Flufftober 2023

Flufftober 2023

Day 23: "Does it make you nervous when I stare?" [x Zed]

The way this date, if Zed could even call it that, he didn't have the guts to tell you how he felt. But at least going out to lunch without any of his coworkers was something.

The day was almost perfect; light breeze, low mist, mostly sunny, and not a thing out of place.

"Zed?" You had to tap the table, "You still there?"

He popped up, unaware that he'd zoned out, "Oh, sorry."

Zed really hoped that you didn't think it was weird... that he was weird. But he had been so focused on your voice, more than what you were saying, quietly daydreaming about actually dating you. Staring at you so intensely that it would likely be so much worse...

"Are you okay?" You were more concerned that Zed wasn't responding, "You're a little more... quiet than normal. Is everything alright?"

"Oh, no. I mean yes!" Zed panicked, "I-I'm alright. I was just... I was thinking. I accidentally zoned out."

The way you were giggling made Zed flush, badly. He didn't know how to go about saying anything about why he zoned out in the first place. Maybe if he...

"[Name], does... does it make you nervous when I stare?" Zed finally managed, "I mean... Since I'm..."

Your face scrunched up from trying to contain your giggles, "Of course not. If it did, I wouldn't hang out with you. And the fact that you're not human never bothered me in the first place."

Zed felt like melting, suddenly reminded of why he was so enamored with you. If only he could admit his feelings so easily, then maybe these dates could turn into actual dates... romantic ones.

Whumptober 2023

Day 25: "Maybe I'm just hopeless" [x Klaus]

Struggling, panting, all but ready to pass out from the sheer effort of standing up. This battle wasn't going in your favor... in truth, no battle has ever gone in your favor. You'd been a fang hunter for as long as you could remember but here you were still struggling to hold your own in combat.

Maybe it was how little you worked out, maybe it was your blood blade and how you'd never fully mastered it, maybe it was how much you relied on other tools and weapons before joining Libra.

Regardless, you were hardly any use in combat and it showed. Klaus always had to bail you out and that wasn't a good look. Especially not when you had an embarrassingly massive crush on the man.

How were you ever to confess if you had to constantly be saved? Were you supposed to try and convince him you were good spouse material? The man had a butler and was more than capable of taking care of a household on his own. You were barely able to boil water without it burning.

You were only kidding yourself to think there was anything Klaus might see in you... especially as he once again came to your rescue.

"[Name], are you alright?" He turned to you with the same concern as ever, "Please, allow me to--"

"I'm fine Klaus." You sighed, "The only thing seriously hurt is my pride. I'll be fine."

Despite your insistence on being okay, your body betrayed you. The ground was coming up fast, but Klaus was much faster; catching you before you could even think about how cold the concrete would be.

"I'm fairly certain your injuries are far worse than you believe them to be." Klaus shifted you around gently before lifting you, "Please, forgive me. I don't want you to further injure yourself."

Letting out a soft grunt, you submitted to the giant teddy bear. Part of you was thrilled, but that elation was extremely short-lived. You were still nothing like how you used to be... you were still a failure of a fang hunter. Despite having one of the best and most versatile blood blade styles out there.

It was maddening to be stuck in this newbie phase.

While sitting in the office; most of your wounds had been shallow, but you weren't able to move around much or be left alone; you watched the mist and clouds just beyond Klaus's desk. He was, of course, the one who'd volunteered to babysit you while you recovered.

Part of you hated it.

It felt like you really couldn't do anything on your own, not even recover without Klaus being right there. Had the two of you been dating or something, you'd understand it. But he was just being friendly with a coworker. That's all the two of you were to one another. Coworkers.

"[Name], I'm afraid I need to pick up a couple things from my house." Klaus spoke up, "Is there something you might need as well?"

"No, I'm good." Klaus was used to you sounding defeated after battles, but he was still worried about you, "I'll just be here... unless nature calls."

"Please don't strain yourself. I'll be back as soon as possible."

Klaus wondered how he could possibly help you. Perhaps he should insist on helping you train, or research your blood blade to see what might be causing it's unpredictability. Then again...

It could be your past keeping you from your full potential.

The idea haunted Klaus, he couldn't fathom being raised as a soldier and not being able to control one's own fighting abilities. It must take its toll on your mental health as well. Perhaps he should just talk to you and see if a little gentle prying could clear up whatever is going on with you.

And yet, you were quite stubborn about not saying anything. It worried Klaus to no end, he didn't want to force you after all. That would just be plain rude. But something had to give...

It was rather late, you opted to stay on the couch instead of trying to lie in a bed. At least on the couch, you'd be able to keep one leg propped up over the back. Klaus didn't think it was ideal, but he couldn't argue with the possibility that you'd injure your leg further if left to a flat bed.

In the hopes that Klaus was far enough away, you murmured under your breath, "Maybe I'm just hopeless."

An answer to a question that Klaus had long since abandoned, but one he couldn't ignore. Turning on his heel to make sure that had come from you, that it wasn't just him projecting an answer you might give in to the quiet open air.

The way your eyes shifted told Klaus exactly what he feared...

"[Name], of course you aren't hopeless." The red-haired man was kneeling beside the couch before you could protest, "You merely need a little assistance with your abilities is all. Once you're feeling better, I'd be more than happy to offer my help. After a little research and training, I'm positive that you'll get the hang of your blade. But you aren't hopeless, not by a long shot."

You remained silent, unwilling to say anything else. Trying to discuss this made you uneasy, as if you were complaining about having something not having the right color. But Klaus was more determined and stubborn than he let on, something you deeply admired until it was used against you.

"Please, let me help you." His voice had such a soft grumble to it, "Before you had a blood blade, you were one of the best hunters the Vatican had to offer. I know that once you master your newer abilities you'll become that formidable fore once again."

He leaned over, gently brushing your hair behind your ear, "Please, allow me to help you [Name]. I'd like to..."

Flufftober 2023

Day 31: Late Night Phone Call [x Zapp]

As much as Zapp didn't want to admit it, he missed you. It wasn't fair that you had business trips without him being able to tag along. It wasn't like he couldn't find someone else to occupy his time, but he didn't want someone else.

He wanted you.

But he knew that as long as he pouted, nothing would ever come of this. Zapp had to do something if he really wanted to be with you... or at least hear your voice. Maybe a video chat, he really wanted to see you after all.

But it was probably really late for you, or you were still in some kind of meeting. Despite wanting to call you, Zapp didn't want to risk you losing your job. He knew how much it meant to you, and as much of a jerk as he usually is...

Zapp couldn't deny how much he cared about you. Actually wanting someone else's happiness was so weird for him.

Hey sexy when's a good time to call I miss you

Shooting a text couldn't hut, right? That's what it's for after all.

Why don't you use punctuation?

I dunno answer the question tho

I'm almost to the hotel. Another ten minutes and I'll be able to talk without anyone else eavesdropping k?

Hell yeah why don't you just call me then sexy I'll be waiting

You sighed and rolled your eyes. Even though you were used to Zapp's lack of punctuation and general neediness, it could get on your nerves from time to time. This was one of those times where it only half got on your nerves. If only because you had to decipher what he was trying to say after a brain-frying meeting.

But this was something you could look forward to.

Throwing caution to the wind, you dialed Zapp's number as soon as you entered the room. Knowing that you'd have to change and cook and that you needed a shower while you were on the phone. And knowing that Zapp likely wouldn't want you to hang up just to shower; he was a stubborn man, things would likely get very heated by that point.

"Hey sexy." You weren't kept waiting, "Sup? How's the sh^t going over there?"

Chuckling through your nose, "Everything's fine for now. Just got one last meeting tomorrow and I'll be headed back to Hellsalem's Lot by the weekend."

"F^%k yeah, that's what I like to hear." Zapp couldn't help himself, laying in bed while talking, "How many people have been eyeing you over hotness? Do I need to show up and tell them you're mine?"

"No Zapp. No random cross-country trips for you." You shook your head, "I haven't been keeping up with if people look at me and no one's said anything even remotely suggestive to me so there's no need for you to get involved."

"If you say so sexy. But you best believe Imma be all over you the second you get back."

"Oh really?" You decided to prolong the inevitable by cooking first, "You honestly think that'll work?"

"Oh I know it'll work." Zapp sat up, his competitive nature activated, "Cause I ain't letting up until you're begging for more."

"You always say that though. What'll make this time any different?"

"This time Imma have a secret weapon. And I won't hesitate to use it."

"Is that so? We'll have to see if it works in your favor then hon." You teased, "Cause I dunno if you got the guts to pull it off."

You had to hold your phone out, giggling as Zapp ranted. He was more than determined enough to try and persuade you. Even now, he was making arguments for why you should come back home and let him show you what he'll do.

And you were so glad you waited until you were alone for this conversation...

Flufftober 2023

Day 28: "You're the love of my life, of course I came" [x Aligula]

You didn't know the first thing about the group of people around you at the moment... except that they were extremely annoying. Despite telling them you weren't in danger, they insisted they were trying to help. But if they really wanted to help, they'd let you go back to your date instead of making you late for it.

Lily wouldn't be too pleased, but there seemed to be no end to how much they would ignore you.

"It's quite alright Mx." A large red-haired man gestured in an attempt to soothe any possible fears, "You're perfectly safe here."

"I was perfectly safe before you abducted me, sir." You shot, "If you'd let me leave, I might be able salvage my date."

Though the fanged man looked uncomfortable and apologetic, it was the dark-haired man slightly behind him that continued to argue.

"We have on good authority that Aligula, the Queen of Monomania, was headed in that direction. And moreover, that you were her main target."

You groaned, pinching your nose. These people couldn't be serious. You were hoping that Aligula would be coming for you. This was just plain frustrating to deal with.

"Mx., this is a matter of your safety." The scarred man kept going, "We know what she's capable of and are simply trying to keep you out of danger."

"I WASN'T IN DANGER UNTIL YOU SNATCHED ME OFF THE STREET YOU IDIOTS!"

Just before you could attempt to walk off, the ground shook. For the first time, you were actually excited to see what might be making that noise. Even as you nearly fell, though the tallest man had reached for you. It almost seemed like an instinct for him.

"[NAME]!" You'd recognize that adorably bratty voice anywhere, "[NAME]! Where are YOUUUUU~?"

Skirting around as many of the outstretched arms as you could, "I'm over here! Lily!"

A tall fish-man had caught your wrist, stopping you while everyone else looked on in shock. How did you have a cutesy pet name for someone that... evil?

Though it wasn't long before Aligula was peering in the window, scanning for you. There were several small bots forming a sort of cloud under her feet.

Waving happily between escape attempts, "Lily, you came for me!"

"Of course I did silly!" She smirked, her bots laser cutting the glass, metal, and wood, "You're the love of my life."

You could feel the shock and horror in the room, but you didn't care in the slightest. Finally able to break the fish's grip and scoop Aligula up in a tight hug. Nuzzling against her face as she tried covering yours in little kisses.

"You were so late for our date." She pouted, "What happened?"

"Sorry sweetie." You couldn't stop grinning, "I got caught up in something. But I don't have anything to do for the rest of the day, movies and snuggles?"

"Oh yes~" She grinned, "That'll absolutely make up for that."

You stepped out over the balcony, carrying Aligula, and knowing that her little bots would catch you. Ignoring the protests and squawking at you for everything you were doing.

Whumptober 2023

Day 29: "Please open your eyes" [x Leo]

It was getting more and more difficult to tell reality from his ability to see the future. Leo couldn't count the number of times he'd had nightmares about very real feeling funerals and even he couldn't tell if it was just his eyes letting him glimpse the future based on his fears, or if he was just imagining what it would be like.

But the worst ones had to involve you... and Michella, but Leo was so much more worried about you as he sat up panting.

Not helping matters was that you were in a coma at the hospital. Despite Dr. Estevez telling him everything was perfectly okay, Leo still feared the worst. He worried you'd never wake up or be able to open your eyes again.

After the demon beast targeted your head, slashing around your eyes, things felt like that day all over again. Except this time, he had tried to stop what was happening and very likely made everything worse.

But Leo headed right to the hospital first thing the next morning. He needed to see you, to check up on you. Nothing about his day would feel right if he didn't. Especially with how much he seemed to be competing with Klaus to visit you. Though, that was just Klaus being an overconcerned boss more than anything, Leo knew he would show up for anyone in that situation.

Sitting next to your bed, this felt like the one morning Leo was completely alone. Dr. Estevez had removed some more bandages as your face healed. Leo could see the fading scar marks against what they used to be. The image of such deep, blood-red marks shimmered in his vision just over the smaller, lighter-than-skin-tone marks you'd carry around for the rest of your life.

"I love you [Name]." Leo couldn't stop himself from muttering at you, hoping you'd hear him, "I love you so much. Please, open your eyes. Please."

As much as Leo would have loved to continue, Klaus had arrived and sadly Leo had an early shift at Dogamo's. But he would return... once he was off, Leo would be back to try and help you wake up.

Flufftober 2023

Day 30: "I'm not the villain..." [x Raju]

You were dodging some peculiar people lately. It was quite unnerving to see such tall men trailing you all the time. For the longest time, you couldn't help but wonder why they were tailing you, to the point you'd called on Raju just about as soon as you noticed them.

"[Name]?" He landed lightly, perching on his cane, "What's wrong? Why do you keep calling me back here?"

"The tall red and black-haired men behind me."

Raju glanced and sure enough, he recognized the two men following you. Though why they would was also beyond him, you weren't much of a threat after all. Unlike most blood breeds you kept to yourself and barely drank blood.

Of course you didn't even realize you were a blood breed, outside of the fact that sunlight seemed to hurt. But when you complained about it, it was never 'I turned into a vampire.' and always 'I'm just suddenly allergic to the sun.' It was completely weird to Raju how someone could be so disillusioned by their own turning.

Unfortunately, Raju kept forgetting to warn Libra of the peaceful blood breed... that he so happened to be dating...

"I'll have a word with them." Raju squeezed your shoulder, "Don't worry."

You nodded, while the situation at large made you a little uncomfortable, you knew you could trust Raju. It would simply be a matter of time before all this was sorted out.

As you sat at home, pondering why for the millionth time, Raju floated in the window. He seemed rather annoyed, if he had legs he'd be stomping around. But before you could ask, Raju was practically sitting in your lap. It was thoroughly strange.

"There are several things I must tell you [Name]." He huffed, "In order for you to understand why those two were following you."

Nodding, you listened to what felt like an entire history class's worth of information. Raju had long since told you that you were a blood breed, or what you considered a vampire. But the way he explained it, you were starting to feel uneasy, Raju was telling you how he hunted creatures like you.

It made you wonder why you were any different.

"[Name], I'm not the villain of your story." Raju gently brushed your cheek, "I know I've hunted other blood breeds, how I've treated them might make our relationship seem tainted and strange. But I'm not the villain of your story. Of theirs, most certainly, but not yours."

You looked off into the middle distance. Trying to make odds and ends of... everything. But your mind was wholly blank. You didn't know what to think, or if you could continue to trust Raju.

But, he wasn't anything like what he'd described himself as. He never seemed to be a fang hunter around you... and... it didn't help that he was your only real source of comfort.