_heshethey, too, can flee at the first opportunity. God forbid $cameron_heshethey don’t finish $cameron_hishertheir work; $cameron_heshethey definitely saw cameras earlier, and $cameron_heshethey really doesn’t want to end up on a splash page tomorrow reading about how lazy $cameron_heshethey is. <br><br> That’s when $cameron_heshethey sees you. <</if>> <br><br> Pale, staggering, rushing through a crowd with a mindless sort of panic clouding your eyes. What are the chances that both you and $luciname are having unrelated breakdowns? If <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they know their <<else>> $cameron_heshethey knows $cameron_hishertheir <</if>> best friend as well as he thinks he does, the answer is slim to none. <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They step <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey steps <</if>> forward right as you break away from the thick of people, reaching a hand out to gently pull you to the side. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They hear <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey hears <</if>> your quickened breath, the panicked cadence proving just how frightened you truly are. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They go <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey goes <</if>> to say something, but any words $cameron_heshethey might have forced out are knocked right back in. Pain blooms across $cameron_hishertheir nose and mouth, and <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they see <<else>> $cameron_heshethey sees <</if>> stars for a brief moment as <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they release <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey releases <</if>> you and staggers back. <br><br> <<if $cameron_ismale is true>> <div class="choice">[[You just elbowed him in the face.|fightorflight]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Your panic had you shoving him right into the brick wall.|fightorflight]]</div> <<elseif $cameron_isnonbinary>> <div class="choice">[[You just elbowed them in the face.|fightorflight]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Your panic had you shoving them right into the brick wall.|fightorflight]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice">[[You just elbowed her in the face.|fightorflight]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Your panic had you shoving her right into the brick wall.|fightorflight]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>><<nobr>> “Fuck!” <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They yelp <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey yelps <</if>> sharply, bringing a hand to $cameron_hishertheir face. <br><br> Cameron blinks away the sudden dizziness, tasting blood in $cameron_hishertheir mouth. Honestly, $cameron_hesshestheyre surprised you didn’t knock a tooth out. Between this and fucking Parker kneecapping $cameron_himherthem, $cameron_hesshestheyre starting to feel really targeted. Then again, that doesn’t serve as much of a surprise. The guilt that curls in $cameron_hishertheir chest every time <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they lay <<else>> $cameron_heshethey lays <</if>> eyes on you whispers that $cameron_heshethey might even deserve it. <br><br> Glancing up at you, <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they see <<else>> $cameron_heshethey sees <</if>> your eyes clear as <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they bring <<else>> $cameron_heshethey brings <</if>> a glowing hand to $cameron_hishertheir face, the soothing chill of healing magic washing over the pain. The heavy rivulets of blood slowly stem, but $cameron_heshethey can feel the tackiness of it drying on $cameron_hishertheir hands and face. <br><br> You pale as you watch $cameron_himherthem, looking for all the world like you’re ten seconds from upchucking at $cameron_hishertheir feet. $cameron_caphishertheir heart skips, and <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they really don't <<else>> $cameron_heshethey really doesn't <</if>> want to deal with any more vomit today. <br><br> “Hey, It’s fine.” <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They wave <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey waves <</if>> a dismissive hand, “I’m fine, calm down.” <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They are <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey is <</if>>, in fact, waving with $cameron_hishertheir blood covered hand. Fucking idiot, <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they curse at their own stupidity <<else>> $cameron_heshethey curses at $cameron_hishertheir own stupidity <</if>>, quickly pulling it from your view. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[That’s when you oh-so-kindly point out the broken nose.|cam's nose is crooked nice]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Are you…? Yeah, you’re mocking the nose you broke.|cam's nose is crooked mock em]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You say nothing, your eyes darting away from him immediately.|ignore the nose]]</div> <</nobr>> <<nobr>> You wince, gesturing at $cameron_hishertheir face, "I think you, uh...messed it up a little bit." <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They freeze, blinking, their hands rushing up to prod at their nose gingerly. <br><br> Heaving a sigh, they feel a very strong urge to go and find a hole to crawl in, "Yeah...Yeah, I did." <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey freezes, blinking, $cameron_hishertheir hands rushing up to prod at $cameron_hishertheir nose gingerly. <br><br> Heaving a sigh, $cameron_heshethey feels a very strong urge to go and find a hole to crawl in, "Yeah...Yeah, I did." <</if>> <br><br> You’re obviously still shaky as <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they look <<else>> $cameron_heshethey looks <</if>> at you, residual fear from whatever had spooked you still rushing through your body with a vengeance. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They swallow <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey swallows <</if>>, not wanting to pry but also wanting desperately to know if you’re okay. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> Do they <<else>> Does $cameron_heshethey <</if>> even have that right? You were never friends, in truth. $cameron_capheshethey had lost $cameron_hishertheir entire life and then stole yours right out from under you all in one breath. <br><br> “Are you okay?” <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They finally work <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey finally works <</if>> up the nerve to ask, resisting the urge to fiddle with the sleeves of $cameron_hishertheir sweater. <br><br> You just wrap your arms around yourself, your eyes suddenly guarded. $cameron_capheshethey could practically see the moment your walls went up. <br><br> “Why did you grab me?” You ask in turn, disregarding $cameron_hishertheir question. <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They suppose <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey suppose <</if>> a non-answer is, in and of itself, an answer. <br><br> "I found $luciname puking in a potted plant over in the corner by the bathrooms." <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They shrug <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey shrugs <</if>> slightly, "I just figured it had something to do with you." <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They feel <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey feels <</if>> a bit guilty, throwing $cameron_hishertheir best friend under the bus like that, but that’s what $luciname gets for ditching $cameron_himherthem. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You visibly falter, as if caught up on the information.|luci was puking? nice]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, your words suddenly cold, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam nice]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, not letting much about how you feel escape.|let cam talk nice]]</div> <</nobr>><<nobr>> You snicker shamelessly right in front of $cameron_himherthem, and shame washes over $cameron_himherthem in waves. What, had $cameron_heshethey thought your panic was out of concern for $cameron_himherthem? Foolishness. <br><br> Any fear on your face flees as amusement floods in, your mocking grating on what little nerves <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they have <<else>> $cameron_heshethey has <</if>> left, “I think you messed it up a little bit.” <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They feel <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey feels <</if>> the way $cameron_hishertheir shoulders slump, all the concern $cameron_heshethey had felt for you turning to exhaustion. Why did $cameron_heshethey think this was a good idea? $cameron_caphishertheir own guilt? You don’t want anything to do with $cameron_himherthem, you've made that clear over and over again. Were the busted knees not enough of a message? <br><br> "Yeah, you're fine alright." <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They sigh <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey sighs <</if>> heavily, feeling some fragile thing in $cameron_hishertheir chest crack a little bit more. <br><br> "Need to break it again to heal it right?" You ask, your lips twitching up into a smirk, "I'll volunteer." <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They jolt <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey jolts <</if>>, rushing to cover $cameron_hishertheir face. Stupid of $cameron_himherthem to do; it only made the laughter in your eyes more obvious. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They feel <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey feels <</if>> like $cameron_hesshestheyre swallowing poison as <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they look <<else>> $cameron_heshethey looks <</if>> away. <br><br> “No,” <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They say <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey says <</if>> finally, “I don’t think I need to do that.” <br><br> Your eyes narrow then, your amusement vanishing into thin air as something cold and wary rears in its place, “Then answer this. Why did you grab me?” <br><br> "I found $luciname puking in a potted plant over in the corner by the bathrooms." <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They shrug <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey shrugs <</if>> slightly, "I just figured it had something to do with you." <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They feel <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey feels <</if>> a bit guilty, throwing $cameron_hishertheir best friend under the bus like that, but that’s what $luciname gets for ditching $cameron_himherthem. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They just want <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey just wants <</if>> out of this situation as quickly as possible and preferably without getting maimed again. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You visibly falter, as if caught up on the information.|luci was puking? mean]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, your words cold, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, not letting much about how you feel escape.|let cam talk mean]]</div> <</nobr>><<nobr>> You’re obviously still shaky as <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they look <<else>> $cameron_heshethey looks <</if>> at you, residual fear from whatever had spooked you still rushing through your body with a vengeance. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They swallow <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey swallows <</if>>, not wanting to pry but also wanting desperately to know if you’re okay. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> Do they <<else>> Does $cameron_heshethey <</if>> even have that right? You were never friends, in truth. $cameron_capheshethey had lost $cameron_hishertheir entire life and then stole yours right out from under you all in one breath. <br><br> “Are you okay?” <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They finally work <<else>> $cameron_hcapheshethey finally works <</if>> up the nerve to ask, resisting the urge to fiddle with the sleeves of $cameron_hishertheir sweater. <br><br> You just wrap your arms around yourself, your eyes suddenly guarded. $cameron_capheshethey could practically see the moment your walls went up. <br><br> “Why did you grab me?” You ask in turn, disregarding $cameron_hishertheir question. <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They suppose <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey suppose <</if>> a non-answer is, in and of itself, an answer. <br><br> "I found $luciname puking in a potted plant over in the corner by the bathrooms." <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They shrug <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey shrugs <</if>> slightly, "I just figured it had something to do with you." <br><br> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They feel <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey feels <</if>> a bit guilty, throwing $cameron_hishertheir best friend under the bus like that, but that’s what $luciname gets for ditching $cameron_himherthem. <br><br> <div class="choice">[[You visibly falter, as if caught up on the information.|luci was puking? nice]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You turn, your words suddenly cold, "Too bad it's none of your business."|leave cam nice]]</div> <div class="choice">[[You tense, not letting much about how you feel escape.|let cam talk nice]]</div><<nobr>> "$luciname..." Your voice catches on the name, your lips pursed, "$luciname was puking? In a potted plant?" <br><br> Cameron picks up on the concern immediately. You’re obviously fragile right now, though, and <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they aren't <<else>> $cameron_heshethey isn't <</if>> sure if this is a burden $cameron_heshethey should share. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They care <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey cares <</if>> about $luciname, obviously, but you’ve never been cruel to $cameron_himherthem. <br><br> $cameron_capheshethey can’t distress you any more today. <br><br> "$luci_capheshe didn't say much... I just don't see $luci_himher that messed up unless..." <br><br> "Unless?" You ask quietly, "Unless what?" <br><br> "I shouldn't have..." <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They shake their <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey shakes $cameron_hishertheir <</if>> head, "I shouldn't have bothered you. I'm sorry, for what it's worth." <br><br> You don’t ask what $cameron_hesshestheyre sorry for. That’s good, because if $cameron_heshethey truly started apologizing to you for everything that twists in $cameron_hishertheir gut, <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they don't <<else>> $cameron_heshethey doesn't <</if>> think <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they'd <<elseif $cameron_ismale>> he'd <<else>> she'd <</if>> ever stop. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They turn <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey turns <</if>> on $cameron_hishertheir heel, feeling like a coward as <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they rush <<else>> $cameron_heshethey rushes <</if>> away. <br><br> Fuck Weekend of Welcome. Fuck finishing that stupid table. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They don't <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey doesn't <</if>> even care if they do an expose on how worthless <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they are <<else>> $cameron_heshethey is <</if>>, $cameron_heshethey just <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> want <<else>> wants <</if>> to get back to $cameron_hishertheir dorm and get an ice pack out of the freezer. Maybe, if $cameron_heshethey <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> feel <<else>> feels <</if>> spitful, throw some Pizza Rolls in the oven just to see the horror on $luciname’s face. <br><br> <<if $cameron_ismale is true>> [[Only his roommate isn’t there when he gets back. He’d been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <<elseif $cameron_isnonbinary>> [[Only their roommate isn’t there when they get back. They'd been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <<else>> [[Only her roommate isn’t there when she gets back. She’d been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <</if>> <</nobr>><<nobr>> The sudden shift leaves $cameron_himherthem shocked, sputtering as <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they try <<else>> $cameron_heshethey tries <</if>> to rush a few words out, watching you leave swiftly with wide eyes. You...you confuse the shit out of $cameron_himherthem. It makes sense, suddenly, that you and $luciname used to be thick as thieves. <br><br> If anyone could give $cameron_himherthem a headache, it was the two of you. <br><br> Fuck Weekend of Welcome. Fuck finishing that stupid table. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They don't <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey doesn't <</if>> even care if they do an expose on how worthless <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they are <<else>> $cameron_heshethey is <</if>>, $cameron_heshethey just <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> want <<else>> wants <</if>> to get back to $cameron_hishertheir dorm and get an ice pack out of the freezer. Maybe, if $cameron_heshethey <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> feel <<else>> feels <</if>> spitful, throw some Pizza Rolls in the oven just to see the horror on $luciname’s face. <br><br> <<if $cameron_ismale is true>> [[Only his roommate isn’t there when he gets back. He’d been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <<elseif $cameron_isnonbinary>> [[Only their roommate isn’t there when they get back. They'd been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <<else>> [[Only her roommate isn’t there when she gets back. She’d been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <</if>> <</nobr>><<nobr>> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They bite <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey bites <</if>> at $cameron_hishertheir lip nervously, unsure how to take your silence. You’re fragile right now, $cameron_heshethey can tell that much, and while <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they worry <<else>> $cameron_heshethey worries <</if>> about $luciname… <br><br> You, perhaps, don’t need that burden right now. <br><br> "$luci_capheshe didn't say much... I just don't see $luci_himher that messed up unless..." <br><br> "Unless?" You ask quietly, "Unless what?" <br><br> "I shouldn't have..." <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They shake their <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey shakes $cameron_hishertheir <</if>> head, "I shouldn't have bothered you. I'm sorry, for what it's worth." <br><br> You don’t ask what $cameron_hesshestheyre sorry for. That’s good, because if $cameron_heshethey truly started apologizing to you for everything that twists in $cameron_hishertheir gut, <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they don't <<else>> $cameron_heshethey doesn't <</if>> think <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they'd <<elseif $cameron_ismale>> he'd <<else>> she'd <</if>> ever stop. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They turn <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey turns <</if>> on $cameron_hishertheir heel, feeling like a coward as <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they rush <<else>> $cameron_heshethey rushes <</if>> away. <br><br> Fuck Weekend of Welcome. Fuck finishing that stupid table. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They don't <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey doesn't <</if>> even care if they do an expose on how worthless <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they are <<else>> $cameron_heshethey is <</if>>, $cameron_heshethey just <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> want <<else>> wants <</if>> to get back to $cameron_hishertheir dorm and get an ice pack out of the freezer. Maybe, if $cameron_heshethey <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> feel <<else>> feels <</if>> spitful, throw some Pizza Rolls in the oven just to see the horror on $luciname’s face. <br><br> <<if $cameron_ismale is true>> [[Only his roommate isn’t there when he gets back. He’d been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <<elseif $cameron_isnonbinary>> [[Only their roommate isn’t there when they get back. They'd been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <<else>> [[Only her roommate isn’t there when she gets back. She’d been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <</if>> <</nobr>><<nobr>> "$luciname..." Your voice catches curiously on the name, "$luciname was puking? In a potted plant?" <br><br> Cameron’s head tilts ever so slightly in confusion. Well, <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they suppose <<else>> $cameron_heshethey supposes <</if>> no one can say you don’t contain multitudes. How quickly you go from spiteful to begrudgingly concerned should honestly be studied. Still, <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they hesitate <<else>> $cameron_heshethey hesitates <</if>> to say anything more. <br><br> Is it really a good idea for you to know how fragile the nephilim is at present? <br><br> "$luci_capheshe didn't say much... I just don't see $luci_himher that messed up unless..." <br><br> "Unless?" You ask sharply, "Unless what?" <br><br> "I shouldn't have..." <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They shake their <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey shakes $cameron_hishertheir <</if>> head, "I shouldn't have bothered you. I'm sorry, for what it's worth." <br><br> You don’t ask what $cameron_hesshestheyre sorry for. That’s good, because if $cameron_heshethey truly started apologizing to you for everything that twists in $cameron_hishertheir gut, <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they don't <<else>> $cameron_heshethey doesn't <</if>> think <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they'd <<elseif $cameron_ismale>> he'd <<else>> she'd <</if>> ever stop. Maybe the worst part is that <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they know <<else>> $cameron_heshethey knows <</if>> you wouldn’t care regardless. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They turn <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey turns <</if>> on $cameron_hishertheir heel, feeling like a coward as <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they rush <<else>> $cameron_heshethey rushes <</if>> away. <br><br> Fuck Weekend of Welcome. Fuck finishing that stupid table. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They don't <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey doesn't <</if>> even care if they do an expose on how worthless <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they are <<else>> $cameron_heshethey is <</if>>, $cameron_heshethey just <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> want <<else>> wants <</if>> to get back to $cameron_hishertheir dorm and get an ice pack out of the freezer. Maybe, if $cameron_heshethey <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> feel <<else>> feels <</if>> spitful, throw some Pizza Rolls in the oven just to see the horror on $luciname’s face. <br><br> <<if $cameron_ismale is true>> [[Only his roommate isn’t there when he gets back. He’d been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <<elseif $cameron_isnonbinary>> [[Only their roommate isn’t there when they get back. They'd been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <<else>> [[Only her roommate isn’t there when she gets back. She’d been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <</if>> <</nobr>><<nobr>> The cold words aren't exactly a huge shock. $cameron_capheshethey <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> feel <<else>> feels <</if>> a slight weight of unease lift off $cameron_hishertheir chest as <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they watch <<else>> $cameron_heshethey watches <</if>> you leave swiftly. You are one of the most frustrating people $cameron_heshethey <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> know <<else>> knows <</if>>. On one hand, you can be incredibly spiteful. On the other, <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they feel <<else>> $cameron_heshethey feels <</if>> irreparably guilty everytime you appear. It makes sense, suddenly, that you and $luciname used to be thick as thieves. <br><br> If anyone could give $cameron_himherthem a headache, it was the two of you. <br><br> Fuck Weekend of Welcome. Fuck finishing that stupid table. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They don't <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey doesn't <</if>> even care if they do an expose on how worthless <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they are <<else>> $cameron_heshethey is <</if>>, $cameron_heshethey just <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> want <<else>> wants <</if>> to get back to $cameron_hishertheir dorm and get an ice pack out of the freezer. Maybe, if $cameron_heshethey <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> feel <<else>> feels <</if>> spitful, throw some Pizza Rolls in the oven just to see the horror on $luciname’s face. <br><br> <<if $cameron_ismale is true>> [[Only his roommate isn’t there when he gets back. He’d been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <<elseif $cameron_isnonbinary>> [[Only their roommate isn’t there when they get back. They'd been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <<else>> [[Only her roommate isn’t there when she gets back. She’d been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <</if>> <</nobr>><<nobr>> <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They bite <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey bites <</if>> at $cameron_hishertheir lip nervously, unsure how to take your silence. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They don't <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey doesn't <</if>> want to say the wrong thing, provoke you even more, and while $cameron_hesshestheyre worried about $luciname… <br><br> Maybe it’s better if you don’t know exactly how fragile the nephilim is at present. <br><br> "$luci_capheshe didn't say much... I just don't see $luci_himher that messed up unless..." <br><br> "Unless?" You ask sharply, "Unless what?" <br><br> "I shouldn't have..." <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They shake their <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey shakes $cameron_hishertheir <</if>> head, "I shouldn't have bothered you. I'm sorry, for what it's worth." <br><br> You don’t ask what $cameron_hesshestheyre sorry for. That’s good, because if $cameron_heshethey truly started apologizing to you for everything that twists in $cameron_hishertheir gut, <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they don't <<else>> $cameron_heshethey doesn't <</if>> think <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they'd <<elseif $cameron_ismale>> he'd <<else>> she'd <</if>> ever stop. Maybe the worst part is that <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they know <<else>> $cameron_heshethey knows <</if>> you wouldn’t care regardless. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They turn <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey turns <</if>> on $cameron_hishertheir heel, feeling like a coward as <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they rush <<else>> $cameron_heshethey rushes <</if>> away. <br><br> Fuck Weekend of Welcome. Fuck finishing that stupid table. <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> They don't <<else>> $cameron_capheshethey doesn't <</if>> even care if they do an expose on how worthless <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> they are <<else>> $cameron_heshethey is <</if>>, $cameron_heshethey just <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> want <<else>> wants <</if>> to get back to $cameron_hishertheir dorm and get an ice pack out of the freezer. Maybe, if $cameron_heshethey <<if $cameron_isnonbinary is true>> feel <<else>> feels <</if>> spitful, throw some Pizza Rolls in the oven just to see the horror on $luciname’s face. <br><br> <<if $cameron_ismale is true>> [[Only his roommate isn’t there when he gets back. He’d been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <<elseif $cameron_isnonbinary>> [[Only their roommate isn’t there when they get back. They'd been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <<else>> [[Only her roommate isn’t there when she gets back. She’d been right after all; it’s gonna be one hell of a night.|Selection Menu]] <</if>> <</nobr>>//Configure the story below:// Luci is <<listbox "$luci_malefemale" autoselect>> [<<option "male">> <<option "female">> <</listbox>>. Luci was your <<listbox "$lucirelationship" autoselect>> [<<option "best friend">> <<option "significant other">> <</listbox>>. What is your name? <<textbox "$name" "" "vik pregame">> [[Continue to story...|vik pregame]]<<nobr>> <<if $luci_malefemale is "female">> <<set $luciname to "Lucia">> <<set $luci_isfemale to true>> <<set $luci_malefemale to "female">> <<set $luci_manwoman to "woman">> <<set $luci_menwomen to "women">> <<set $luci_boygirl to "girl">> <<set $luci_sondaughter to "daughter">> <<set $luci_capsondaughter to "Daughter">> <<set $luci_fathermother to "mother">> <<set $luci_brothersister to "sister">> <<set $luci_husbandwife to "wife">> <<set $luci_heshe to "she">> <<set $luci_hisher to "her">> <<set $luci_himher to "her">> <<set $luci_hesshes to "she's">> <<set $luci_capheshe to "She">> <<set $luci_caphisher to "Her">> <<else>> <<set $luciname to "Lucien">> <<set $luci_ismale to true>> <<set $luci_malefemale to "male">> <<set $luci_manwoman to "man">> <<set $luci_menwomen to "men">> <<set $luci_boygirl to "boy">> <<set $luci_sondaughter to "son">> <<set $luci_capsondaughter to "Son">> <<set $luci_fathermother to "father">> <<set $luci_brothersister to "brother">> <<set $luci_husbandwife to "husband">> <<set $luci_heshe to "he">> <<set $luci_hisher to "his">> <<set $luci_himher to "him">> <<set $luci_hesshes to "he's">> <<set $luci_capheshe to "He">> <<set $luci_caphisher to "His">> <</if>> <<set $gamechapter to "Viktor Orlov: <br> Bringing You Home">> <div class="centered-image"> [img[images/vik1.png]] </div> <br> His body sways as his mom takes a sharp left turn, but Viktor doesn’t raise his gaze from where he sits, staring at his hands. He peeks up at her every once in a while; he sees her white knuckle grip on the steering wheel, her clenched jaw and pursed lips. It’s rare to see her like this and he doesn’t like it one bit. The radio plays in the background, soft country music breaking the unnatural silence that’s usually filled with her chatter. <br> He knows she isn’t mad at him, nor is she mad at you. The situation, mostly. The Riveras, definitely. <br> Sinking down into the passenger seat, he watches as they pull into a long, paved driveway lined with carefully trimmed trees and hedges. The groundskeeping is immaculate, not a stray weed in sight, yet it feels too perfect, too cold. There’s no trace of warmth in this place, no welcoming aura that draws you in. A beautiful fountain sits outside what can only be described as a mansion; beautiful, opulent, and far too big for merely four people. <br> Well, three now, he thinks with a wince. The Riveras cut their ties with you, threw you to the street with no remorse. They never cared about you, in truth, only what you could do for them. The instant you were no longer useful, they set you out on the curb like the rest of their trash. It hurts him deeply that you’re standing exactly there when they pull up. <br> The Riveras have cut ties with you. So did $luciname, which means $luci_hesshes cut ties with Viktor as well. So be it. It stung, more than he could have ever imagined, but his sole concern was you. How you were coping with your life getting royally screwed over was far more important than licking his own wounds. <br> <<if $lucirelationship is "best friend">> You've lived here for years, were thicker than thieves with $luciname before Viktor had even met you. When he became friends with you, it had been clear the two of you were a package deal. How would you cope with losing that? He figures it will be akin to losing your shadow for how often $luciname was at your side. <<else>> You've lived here for years, were thicker than thieves with $luciname before Viktor had even met you. When he became friends with you, it had been clear the two of you were a package deal. Not to mention the budding relationship you had with $luci_himher that extended far beyond friendship... He figures it will be akin to losing your shadow for how often $luciname was at your side. He can only hope your first heartbreak won't crush you. <</if>> <br> As the car comes to a stop, he sees you already have everything in a suitcase. He wonders, morbidly, if you’d already had that. Did they present to you as one last gift, a giant middle finger to rub salt in the wounds? Viktor wouldn’t put it past them. <br> His gaze trails to you, his chest tight with unease. Your shoulders are shaking, he realizes grimly. <br> <div class="choice">[[You’re scrubbing at your face, trying desperately to stem the flow of tears that run down your cheeks.|Sad]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Your face is twisted, your jaw clenched, fury radiating from you in waves.|Angry]]</div> <div class="choice">[[Anxiety has you wringing your hands, trembling with your nerves that you can’t seem to get under control.|Nervous]]</div> <</nobr>> He sees his mom swallow hard when he turns to look at her, her face pale and drawn as she stares forlornly out the window. “Stay in the car, okay, Vik?” She says softly, glancing over at him. His eyes go wide, an objection on the tip of his tongue, “But-!” “Trust me little dragon,” She cuts him off, reaching over to ruffle his curls with a sad smile, “Sometimes we pretend to feel better than we actually do because our friends are around.” He looks out the window, seeing the way you’re sniffling, and his chest aches fiercely. He wants to go to you, it’s killing him not to race out of the car now to plant himself firmly at your side. To prove he won’t leave you, no matter what. He’s never doubted his mom before, though, and he won’t start now. “Okay,” He says quietly, his eyes downcast. “You’re a good friend, sweetie. You’ll have your time.” She reassures him, squeezing his shoulder, “But right now, $name needs a mom hug.” His mom gave the best hugs, so he could definitely see that making you feel better. He sits back in his seat, still worrying his bottom lip between his teeth despite himself. [[She gets out of the car, approaching you slowly.|Sad MC Taisiya POV]] He sees his mom swallow hard when he turns to look at her, her face pale and drawn as she stares forlornly out the window. “Stay in the car, okay, Vik?” She says softly, glancing over at him. His eyes go wide, an objection on the tip of his tongue, “But-!” “Trust me little dragon,” She cuts him off, reaching over to ruffle his curls with a sad smile, “Sometimes we pretend to feel better than we actually do because our friends are around.” He looks out the window, seeing the way you hold your suitcase in a white knuckled grip, your hands still shaking. His chest aches fiercely, knowing all that hurt is turning to anger. He wants to go to you, it’s killing him not to race out of the car now to plant himself firmly at your side. To prove he won’t leave you, no matter what. He’s never doubted his mom before, though, and he won’t start now. “Okay,” He says quietly, his eyes downcast. “You’re a good friend, sweetie. You’ll have your time.” She reassures him, squeezing his shoulder, “But right now, $name needs a mom hug.” His mom gave the best hugs, so he could definitely see that making you feel better. He sits back in his seat, still worrying his bottom lip between his teeth despite himself. [[She gets out of the car, approaching you slowly.|Angry MC Taisiya POV]] He sees his mom swallow hard when he turns to look at her, her face pale and drawn as she stares forlornly out the window. “Stay in the car, okay, Vik?” She says softly, glancing over at him. His eyes go wide, an objection on the tip of his tongue, “But-!” “Trust me little dragon,” She cuts him off, reaching over to ruffle his curls with a sad smile, “Sometimes we pretend to feel better than we actually do because our friends are around.” He looks out the window, seeing the way you’re breathing deep and trying to calm yourself down. It makes his chest ache fiercely. He wants to go to you, it’s killing him not to race out of the car now to plant himself firmly at your side. To prove he won’t leave you, no matter what. He’s never doubted his mom before, though, and he won’t start now. “Okay,” He says quietly, his eyes downcast. “You’re a good friend, sweetie. You’ll have your time.” She reassures him, squeezing his shoulder, “But right now, $name needs a mom hug.” His mom gave the best hugs, so he could definitely see that making you feel better. He sits back in his seat, still worrying his bottom lip between his teeth despite himself. [[She gets out of the car, approaching you slowly.|Sad MC Taisiya POV]] Taisiya takes a slow breath as she gets out of the car. She wants to scream, to throw things, to strangle the life out of Francisca Rivera. What kind of person would ever want to cause a child so much pain? Who could look at you, a kid with nothing left, someone who already lost one family, and cast you out of your second home? She might be nephilim, but she has a rotted and evil heart as far as Taisiya is concerned. You look up as she approaches, and her heart breaks at the tear tracks carving a path down your cheeks. Your bloodshot eyes track her movements, trying to throw up a wall as quickly as possible to hide your hurt. She won’t let you. Kneeling down, she opens her arms slightly in offering. She’ll let you decide if you’re comfortable accepting the affection right now. God knows the rest of the adults in your life don’t seem to care what you want or need. “You will always have a home while I breathe, solnyshko.” She whispers firmly, her eyes blazing with warmth, “That’s never in question.” <div class="choice">[[You throw yourself into her arms without hesitation.|next sad hug]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You decline the hug, but your tears have at least stemmed for now.|next sad]]</div>\ She wraps you in an embrace as soon as you launch yourself at her, holding you as close as possible. She rubs a hand down your shaking back, your whole body tense with a grief that has nowhere to go. She just holds you for a moment, until you pull back, and she lets you go. “I’ll put this in the trunk,” She says after a moment, grabbing your suitcase by the handle, “You go ahead and get in the car.” Your shoulders are slumped as you walk away, headed for where Viktor is no doubt eagerly awaiting the chance to see you. Her boy is sensitive, and he feels deeply for his friends. Seeing you like this is probably killing him, and it’s just another thing that makes her blood boil about the situation. As you walk away, she glances up just in time to see the curtains rustle. She looks Francisca Rivera dead in the eye as the wretch of a woman peers out the window. The Rivera matriarch freezes under Taisiya’s gaze; a deer in headlights, prey looking in the eyes of a predator. Taisiya thinks, in this very moment, she could and would kill the woman. This pathetic excuse of a mother. This high and mighty nephilim who spits on the idea of anything good and sacred, like the bond of a child and the one who swore to protect them. Francisca breaks eye contact first, closing the curtains swiftly. Pathetic, Taisiya thinks. So high and mighty, a supposed powerhouse of a supernatural, yet a mere mortal woman gives her pause. She scoffs quietly to herself as she turns to head for the car. She grips your suitcase tightly as she pops the trunk, taking a moment to stand there and calm herself. Being this angry when she goes back to her kids won’t help them one bit, so she takes a few deep breaths. She reigns in her anger, leashing it once more. [[It feels like fire is boiling her blood, but she manages it despite that.|Sad MC and Vik]]“I’ll put this in the trunk,” She says after a moment, grabbing your suitcase by the handle, “You go ahead and get in the car.” Your shoulders are slumped as you walk away, headed for where Viktor is no doubt eagerly awaiting the chance to see you. Her boy is sensitive, and he feels deeply for his friends. Seeing you like this is probably killing him, and it’s just another thing that makes her blood boil about the situation. As you walk away, she glances up just in time to see the curtains rustle. She looks Francisca Rivera dead in the eye as the wretch of a woman peers out the window. The Rivera matriarch freezes under Taisiya’s gaze; a deer in headlights, prey looking in the eyes of a predator. Taisiya thinks, in this very moment, she could and would kill the woman. This pathetic excuse of a mother. This high and mighty nephilim who spits on the idea of anything good and sacred, like the bond of a child and the one who swore to protect them. Francisca breaks eye contact first, closing the curtains swiftly. Pathetic, Taisiya thinks. So high and mighty, a supposed powerhouse of a supernatural, yet a mere mortal woman gives her pause. She scoffs quietly to herself as she turns to head for the car. She grips your suitcase tightly as she pops the trunk, taking a moment to stand there and calm herself. Being this angry when she goes back to her kids won’t help them one bit, so she takes a few deep breaths. She reigns in her anger, leashing it once more. [[It feels like fire is boiling her blood, but she manages it despite that.|Sad MC and Vik]] Viktor sees you heading toward the car and scrambles out of the passenger seat immediately. You freeze when you see him, your face twitching like you’re about to cry yet again, and he races for you immediately. You meet him halfway and he clutches you in a desperate hug, his arms wound around you tightly. He’s trying impossibly to make things better even though he knows it’s a lost cause in the end. What could possibly make this better? “I know you’re not okay,” He mumbles into your shoulder, feeling you shudder in response, “That’s fine. I don’t care if you’re not okay. I’ll be okay enough for both of us as long as you need.” “Vik, I…” Your voice breaks as you melt into his embrace, “I don’t belong anywhere.” “You belong with me.” He says fiercely, pulling back to look you in the eyes, “Just…let us take you home. //We// want you, I swear we do.” You still look like you don’t quite believe the words, like you can’t right now, and that’s a travesty he cannot stand for. “Who else has turned our guest bedroom into their own?” He whispers furiously, “Who else has their heights by mine and my sisters on our staircase?” “Why?” You ask after a moment of silence, voice shaking, “I’m not worth anything anymore.” He feels like you’ve punched him square in the chest. “You’re worth everything.” Viktor feels tears stinging his eyes now, threatening to fall, “I’d give all I have for you to see that.” [[When you fall into his arms again, and then follow him into the backseat of his mom’s car, it’s still not enough to soothe the worry building inside him.|sad end]] His mom gets back in the car shortly after they do. She makes no comment about Viktor having accosted you and moving to the back seat, but he sees her smile slightly. You look a bit less shaken up as that big, soulless house gets lost in the rearview mirror. “Well,” She begins after a little bit, “You kids want some ice cream before we head home?” Viktor blinks, his brows furrowing, “We’re not actually kids anymore, mom.” “I’d take some ice cream,” You mummer from his side. “Ice cream it is.” Viktor corrects himself immediately. “Sounds good,” His mom chuckles, making a right turn to head into town instead of going back home. You all stop at a little parlor, crowding around one of the small tables outside as you enjoy the warm weather. It’s close enough quarters that your knees bump together occasionally, but the ice cream is good enough to make up for it. Viktor even makes you laugh once. The relief that rushes through him at the sight, at the noise, is damn near all consuming. Your smile is brighter than the sun, and he had been so worried he’d never see it again. Now, he simply resolves to work harder, to give you so many reasons to smile that you never stop. [[A small effort for such a reward.|Selection Menu]] Taisiya takes a slow breath as she gets out of the car. She wants to scream, to throw things, to strangle the life out of Francisca Rivera. What kind of person would ever want to cause a child so much pain? Who could look at you, a kid with nothing left, someone who already lost one family, and cast you out of your second home? She might be nephilim, but she has a rotted and evil heart as far as Taisiya is concerned. You look up as she approaches, and her anger is reflected in your eyes. Your bloodshot gaze tracks her movements, trying to throw up a wall as quickly as possible to hide your hurt. She won’t let you. Kneeling down, she opens her arms slightly in offering. She’ll let you decide if you’re comfortable accepting the affection right now. God knows the rest of the adults in your life don’t seem to care what you want or need. “You will always have a home while I breathe, solnyshko.” She whispers firmly, her eyes blazing with warmth, “That’s never in question.” <div class="choice">[[You throw yourself into her arms without hesitation.|next angry hug]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You decline the hug, but your tears have at least stemmed for now.|next angry]]</div>\ She wraps you in an embrace as soon as you launch yourself at her, holding you as close as possible. She rubs a hand down your shaking back, your whole body tense with a grief that has nowhere to go. She just holds you for a moment, until you pull back, and she lets you go. The anger in you has cleared just a bit, and she's relieved for it. She had been concerned your eyes would never brighten again. “I’ll put this in the trunk,” She says after a moment, grabbing your suitcase by the handle, “You go ahead and get in the car.” Your shoulders are slumped as you walk away, headed for where Viktor is no doubt eagerly awaiting the chance to see you. Her boy is sensitive, and he feels deeply for his friends. Seeing you like this is probably killing him, and it’s just another thing that makes her blood boil about the situation. As you walk away, she glances up just in time to see the curtains rustle. She looks Francisca Rivera dead in the eye as the wretch of a woman peers out the window. The Rivera matriarch freezes under Taisiya’s gaze; a deer in headlights, prey looking in the eyes of a predator. Taisiya thinks, in this very moment, she could and would kill the woman. This pathetic excuse of a mother. This high and mighty nephilim who spits on the idea of anything good and sacred, like the bond of a child and the one who swore to protect them. Francisca breaks eye contact first, closing the curtains swiftly. Pathetic, Taisiya thinks. So high and mighty, a supposed powerhouse of a supernatural, yet a mere mortal woman gives her pause. She scoffs quietly to herself as she turns to head for the car. She grips your suitcase tightly as she pops the trunk, taking a moment to stand there and calm herself. Being this angry when she goes back to her kids won’t help them one bit, so she takes a few deep breaths. She reigns in her anger, leashing it once more. [[It feels like fire is boiling her blood, but she manages it despite that.|Angry MC and Vik]]“I’ll put this in the trunk,” She says after a moment, grabbing your suitcase by the handle, “You go ahead and get in the car.” Your shoulders are slumped as you walk away, headed for where Viktor is no doubt eagerly awaiting the chance to see you. Her boy is sensitive, and he feels deeply for his friends. Seeing you like this is probably killing him, and it’s just another thing that makes her blood boil about the situation. As you walk away, she glances up just in time to see the curtains rustle. She looks Francisca Rivera dead in the eye as the wretch of a woman peers out the window. The Rivera matriarch freezes under Taisiya’s gaze; a deer in headlights, prey looking in the eyes of a predator. Taisiya thinks, in this very moment, she could and would kill the woman. This pathetic excuse of a mother. This high and mighty nephilim who spits on the idea of anything good and sacred, like the bond of a child and the one who swore to protect them. Francisca breaks eye contact first, closing the curtains swiftly. Pathetic, Taisiya thinks. So high and mighty, a supposed powerhouse of a supernatural, yet a mere mortal woman gives her pause. She scoffs quietly to herself as she turns to head for the car. She grips your suitcase tightly as she pops the trunk, taking a moment to stand there and calm herself. Being this angry when she goes back to her kids won’t help them one bit, so she takes a few deep breaths. She reigns in her anger, leashing it once more. [[It feels like fire is boiling her blood, but she manages it despite that.|Angry MC and Vik]] Viktor sees you heading toward the car and scrambles out of the passenger seat immediately. You freeze when you see him, your jaw still clenced fiercely, and he races for you immediately. You meet him halfway and he clutches you in a desperate hug, his arms wound around you tightly. He’s trying impossibly to make things better even though he knows it’s a lost cause in the end. What could possibly make this better? “I know you’re not okay,” He mumbles into your shoulder, feeling you shudder in response, “That’s fine. I don’t care if you’re not okay. I’ll be okay enough for both of us as long as you need.” “I'm fine,” Your voice is clipped, your body stiff in his embrace, “I just don’t belong anywhere.” “You belong with me.” He says fiercely, pulling back to look you in the eyes, “Just…let us take you home. //We// want you, I swear we do.” You still look like you don’t quite believe the words, like you can’t right now, and that’s a travesty he cannot stand for. “Who else has turned our guest bedroom into their own?” He whispers furiously, “Who else has their heights by mine and my sisters on our staircase?” “Why?” You ask after a moment of silence, your voice steady but quiet, “I’m not worth anything anymore.” He feels like you’ve punched him square in the chest. “You’re worth everything.” Viktor feels tears stinging his eyes now, threatening to fall, “I’d give all I have for you to see that.” [[When you fall into his arms again, and then follow him into the backseat of his mom’s car, it’s still not enough to soothe the worry building inside him.|angry end]] His mom gets back in the car shortly after they do. She makes no comment about Viktor having accosted you and moving to the back seat, but he sees her smile slightly. You look a bit less shaken up as that big, soulless house gets lost in the rearview mirror. “Well,” She begins after a little bit, “You kids want some ice cream before we head home?” Viktor blinks, his brows furrowing, “We’re not actually kids anymore, mom.” “I’d take some ice cream,” You mutter from his side. “Ice cream it is.” Viktor corrects himself immediately. “Sounds good,” His mom chuckles, making a right turn to head into town instead of going back home. You all stop at a little parlor, crowding around one of the small tables outside as you enjoy the warm weather. It’s close enough quarters that your knees bump together occasionally, but the ice cream is good enough to make up for it. Viktor even makes you laugh once. The relief that rushes through him at the sight, at the noise, is damn near all consuming. Your smile is brighter than the sun, and he had been so worried he’d never see it again, that your anger would fester and you wouldn't even want //him// around. Now, he simply resolves to work harder, to give you so many reasons to smile that you never stop. [[A small effort for such a reward.|Selection Menu]]//Configure the story below:// Luci is <<listbox "$luci_malefemale" autoselect>> [<<option "male">> <<option "female">> <</listbox>>. Luci was your <<listbox "$lucirelationship" autoselect>> [<<option "best friend">> <<option "significant other">> <</listbox>>. [[Continue to story...|luci pregame]]<<nobr>> <<if $luci_malefemale is "female">> <<set $gamechapter to "Lucia Rivera: <br> Watching You Leave">> <div class="centered-image"> [img[images/lucia1.png]] </div> Lucia doesn’t look out her window after hearing the door slam shut downstairs. Her father is yelling something, her mother yelling back that much louder. She wraps her arms around her legs, burying her face in her knees, her back pressed against the cool wall by the window. Her wings shudder, coming around her like a shield, but nothing can stop reality. <br><br> She doesn’t want to watch you go. God, she doesn't want to watch you go. <br><br> Even still, she finds herself turning, looking out the window, desperate for another glance of you before you’re gone forever. You sit there, alone on the very bottom step, like you’re trash just ready to get thrown out. <br><br> <<if $lucirelationship is "significant other">> You aren’t, though. You were everything. You are everything, you’ll always be everything, even if you can never look her in the eyes again. <<else>> You aren’t, though. You were her first friend, her confidant, everything good in her life wrapped up in a smiling package. Now she fears she’ll never see that smile again. <</if>> <br><br> She had told you everything would be okay and now- <br><br> Now her world will never be the same, not without you. Even thinking of you…the guilt makes her physically ill. If she thinks her life has changed irrevocably, she cannot imagine what you must feel. What you must think… <br><br> What you must think of //her//. The worst, likely. Just as she deserves. <br><br> The sharp clacking of heels on hardwood have her jolting to her feet, but not quick enough. Her door slams open, her mother’s loathing eyes looking right at her. She tries to step back, but the wall is already right there. She has no escape. <br><br> “You’re sulking,” Her mother’s voice is full of ice. <br><br> “No.” Lucia shakes her head quickly, “No, ma’am.” <br><br> The stare she gets in return makes her skin crawl. Those eyes, eyes that look exactly like Lucia’s, are angry and fierce and make her fear her future. Would her eyeslook like that one day? Would she become angry, would her footsteps make people flinch? Will she become cruel? <br><br> [[WIll she grow up to be her mother?|fem lucia fear]] <<else>> <<set $gamechapter to "Lucien Rivera: <br> Watching You Leave">> <div class="centered-image"> [img[images/lucien1.png]] </div> Lucien doesn’t look out his window after hearing the door slam shut downstairs. His father is yelling something, his mother yelling back that much louder. He wraps his arms around his legs, burying his face in his knees, his back pressed against the cool wall by the window. His wings shudder, coming around him like a shield, but nothing can stop reality. <br><br> He doesn’t want to watch you go. God, he doesn't want to watch you go. <br><br> Even still, he finds himself turning, looking out the window, desperate for another glance of you before you’re gone forever. You sit there, alone on the very bottom step, like you’re trash just ready to get thrown out. <br><br> <<if $lucirelationship is "significant other">> You aren’t, though. You were everything. You are everything, you’ll always be everything, even if you can never look him in the eyes again. <<else>> You aren’t, though. You were his first friend, his confidant, everything good in his life wrapped up in a smiling package. Now he fears he’ll never see that smile again. <</if>> <br><br> He had told you everything would be okay and now- <br><br> Now his world will never be the same, not without you. Even thinking of you…the guilt makes him physically ill. If he thinks his life has changed irrevocably, he cannot imagine what you must feel. What you must think… <br><br> What you must think of //him//. The worst, likely. Just as he deserves. <br><br> The sharp clacking of heels on hardwood have him jolting to his feet, but not quick enough. His door slams open, his mother’s loathing eyes looking right at him. He tries to step back, but the wall is already right there. He has no escape. <br><br> “You’re sulking,” His mother’s voice is full of ice. <br><br> “No.” Lucien shakes his head quickly, “No, ma’am.” <br><br> The stare he gets in return makes his skin crawl. Those eyes, eyes that look exactly like Lucien’s, are angry and fierce and make him fear his future. Would his eyes look like that one day? Would he become angry, would his footsteps make people flinch? Will he become cruel? <br><br> [[WIll he grow up to be his mother?|male lucia fear]] <</if>> <</nobr>> Her very soul rebels against the thought, but it’s not outlandish. Was she not cruel to you? Did she not turn her back on you when you needed her most? //“You’ll do as you’re told,”// Her mother’s voice echoes in her mind, //“Your former friend will be in a very precarious situation, after all. Wouldn’t you hate making it even harder?”// Her cheek still stings from the aftermath of that conversation yesterday. Her heart twists sharply at the memory, the veiled threat that made her blood run cold. She keeps her face carefully neutral, knowing how she acts from here on out will determine what her mother does regarding you. “Go to the library,” Her mother’s words are clipped, but she seems satisfied enough, “You’ll have your homework finished before dinner, won’t you?” “Yes, ma’am.” She mummers obediently, taking her leave as quickly as possible. She flees down the stairs, her socks damn near sliding on the floor as she rushes into the library. She closes the double doors softly, glancing around before she creeps up to the window. She watches, heart heavy, as Mrs. Orlova’s car pulls up. Viktor. She’d lose him, too. There would be no grasping at the straws of his friendship; he’ll take this as the betrayal it is. <div class="choice">[[She watches, heart heavy, as you throw yourself into Mrs. Orlova’s arms.|fem orlova hug]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You stay carefully still, but her chest still tightens as she watches your tense posture.|fem orlova no hug]]</div>\ His very soul rebels against the thought, but it’s not outlandish. Was he not cruel to you? Did he not turn her back on you when you needed him most? //“You’ll do as you’re told,”// His mother’s voice echoes in his mind, //“Your former friend will be in a very precarious situation, after all. Wouldn’t you hate making it even harder?”// His cheek still stings from the aftermath of that conversation yesterday. His heart twists sharply at the memory, the veiled threat that made his blood run cold. He keeps his face carefully neutral, knowing how he acts from here on out will determine what his mother does regarding you. “Go to the library,” His mother’s words are clipped, but she seems satisfied enough, “You’ll have your homework finished before dinner, won’t you?” “Yes, ma’am.” He mummers obediently, taking his leave as quickly as possible. He flees down the stairs, his socks damn near sliding on the floor as he rushes into the library. He closes the double doors softly, glancing around before he creeps up to the window. He watches, heart heavy, as Mrs. Orlova’s car pulls up. Viktor. He’d lose him, too. There would be no grasping at the straws of his friendship; he’ll take this as the betrayal it is. <div class="choice">[[He watches, heart heavy, as you throw yourself into Mrs. Orlova’s arms.|male orlova hug]]</div>\ <div class="choice">[[You stay carefully still, but his chest still tightens as he watches your tense posture.|male orlova no hug]]</div>\ Mrs. Orlova embraces you just as tightly. She reminds Lucia of her father, who had held her similarly last night while she sobbed until she couldn’t breathe. She hears her father cry too, sometimes, but never around her. Usually while her mother is away, when he’s alone in their room. Lucia wishes she could make it stop, or help in some small way. She gazes out the window as you step away from Mrs. Orlova’s embrace. She swallows, her eyes stinging. She can’t do anything to stop what’s to come, or change what has happened. She can’t stand up to her mother. She can’t fix anything. Her mother loves to primp and preen, crowing how their family is divinely blessed, but Lucia feels anything but. Perhaps divinely cursed would better suit. Her wings flutter, the desire to take flight so strong it damn near aches. She couldn’t escape even if she wanted to, though, so why bother trying? [[The fall would be even worse, then.|the fall fem luci]] Mrs. Orlova stands with with you for a moment, concern radiating off her in waves. She reminds Lucia of her father, who had held her last night while she sobbed until she couldn’t breathe. She hears her father cry too, sometimes, but never around her. Usually while her mother is away, when he’s alone in their room. Lucia wishes she could make it stop, or help in some small way. She gazes out the window as you step away from Mrs. Orlova’s embrace. She swallows, her eyes stinging. She can’t do anything to stop what’s to come, or change what has happened. She can’t stand up to her mother. She can’t fix anything. Her mother loves to primp and preen, crowing how their family is divinely blessed, but Lucia feels anything but. Perhaps divinely cursed would better suit. Her wings flutter, the desire to take flight so strong it damn near aches. She couldn’t escape even if she wanted to, though, so why bother trying? [[The fall would be even worse, then.|the fall fem luci]] As Viktor leaps from the car and sweeps you into his arms as well, she feels sick. You all pack up, drive away, leaving this soulless house behind with her trapped in it. She knows it’s for the best, she //knows it’s for the best//, but every nerve in her body feels like it’s on fire. The door to the library creaks open after you’re long gone, but she doesn’t jump. Her father’s soft footfalls give him away, and Lucia doesn’t turn until he places a plate down on the table beside her. “Cookies, topolina.” He says softly, squeezing her shoulder gently. She looks down at the plate; pizzicati made with apricot jam. Her favorite. She looks up at him, then, and her father’s face somehow becomes sadder. “Why, papà?” She asks, and her dad knows it’s not about the cookies. He swallows hard, his smile trembling for a moment as he glances away for a split second. He tries his best to keep everything together, to take the brunt of his wife's rage, and he doesn't even realize how much of it Lucia sees. When he faces his daughter again, all that pain is hidden away somewhere deep inside. “I don’t know, amore mio. I love you, though.” He leans down, placing a kiss at the crown of her head, “More than all the stars in the sky, the greatest gift the universe gave me was you.” She doesn’t ask about dinner. If it was still happening, her mother would already be yelling for her to get downstairs. No, her father has worked his miracles yet again, and Lucia won’t be forced to hide her grief and pain through a long winded meal. As she gets older, though, she can’t help but wonder the cost her father pays. He leaves her to her thoughts, and she munches quietly on the cookies as the sky grows darker and darker. The moon is high above her, shining down, and she swears she can still see the outline of you on that very bottom step. [[She’d still choose you. She wishes she could tell you that.|Selection Menu]] Mrs. Orlova embraces you just as tightly. She reminds Lucien of his father, who had held him similarly last night while he sobbed until he couldn’t breathe. He hears his father cry too, sometimes, but never around him. Usually while his mother is away, when he’s alone in their room. Lucien wishes he could make it stop, or help in some small way. He gazes out the window as you step away from Mrs. Orlova’s embrace. He swallows, his eyes stinging. He can’t do anything to stop what’s to come, or change what has happened. He can’t stand up to his mother. He can’t fix anything. His mother loves to primp and preen, crowing how their family is divinely blessed, but Lucien feels anything but. Perhaps divinely cursed would better suit. His wings flutter, the desire to take flight so strong it damn near aches. He couldn’t escape even if he wanted to, though, so why bother trying? [[The fall would be even worse, then.|the fall male luci]] Mrs. Orlova stands with with you for a moment, concern radiating off her in waves. She reminds Lucien of his father, who had held him last night while he sobbed until he couldn’t breathe. He hears his father cry too, sometimes, but never around him. Usually while his mother is away, when he’s alone in their room. Lucien wishes he could make it stop, or help in some small way. He gazes out the window as you step away from Mrs. Orlova’s embrace. He swallows, his eyes stinging. He can’t do anything to stop what’s to come, or change what has happened. He can’t stand up to his mother. He can’t fix anything. His mother loves to primp and preen, crowing how their family is divinely blessed, but Lucien feels anything but. Perhaps divinely cursed would better suit. His wings flutter, the desire to take flight so strong it damn near aches. He couldn’t escape even if he wanted to, though, so why bother trying? [[The fall would be even worse, then.|the fall male luci]] As Viktor leaps from the car and sweeps you into his arms as well, he feels sick. You all pack up, drive away, leaving this soulless house behind with him trapped in it. He knows it’s for the best, he //knows it’s for the best//, but every nerve in his body feels like it’s on fire. The door to the library creaks open after you’re long gone, but he doesn’t jump. His father’s soft footfalls give him away, and Lucien doesn’t turn until he places a plate down on the table beside him. “Cookies, topolino.” He says softly, squeezing his shoulder gently. He looks down at the plate; pizzicati made with apricot jam. His favorite. He looks up at him, then, and his father’s face somehow becomes sadder. “Why, papà?” He asks, and his dad knows it’s not about the cookies. His dad swallows hard, his smile trembling for a moment as he glances away for a split second. He tries his best to keep everything together, to take the brunt of his wife's rage, and he doesn't even realize how much of it Lucien sees. When he faces his son again, all that pain is hidden away somewhere deep inside. “I don’t know, amore mio. I love you, though.” He leans down, placing a kiss at the crown of his head, “More than all the stars in the sky, the greatest gift the universe gave me was you.” Lucien doesn’t ask about dinner. If it was still happening, his mother would already be yelling for him to get downstairs. No, his father has worked his miracles yet again, and Lucien won’t be forced to hide his grief and pain through a long winded meal. As he gets older, though, he can’t help but wonder the cost his father pays. His dad leaves him to his thoughts, and he munches quietly on the cookies as the sky grows darker and darker. The moon is high above him, shining down, and he swears he can still see the outline of you on that very bottom step. [[He’d still choose you. He wishes he could tell you that.|Selection Menu]]