RAMATTRA

Crow x Reader SFW Relationship Alphabet

So, I tried my best with this one, I hope you enjoy it. sorry if its a little OOC. i love crow but he's a character I've not had much exposure to. its also not been massively proof read but either way I hope you all enjoy! (I've yet to add the links to the lore books but when its not 11pm I will!)

xoxo

A = Affection (How affectionate are they? How do they show affection?)

At first crow is a bit hesitant with affection. What if he did it wrong? What if he was too much? What if you realised you didn’t like him? This led to a rather frustrating lack of communication with crow hesitant to initiate affection and you pulling back slightly thinking his lack of affection was in response to being overwhelmed by your own actions. After it reaches its peak you both sit down and clear the air. Crow gets things off his chest and realises you more than welcome any affection he wants to give.

At first its secretive, shy. More cuddles and kisses when you’re both relaxing in your apartment. He’ll makes you tea or coffee on cold mornings before heading out, draw you baths when you get back covered in dirt, sweat and something he frankly daren’t ask about. His affection is soft and warm.

Eventually he’ll feel comfortable enough to show a little more affection outside your little slice of privacy. His Pinky will find yours, linking them as you listen to one of Osiris’s lectures, he’ll place a hand on the small of your back, thumb making soft soothing circles.

B = Best friend (What would they be like as a best friend? How would the friendship start?)

His mind is in two sorts. One side shies away, best case scenario guardians would be polite, but he could see the slight contempt for him in their eyes, especially the hunters. The other side, the side desperate for connection with someone, anyone, wants to reach out to you. Its this side that wins when you and crow are paired up on a routine patrol in the dreaming city to some more dangerous areas infested with taken. When he isn’t treated to the usual harshness, the malicious and reluctant compliance with being paired with him, he relaxes a little. Glints incessant chatter in his ear about how nice you were and how he should ask to do something with you in the tower, or talk to you more, or even just smile at you a little more.

To his surprise after the patrol, you offer to take him out to the ramen joint and, after getting over his surprise, he agrees and it blossoms from there.

You’re both very close, attached at the hip and rarely going on missions and patrols without one another. He’s a very protective and considerate friend. Zavala, Osiris, and a few others had shown him forgiveness and understanding but none like you. You truly cared. He’s the first to speak up if he feels the vanguard are putting too much on you and taking advantage of your willingness to help.

C = Cuddles (Do they like to cuddle? How would they cuddle?)

This touch starved man is desperate for anything he can get.

Crows first touch from a guardian was a female titan who had spotted him as he took his first steps into the world of guardians. She proceeded to snap his collar bone and crush his pelvis with a flaming hammer and left him to die there from internal haemorrhaging. After that he decided to cover his face and very rarely sought out the touch of other guardians.

Then came you.

he trusted you enough to sleep near you, let you touch him, knowing you wouldn’t hurt him. You would sit by the campfire, leant against one another, and slowly sink into a peaceful albite short slumber.

After you and crow get closer as friends and something more, you would both find solace in each other’s arms, whether it was after a particularly harrowing mission, loss of a friend or simply a bad day full of minor inconveniences.

After you start dating, he’s so cuddly. In your apartment, he’s all over you. Cooking? he’s there behind you, arms round your waist. Laundry? Same deal. In bed? You don’t need that weighted blanket anymore, you have an awoken male shaped pillow on top of you. He’s very fond of how your fingers gently trace the swirls of light on his face as he relaxes into you.

D = Domestic (Do they want to settle down? How are they at cooking and cleaning?)

Crow knows the possibility of being able to settle down is slim to none. Theres always a new threat, a new enemy but he can dream.

This man can’t cook to save his life. He can make edible meals but cook something and make it taste good on purpose, not so much. He puts effort into other things though, always helping out with the chores when you’ve both got the time to do them. Being house proud tends to come second to being a guardian out in the field.

E = Ending (If they had to break up with their partner, how would they do it?)

I honestly can’t see crow leaving you unless you did something heinous that he just can’t forgive. If he did it would be face to face after convincing from Osiris and saint or glint. When he does see you, you have to coax what he’s trying to say out of him because he’s just that nervous. And if you cry? That’ll just break him.

F = Fiance(e) (How do they feel about commitment? How quick would they want to get married?)

Crow is very quick to commit. As soon as he knows that you both have the same feelings for one another and that he can trust you, he will never stray from your side. Unlike Cayde who would promise to marry you when everything dies down, crow is the opposite. Nothing big or lavish and he’ll try his best to get a nice ring, but he would want everyone to know and to have that promise and commitment. A small ceremony consisting of very close friends, probably officiated by Mara, Zavala or Osiris takes place in the courtyard at dusk as the sun is setting.

G = Gentle (How gentle are they, both physically and emotionally?)

Emotionally, crow is very aware. After years of picking up the subtle glares, veiled threats and reading between the lines crow is very in tuned to other people’s emotions, especially yours. He knows when your calm face remains so but your fists client and jaw sets that your moments away from punching the next annoyance that passes you, he notices the tiredness in your eyes no matter how hard you try to hide it and he always notices the glassiness in your gaze as you fight back tears. And he always knows how to help. A calming hand, a warm embrace, a hot drink, and a blanket. He’ll never dismiss your feelings.

Physically, crow is equally as gentle. Uldrens hands were tools of death, Deaths of many and he wants to be anything but that. When touching you he’s always gentle, he treats you with reverences, like you’re the most precious thing he’s held and to him its true.

H = Hugs (Do they like hugs? How often do they do it? What are their hugs like?)

This is pretty much covered in the cuddles section. At first, he was a little adverse to touch but after you hug him out of sheer relief he was addicted and realised what he had been missing out.

Crows’ coms had gone down mid mission while the pair of you had been separated during a high-risk mission. No matter what you had tried you couldn’t establish a connection. You reach the exfil point and…. nothing. he wasn’t there. You waited and just as you were about to go and look for him, he emerges looking worse for wear, armour muddied, cloak torn a little at the edges and panting. You didn’t give it a second thought you surge forward, wrapping your arms around him, telling him how worried you were. He freezes but with a little encouragement from glint he relaxes and returns the hug.

Crows’ hugs are gentle but firm, holding you close as he buries his face into your hair or the side of your neck. Nine times out of ten you will have to be the one to end the hug or you’ll be there a long time.

I = I love you (How fast do they say the L-word?)

Crow would be the first to say it. Hed take you somewhere scenic, you’d have been dancing round one another’s feeling for a while. He’s a fumbling mess, what you didn’t see was the 15-minute prep talk he got from glint. When he does say it, it’s quiet, he’s holding your hands as he finally says the words. His eyes watching you closely waiting for the rejection or the horror that…never comes. When you return the little 3 words, he’s letting out a breath he’s been holding far too long.

J = Jealousy (How jealous do they get? What do they do when they’re jealous?)

He gets jealous, not a lot but he does. He likes having your attention. You’re attentive, caring, and sweet, of course he wants to be the one you focus on. He totally doesn’t move your favourite plushie across the room because you cuddled it instead of him that night…. doesn’t matter that he got home after you’d fallen asleep, it should have been him. He never voices these things because he knows its unreasonable and this manifests as frustration and frequent berating of himself. When you notice his change in behaviour and ask him, he comes clean about his feelings, he explains how he feels bad about it and is surprised when you comfort him and explain that a little jealousy is normal and okay, as long as he doesn’t let it get out of hand.

K = Kisses (What are their kisses like? Where do they like to kiss you? Where do they like to be kissed?)

Crow’s kisses are soft and unhurried. He likes to make the most of every single one. He’s a tad inexperienced, before he got Uldrens memories, he had never kissed another, steering away from taking off his mask. And Uldren wasn’t exactly a magnet for physical affection, so crow hasn’t had much practice. Much to his delight, you’re quick to rectify this.

Crow will kiss you everywhere but he’s particularly fond of your wrists, forehead, and nape of your neck when spooning.

Crow adores any kisses you give him, be it lips, cheeks or anywhere else. He won’t admit that he’s very fond of when you kiss a particular spot just under his jaw line that makes him melt.

L = Little ones (How are they around children?)

Crow has a surprising amount of experience with children. Uldren would tell stories to eliksni children, even putting voices on, earning him delighted laughter. Crow misses this, he often tells glit about the times he would tell exciting tales to the children and when Eido suggests him coming to tell the children stories again one day., well…how could he turn down an offer like that, and of course you got an invite.

When he’s with the children, sat cross legged on the floor as the many eyes watch him with an alarming amount of attention, its like a new side of him peaks out, a soft and confident demeanour as he does all the sound effects and voices for the young ones who cant supress their giggles. Occasionally your eyes will meet as he tells the tales, and you don’t mis the faint blush that dusts his cheeks.

M = Morning (How are mornings spent with them?)

Mornings are slow and warm and cosy. Wrapped in the blankets and one another’s embrace. Words are hushed and murmured, quiet giggles and soft smiles as you each fight one another to prevent each other from leaving the warmth of the covers. When you eventually climb out of the bed, crow is making coffee while you cook breakfast before you leave onto perform whatever task the day holds. On occasion alarms will get slumber leading to panicked rushing and mad dashing around the room to get dressed. Once crow face planted the floor trying to put on socks and you laughed so hard you forgot you were late and got a very stern talking to from Zavala and had to put up with crows pouting all day.

N = Night (How are nights spent with them?)

Nights are spent wrapped up on the sofa. If you’ve been busy on patrols and missions, then its take out and drinks at home. Glint loves these nights, bouncing between the pair of you and your own ghost as you sit and chat. On nights when the pair of you have a little more energy, walks in the tower and trips to the few restaurants in the last city, trying new food and experiences. Crow loves the long nights sat up talking, its quiet and no one has any expectations of either of you, allowing the pair of you to just be.

O = Open (When would they start revealing things about themselves? Do they say everything all at once or wait a while to reveal things slowly?)

Crow knows you likely know his past. Its no secret, most everyone in the tower knew, no doubt at the beginning of your friendship people warned you about him, sent you the same glares, the same spiteful words. Despite this you stick by him, and he finds himself slowly opening up to you. Small stories from Uldrens childhood, moments in the dreaming city, his experiences after being ressed and fears for the future are shared over drinks in the night.

P = Patience (How easily angered are they?)

While crow is a fairly patient guardian, he can be a little brash. Naïve and eager to fight the fight against darkness sometimes he needs to be heled back and reminded of the risks before charging in headfirst. This is even more so if its you the vanguard are discussing throwing into the fight. If you’re sent on a solo mission, he’s pacing the tower until you’re back, until he knows you’re safe. Like Cayde, he has your armour, weapons and ship committed to memory in case the worst happens and he has to go out and find you.

Q = Quizzes (How much would they remember about you? Do they remember every little detail you mention in passing, or do they kind of forget everything?)

You are everything to this guardian and he’s going to try and commit everything to memory. Your favourite food, drinks, how you like your tea and coffee, your routines, birthday, anniversary. Everything he can remember he does, anything he’s worried about forgetting, well, glint is more than happy to help.

R = Remember (What is their favorite moment in your relationship?)

When you and crow began to grow closer together as friends, he starts to notice…peculiar things. His heart racing when you’re near, sweaty palms, nervousness. After multiples talks with Osiris, saint and glint he decides maybe he should talk to you. He invites you on a trip to the dreaming city on the promise of showing you his favourite part of the dreaming city’s gardens. That area is, thankfully, devoid of taken or scorn. You both sit in the soft grass surrounded by plants of all colours and the amethyst hue of the surrounding rock formations. He shares some of his most treasured memories until a nudge from glint who gave him an eager whisper about how he’s stalling. Eventually through awkward fumbled words and a new hue of blue/purple on his cheeks which you eventually figure out is him blushing, he confesses his feeling to you. And much to his delight, you reciprocate them.

S = Security (How protective are they? How would they protect you? How would they like to be protected?)

Very protective. Crow has lost far too much, risked far too much to lose you. Crow would go on every mission he could with you and if he couldn’t, you can bet he’ll be on coms with you the whole time. Crow would have your 6 no matter what, god help anything that tries to take you from him.

Crow won’t admit it but he loves when you defend him against the lessening but still there harsh words of guardians who refuse to trust he is no longer Uldren. Seeing you reprimand them, scolding them with words about how caring and sweet and strong he was and how they were wrong for judging him based on a life he now had no control over. He thinks he’s slick and that you don’t know he likes it, not realising the dumb grin on his face afterwards gives everything away.

T = Try (How much effort would they put into dates, anniversaries, gifts, everyday tasks?)

He tries, bless him. But he’s not the most experienced with courting. Dates are private affairs rather than big grand gestures. Maybe he got glint to find a recipe to cook your favourite meal ready for you when you get home, picnics somewhere not infested with fallen, cabal or hive and grabbing a meal at a small restaurant. Glint is always eager to help and offering well-meaning but questionable suggestions.

Everyday tasks, he’s making you tea, running your baths, this man will do anything for you if it makes you smile no matter how boring or laborious.

Gifts include anything from a little something you spotted in the bazar but decided not to buy because your saving glimmer to a new titan mark/warlock bond/ hunter cloak specialised just for you.

U = Ugly (What would be some bad habits of theirs?)

Crow is incredibly self-sacrificing and at times self-deprecating. Deep down he still holds himself accountable for Uldrens actions. To repent for his actions, he throws himself into risky missions sometime with little regard for his wellbeing.  When he’s feeling the effects of nightmares, intrusive thoughts, and the horrors of Uldrens past he pulls away from everyone, choosing solitude rather than expressing to the people close and that care for him that he needs help and he’s struggling.

V = Vanity (How concerned are they with their looks?)

After being freed from spider’s grasp Osiris gifted him a cloak made by Eva Lavante which quickly becomes one of his treasured possessions which he, almost excessively, makes sure is clean and pristine. He detests being dirty after missions and patrols so regularly showers and when he comes out of the shower smelling of your body wash and shampoo you can’t help but chuckle, his embarrassed mumbles of “it just smells nice” reaching your ears. You make sure to buy plenty of that brand from then on.

He takes care of his own hair, shaving it shorter on the side himself, very carefully with a mirror. He’s very surprised one evening when you approach him and offer to cut it for him. He eyes you suspiciously and on the promise that you won’t cut it too short or make him bald, he hands you the clippers. Soon it’s a regular thing that he lets you help take care of his hair.

W = Whole (Would they feel incomplete without you?)

You are crows’ sanctuary. A place away from the nightmares, haunting memories, and fear. Somewhere warm, safe, and calming. You keep him grounded, from running headfirst into trouble. He hasn’t felt whole in a long time, especially after getting back his memories as Uldren but with your help, he slowly feels like he’s reclaiming his image, his life, and his future.

X = Xtra (A random headcanon for them.)

Glint ADORES you. I mean adores you. The second glint saw you treating crow as crow and not Uldren, he thought you were brilliant. crow wasn’t amazing at selfcare so seeing you look after his guardian kept glint buzzing. Glint regularly finds place on your shoulder or lap when you’re relaxing with crow and crow thanks you when on rare occasion glints chatting gets a bit much and you take the chatter box into the next room, talk of ‘the headless ones’’ drifting through the wall, reaching crows ears, and making him chuckle.

One mission crow returns tired and worn out. While he’s asleep you notice that there’s a clear rip in his beloved cloak that’s left resting on the chair. When he wakes up to see you, needle in hand, occasionally cursing as the needle pricks your finger. He’s surprised to see you diligently sewing his cloak as glint whispers hushed encouragements. That’s when crow knew. That’s when he knew he picked the right person.

Y = Yuck (What are some things they wouldn’t like, either in general or in a partner?)

People who refuse to see him as crow and only see Uldren. He understands to a degree how hard it can be but when people throw Caydes death in his face over and over and over, it grates.

Crow wouldn’t like a partner who didn’t like glint, glints always been encouraging and sweet as well as protective of crow and it works the other way to. If you don’t get on with glint or glint doesn’t like you, it’s going to be a hard time getting any closer than friends.

Z = Zzz (What is a sleep habits of theirs?)

This guy barely slept. He would take 2-to-3-hour long power naps at best when you first get to know him. Sat in the hanger, hidden amongst the crates cloak acting as a blanket. Leant against you as you read on the sofa, one of your hands in his hair putting him to sleep in seconds.

When you two begin sleeping in the same bed together, he’s worried about keeping you up, with nightmares, restless sleep and late nights but when you both lay in bed, his head on your chest and hand in his hair he melts. And for the first time since being resurrected he has a full night’s sleep, no nightmares, no waking up only hours later, no thrashing in his sleep, just blissful rest.

could we get a genji x injured!reader? like they are on a mission and the reader gets hurt. angst or fluff, whatever you want to do! Tysm!

I'm Okay

Pairing: Genji x Injured GN Reader Warnings: Mentions of injuries and blood, passing out. I don't know if I could call this angst but ?? It's mostly fluff Word Count: 597

You knew you’d been shot. You felt it hit you, tear through your skin. It sent waves of pain through you and you couldn’t determine where you’d been hit, nor could you tell if you’d been hit more than once. 

You must’ve cried out when you were hit because after you stumbled, arms helped stabilize you. Before you could register what was happening and who was holding you, you were being dragged through debris. You could hear someone speaking to you, though their words were jumbled and you couldn’t make much from them. 

It was at that moment that you realized you were losing a lot of blood. You pressed your fist against your abdomen, trying to apply pressure as best you could. 

Blood seeped around your fist, surely staining your shirt. A rock caught under your foot and you lurched forward. The ground came at you and you were going to let it happen. Maybe the person helping you would leave you to die. 

The ground never came. Arms pulled you back upright and it was at that moment that you felt the cold metal of someone familiar. He whispered something to you, something you couldn’t pick up. Not with the ringing in your ears and the throbbing of your head. 

You tried to speak, managing Genji’s name before the rest of your sentence fell into a slurred and jumbled mess. Genji shushed you, you could make that out, before he started walking with you again, presumably looking for Mercy so she could help you. 

You remember hearing Genji shout before the ground met you and you passed out. 

————

A bright light shone through your eyelids. It startled you awake and you groaned, attempting to roll away from the light to go back to sleep. A cold hand came in contact with your shoulder and you groaned, mumbling under your breath as you turned toward the contact. 

You sat up, wincing at the slight pain that shot through your abdomen. You ran your hand over your stomach and felt bandages wrapping around your midsection. 

The hand on your shoulder moved to your hand, fingers intertwining with yours. You rubbed your eyes with your free hand before opening and taking in the room you were in. 

Surprisingly, you were in your own room. The curtains were pulled open, the sun glaring into your room, providing the light that woke you. 

The hand holding yours tugged gently and you almost laughed at the impatience. You squeezed his hand, turning to look at Genji. You could’ve sworn you saw him relax and heard a relieved sigh come from him. 

He brought your hand up to where his lips would be, pressing the metal against the back of your hand in semblance of a kiss. You returned the gesture, bringing his hand up to your lips to press a soft kiss to the metal. 

“You’re okay?” His voice brought a wave of gratitude over you and you smiled, pressing another kiss to his hand. 

“I’m okay, I promise,” you reassure. 

You felt a vent of warm air blow over you before the cyber ninja stood up, letting go of your hand in the process. Genji pressed his face to the crown of your head before reaching for a tray you hadn’t noticed was there. 

“I’m sure you’re hungry.” You could hear a little hint of joy lacing his voice. Some of your favorite snacks were laid out on the tray and you couldn’t help but grin, nodding to him and scooting over to let him join you on the bed. 

Happy Valentine's Day !

I used this scene from Sonic X as a reference.

I thought, why not redraw this scene but in Movie Sonic and Movie Amy versions for Valentine's Day?

The flower Sonic gives Amy has a deep meaning, because the lavender rose represents joy, royalty and love at first sight. You can give lavender roses as a sign of love at first sight for another person. To give a lavender rose is to say “I was seduced at first sight”, “You inspire noble and deep feelings in me”😍.

Sorry Squid, I’m from Italy and of course my english is shitty! XD Anyway, yes... like Fibonacci :)

Hello Squid. What about a Shakarian fairy tale like Wafflesrock's Oasis or Fathomless Depths? 😇

I’m not quite sure I know what you’re asking here.

If you mean shorter stories, then I can’t really do those. They’re hard for me to do and @wafflesrock16 does a much better job at it.

Also, as for fairy tale, that’s kinda what Fibonacci is??? I mean, unless I’m wrong?

Genji x gender neutral reader

Pre-Overwatch Recall, part 1 of journey to forget

Part 1 (you are here) // Part 2 // Part 3

Challenge (day 4: recognition)

Requested: No

Word Count: 1,473

The trek up the Himalayas wasn’t an easy one, they were mountains after all. Though the risks were high, the reward was great.

(y/n) was making their way up to the mountains for one purpose, taking refuge in the Shambali. The Shambali was the name of the monastery in the Himalayan Mountains, it resided omnics with their own religion. But they weren’t going there for pilgrimage, they were going up to forget their Overwatch life. 

They are– were.. an Overwatch agent.

Continua a leggere

What’s Shadow’s true purpose?

So Shadow’s loyalty is often forgotten what with the fanon marking him as edgy

 and a lone wolf, but it’s there and it makes me mad that people pass it off 

because it’s a big part of his character. 

 But okay so like. Usually most people interpret Shadow’s purpose was to be 

made for Maria and to help the world right? Right. So when Maria dies he thinks

 his purpose is revenge. WRONG. He gets that epiphany when Amy reminds 

him about it. 

 But that’s not it 

 Because okay, Maria wanted Shadow to protect the world. And for awhile 

maybe Shadow interprets this as “okay I gotta be Mobius’ hero.” But! He realizes

that that place is already taken. Sonic is Mobius’ hero and therefore he is literally

 the world. He’s usually the only one that can fix the world when it goes into peril.

 (The only other person to ever majorly save the world by himself was Shadow) 

so Shadow realizes, it’s not Mobius in general he has to be there for, but Sonic. 

The world can thrive as long as Sonic is their world, their core. 

 In a sense you could say that Shadow sees his new Maria in Sonic. In order for

 his purpose to be fulfilled, Sonic needs to stay kicking. That’s why we see in 06 

that he literally doesn’t look at him when he’s dead!!! Their world is broken 

because Sonic is prematurely gone from it. It’s not until Silver says “we still have

 a chance at saving this world!” That Shadow FINALLY LOOKS TO SONIC 

WITH A BROKEN VOICE AND SAYS “maybe we could’ve..if he were still alive.” 

 AND ITS LITERALLY THE LAST STRING IN HIS PURPOSE BEING SEVERED. 

 Sonic and Shadow were fated to meet for a reason. Shadow was supposed to 

meet Sonic because his purpose was to protect the world like a Shadow. HE’S 

SONIC’S SHADOW. HE’S SUPPOSED TO PROTECT SONIC SO THE WORLD

 MAY REMAIN SAFE. 

 Like I’m sure SEGA didn’t mean to be that deep and only meant to make them 

rivals but SEGAAA oh my god you literally made Maria tell Shadow “you’re to 

watch over this world, like a shadow!” And people mistook Shadow!! for Sonic!! 

Because he’s Sonic’s shadow!! He’s supposed to watch over Sonic!! Girl if that

 ain’t some metaphorical stuff!!

 LIKE IT ALL MAKES SENSE NOW. SHADOWS LIKE NO NONSENSE 

RESPONSES TO SONIC ASKING FOR HELP ISNT JUST BECAUSE THEYRE 

ALLIES, ITS BECAUSE HE KNOWS THATS HIS JOB. AND ALSO? ALL THE 

TIMES HE PROTECTS HIM FROM GETTING HURT ISNT THAT BULLSHIT

 THAT PEOPLE SAY LIKE “oh man it’s because he wants to be the one to kill 

him, nobody else can” WRONG. ITS BECAUSE HE HAS TO KEEP SONIC 

SAFE 

 another example of that is him going into hiding upon finding out about Sonic’s 

“death” in Forces. Every time this bitch finds out that Sonic’s dead he literally 

loses himself. Even if people don’t ship this, it doesn’t have to be seen like that. 

Shadow cares deeply for Sonic because Sonic is his purpose. 

 And that’s the tea. 

E’ identico al mio Alex Shepard! 😲

Hands tell a story- a brief look into the subtle moments of Shadow and Maria’s familia bond

You know what really fucks me up in this movie

Shadow and Maria and how they show their comfort and love through hand holding. What does Maria do when she first meets shadow extends a hand out to show him she’s friendly and just wants to be his friend. Show him that they are equals.

What does Maria do when shadow is doubting his existence and whether he’s just a monster like GUN treats him as? She holds his hand to make him feel better, to show him he isn’t a monster. Because a monster wouldn’t hold her hand back. She’s trying to ground him to what is important. That she sees him for who he is. A little brother, a boy.

and when GUN does try to take him from her. He holds onto her hand so tightly. He’s so scared to be separated from her. Because he can’t and won’t leave without her. He’s trying to make sure they are both safe and not to far away from each other

But then… the explosion happens and he is forced to let go. The one time he let’s go of her hand, Maria is gone. No matter how tightly, how hard he tried to keep her with him. Gun took her away. Leaving him lonely, afraid and heartbroken. The one person he saw as his family, the only good thing in his life was ripped away.

Leaving Shadow to reach out… to nothing. He’s hoping she’s still there. Because she was always there. She always was there to hold his hand. She was always there to show him the love he thought he didn’t deserve. The one time he initiates reaching for her…. She’s dead.

Leaving him with just the memory of her light.

I’ve been waiting for you

Someone must have sent you here to save my life

In your loving arms I’ll be alright

You saved my life

🌹Happy Crimson Days🌹

I have been SO excited to share this as it's been finished for many days now. @wrenandthemachine is truly AMAZING and I really can't thank her enough for making this for me. After I described what I wanted for this piece, she sent back a quick sketch and it was as if she'd actually looked into my brain and just plucked the whole thing right out. She also added in a few touches I hadn't thought of that just made it all the more romantic and special. In fact, it even sparked a little ficlet I made to go along with it and, in keeping with the traditional dates Bungie tended to release Crimson Days - once upon a time - I decided to post it today.

Wren, thank you, again. So, SO. much. 🥲🥰🌹

I'd also like to thank @echosong971 for looking over the fic and giving me a thumbs up as well as offering up some great inspiration! 💗

❣️♠️❣️

The Courtyard had been bustling with activity all day. Guardians, their armor adorned in every shade of red, white, and pink, went running and bouncing about across the open space among the waves of fragrant and intricately arranged plumes of roses decorating every square inch of the Tower possible - some even strung together to form tiers of garland draped over edges and delicately hung about railings. Red silken petals fell from the blue sky above, landing all around like delicate snowflakes, only to slowly fade once they touched the concrete walkways and platforms then reform once again above, slowly descending all over again. A trick of technology, but romantic and fantastical nonetheless.

Even the Ghosts were getting in on the festivities, wearing special shells - some shaped like hearts, some, like their Guardians, awash in pinks, reds, whites and styles of every kind, but all a reflection of love. Many were even showing off endearing projections just for the occasion and all of them would go buzzing about and twirling through the air, chirping and giddy around fellow Ghosts and just as happy as their Guardians to have this time to reflect on something joyous and warm - something special: A bond that could never be broken, even as the Darkness continued to encroach on the Light.

As evening approached, and more and more Guardians began returning after a day of festivities and Crucible matches, a low, soft hum seemed to settle over the Tower. Tiny lights began to glow all around, some nestled in and about the roses, creating a warm and intimate candlelit atmosphere. People grew quieter, the sky took on a pinkish purple hue all around the Traveler, and, gradually, those who’d found a special someone paired off to share a meal or drinks, or a little something more, while others gathered with friends, deciding to head into the City to the Cantinas to celebrate their friendships.

And me? I headed up a stairway leading to a balcony that overlooked the City. There, an all too familiar figure, his back to me, was casually leaning over the railing, gazing out beyond the bustle and activity below - out beyond the wall to the Wilderness and the first twinkling stars above. A soft wind blew in from the East, lifting his cloak ever so slightly, the tattered tails dancing at the backs of his calves. I smiled and walked over to him, leaning onto the railing next to him.

“Quite a sight, isn’t it?” I murmured.

“Always is,” he replied, not even turning his head to look at me, the edges of his hood hiding his face. “Never get tired of it, though.”

“Me either,” I softly smiled. “You waiting here for someone?” I asked.

“My wife,” he told me. “Thought I’d surprise her. Take her out to dinner someplace special. Someplace really romantic. Totally wow her. Maybe even get lucky later.”

I grinned, holding my bottom lip between my teeth to stifle a laugh, even as I continued to look out at the City. The lights were beginning to glow brighter as the sun started to fully set, the warm hues in the sky growing richer as they grew darker. Celebratory music could be heard rising up from below and off in the distance, fiery red heart-shaped lanterns began to float up toward the Traveler.

It was beautiful.

“So, where is she?” I asked him.

He sighed. “Oh … she’s got this habit of trynna save the world,” he dramatically lamented, waving his hand out over the City. “Damned annoying if ya ask me,” he added, making me smile again.

“Trying to save the world sounds like a pretty big task. Good thing she’s got you around to keep her spirits up for something so monumental.”

“I know, right?” He all too readily agreed, his tone lifting with pride. “I should get a medal!”

I couldn’t help it, I laughed softly, breaking character, and looked over at him just as he finally turned his head to look at me. His azure faceplates glistening with the reflections of the warm yellow-orange lights all around us, making them take on a shimmering, greenish hue.

So beautiful.

His blue eyes though, they never changed. The optics were like deep pools of water, soft and adoring as they cascaded over the features of my face, as if he were seeing me for the first time again and wanted to memorize each and every facet, a tender smile forming on his lips.

“Sorry I’m late,” I murmured.

“Eh,” he grunted, giving a dismissive wave of his hand. “Figured you would be. Damned Hive are so inconsiderate when it comes to other people’s plans.”

“The absolute worst. I think I’m going to complain to their boss next time,” I nodded, and we both laughed before a comfortable silence settled around us again.

“I got somethin’ for ya,” he whispered and I looked over at him as he reached behind himself and under his cloak, carefully revealing a single red rose he’d had hidden there. It was in full bloom, its plump petals like red velvet - rich and decadent. He turned and took a step closer to me, and I watched as he lifted the rose to my forehead. As soon as the petals touched my skin I sighed and smiled, my eyes closing of their own volition, the light, pleasantly soft tickle of the flower trailing down over the curves and dips of my features, slowly moving lower and lower, eliciting goosebumps all over my body, my heart skipping a beat. As the petals brushed over the tip of my nose he paused, giving me a moment to breathe in the delicious warm scent, the fragrance like fresh raspberries in the sun - sensual and delicious. I slowly licked my lips and sighed, wiggling my toes inside my boots to stave off the desire to just rip his armor off right here. As If he knew exactly what I was thinking, a heady chuckle rose from his throat and he moved on, tracing the outline of my lips, then down over my chin and further still, down along the side of my neck, teasing the senistive skin until he reached the collar of my armor.

Just as the sensation of the petals faded away, warm, yet giving metal touch my lips, lovingly pressing against them with practiced tenderness. The heat of his body made the light sprinkle of the musky cologne he’d put on earlier that day waft all around me, making my breath hitch with even greater excitement. I let a tiny moan escape me, opening my mouth to him, blindly sliding my hands up over the leather padded armor of his chest and shoulders, then up around the back of his neck, cradling the back of his head through his hood. His lips parted, and I beckoningly lapped at the underside of his upper lip, drawing him in further, hearing and feeling a low rumble from deep in his throat as it vibrated through him. A strong arm curled around my waist, pulling me into him possessively, the gentle kiss becoming more heated, more passionate, and more and more intense and needy as we playfully and eagerly gasped into each others mouths and teased and nipped at each other’s lips before we barely managed to pull ourselves back, panting and gazing into each others eyes.

“Wow,” I sighed, catching my breath, feeling how cool the air suddenly seemed on my flushed cheeks. “Really missed me today, didn’t you, handsome?” I asked, sliding my hands back down to rest on his chest and maybe just maintain some balance as I felt a bit weak in the knees.

“I always do,” he murmured, his eyes half-lidded. Even though his armor, I could feel his heart racing under my palms.

“Maybe we should order in instead,” I purred, holding my bottom lip between my teeth as I gave him a wanton and predatory gaze.

He arched a sharp eyebrow at me before returning the look, winking. “Maybe.”

I grinned and pressed back against him, hugging him as close as my heavy armor would allow, tucking my head under his jaw with another contented sigh. Both his arms were around me in an instant, hugging me right back, swaying us slowly to some unknown melody in the air.

The day had been long and grueling. He’d had official duties he’d had to see to here and hadn’t been able to join me.

That hadn’t stopped him, though.

From the moment I’d left this morning until I returned to the Hanger not too long ago, he’d been on the comms with me, chatting and joking with me, throwing biting witticisms at our enemies as if he were right there beside me.

I never once felt alone.

Still, through it all, and even with his giddy baritone ringing in my ears, all I could think was there was nowhere else in all creation I’d wanted to be than in his arms.

When we finally and reluctantly eased back from one another, he handed the rose to me with a smile and dotingly tucked a few strands of unruly hair, mussed from my helmet and the gentle winds, back behind my ear, then kissed my forehead. I smiled again and sniffed at the rose once more, the scent intoxicatingly sweet. He quietly chuckled and I grinned, then wrapped my arm around his left bicep, holding onto him as we both turned together and leaned back over the railing, gazing down at the City.

I curled in closer to his side and rested my head on his shoulder. “I love you, you know that?” I whispered.

I felt him tilt his head to rest against mine. “I love you, too,” he whispered back, laying his free hand over the one I had holding the rose.

“Happy Crimson Days, Ais.”

“Happy Crimson Days, Cayde.”

❣️