Giant And Tiny - Tumblr Posts - Page 2

What's the best thing to do when stressed about exams? Study? No. Write a g/t story until 4 in the morning? Of course! This one is definitely getting a part two. And possibly three. I dont wanna go starting a new story that I'll never get around to finishing as I already have plenty of stories to work on, but I got inspiration and had to write so enjoy. (Side note I was listening to part of your world from the little mermaid before I wrote this so you'll see connections in one part)

4010 words

Part of that world: part 1

The crew had just about wrapped up their game after a good few hours of play when Theo piped up among the conversation after a sip of his drink

"Oh! I forgot to tell you all! Remember how I said I thought this place was haunted?"

Nearly everyone groaned, much to Theos frustration

"Oh okay, because we sit here every weekend playing a fantasy game but ghosts and spirits are off the table?"

Besides him Thomas rolled his eyes with a smirk

"We never claimed the game was real, Theo. Neither are ghosts."

Maisey perked up at that shaking her head

"Well..I mean I feel like there's a possibility ghosts exist just..not here Theo. I'm sure your beliefs are justified!.. and I suppose I may be bias as I don't live in this building so I wouldn't know..but this building isn't very old- and as far as I'm aware, thankfully nobody's died here...yet."

Before anyone else could make their arguments Theo continued

"Yes yes! Well I'll have you know ouiji boards exist and it wouldn't surprise me if one of the neighbours dabbled in the dark arts before, my bets on Helen from 2B upstairs. Anyways!! What I wanted to say was, I bought cameras, for the kitchen to start with. I might get more but the kitchen seems to have the most evidence of supernatural so"

Thomas laughed from across the table

"Dude. You're crazy. You sure you're not high again?"

Henry who never usually pitched into conversations like this even had something to say, in his usual brooding manner- though he was Theos flatmate so his words were necessary in this matter

"You bought cameras and I'm only being informed now? You do realise rent is due in two weeks? You better not have wasted all your money."

Theo made gestures of neglect with his hands, shoving off the comment.

"Oh relax, you'll get the money man. They were off some dingy website. And I only set them up yesterday so no need to worry about privacy. I haven't even turned them on yet. But tonight. Tonight I get my answers!"

Sadie, adjusted her hair and snorted "yep. He's insane. I think the finals coming up are starting to get to you Theo."

Theo stood with a look of finality, clapping his hands together.

"Say what you will, but tonight we shall see, and you shall weep of embarrassment. Ye of little faith. For now, I belive we can wrap up this campaign for this evening, I do need to get these cameras on after all."

And so the crew packed it up, all wishing their goodbyes Thomas pairing off with Sadie, grabbing a box of takeout from the table with them. Maisey after giving Henry a kiss and Theo a hug made her way to the door only to stop before hand

"Best of luck with the cameras, Theo. Despite everything, I'll be curious to see if you find anything. Night guys!"

When all had left Theo shut the door to face a disgruntled Henry who regarded him with folded arms.

"Aw come on pal, don't gimme that. Listen I know you think I'm crazy but just, trust me on this! Things going missing, noises in the kitchen, voices in the walls?!"

Henry pinched his nose and sighed, pushing up his glasses.

"That isn't a ghost, Theon. It's rats. And as for voices, they're either an effect of marijuana or squeaking. Besides, I've already got it covered. You may have noticed the traps I've set."

Theo grumbled at this, his roommate ever so logical.

"Yeah I've seen 'em. Rich of you to comment on me wasting money when you bought all those!"

Henry shut his eyes, it was clear Theo was testing his limits- of which wore thin. He exhaled deeply through his nose

"It's a rational assumption Theon. Especially since rat's are real. And you should know I value cleanliness. I won't have some vermin lurking about if I can do something about it."

Theo took a mouthful of noodles from an open box, finishing it off and depositing it in the trash. He swallowed and met Henry's eyes.

"Well, one of us is right. And one is wrong. Let's let the camera decide."

Henry's face fell flat with a tiresome expression. He removed his glasses and rubbed his eyes. Part of him praying the tech would show some full proof footage to finally shut his friend up.

"Goodnight, Theo."

In the end. Both boys were wrong. Though a judgemental eye would say Henry's theory was not far off. Pitter patters raced through the walls, from four small sets of feet. One pair slower than the other.

"Daphne! Wait up!"

But the other pair persisted, destination and goal in mind and on path.

The male voice breathed out harshly

"Come on Daph! You know I'm not as fast at you!"

Suddenly the other pair stopped and the small borrower boy came crashing into them -or rather her- with an 'oof'. But the girl didn't say a thing, only looked out in awe

"There it is Riven. The kitchen.."

Riven came to her side.

"You..you say this everytime you know that?..look, I've got a bad feeling about tonight I think it's best we make this quick."

Daphne turned with a raised brow and smirk to her friend

"You're not getting cold feet now, are you?"

Riven shook his head incredulously

"N-no! Of course not. Just, Daph.. I have a bad feeling is all. You seen the traps yesterday, right? And before you say it I know you'd never fall for them! B-but still! It's.. unnerving to picture. I just wanna be careful about this!"

Daphne wasn't phased by this and only smiled brighter

"Crazy right? Humans are so creative with their traps. I'd love to get my hands on one, I'm sure they'd be interesting to dismantle.."

Riven paled

"I..did I just hear you right? Gods Daphne they're deathtraps! Those things can and will kill us!"

Daphne rolled her eyes shrugging him off, ready to hurry off before Riven latched onto her arm.

"Please Daphne..just..just be careful. I wouldn't want anything to ever happen to you. Plus your father would do a lot worse to me than any trap could ever achieve."

Daphnes features softened and she pulled her friend into a hug.

"Alright Riven..I won't be long tonight. Or even 'foolish'" She mocked her fathers voice on that last word and continued

"Besides, Father doesn't even know we come here. He's too busy with the others. I dont even think he knows we come here. We aren't on the borrowing squad after all." She huffed, deadpanning with a mumble "He made sure of that much"

Riven eased

"Good. Though, no offense Daph..but I kinda get his precautions..no matter how good you are. You tend to get carried away.."

Daphne frowned at this, though her casual smirk founds its footing again, grabbing her friends arms and leaving through their secret exit out onto the counter tops.

Moonlight lit the kitchen and a tickling of a clock resounded through the quiet expanse.

The pair exited, one much faster than the other.

Daphne twirled around in glee as Riven was pulled along.

"Come on! Come on!"

Riven stumbled out almost falling forward, he grabbed his friend for support pulling himself up

"Daph! C-calm down!"

She hurried along, practically dancing about, basking in the moonlight. So many possibilities and so little time! Where to start was the question plaguing her most.

It didn't take long to figure out, Daphne was a very distracted girl after all.

She got loose of Rivens hold and her eyes lit up.

"Oh my gosh..Riven look.." She whispered.

Just before her sat the most peculiar thing. It was circular- almost like a button? But metal? An it had jagged sort of edges.

"It almost like a..bowl? Is that what humans call it?"

She knelt down gently and traced her fingers over it in awe, before picking it up and twisting it over. It's red sleek shine reflected in the dim lighting and as another bonus it was surprising light!  On the back there was an intricate design, words?

"C-o-k-e"

She sounded it out coming to the conclusion that it sounded 'coh-keh'

Riven inspected it too tilting his head

"I think it might be off a drink? You know..like a lid thing?"

Daphnes eyes lit up

"It's absolutely beautiful. And it's just.. lying here.."

Riven interupted before she could continue already sensing where her mind was headed.

"Daphne, no."

Daphne pouted

"Oh come on Riv! Clearly it isn't that important. They just left it here after all! And I know just where it will go in the collection."

Riven tried to reason but he knew it was a lost cost, so he resorted to excuses.

"I-its too big though! It won't fit in your satchel and you'll never be able to get past the guards with that button. They think we are scouting after all. If you come back with a borrow that big your father will know."

Daphne once more didn't seem bother by this, if anything she seemed determined.

"Nonsense. Humans leaves stuff outside all the time. I'll say I brought it home as a reward for my labour. You really think the guards will argue with the daughter of the chief?" She quipped.

"Possibly Daph..they're quite rude. Listen, we've never been here during the day. We don't know the humans, their attitudes or routine. Perhaps this cap is here for a reason. And if not that, then it must be some sort of test. You seen the traps. They think they have rats. Maybe they want to mess with them?"

At this Daphne faltered. Her eyes filled with dismay as she heeded her friends advice. Sure, it was amazing. Sure, she longed to take it home..but..her friend mattered more. It was already dangerous enough dragging him here with her. Leaving the treasure could be a compromise of sorts to make sure he kept coming with her. He was her only friend after all, and she would never want to loose him.

"Okay" She sighed placing it down.

"Gods I wish I was on the borrowing squad. If only I could convince father." She turned to her friend

"You know sometimes, they go during the day! They actually see humans..I mean..could you imagine?"

Riven swallowed, clearly not sharing her interest in seeing such large beings up close.

"Humans are so.."

"Dangerous?" Riven offered, to which Daphne chuckled lightly

"Yes.. I suppose..but gosh..just look at this stuff Riv..it's amazing..it's so creative and wonderful. I just..don't see how world that makes such wonderful things, could be so bad?"

Riven gave a look of pity. He took her hand a guided her to the edge, sitting down to which she obliged.

"It's not the creations that's are bad..it's who makes them..sure, there is cool stuff like that thingy, but then again, there is traps. Poison. All sorts of dangers. But I get it, Daph. It is pretty interesting, just dangerous. But for what it's worth, you'd make a fantastic borrower."

He did truly believe it- only part of him hated the thought. She was agile, quick and fast! But she was far too fascinated with humans, and that would only lead to one thing. He shivered at the thought.

They sat in silence as the listened to the clock tick, but with Daphne quiet never lasted very long.

"Yknow, I hear humans are kinda like borrowers."

Riven couldn't picture that. The height difference was staggering enough, but he was willing to hear her out.

"Apparently, when they need stuff, they leave their homes and return with bags full of supplies! It's like they have some sort of hidden storage facilities that has never ending supplies. Could you imagine?"

Riven cocked his head

"Really? I always pictured they traded stuff. Like.." He was shocked to find his next words leaving his mouth "Like us."

"I wonder what they trade then. One time outside I saw the most fantastic object. It was like that shiny red thing over there, only it was a different colour and completely flat! Kinda silvery? Like metal. Oh and it had a face on it!" At her friends bewildered look she laughed once more

"It's true! Anyways.. part of me reckoned they traded with those. I never seen another, so assumed it was rare. And I couldn't take it home because well..Father. It would've made a fine addition to the collection."

Riven smiled, but then a thought came over him. They'd been here quite a while- and this was meant to be a short visit. He did have a bad feeling in his gut after all.

"H-hey..I dont mean to cut things short. But we should head back now."

Daphne faltered as he stood up, hesitant to do so.

"We've only been here a little while!"

She watched his shoulders fall as he released a withheld breath

"I know but I trust my gut Daph..we should head home. Especially if we wanna be up early tomorrow"

It was Daphnes turn to be confused. Up early? Riven raised a brow as if to prompt her memory, but when he got no avail he solved her inner dilemma.

"We've got scouting at dawn, remember?"

Immediately Daphne rose to her feet in shock. "Right!! Oh gods how could I forget? I'm so foolish- come on then let's get out of here!"

Together the pair hurried off, but before they made it to the exit something caught her eye.

A small box with a blinking light. Riven was already in the wall ahead of her, but she stopped.

And slowly made her way over, with awe and caution.

What was this?

She paused before it, it was a big enough contraption, it went up to her rib area in height. She examined the strange box utterly enchanted. How was she only seeing this now?!

She got down on her knees to see an odd glassy circle in its core.

She tapped it once and skittered away immediately expecting a reaction, but it remained still, it's light persistent in its blinking.

She heard Riven coming back as he hopped back through

"Daphne! There you are! You scared me for a sec, I was talking to myself in there and I- what are you doing?"

He approached her before he too came to a halt.

"Um..Daph..what is that?"

Daphne who was starstruck only whispered

"No idea Riv..but its incredible."

Riven glared down at it. Something about the red light felt like warning signal.

"L-lets go Daph..this feels wrong."

She was instant to defend her newest find when Riven assured her they could return to see it again. She hesitantly agreed, as Riven pulled her away from it and guided her back to the wall. The whole way there, she didn't let it leave her sights once.

How peculiar..

Theo awoke the next morning. Ah, Sunday. Such a blasted day. A much appreciated break (if one didn't have to study), but a reminder that college resumed the next day. He lay back in his bed as the morning sun drifted in and bird song whistled about. Now..what was on today's agenda?

The d&d campaign didn't resume until next week when everyone was free again, so his efforts as dungeon master could take a break. He had no assignments. Odd. He was sure there was something about today that was incredibly important to him.

He turned on his phone and a video he fell asleep watching resumed.

'Buzzfeed Unsolved: The Demonic Possession of the Conjuring House

Seemed about right. He was pretty restless last night after his conversation with Henry-

Wait.

He sprung up immediately, his sheets billowing on the floor.

"The cameras!!"

He skidded out into the hall, almost slipping over his pyjamas as he hurried down to the kitchens to his cameras.

He was so excited. Proving people wrong was fun but proving Henry wrong? Now that was a celebration to behold.

This is not the way a normal person should act to their home being haunted- but if anything Theo wanted to witness the wandering spirits more than anything.

He slammed open the kitchen door and instantly scooped up camera one, the view of the dining area. He uploaded its content to his phone and pressed play, watching with bated breath.

Only to falter..in the corner on fast play it read the time. It got all the way to the current hour and absolutely nothing happened.

Ok..not great.

But there was still hope!!

Betting on the second camera he held his phone inches from his face watching for signs of something, anything!!

But there was absolutely nothing. Just the endless image of the cooker.

He felt his shoulders droop as he picked up camera three, questioning if it was even worth it. He sighed sitting back as he played the recording, anxiousness building in his stomach at the thoughts of his friends laughing at him. He usually didn't mind it, his theories were extreme after all. But this time he really hoped to be correct.

And somehow his prayers were answered.

And not in anyway he ever expected.

His eyes widened, his jaw slacked and he stood immediately, knocking the chair to the ground.

"Holy fuck!"

Two tiny figures stepped out onto the counter at two a.m. His heart was positively pounding, the phone fell from his hands, which he scrambled to catch, falling to the floor.

He sprung up almost leaping as he crashed into the cupboards.

"HENRY! HENRY!!! GET IN HERE!"

Henry was tired. In general and of his roommate's shit. He cared for him dearly, but some days he longed to move in permanently with Maisey. Anything to escape his madness- anything to escape mornings like this.

Of course he knew what he was being so urgently summoned for. Theon believed his blasted little cameras saw a ghost. If he were in better moods he wouldve played along to make it easier. But he was rather dull this morning. He longed for caffeine more than anything. Though there was no getting near the delicacy without Theon getting in the way.

He snatched his glasses, a sour expression painted his face. Better get it over and done with then.

He marched out into the kitchen, to find his roommate clutching his head as he stared down to his phone in shock.

"Theon, I swear, you're getting on my last nerve. You didn't see a bloody ghost."

But his friend simply shook his head- in agreement, not taking his eyes off the screen for a second.

"You're right. I didn't."

Henry hitched at this, Theon admiting he was wrong? That wasn't something that happened everyday. He decided to entertain his nonsense.

"Alright. You got my attention. What is it?"

Theon looked up from his phone

"Something much better. Call everyone get them here now. No time to loose. Go quickly!!"

Henry was taken a back, and frustrated to say the least but while Theon usually pulled stunts like this, this one seemed awfully genuine. He grabbed his phone.

It was thirty minutes later when the others arrived much to Theons dismay. They sure did take their time. But in that half an hour he hadn't moved. He simply kept rewinding- annoying the daylights out of his roommate who was getting more impatient about his outstanding discovery by the second. They were so small, so fragile..so very impossible. But it would appear more so, improbable. He dissected each frame harbouring any detail he could. Unfortunately for him the recording was black and white- part of night vision filter he guessed- he couldn't exactly make out their appearances but the were so human. There eyes both glowed from the recording so judging their actual eye colour was near impossible. It was almost the same with skin colour though the boy seemed quite tan, the girl pale. The boys messy hair was definitely dark brown, the girls looked to be a blonde? Or red? He couldn't distinguish it, but it was tied back in a ponytail that swished around around her excitement. Their clothes were also a point of interest, looking like sew scrap fabric. He couldn't imagine having to make his own clothing, albeit he was crafty but not that crafty.

He didn't want to spoil the surprise to his roommate so he kept the volume off, waiting to hear what these two had to say in the company of his crew. If they could even say anything that is.. he really hoped they could. It was eating him inside, if they could speak what language was it? An entirely new one? English? What did they sound like? They seemed to be a different species all together. His patience was at a loose end, he kept asking Henry every five minutes if their friends had arrived yet, which led to no avail.. and almost resulted in Henry shattering his coffee mug in fury.

But then the knock came and Theo sprung up whipping it open and ordering them to follow without any other explanation.

Once he had them all gathered he sat them down in their living room and shut them all up before they could start ranting about time or bombarding him with questions.

"Alright alright. Now I'm sure you're wondering why you're all here at eight a.m on a Sunday morning."

"Yeah, I'd love to know pal!" Thomas quipped sarcastically only for Sadie to continue "This is insane Theo. It's too early for this."

Theo almost faltered but he knew what they were about to see would shut their traps. Maisey yawned from beside Henry

"Please, Theo, it's quite early. I understand you're excited but..just..yeah"

Theo smiled at her, appreciating her acknowledgement only to clap and almost jump with a start.

"Right then. As you may remember for last night I believed there to be ghosts in this apartment. Specifically the kitchen."

"Oh jesus, this?! Man, this better be good" Thomas groveled.

"Well, I didn't find any ghosts, but I found something much better."

He screen mirrored his phone to the TV and pressed play.

Two a.m hit and he slowed it down.

Everyone was silent, and Thomas was about to break said silence when his eyes widened.

He sat up instantly. Henry spat out his coffee. Maisey squeaked. Sadie's jaw was on the floor.

Theos grin went from ear to ear as he finally grabbed the remote and turned up the volume. The big reveal. Please. Please

'Come on! Come on!' 'Daph! C-calm down!' 'Oh my gosh..Riven look'

The group sat in shocked silence, nobody dared interupt the little beings as the girl discovered a lid from a coke bottle. Theo, Sadie and Thomas all found a smile playing at their lips at her pronouncement of the word, the other two looked as if they'd lost all their brain cells- which was terrible as they were the smartest of the bunch. The mini duo marveled at the trash, the conversation moving on to her taking it to her collection. Then to her father- so there was more of them!

Theo couldn't help but catch how the boy spoke of 'humans' with such uncertainty. But absolutely adored how the girls eyes sparkled at the mere idea of them..of people like him. She..she reminded him of himself.

Henry despite his shock admired the boys intelligence for watching out for possible dangers, and could feel pity knowing exactly how it felt to have an over-the-top friend himself. Surely the square cube law outruled any possibility of tiny people yet here they were..

Sadie who too was floored, found the girl amusing, she was a proper Disney princess with how she was acting..all she needed was an animal sidekick. She was so curious about everything and it made her wonder the girls age. She looked old enough but younger than her. Same for the boy.

Maisey was in awe, as was everyone but this was something she couldn't describe..that's science couldn't even describe. She couldn't quite comprehend it all but she was trying her best. A whole society of tiny people.

Thomas was gonna explode. He was like a ticking bomb. This was absolutely insane. Guilt fell over him for his doubts in Theo but knowing how his friend usually was he felt he was justified. He'd been that way since they were kids. This was one of the rare times he'd been right.. not about ghosts..but of something supernatural being in his home. Thomas felt a smile pull on his face as he watched the antics of the duo, reminding him of his own friends. He'd very much like to meet them..

The girl being the daughter of a chief, her awe of human creation, the boys fear of it.. her longing to be on the borrowing squad. And the boys comfort that she'd make an excellent borrower..

Theos eyes lit up as a whole new wave of possibilities and excitement fell down upon him.

Namely when and how he would meet his new little borrower friends.

Hey guys. It’s been a little bit and I just wanted to say it’s the best time of year again- exam season!! And I am stressed out which basically translates to I WANT TO WRITE but I have some news first.

I am going to be updating a different g/t story I’ve already posted the first chapter for a while back instead of Part of your world. I know this is annoying but now that I’m hopefully back in writing I need more time to figure out what direction I wanna head next. I have part of chapter 3 written from last summer but I just hated how it felt. It felt really obvious and cheap. It did have the first g/t interaction and that was fun but the rest of the chapter was a drag and I don’t want this story to be a drag. I want the story to be fun to write as well as to read so that is still in progress. Not gone! Just in the works. Thanks again for the patience.

As for my other story- I believe it’s called Sometimes the smallest things are the biggest problems? (I’m updating the name though because I hate how much of a mouthful that is, debating on making it Thorn in my side but I’ll see) well I’ve got a good idea on where I kinda wanna go with this. I have many ideas and I just need to piece them all together.

The story shouldn’t be that far down but once I figure out how to make a list with links to all the stories it’ll be easier to find. But this is a story I sort of connect with more as I love found family- especially when it’s grumpy kinda old guy must become substitute father to wild angry tonnage girl- and I just had to make this G/t!! If you guys wanna check it out it would mean the world and if you let me know what you think that would be even better!! Hope you are all doing well and that’s it for now <3

Part of that World: Part 3

A/N: So everyone remember like a week or so ago when I said I wasn’t working on this? I lied. Jokes aside, I recently got motivation to start working on this again and figured I try work on it. My big issue was I didn’t know where exactly I wanted to go with the story and while I don’t have a plan set in stone I have a brief outline of what I want to do, so without further ado, here is part 3 several months late! Oh and we actually get some g/t in this one. Felt that was deserved after the wait Enjoy!)

The next morning, despite their classes everyone was over at Theo and Henry's flat at eight a.m. They'd decided to skip the morning classes, deeming this matter much more important.

Theo hadn't peaked at the footage early this time, now knowing what to expect wanting to be in the presence of his friends to watch what the diminutive dynamic duo. His gracefully picked up Henry’s phone and tilted it in the light. His heart had been beating wildly that concluded altogether when under speculation, tiny handprints could be seen imprinted on the screen.

He needed to sit down after seeing it, the mere height difference was staggering. They were practically pixies from his game. He was reminded of the time Maiseys character was a such a creature. It was interesting then even when simply using their imaginations, to deal with the height difference. It was like deja vu, happening again only this time not with Maisey, not imagination and apparently not pixie. Oh and the boldest of differences, this was real.

Henry -who given the commotion of the last day or so- was now up as early as his roommate, coming to Theo’s side and following his gaze. It was unreal- in fact common science deemed this impossible if the square cube law was correct

Yet here before him imprinted on his screen was all the evidence to testify. He let the light bounce off his phone to see the different angles at which they had navigated his device. To think that something- or rather someone- so alien had touched this very phone was quite a lot to process.

Theo left to open the door and let the others in, Henry gave a smug glare at the door. The groups time keeping had been almost as improbable as the current circumstances. Well at least Thomas and Sadie. Maisey was always on time- yet another thing he cherished about her.

Once again, when everyone had settled down, Theo played camera three's footage. And once again, the pair came sliding out at two in the morning.

Daphne, the more eccentric of the two had come rushing out once again. There was something about her enthusiasm that made a grin magically appear. She had a lot of energy tonight, more so than the previous one he would argue. Once again her friend, Riven, was skeptical and cautious, but followed his friend all the same. He really hoped the 'phone stunt' would win him over tonight. If he could get that borrower to see they werent a threat, he may get to meet them. He didn't feel he'd have to convince Daphne awfully hard, as she always had a fondness for human creations. He was particularly excited to see her reaction the phone.

She came out with the full intention of sourcing out the camera, only to spot the phone sitting out in the open- and exclaiming wildly to Riven.

“Riven! Riven!!! Get over here!!'

Henry froze at those words, almost the exact same words Theo had said the day prior upon his discovery. Only with his name, of course. But he also noticed the other borrower was looking around in a cautious manner- no doubt he noticed the removed traps.

"Guess she saw the phone" Thomas whispered, although there was absolutely no reason to whisper. It was as if he imagined his voice could mess with the recording.

They watched the duo try gage what on Earth a phone was, and admittedly it was extremely entertaining. Daphne had done the same quick touch test with it as she had with the camera, and she was giving her poor friend a heart attack. Then they tried to figure out how to turn it on through various attempts. It was still so weird to hear them say humans, as if they werent the foreign lifeform in the matter. After a final push the screen lit, resulting in Daphne scrambling back and poor Riven almost falling off the counter- a moment that made the entire group suck in a sharp breath and tense in their seats. But in almost no time she had them back at it.

They analysed everything.

The doorway theory was a particular favourite of Theos, as if Henry's wallpaper was actually some sort of portal.

Henry found himself amused at how she believed it to be magic, along with Maisey giggling at their belief that basic medication was too a magical property.

Thomas and Sadie however took note on how the boy blushed at the girls eyes lighting up at the phone, both smirking and leaning forward with interest.

It took them long enough to get in, through deep analysis at the time and date which everyone found themselves laughing at- and then full on cracking up at their understanding of 'swipe to unlock' along with Daphnes belief that phone granted access because it liked humiliation. Henry was quiet glad he got rid of the password now, they wouldn't have had a hope with that matter.

But the moment they'd all been waiting for had arrived. The pictures. The crew waited with baited breath, hoping, praying, that this would work. So far the phone had mamaged the multiply Daphnes wonder ten fold and had even captured the positive attention of Riven. The pictures were the last piece of the puzzle to make this a success.

They both fell silent when the photo album opened, until Daphne selected a picture.

This was it!

Everyone sat up slightly, tension and hope battled in the atmosphere, as the picture lit up the screen. An image of the group after finishing their third campaign. It was a favourite amongst the group, it reflected them all in a positive light- except Henry of course but that was part of why they loved it.

But the reactions weren't what they were hoping for.

Daphne thought they were borrowers- absolutely shocked by what she was seeing.

Riven thought it was a trap that captured borrowers and all joy had left.

Daphne in her confusion grew frustrated and confused, wanting to know why they had to hide if the borrower secret was out, more so upset with her father than anything. She found herself believing Rivens frightened theory, only she wasn't frightened, just perturbed. She believed that the borrowers in the picture were living her dream life. One of normality.

Maiseys eyes saddened. When she suggested this idea she never meant to upset anyone..

But thankfully for the group, Riven was a good friend. Despite persuading her to leave she was smiling somewhat again and Thomas and Sadie were living for the drama. As they went to turn off the phone, Daphne noticed something.

She realised they werent borrowers- and that picture was off the group. She seemed more relieved that the picture was of humans than it being a trap. She sure was reckless.

She sat by the phone pondering questions, staring in awe, though it would be her next line that hooked everyone to the screen.

'I..I wish we could talk to them'

Theo was downright ecstatic, Henry felt accomplished, Sadie shared Theos reactions mixed with Thomas's pride. Maisey felt relief and happiness, her idea had worked.

But the other borrower didn’t share her view. Riven was all but jaw-dropped by the statement, it had turned him into a stuttering mess as he searched for how to word his reasons- only for the miniture girl to come in defense of the group. Describing each and every one of them

Maisey was flattered as she blushed at the compliment touched by the borrowers words.

Sadie too found herself beaming "the girl has taste" She smirked triumphantly.

Thomas was like a child on Christmas day with his analyses. She thought he was sneaky- to which he remarked that she had "no idea"

Pretty much everyone burst out at Henry's words, all except for him, who upon mention of his glasses fixed them on his face- secretly hiding his smile as he did. He supposed there was a lot worse to be called than creepy. Maybe he'd get the chance to prove her wrong.

But the party all shared a warm smile at her compliment to Theo, whose heart pretty much melted into a puddle. She was absolutely adorable, he wanted to just scoop her up through the screen. He began picturing scenario after scenario. Her in his hands, her on his shoulder, her assisting him as Dungeon Master. Oh it was all so exciting!!

Butttt Riven just had to chip in and ruin it. No..no that wasn’t fair. Theo understood. They werent supposed to be discovered after all, it was 'dangerous'.. but wasn't it clear from Daphnes words that they wouldn't harm them?

Daphne only assured him she'd never actually talk to them, and he felt himself shift a little, heart aching at opportunity being snatched up once more.

Though, Daphne clearly wanted to join him and his friends..it wasn't fair. Surely there had to be something he could do. But Riven nor his group would approve. But she would..?

The conversation finally ended, and the pair wandered off once more retreating back to their home and Henry shut off the TV.

Nobody knew exactly what to say. On one hand the phone had served its purpose. On the other it was clear neither borrowers would make themselves known.

"Is leaving notes still an option?" Theo chirped with hints of hope lingering in his voice. Everyone frowned at this, and Theo rolled his eyes slumping into the seat. He was aware on why that was a bad idea. It would most likely push them away..or at least one of them.

"OK.. so it did and didn't work. What now?" Sadie announced as if the thought was playing everyone else's mind.

"Keep watching?" Maisey suggested

"Give them more stuff to look at?" Thomas mused.

"Guys, did you not hear them? They're never gonna do it.." Sadie groaned.

"Well we can't exactly force anything. It would ruin any chance we have at talking with them" Henry replied.

Thomas groaned

"Ugh this is yesterday all over again."

Theo stayed quiet. Something that didn't go unnoticed by Henry, with a deadpan face his sighed "I know that face. What's on your mind?"

Theo flinched a little, he forgot how good Henry was at reading people.

"I- well- fine. Look, why don't we just try make contact with Daphne? I mean did you not just see how much she wants to meet us? Would it really be so bad?"

Henry sighed "It may put a rift in their friendship though Theo, and I'm sure that's something she values much more."

Sadie however seemed to lean into Theos idea

"I can't believe I'm saying this but..Theo has a point."

Theo flexed his arms exasperated "thank you Sadi- wait hey!" Sadie paid him no mind and continued

"But I don't want to be the reason if it drives them apart. In case it wasn't obvious to the rest of you, he's mad about her. I'm not sure she knows. Or if she does she doesn't seem to acknowledge it. Point is they're really close. Nevertheless, pulling them apart would be wrong. So...we confront them together"

This split everyone up

Theo agreed, Thomas was fifty fifty, Henry and Maisey didn't like it at all.

"We should flip a coin"

"These are living beings, this isn't something to flip coins over Thomas." Henry snapped.

Everyone was shouting over one another until Theo had enough he abruptly stood from the sofa over the ensuing chaos.

"OKAY OKAY. EVERYONE SHUT UP. I didn't mean to cause an argument. I shouldn't have said it. We wait one more night then. Just one more. After tonight we decide our approach. Contact or no contact. I'm sure you all know which one I prefer. But let's see how this plays out. After all, faith might have other plans".

—————————————————————

Riven couldn't stop thinking of last night. More so Daphne, and how certain she was at the idea of meeting the humans. He lost a good chunk of sleep over it, and his sleeping pattern was messed up enough from their adventures. The more he thought on it the stranger everything seemed to be. The traps. The box. The object from last night. It was all connected, he knew that much..but he didn't understand how.

All throughout his shift he lamented of sleep and conspiracies- at least that was what he was thinking off. He noticed the Chief- more so Daphnes Father- storming past him, as he did, the man glared daggers into him and stomped in the opposite direction of his home. Riven watched as he approached Barney inviting him to join his side. They spoke, though from his position Riven had no clue on what it could possibly be about. Daphnes father was infuriated, Barney looked rather smug. The chiefs dislike of him was nothing new, as well as his appraisal of that rodent Barney- but something seemed off. He longed to ask his friend about it, but he was well aware of the trouble he'd cause if he left his post-so he'd be sure to ask later.

Daphne was furious. After an hour in to her post, her father pulled her aside for a 'talk'. What may sound like a pleasant conversation was anything but. Whenever her father wanted to 'talk' it meant nothing good. Nothing good at all. Begrudgingly she followed suit, as the pair traversed through the colony into the woods, though it was more her following behind him like some obedient creature.

Her father remained silent and she gulped. That couldn't be good.

"Don't you have anything to say?"

Uh oh.

"Um..lovely weather we're having?"

His glare was so sharp she was sure it cut into her.

"You left the colony last night."

Daphne stopped walking feeling her heart stop.

"No, I was at home, repairing some clothes. Where'd you get that from?"

At this he turned to face her, something she didn’t appreciated as his eye contact was not something she found herself able to hold. He looked perfectly enraged.

"A report from Senon was that you were seen entering the border at sunrise. So don’t play coy with me”

Daphne internally cursed- she knew she should've gone the other way- of course Senon would rat her out, he was one of Barney's right hand men. In her defence she had checked for wandering eyes but none were found. Of course Senon had found some way to spy on her. But at least Rive-

"With that boy."

She shut her eyes and huffed out a sign of frustration at her karma. She’d get Barney for this. And that weasel of a spy. For now she needed to sort this, for Rivens sake. He risked enough for her.

"Father I-"

"How many times?"

"I'm- I'm sorry?"

"How many times have I told you no?"

"I can ex-"

"How many times?"

His voice was eerily low, and part of her wished that he would just scream and scratch this suffocating tension. But her father wasn't the type. She swallows her frustration and continued

"Many- but I"

"Precisely"

He laughed dryly but even to an unknown ear one could tell he was far from happy. He'd continue soon enough though, he just happened to appreciate the art of dramatic pauses. Daphne remained silent.

"And yet you still left!"

There it is

"Part of me believes this isn't your first offence either, is it?"

Her face had burned red, and her lips parting as she tried to finally fathom words, for Rivens sake.

“I’ve left before but only to see more of what the forest had to offer! With the colony growing bigger I thought.. it doesn’t matter. I’m sorry. But Riven did no wrong. I made him come with me last night… for..for protection as despite what you feel he is a dear friend of mine. He could hardly disobey the daughter of the chief right?.. b-but the entire time he talked against such actions and tried to persuade me to go back!”

Her father’s brows furrowed even further, his cheeks blooming a rosy hue. She’d really done it now.

“He does not take orders from you but me. You may be my daughter but you do not hold such power. Now you listen here. This is never to happen again. And you stay away from that boy- or I'll have him pay the consequences. Are we clear?"

Her eyes widened at the thought of the harm her father could cause Riven, sickening imagery infecting her mind. She wanted to curse to him at how valiant Riven was and how he was twice the man than anyone in the damn colony. But that would make matters worse. For now she was just relieved she’d gotten the blame off of her only ally.

"Yes, father."

Her father huffed at this.

"And If you want protection, you come to me. I will assign you a guard. No matter how many times I ensured you that leaving this colony was out of the question you went anyways. Now if you won't listen I'll make you listen, through punishing that boy. You stay away and you stay put. It’s time you grow up. You're eighteenth nameday passed over eleven moons ago. It is time you contribute to our colony and this family. It is time we find you a suitor, and you continue our legacy and lineage."

There was so much to comprehend from what he had just said and she felt like vomiting. Her father wanted her to marry and bare children? She was still a child herself. There was so much left to do she wasn't ready to settle! She never wanted to in the first place! She was made to explore and see more of what this world had in store not become some maiden. There was nothing wrong with such aspirations- but they weren’t hers!

"Father please, I- I'm not ready for such duties. I contribute already through the Scouts. A-and I know I've said it before but I could do so much more if you just let me borrow-"

His pupils seemed to shrink and his voice raised to a rough command.

"Listen here and listen well. I've already lost your mother. I will not loose you too. You will never be a borrower and that is for your own safety! Why don’t you understand that? I only want what’s best for you. I only want to keep you safe. Enough with this borrowing business is that clear?!"

Adding insult to injury she shook her head slowly. She’d never win. In times like these loathed not being born a man. Her father would never treat a boy this way. She seen that much through Barney.

"Good. Return to your post at once. Or need I get a guard to assist you?"

She wanted to snarl, to scream, to cry out. But it would get her nowhere, and would only earn her an unwanted chaperone like that of a child. So she nodded solemnly, turned and walked away.

As she headed back she lost herself in her thoughts. She couldn't go back to the human home now. Well, not with Riven anyways. And his support, though hesitant at times could be essential. And now with a marriage in line, her father would now have guards on her at all times- namely Barney.

Part of her had a gut wrenching worry that it was Barney who he had in mind, she'd worried it from the start. But Barney was just a guard. She knew she'd most likely be married to a son of a council member. And the idea both disgusted and relieved her.

She was unbelievably pent up. She couldn't go to Riven- she couldn’t risk his punishment. She’d find a way to write to him, explain the situation and delve some sort of plan. Suns, how could she simply go back scouting after all this?

Daphne was angry. Now she had been angry the night before, but that was an uncertain mix with confusion and sadness intertwined, possibly a hint of betrayal. But this anger was raw- and for her optimistic self, quite rare.

And when anger like this came upon her, she tended to do stupid things.

She wasn’t weak. She wasn’t stupid. Yes her decision making wasn’t as agile but that didn’t affect her smarts. If her father was never going to let her do anything then perhaps it was time to show him how good of a borrower she could be. She’d bring back such finds a borrower couldn’t dream off. And to keep Riven safe she’d.. she would have to go alone. She wilted at this, but images of life filled with boredom and childcare filled her mind, and the only thing to do was run away from that possibility. It was time to borrow.

Riven had always trusted his gut instincts. And after her fathers venomous gaze and Barney's vulgar smugness he knew something was wrong with his friend. He didn't have very much time left on duty, the sun's position telling him it was around high noon. It could be really difficult to tell the time on cloudy days when one couldn't access the sun, but today was one of the sunniest summer had offered thus far and while the heat was intense to a borrower, he was just thankful for a speculation of when he finished at this mind numbingly boring post. Although he'd never say it out loud he envied humans for their measurements of seconds, minutes, hours, the whole package. He could admit that understanding the clock in that kitchen would be a helpful endeavour.

His partner today (Wren? He was almost sure that was her name anyways) had stretched, announced they were done and headed off to the makeshift food area.

But Riven turned the opposite way. He needed to find Daphne, he needed to make sure he was okay. Put an end to these stupid gut feelings that taunted him. Ensure she was safe.

He was so distracted on sourcing out Daphnes post, he hadn't even heard a voice behind him.

"Where do you think you're going?"

Riven came to a sudden halt, his fight or flight instincts always kicked in at that voice- and they always assumed the fighting aspect.

Barney.

Though it seems today that he had reacted a tad bit too late, as by the time he turned around two figures siezed him- one kicking in his legs to buckle his knees, the other adding a foot into his stomach that made nausea spew with the pain.

Unable to avoid it he collapsed to the ground with a grunt, and Barney hunched down before him.

"Told you I'd deal with you later, didn't I?"

He shoved his face into the muck, erupting a sharpness in his head.

"Restrain him. Chief did say this was a punishment after all"

Rivens eyes widened at this. Punishment? What for? And more importantly where was Daphne?

—————————————————————

Daphne had never been here during the day. And she'd never been alone. A pang spread through her chest that Riven wasn't by her side today. She knew he'd worry if he was aware she came here alone. But Daphne so badly needed to clear her head and so after her long venture to the building and in through the walls, she had arrived at the tile. This was the same tile she always came rushing through today- but as of now she was in no mood at all to rush anything. She had never been caught before, the pair had always been more than careful. She just couldn't convert that to her father but she would soon enough. She would show him there was so much more to her than 'continuing a legacy'.

She softly pulled back the tile and stepped out.

Her senses were almost overwhelmed at the site. The kitchen looked so lively in the daylight. There was signs of activity too, giant cups, (or mugs? What was the right word? Why did humans need two words for there liquid containers?) their was a wift of something strong in the air coming from inside the cups but she couldn't describe what- not only that but there were five of them. Suns how much did humans drink? Surely only one lived here right? Was this amount normal?

She noticed things the moonlight seemed to neglect, like plants sitting on the opposite side of the room. She felt a growing urge to go explore them, her earlier anger dissipated away like clouds in a sun filled sky.

Here she stood out on the counter. The sake way she had many times before, a newfound bravery washing over her. She was finally going to borrow. What was the point in being called a borrower after all, if one could not do such a thing?

The clock still ticked on, but the kitchen didn't sound as empty- partially due to the vented window that granted access to bird song. Bird song that otherwise distracted her from other sounds.

It was then that Daphne remembered in her calmer mind frame, about that strange box she was determined to dissect.

Only when she turned to look at it, it wasn't there. She felt a little disheartened at this, having been so enthralled with it the past two days. Yesterday on the way home she vowed she'd uncover its secrets tonight, but that wouldn't be the case now.

She walked along the counter top, feeling as if she'd forgot something or a part of her was missing without her usual company. She wasn't a fan of this feeling.

She never gone this far in either, having passed the profound trench of the sink. She always found that word funny since she had learned of it, it felt fitting. The water would sink down bellow into a mysterious hole, she'd love to know where it would go. Or where it came from for starters. Borrowers got their water naturally, heating up with fire from small candles (another obsession she used to have, she found fire fascinating. At the age of ten when she had tried to touch it, it had no been friendly or welcoming, leaving a long mark that still scarred the majority of her left arm today. Not to mention, during this era, she'd almost set the colony afire..four times.) She wondered if humans did too.

Now she was passing a large glassy plane- not unlike the object from the previous night. It had four wide circles drawn on it, and near the edge of the counter, strange little details with words on images lay waiting command.

She was about to go over and methodically fiddle with these off triggers- when she noticed just up ahead.

Another box.

Or maybe the same one?

She didn't care. She was going to figure it out. Yes. She'd figure it out and then find something to take back home with her. Or perhaps take this home?

She dashed over, feeling a sudden rush spread throughout her. This is what she was made for. And even though it was hard to ignore to emptiness with her confidante, this felt right.

She stopped just before it once more, dropping to her knees. The red light was gone, which struck her as odd. That red dot was always blinking? Though thinking on it she'd never inspected the back of these boxes. Maybe there would be an answer there?

And so she did, there was a few notable indents, some writing- a new odd word. She tested it on her tongue

"C-came-ra? Cam-erah? Huh? Is that what you are? However you say it.."

Then she noticed another weird circle- what was it with humans and their constant circles?- but similar to the lines on the object last night, it too jutted out. Remember how she- or rather they- had dealt with that, and so she pressed against it.

She hurried back over to the front with anticipation- and to her delight it had returned! She squealed and gave a quick clap of victory, proud of herself.

She tilted her head and scratched her head.

"So..what do you do? Clearly your strange light does something..but what?"

It was then Daphne heard the door open followed by a thunderous voice. She felt her heart drop into her stomach. And eyes widen at a revelation.

Humans.

She was given no time to process this unwelcoming intrusion as through the door walked an impossibly tall lurking giant. He had dark hair, dark eyes and strange circles on his face. It was the grumpy human she'd seen yesterday!

Realising her position she instantly scrambled for cover- her only shelter being the camera. She curled up into the smallest ball she could muster and sue held her breath. He heart was hammering like that of a hummingbird.

She had always wanted to meet a human. But out of that group this was the last one she wished to meet. And she never expected to be this scared. Her form was trembling, so much so she worried he'd hear her quivers. She longed for Rivens reassurance, and with him in mind she felt a small tug of determination. Covering her mouth with one hand and holding her heart with another and sat, and she waited.

Henry entered the kitchen, everyone had been long gone since this morning. Theo was in his room preparing to leave for his late lecture. Henry felt quite fortunate he didn't need to leave for another hour. He decided to ask Maisey if she'd be finsihed before then so he could leave with Theo and meet up with her for a bite to eat.

He had at least, until he remembered the state of the kitchen.

Fair, it wasn't overly messy, but nobody had bothered to clean up their mugs and cups from this morning! Along with Theo leaving out the bread after his toast. He'd be sure to berate him for that later.

He collected the coffee mugs and empty tea cups in his hand holding all by the handle and made his way over to the dishwasher to deposit them. He bent down and placed each one in and once done he looked up to turn and grab the bread- only to notice the light blinking on Theos second camera. He gave an irritated growl.

"And he'd be the very one complaining that it ran out of battery. Theo!! Stop leaving your damn cameras on!!"

Daphne wondered at that moment how well a humans ears worked. She'd never been this close to one- nor even seen one. But she prayed their ears lacked in sense for what they made in size when she gave a contorted muffled squeak as he gained proximity. This boy was absolutely massive and he had no right to be that tall- he looked far too tall- even for human standards, which was saying something to be sure! He was just a little bit off from crouching to get through the door.

And now he was standing over her. Right over her! Even as he whispered under his breath, it still muffled throughout her, his yells to his fellow human even more so, reverberating every bone in her mere body.

She could hear Riven in her head, berating her with how he knew this would happen, only to recall all the continuous times he had warned her to be careful. She'd always heeded those warnings in her own way. All but today. And if she didn't act fast, the reason for those warnings would happen to her. She'd be caught.

But where to go?! The human currently loomed over the counter top, his face caught in a web of perplexed intensity, as if thinking through his every own choices. Whatever could he be thinking about? It was clearly something to do with this box- no..this camera- but what? It was eating her up inside and she began to entertain the thought of how his face would look if he spotted her. Would it contort and twist, into one of anger or disgust? Would it light up like the candle lights she had once been so attached to? Would his eyes buldge trying to comprehend what he couldn't possibly understand?

She shook her head briskly, she couldn't think like that! Not now anyways! She needed an exit. An escape. Shelter of any forgiving object that welcomed their endearing shadows to hide in. Then when the coast was clear once more she’d grab something worthy and go.

From down the hall Henry heard Theo zipping up his bag and watched clearly unamused as he strolled on in obliviously to grab his toast- which had mysteriously disappeared

"Heyyy” he drawled “I wasn't done"

Henry glared and pointed to the camera

"Did you hear me?"

Theo rolled his eyes and dramatically sauntered over raising a brow.

"Hear what exactly?"

Henry could choke him but he persisted. He gave a short sigh that paired well with his shortened temper.

"Stop leaving the cameras on in the day time."

Theo scoffed, clearly taken a back by this and was reflexive to defend himself

"Um no? I turned it off this-" His eyes met the device. The blinking light however, said otherwise, making his brows furrow in confusion..odd. No, no he swore he had turned it off- no he knew he turned it off. Yet here it sat blinking to itself and capturing this very conversation.

He snatched it up to double check, almost hitting the tiny girl that had been hiding behind- his breath hitched. His eyes widened and instantly done a double take.

It..It was her.

To his side, Henry huffed watching Theos attention divert, pulling aside from the problem at hand as per usual, ready to snap at his roommate but he followed his gaze, and with an audible gasp the perfect Henry almost stumbled in disbelief, his glasses tilting out of place from the commotion.

Far above Daphne, two giant boys stared down at her, and the only sound was the haunting tick from the clock on the wall. Aside from her pacing heartbeat all was still, in such motion she recognised them. Both were from the strange device. This was their home then. She caught herself before she could pondering further. She had been caught. Caught.

According to the stories she'd been fed growing up, this was a death sentence. And she didn't intend on paying it.

With adrenaline now pumping through her veins she decided not to purge anymore precious time, breaking out into a mad sprint. She wouldn't make it to the tile, not from here, but she could make it to the window!!

It seemed her actions had eluded some sort of wakeup call, and as it washed over the towering beings behind her mayhem ensued.

The smaller of the duo cried out to her, his voice deafeningly loud and desperate. Had she not been running she'd have covered her ears and their aggravating ringing.

The window was in sight, and blessed was she that it had been open an inch or so. That was all she needed anyways!

But as if his first plea hadn't been enough, on came seconds

"WAIT!!"

The windowsill before her vanished from view so rapidly she'd sworn she'd gotten whiplash and in its stead slammed down a harrowing wall of warm flesh. Left. Right. All exits were blocked. She let loose a cry as the other giant snapped.

"THEO!" Henry snarled

Theo gasped at what he had just down, as the pitiful Daphne scrambled away from the hand falling onto her backside.

She turned around so suddenly, her face red and full of fear. Theos heart dropped instantaneously. He scared her. Guilt singed and he was sputtering out unprocessed words.

"Gahh! I- I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to I-"

The girl was a shivering mess- a contrast to her usual excited self. God. He did this. This wasn't right. She wasn't right.

Her eyes met his and he felt himself freeze. The world was still once more and for the one moment it was just him, and this unexplainably miniture girl caught between avoiding him or his twitching hand caving her in. Catching this he retracted his hand, a little too fast for current events. She was breathing so quick, too quick. He'd almost given the poor thing a fully blown panic attack- nevermind a heart attack. Henry's backhand met his head

"What were you thinking!?" His roommate hissed. "Are you trying to scare her to death?!"

Henry's infuriated eyes left Theo and took in the uncanny sight before him, and done his best to soften his shock filled gaze. Bur hiding shock at a time like this was impossible. Still, she was shivering.. and he doubted looming over the girl was helping, intentional or not.

He sucked in a small breath and bent down on his knees to make his bumbling height less imposing on her, with Theo instantly following suit and dropping to the ground by his side. Henry drank in her fidgeting features, seemingly unaware of how his critical analysis unnerved every bone in her body worse than his looming. He transcribed his words thoughtfully in his head before speaking.

"I..I do apologise for all that commotion, my friend here doesn't tend to think before he acts" he shot a quick gaze to Theo who looked a mix regretful, floored and encapsulated. He continued softly, trying to assure her. He had to get her to calm down.

"It's going to be okay. I promise you're safe. We won't hurt you"

When the girl said nothing, he tried another approach, attempting to soften his voice even further.

"My name is Henry.."

Theo perked up at this, shaking his head to get his thoughts straight. How could he have forgotten introductions? He'd be smacking himself later for majority of his actions thus far but more so for his lack of manners.

"I-I'm Theon but I go by Theo-.. I'm so so sorry, I really didn't mean to scare you I just-..well.." He hung his head in a solemn shame "what he said."

Daphne was a shell of her former self. She longed for this moment. Dreamed of it.

But now that it was happening she couldn't comprehend it.

And so she collapsed.

Oneshot requests #1: Innocence of the Damned

A/N: Hi! Welcome! Incase you haven’t seen, to get back into the flow of writing I am taking requests! This here is a request featuring my favourite- parental g/t! It is a little dark as those tropes are my preferred genre but I will list all warnings beforehand. Thank you so much @gt-jar for request! I look forward to writing the others now that college is closed up before my exams, next request should be out tomorrow :)

Content warning!: violence, gore, mentions of drug and alcohol abuse.

(Also side note this story feature humans with some animalistic features, ears, fangs and tails- but they are humans)

—————————————————————

It was safe to say Jasper was getting real tired of the cards he was being dealt in slime ridden dump folks called a city. As crook himself he was no angel, considering the fact he played what one would deem a rather vital role for one of the many gangs, The Black Cats. His job? Rather simple. To hunt down those in debt to the Black Cats club and gambling den, simple on paper, though as per usual reality was not so doting.

Hunting down the sorry souls was easy enough. Most characterised by their idiocy, as one who willingly shook the hand of any money lending devil would be. As a hunter of such men, his reputation lingered about the leery alleys, lived on in the bated breaths of wary whispers, haunted with frightful glances. In short his reputation was enough to draw most out quick enough. If they were smart, with cash in hand and no more than a seething glare burning into the brickwork below, it was the preferred option. Those who lacked brain cells were a different story. And it never had a happy ending.

He didn’t feel pity, he couldn’t- not in his line of work. They dug their grave, wether they left bloodied and broken or not- with the rumours of corruption in the stock market, there was no doubt these pathetic sods would now and forevermore be paying back the scraps they earned for the rest of their days in this miserable shithole.

They’d done this out of their own stupidity, selling their lives for the brief comfort of a coin in hand; a hint of wealth and good fortune- only to waste it away at the tables, feel the warmth of alcohol in their rotten veins and a endure fist fulls of powder.

Loan sharking was a gluttonous business alright, the greed of men its life blood. But business was business. Money was money. And a job was a job. Jasper was not one to neglect such facts.

Tonight’s job was no different, or it so it had seemed.

The rain was that irritable indecisive state, a vexing inbetween- not quite what you’d label a downpour, but not a clear night by any means. More synonymous with mist or fog than anything. A typical scene of an ominous night in a classic picture show.

He was glad he’d worn the cowboy boots tonight, it would save his trench coat the dignity of sopping amongst the pavement. Aside from the rain not a soul was in sight, the city was a ghost town.

Muffled music from one of the many bars nearby was the only sign that there was indeed life to be found. Rain always pulled in the desperate folk. His boss would be pleased with that much. More so when this job was complete.

With a flick of his hat he gave himself an internal debrief. A mouse. A stingy pesky conman who had played one to many games in avoiding debts. Pulling strings, jumping loopholes; his boss wasn’t a patient man, and his patience was wearing thin. He’d been big in his part of city, though mice and rodents alike were seen as nothing more than rotten pests, they’d never garner much respect- though respect wasn’t something one could achieve easily in these whereabouts. He’d seen a few killed off in horrific ways he wouldn’t wish on his worst enemy- though rethinking that statement maybe he would. Crushed, snapped, thorn, swallowed. Form of punishment like that would certainly send a message.

Overall, this specific mouse had some nerve considering his position on the social ladder. Though it made it easier for him, hunting down mice was practically in his blood- given his heritage. He couldn’t give a damn how it was handled, once the job got done.

He’d been spotted last in the outskirts, the entire city was more or less a slum but this specific spot entailed the poorest of poor- both in health and coin. It seemed his mouse was attempting to blend in amongst the addicts and beggars, he’d seen this all before.

What he hadn’t expected were three suited men packed into an alleyway. Not just any men. Hound Dogs. The Black Cats rival competitor, and lifelong enemy. Brilliant.

What was particularly interesting however was how they respectively took turns between puffing their cigars and dangling a much smaller, stout man. The mouse. His target.

Innards seeped from his stomach, one ear had been torn, his tail was gone. His breaths laboured, choking on his own blood and horrid cacophony that barely managed to travel, he cried pitifully brief snippets of words that turned into gargles.

Jasper flexed his claws in frustration. The man was no taller than four inches, with injuries like that he wouldn’t survive the night. The debt wouldn’t be paid- those dogs knew what they were doing. An insult to The Black Cats.

But there was three of them and one of him. Fighting over a dead man wouldn’t pay the debt, loosing his own life wouldn’t either, though this was clear hit from the Hound Dogs- and it wouldn’t be taken lightly. Revenge, would come in full. Enough damage had been done tonight, and pay back had to be planned proper and precise.

Adjusting his cuffs, the middle man spat out his wilting cigar letting it hiss to a dim in the soft rain before stomping it to into the ground.

“I believe we are done here.” He spoke rather gruffly.

Jasper eased his claws, though the urge to slit into a throat was raging at the thought of his boss hearing the news.

“Finish him off then. This rain is pissing me off and Brutus will want an update.”

Despite his vocal chords blocked with blood the target attempted a cry of mercy before he was dropped on the pavement, a foot was raised and Jasper only grimaced and averted his gaze as a sickening crunch followed, spatters of blood trickled down the freshly painted red wall.

There was snarl in regards to the red dots freshly adjourning the trios suede shoes and with that the three took off down the alleyway.

Jasper sighed aggressively as he pushed off the wall. That was that then. Or it would’ve been, had he not picked up on a brief scattering sound.

He paused midstep looking back in disbelief.

Unbelievable..there wasn’t a chance of survival after that. The mouse was as sure as dead by now. The smells of a fresh body couldn’t be denied, Jasper was all too familiar with the scent.

Yet there it was again! This time followed by a brief sniff. Jaspers ear twitched with intrigued, with narrow eyes he turned the corner, his outline ominously blocking the street lamps.

The corpse lay where it most likely would for some time, completely caved in on itself. Nobody ever cared when a rat or mouse passed. They were only labelled as vermin.

But that was besides the point.

What had made that noise?

More importantly, was there hope for this debt after all?

Holding his breath, he prevailed silently step by step. Sneak attacks were a specialty of his, but with smaller folk one had to be that of a phantom. Another sniff- this one undeniable. But where?

A whimper.

His eyes fell down in a flash.

The crates.

Suddenly a newfound determination his kicked them aside ferociously, it seemed his mouse had brought a little friend and a dangerous light cascaded over his face, only for it to dwindle.

His breath hitched.

Down below sat a boy.. nothing more than a..child. An extremely tiny child at that.

Jasper faltered and lowered his arms as if a spell had been broken.

The file had said nothing about family.

Nothing about a child.

If anything it was a known fact for local residents and tourists that most gambling men in the area were nothing more than single slobs whom society had given up on entirely.

Yet here sat this boy no more than three inches in height and ten years of age, ears pinned back hidden beneath a mess of dusty hair, tail wrapped around a battered leg. Reddened eyes pinned in a horrified gaze.

His diminutive form couldn’t press further into the wall if he tried and it was more than obvious from his stance the boy was going to dart in the opposite direction- right by his father’s body.

The sight was gruelling to behold for himself, and he’d grown used to this scenarios- it would surely scar the boy for life.

Something tugged deep inside him.

In his position pity wasn’t an option. He’d had this drilled within himself since he’d chosen this life.

But those eyes..that pure raw fear. The innocence in a city drowning in its own greed.

In the harrowing silence time stood still as the pair looked one another down.

Jasper could only think of his upbringing. His family. His little sister, his baby brother. His widowed mother- each one of their lives snuffed out in an instant. How it left him stranded at only thirteen.

How that agonising pain and anger had coerced his feeble mind into the darkness, jaws of those with silver tongues.

Jasper was aware of his sins. All too aware of the blood on his hands, his damned soul.. aware that at this point, there was no changing that. It was too late for him.

But it wasn’t too late for this boy.

As if time had snapped back, he broke the barrier, daring to step an inch closer. God he was small.

“Easy there son.” He attempted, raising his hands in defence, carefully grasping his hat, withdrawing his claws. He did his best to hide his fangs. His attempt lay in vain.

The rise and fall of the little chest hastened. He needed to act quick.

Biting his cheek at how his shadow swallowed the tiny child, bringing him to a position to get down on his knees as he continued, the words careful ringing in his mind.

“I ain’t gonna hurt you, just..just keep your eyes on me alright.”

He had only successfully gotten one knee planted on the wet brick work- though it would seem to be far enough as in an instant the boy dashed to the right, the thought of freedom plaguing his being.

“Whoa there!”

Swiping for the tiny figure too sloppy for his liking, allowing a dodge and a dart, Jasper snapped after the boy.

Though regaining his posture slammed his hand down resulting in a collision. The boy smacked into him crumbling to the ground, Jasper winced.

“Alright now. Hold it son.”

The boy, seemingly understanding his. escape was off limits tucked his head into his oversized jacket.

It was a poor attempt, but Jasper credited the fact the boy wasn’t currently begging for mercy. He hated that spiel- though guilt subdued him, reminding himself given the situation begging for mercy wouldn’t be unwarranted.

Feeling the feeble boy against his rough hands Jaspers heart swelled. He’d never wanted a kid. Hell, he’d barely been one himself. This city wasn’t exactly the place for children.

Aside from that, settling down in this life wasn’t an option- too dangerous. Too many risks. The biggest one being leverage one could use against you.

Those with families kept them hidden, not even he knew where the boss secured his, and that man had practically raised him, albeit perhaps raised wasn’t the right word. Jaspers lifelong service to The Black Cats was his own form of payment. He unfortunately owed the boss his life, bastard that he was, and he’d spend the rest of his days fulfilling every command, completing his wretched errands.

Point was, children were never an option in this life. But yet, there was a feeling deep inside. There was an urge- undeniable need to protect this boy he couldn’t quite fathom- or ignore, no matter now hard he tried.

Although the boy wasn’t moving, asides from trembling that is, he didn’t want to risk anymore surprises. With that he cautiously wrapped his fingers surrounding the boy, cocooning his small quivering form, which in turned earned a whimper.

“Breathe, breathe” Despite it being out of fright, his commands were followed. He gently rubbed his thumb along the child’s spine as he whispered

“you’re alright- it’s alright. That’s it. Calm yourself. You hurt none?”

The boy was firm not to reply, Jasper expected as much but if he was going to help this child that answer wouldn’t do.

He attempted to glance over in his father’s direction but gasped as Jasper tightened his grip in the softest manner he could muster, regaining the child’s focus.

“Hey now, eyes on me kid. I don’t want you seeing that. Eyes on me, yeah?”

He stuck his thumb out under the boys chin and tilted it up to face him, a few more bruises making themselves apparent. His eyes puffy from crying opened once more, that harsh redness was amplified by two velvet pupils which met Jaspers own golden glare.

“There you are..” He whispered down to the boy, busy blinking out remaining tears.

“Now..you hurt?”

The boy didn’t respond. Jasper huffed, though he wouldn’t loose his patience. Scaring the boy felt wrong in ways he couldn’t process.

He tensed as he felt the minuscule tail wrap around his finger, a hug? A sign of comfort? Or a reply? Jasper couldn’t tell, but awe melted within him.

“That mean no?”

He waited for a signal but to no avail,

only after a few beats of bated breath the boy gave a hesitant nod. It wasn’t much, but it was progress. That much he could work with.

“Ah so you can understand me then.”

He doubted the boys father had even bothered teaching him the common tongue, Jasper remembered him well enough from the gambling hall to know he neglected this child with his presence in preference of poker chips- if that wasn’t obvious enough from the fragile state of his body, or the fact he barely had his own clothes. That wasn’t important right now though, that man was long gone now. He needed to get this kid talking.

“You got a name then?”

The boy nodded a second time, opened his mouth like a gaping fish then halted closing it, looking away with a look of shame. Confusion nagged at Jasper before an obvious realisation struck.

Oh..

“You can’t speak can you?”

No reply, of course. No wonder the little thing hadn’t begged for mercy- he couldn’t.

And there it was.

There was no doubting it this time.

Pity.

The rain began to grow heavier, reminding him that it was in fact drizzling and his clothes had begun to sop and dampen.

The boy was soaked to the bone, though Jasper figured the shivers were more out of fear than anything. It wasn’t a cold night, with the city adjacent to the swamplands humidity was at an all time high.

They couldn’t stay here much longer, with how thick the air had grown a storm was inevitable.

He silently watched the boy in contemplation.

Pity wasn’t allowed

Distractions weren’t allowed.

He’d just about killed countless. Beaten those bloody til they were but a footfall from six feet under. He didn’t take pleasure in this but he never felt remorse. Pity

But even his shallow heart couldn’t find it in itself to abandon this child.

He begrudgingly glanced over at the corpse polluting the alley with its odorous fumes, then back down at the boy, whose eyes watched him with an unmistakable glimmer of hope.

Disbelief, that someone was showing kindness..mercy.

The little tyke was beat, broken and looked a minute away from collapsing. Jasper didn’t imagine he’d eaten recently- or slept for that matter. He pondered how long his deadbeat father had dragged him about the city, different hideouts, different escape routes.

Yet, deadbeat or not, the kid was alone now. Hurt. Scared. Sad.

All of it would spur into a concoction of rage he’d seen before.

In himself.

No.

No.

He refused to let this kid go down the same path he had. Let this kid make stupid choices, fall into that hands that would take and take and take until there was nothing left to give.

It was decided

“Right then..” he opened up his pocket, with an encouraging nod carefully dropped the boy in, feeling him instantly scurry around out of shock, he looked down with softened eyes.

“Ease up there kid. You’re safe. I swear it- and that don’t come easy with me. Ain’t nobody gonna hurt you.”

He looked sincerely as if swearing the next part to himself, telling the child what he wished someone had told him all those years ago.

“Never again”

With that, he placed his hat back upon his head, leaving the alley for good just as the first rumble of thunder rumbled far above.