(A/n: Sorry, ZoyeZest, while I really appreciate your fascination with my story, I'm gonna have to decline your offer only because this isn't anywhere near being finished)
Chapter 48: Starting Over- Pt. 2
Ingrum
Ingrum lays Cloud down on a bed in one of the several rooms Henrietta has within her house. He turns on a chalky white lamp that's on top of a grey wooden nightstand, soft white light beaming through the shade comprised of linen, brightening the somewhat spacious bedroom considerably since there was only a slimmer of light peeking through the door a moment ago. The bed Cloud is resting on is Queen-sized, the pillow underneath his head and the one next to him are both covered in a silver and black pillowcase. The duvet matches the pillowcases with an elegant design. The walls are painted dark grey, a single large painting of a dreary scenery is behind the bed, adorned within a pristine dark frame. It's presumably painted by Henrietta. On the left side of the room upon entering is a black wardrobe closet. Mounted on the wall across from the bed is a flat screen television and underneath it is a dark dresser. On top of the white-colored ceiling is a black ceiling fan.
Frowning, Ingrum looks down at Cloud and wastes not another moment to get started. Having no magical energy for too long can be fatal. He first takes off his gloves, setting them down on the nightstand, then hovers both of his palms over Cloud's stomach—right where his Magical Core is. He focuses on his own magical energy, extracting a portion in streams down to his hands, warmed by the soothing pink auras. He soon remembers how incredibly low on magical energy he was minutes ago prior to waking up, that was cognizant enough for him to know why Cloud had none himself. Seems he managed to persevere while within the monster's debuff barrier—not at all surprised by the possibility because had he not been weakened up until that moment, he would've stayed awake as well—and decided to replenish his, Henrietta's, and Wendy's Magical Core with his own magical energy.
"You're still a benevolent fool..." A small smile tugs at the corners of Ingrum's lips as he goes about returning some of the magical energy he received from Cloud back to him. Although part of his personality hasn't changed, there is one thing about Cloud that definitely has, and it's him keeping their relationship clandestine. Ingrum frowns as he recalls how nervously Cloud reacted towards him this morning, after he discovered who he was, making his chest ache. In Cloud's enthralling emerald eyes, Ingrum could perceive the anxiety and a pinch of fear overlapping the relief to a point where Ingrum thought he wasn't happy to see him again at all. He's never seen Cloud harbor those kinds of emotions towards him before. It was painful, especially when he refused to reveal more about Ingrum to his comrades, even warning him not to divulge any more than that himself.
"Why are you afraid to let anyone know about our relationship all of a sudden?" Ingrum thinks, his concentration unwavering. His forest green eyes glide over towards Cloud's face, itching to wipe off the blood from his mouth and chin. "It can't possibly be because of what your comrades will think...is it?" The notion not only strengthens the ache in his chest, but also angers him. He shakes his head to clear away the depressing thoughts and doesn't think about anything else, putting all of his attention on getting Cloud out of critical condition. He hopes it doesn't take long for him to wake up.
Eventually, five minutes pass by. Cloud shows signs of waking up, much to Ingrum's shock. His Magical Core isn't even halfway full yet.
Cloud coughs a little bit, sounding dry, then blinks his eyes open wearily. He turns his head slightly towards Ingrum, seeing his figure through the thin gaps of his eyelids. "...I...Ingrum?" He rasps.
Ingrum gives him a small smile. "Yes, it's me. Get some more rest, you definitely need it."
Cloud regards him silently for a few moments, looking as though he's beginning to realize what Ingrum has been doing all this time. "You can stop."
Ingrum frowns again. "No, you're still low on magical energy."
Cloud looks at the ceiling. "It's fine...I can recover through sleeping."
"That method is a lot slower than letting someone refill your Magical Core for you, especially when there aren't any pure essences nearby to speed up the recovery," Ingrum states sternly. His frown expresses rising anger when Cloud appears to not mind the leisure process. "You just don't want me to return the magical energy you transferred to me back to you." When he still refuses to stop, Cloud raises a trembling hand towards Ingrum's nearest hand. Ingrum grimaces sadly at his touch, his cold palm almost snuffing out the warmth of his aura. "At least let me continue until your Magical Core is half full."
"...Fine." With a bit of reluctance, Cloud removes his hand from over Ingrum's.
Ingrum moves that very hand towards Cloud's throat, intending to heal his vocal cords. Cloud allows him to do it without any complaint, he closes his still weary eyes, relaxing. It takes only three seconds. Ingrum then stops the flow of magical energy going into that hand only, causing the pink aura to fade away, and moves his hand up to Cloud's chin. Gently, he uses the sleeve of his raincoat to wipe away the bloodstains. They haven't dried up yet. Cloud's face scrunches up slightly in disgust and he groans. Ingrum wipes off the leftover smeared blood with a thumb, not stopping until there isn't a single trace of the red stains left on pale skin. Slowly, hesitantly, he moves his hand upwards again, but just a little bit, stopping near Cloud's lips. With a finger, he lightly touches the silverette's bottom lip, making him flinch. Ingrum sees a blush creeping within Cloud's cheeks as his eyes open to look at him.
"Ingrum-"
Ingrum leans down and plants his lips against Cloud's, softly, though with intense yearning. He is unbothered by the metallic tang. He really hopes he doesn't get pushed away or get a bloody lip like he did the first time they kissed—the reason behind that was because Cloud was inexperienced at kissing. Surprisingly. But instead of either acts of refusal happening, Cloud reciprocates the kiss with equal fervor, cupping Ingrum's cheek with one hand. Ingrum's fast-beating heart swells with elation. He soon loses focus on his task, and his hand lays itself on Cloud's stomach. Both Light spirits are so caught up in the moment that they aren't aware of a third presence being in the house. They soon leave.
Ingrum breaks the kiss even though he didn't want to, but now isn't the time to go beyond that. Not yet. He keeps his face close to Cloud's as he gazes directly into his alluring eyes. "So you do still love me," he says softly.
Cloud frowns, looking hurt by the assumption. "Of course I do."
"Then why were you against revealing that I'm your lover this morning?" Ingrum asks, gently touching Cloud's hand that's on his cheek.
The silverette's frown deepens slightly, seemingly trying to choose his words carefully. "It...it would've been way too soon, and-"
"You were scared they would judge you, or us, rather," Ingrum mutters. It wouldn't have been the first time, and that's all the more reason not to care.
"Earth is very different than the spirit dimension. The humans and maybe even the other spirits...might not have been so welcoming towards our relationship."
"And you shouldn't care." Ingrum kisses Cloud again, but with more passion than before. He's willing to suck every last bit of worry out of his lover, so he, too, can disregard anyone's thoughts and opinions about them just like him. But it's foolish thinking, Ingrum knows. Cloud is too much of a sweetheart and sometimes a goofball, though that's only when he's not engaged in battle. He's very serious, arrogant, and snarky during those moments, having a habit of getting under his opponent's skin. These qualities are what Ingrum mostly loves and also hates about him. Ingrum separates, removing his hand from over Cloud's. He sits down on the edge of the bed, turning his head to look at the door. "Even if someone were to have stumbled upon us kissing a few minutes ago or just now, you should not be afraid of what they feel or think about us."
Cloud follows his gaze and his eyes widen in a panic. "Wait, did someone-"
Ingrum shakes his head. "I left the door opened like that." Though someone, a human, was definitely here, and it wasn't Henrietta. Whether or not the person witnessed him and Cloud kissing doesn't concern him at all. One way or another, their relationship was going to be made known. He looks over at Cloud when he feels movement, seeing his lover trying to sit up. He's still pretty weak physically. "I thought you were going to rest," Ingrum mentions. He moves the pillow out of the way and helps Cloud up, situating his body comfortably against the headboard.
Cloud sighs, trying to catch his breath. "I...was going to until you kissed me. Twice."
"Oh? So I'm at fault for preventing you from recuperating?" Ingrum asks, his lips spreading into a small, teasing grin.
"Yes," Cloud says, matching his energy with a straightforward response.
Ingrum chuckles. "Well, I have something in mind that can..." Smiling seductively, he slowly slides a hand up Cloud's leg, "help replenish both your physical and magical energy."
Cloud blushes a strikingly deep red, but frowns. "I highly doubt your offer will help with the former. Either way, I don't think now is the right time. We need to go to the hotel and discuss all that happened tonight. You, Henrietta, and Wendy especially need to be filled in."
Ingrum doesn't hide his discontent. He gets that he and the two females need to be apprised on all that occurred while they were unconscious, but he came here for another purpose, a personal and selfish desire buried under the importance of taking care of Cloud. He wants them to stay secluded from everyone else, at least for tonight. They haven't seen each other for over a damn decade. He refuses to let this moment of respite slip by, they may not get this chance ever again. "I understand, but it can wait until tomorrow. Every single one of us deserves much-needed rest, and I'm sure the others thought the same." His beautiful facial features soften cutely, albeit with a hint of sadness. "And...I've been longing for this moment, no, this day...where we are finally alone together."
Cloud directs his tired eyes down to Ingrum's hand. "I...so have I."
"So?" Ingrum gives his lover's leg a light squeeze, his forest green eyes brimming with expectancy. "Are you willing?" The silverette nods his head. Pleased that it didn't take much to persuade him, Ingrum stands up from the bed. "Let's make ourselves comfortable, shall we?" He starts taking off his raincoat.
April 23rd- Stan
Stan is sitting on the edge of the second bed, staring at Kyle's sleeping form, his eyes red and puffy and his cheeks damp. It's only them in the hotel room, the door is closed. Kyle is underneath the covers that are stained with his blood. Both of their raincoats have been removed and are hanging inside of the closet closer to the bed Kyle is on. The monster skins adsorbed the black stains from the rain off their shoes, which are on opposite sides of the beds.
Stan has been hearing voices sounding slightly louder than the rainfall from the room next door, but hasn't been paying attention to what they were saying.
He feels...so numb. It could be because of all the crying he did up until a few hours ago, not in the sense that he's all out of tears to shed, rather...because of the guilt that has been building up. Even though he knows Kyle's life is no longer in danger thanks to Wendy's healing, he still hates that he got so badly hurt to begin with...that he couldn't prevent it from happening like he wanted to.
He failed to protect his super best friend from harm. He almost died...right in front of his eyes.
The memory of Kyle's pained scream and him being stabbed has been tormenting his mind nonstop. He puts a hand up to his forehead, he has a headache. But this is nothing compared to what Kyle went through.
"You Need To Sleep."
Chris is right, however the guilt is stronger than the fatigue. Not only that, but Stan is afraid to sleep, he'll undoubtedly experience a nightmare.
"Just Know This Will Not Be The Last Time Kyle Gets Severely Hurt. Remember, He Is A Target-"
"Chris, please..." Stan initially wasn't going to bother responding to his Inner Guardian, but the guy would've kept yapping in spite of his mood had he not stopped him. Hopefully, he takes the hint based on his annoyed tone and will leave him alone.
"Hmph."
Stan heaves a heavy sigh as he lowers his hand to his thigh, glad Chris is considerate enough to drop the subject. He then sees the door open, entering is Kenny. He's not wearing his raincoat either. Seems they've all finished talking.
"I thought you would've been asleep by now." Kenny closes the door and walks to the bed Stan is occupying.
"...Can't sleep." Unlike his inner voice, Stan's physical voice came out monotonously low and hoarse.
Kenny sits down next to him, tearing up when he looks at Kyle. "I honestly don't blame you. So much shit happened, and we almost lost Kyle." Stan tenses up after hearing his last four words. "I know you've been blaming yourself for what happened to him...I have too, but...Shit..."
Stan looks over at Kenny. The sight of him wiping his eyes on his sleeve with a sniffle stings his own eyes and intensifies the sorrow in his heart. The next thing he knows, one tear trails down his cheeks from each eye. He wipes them away with a hand.
Kenny drops his arm on his thigh with a sigh, then sniffles again. More tears leak from his eyes. "I tried to keep 'em in," he says, his voice steady. "To be strong for your sake, but...as you can see, that was impossible."
Stan musters a small smile. "It's okay. Thanks though." He wants to say more than that, but he can't think up anything more to say thanks to his headache.
Kenny meets his gaze, not liking how weary he looks. "We should go to sleep." He wipes his eyes again. "We're not gonna have to wake up too early, but Henrietta wants to do Enhanced Purification again during the daytime, so they can get in as much progress as they can." His eyes and cheeks look dry now. It doesn't seem like he'll cry again, though he does appear tired as well. Just not to the same extent as Stan.
The noirette's smile drops into a reluctant frown. He looks to the floor. He's not ready to sleep yet, but knowing Kenny, he will try whatever means (except force) to get him to do so. He'll need to prolong the time he can stay awake for, and he instantly knows how. He can inquire about the discussion that ended a few minutes ago, since he's curious now as well. "Before that, what all did you guys talk about?" He asks, his voice sounding a little less rough.
Kenny starts untying his shoelaces while answering. "Well, you already know that Yuna started off telling me that I got brainwashed. After that, she said Craig had easily killed six big ass monsters, then Stripe took control of his body. But before he did that, turned out Craig wasn't actually possessed. Also, Leo went out to go check on Cloud, we all figured him and Ingrum were over at Henrietta's place." He takes one shoe off and puts it in front of the nightstand, then begins removing his other shoe. "Stripe said that Craig was acting evil thanks to a side effect caused by him giving up some of his power and life force to Craig in a dream," after taking off his last shoe, he sets it right next to the other one, "which is also the reason why his right eye turns silver whenever he casts a spell. Just when he was gonna give Craig's body back, Henrietta suggested that he stays, so he can help with Purifying the clouds." He sits up straight with a yawn. "Stripe hasn't given an answer yet."
The reason Stan already knew about the first half of information is because they were all in here when Wendy was healing Kyle. He didn't know that Leopold left, but it was to be expected. He should've figured Kenny would've summarized everything else than tell him in full detail due to him being rightfully tired. Though, a spirit transferring some of their power and life to a human does sound like it would give equally beneficial and dangerous results. Stan just didn't expect an entirely bad outcome since Stripe is a Light Inner Guardian. So, how and why did Craig end up possessing Dark magic as a result? That's a thought for another day. "Won't the longer he stay in Craig's body, the more severe the aftereffects will be?"
"That's exactly what Yuna asked," Kenny says, returning his sad and sleepy eyes to Kyle's resting figure. "Apparently, none of the spirits know how harmful 'Forced Power Link' really is. Stripe was told that the consequences were the same as 'Power Link', but he actually thinks it varies, no matter how long 'Forced Power Link' lasts for." Kenny's frown deepens. "The first time he did 'Forced Power Link', Craig was unconscious for half a month, running a fever every so often that would last three or four days. I still can't believe that..." Stan can't fathom that happening to Craig either. He remembers 'Power Link' leaving him out cold for two weeks. That's practically tame compared to half a month of almost constantly being sick. "But Henrietta still insisted Stripe stays in control. Me and the others protested against the idea. Of course, we couldn't change her mind. So all Stripe said was that he'd think about it, and that pretty much ended the conversation." Stan isn't surprised they couldn't make Henrietta reconsider her decision given how rude and stubborn she is. She's intent on making her home a safe place, no matter the cost. Before Stan can say anything, Kenny stands up. "Looks like we're gonna have to share a bed instead." He walks towards the light switch.
"W-wait!" Stan didn't mean to shout and startle Kenny into stopping. His cheeks heat up in embarrassment when Kenny turns to face him, his eyes slightly wide. Hopefully he didn't give anyone else a fright. "U-uh..." He tries to come up with an excuse that will delay Kenny from turning off the light, but his frantic thoughts only worsen his headache. He winces.
Kenny's shock changes into worry. "I was gonna let you get settled into bed first before I turn off the light."
Stan would rather he keeps the light on, but he appears thankful for his consideration nonetheless. "Oh, t-thanks..." He gets up and pulls the covers back towards the middle of the bed, then lays down on his back. He braces himself, but still ends up flinching when the room is coated in utter darkness. He listens to both the rain and Kenny's soft footsteps, then him getting into bed, their arms almost touching. He pulls the cover over the both of them.
"Goodnight," Kenny says.
"Goodnight..." Stan says back almost quietly.
The longer he lays there, staring at pitch-blackness, the more it feels like he's submerging into an abyss. Very unnerved by the concept, he takes a silent deep breath and closes his eyes. He focuses on the closeness of Kenny's body, the warmth he's naturally producing, and the raindrops bombarding the building in a moderate rhythm. They gradually soothe his nerves. He's asleep in mere seconds.
/
Leopold
"Still can't sleep?" Tweek asks, blankly transfixed on the ceiling. He's lying down under the covers in the first bed. The lamp is on, illuminating the room with its warm amber light. His and Leopold's raincoats are stored in the same closet.
Leopold is sitting on the other bed, his back against the headboard and his legs underneath the covers. "Yeah...Sorry."
Tweek turns his head to look at him. "What's been troubling you?"
Leopold scrunches up his face, unsure if he should tell Tweek what he saw earlier. The scene has been ingrained into his mind, he didn't even hear Stan's unintentional outburst minutes ago. "Aah...Aah can't say. It wouldn't feel right."
"...Okay." Tweek looks back at the ceiling.
Leopold assumed he wouldn't try to talk him into spilling what's been weighing on his mind, whether he's curious or not. Then again, Leopold shouldn't have any doubts in the first place, he trusts Tweek and that won't ever change. "Promise me you won't tell anyone." He feels it's unnecessary to make sure Tweek of all people keeps his lips sealed.
"I promise," Tweek says without any hesitation, almost as if his curiosity prompted him to speak so readily.
"Aah...saw Ingrum kissin' Cloud." Leopold waits a little more than several seconds until he turns his head to see Tweek's reaction. He's frowning, which isn't unusual, instead of looking surprised. There is no hint of the emotion in his blue-green eyes either.
"So that's why you came back so quickly."
Leopold looks down at his lap and nods. The lie he told his friends and Henrietta was that he didn't want to disturb Ingrum while he was restoring Cloud's Magical Core.
"Do you find it disgusting?"
With how tenacious the memory has been lingering in Leopold's brain for the past fifteen or so minutes, repulsion was and still isn't the primary emotion. He doesn't know much about same-sex relationships except being called gay, a homo, and the other word that started with an 'f' was often times used as a joke or insult during his childhood, back when life was still normal, but he does know that it shouldn't be judged by anyone. People have a right to love whomever, irregardless of gender. "No, Aah was just really shocked. Aah didn't think they were...in that kind of relationship."
"Mm...Well, it shouldn't be too surprising. Ingrum has been showing his affection towards Cloud with every chance he got ever since they met or more accurately put, reunited," Tweek says. "And Cloud not once looked genuinely uncomfortable except when Ingrum wanted him to introduce him some more."
"So Ingrum was flirtin' with him on purpose," Leopold realizes. "Cloud wanted to keep their relationship a secret, but Ingrum didn't." He wonders why Ingrum wanted them to know that Cloud was his boyfriend so soon upon meeting. He looks at Tweek as he asks, "How do you feel about their relationship?"
"I don't find their love for each other disgusting either." Leopold blinks, taken aback. Confusion develops in Tweek's frown. "What?"
"Aah thought you were gonna say you didn't care."
Tweek's frown relaxes into neutrality. "I don't, but...I felt the need to give you a proper answer on this topic."
Sometimes, Tweek's thoughtful words and actions ignite a warm feeling within Leopold's chest. It's never discomforting. "It's okay, as long as you're honest. That's what really matters." Raven taught them that honesty is what strengthens and maintains a bond.
"Always," Tweek says sincerely.
Leopold gives him a small smile, only for a yawn to slip its way out. Now that he's no longer burdened by the intimate memory of Ingrum and Cloud kissing, he's ready to get some shut-eye. "Aah'm gonna turn the lamp off." He reaches over and twists the knob. Darkness swiftly consumes the room. "Goodnight, Tweek," he says while laying down and pulling the covers up to his chest.
"Goodnight," the other blonde responds.
/
Wendy
"I wish we could watch tv," Bebe grumbles, scowling at said television from the first bed she's sitting crisscross on.
"We're supposed to be sleeping," Wendy says flatly, already lying down in the second bed. The ceiling light and Bebe's constant need for conversation have kept her up.
"I'm surprised you even feel the need to since you were knocked out for awhile."
"It wasn't a 'nice nap' like Henrietta described it as." Rather, it felt as though Wendy was floating in a sea of nothingness. She couldn't move any of her limbs and the silence was discomfiting. She desperately wanted to wake up from the eerie nightmare. At some point, a dazzling light twinkled above her and began to expand throughout the dark, empty space. It became a pleasant dream for what felt like a brief moment. Elena told her while she was healing Kyle's injuries that Cloud restored hers, Henrietta's, and Ingrum's magical energy with his own. The soothing glow represented his magic. She'll be sure to thank him when she sees him again.
Bebe sighs. "I can't sleep anyway. I keep thinking about how...insane Craig became outta nowhere. I know Stripe told us that it was a side effect because he gave Craig his life force and power, but...he was willing to kill Kyle. With no hesitation either. No one could get through to him, not even Clyde."
Wendy remembers how glum Clyde looked while they, minus Stan and Kyle, were in the brunette's and Craig's room. He couldn't even look at his friend's face. "It all progressed so fast. If anything," Wendy looks over at her best friend. "I'm glad you all lived and defeated the monsters." She smiles, grateful.
Bebe returns the smile, feeling the same. "It wasn't easy, but we did manage to hold our own." Her smile drops into a frown. "Sucks you and the other Light users gotta start over."
Wendy's lips straighten into a line, knowing what she was referring to. She's still upset that their progress within the clouds has basically been erased, though not completely fortunately. "Yeah, which is why Henrietta wants us to get started during the day. The rain will create more monsters, but they won't be too much for you guys to handle."
Bebe nods in agreement. "Even if we're down one person," she smirks. "Those things won't stand a chance without the darkness backing them up."
"That is, if you don't pass out from the lack of sleep," Wendy says dryly.
The blonde rolls her eyes. "Ugh, fiiiine," she says, faking her exasperation. She uncrosses her legs and scoots towards the edge of the bed before getting up. Wendy puts the back of her head against the soft and plump pillow and closes her eyes. She hears Bebe flick the light switch down. "Holy shit, it's dark," Bebe whispers uneasily.
Wendy lets out a short laugh. She listens to Bebe making her way back to the bed, then the shuffling of covers, and the rain. Noises that save her from thinking that she's experiencing the creepy nightmare once again. She soon slips into a relaxing slumber.
/
Clyde
Clyde feels like he is the only person awake. The ceiling light is on. He's sitting in the first bed, leaning against the headboard, gazing impassively at the blank television screen. The other bed is vacant. His blue and white T-shirt has dried blood around his shoulder, a thick trail of it down his arm, and dark red splatters on his neck and cheek. The punctures long since healed. Both his raincoat and red and black letterman jacket are hanging within the closet next to the bed he's occupying. Perhaps Stripe and Yuna are asleep too, they're in a room together. He doubts Yuna is resting, but Stripe has to be. He needs to let Craig's body reenergize. Clyde hopes the young spirit didn't forget that crucial necessity. He regrets not reminding him just in case before he went to a different room. He left on his own accord, though Clyde didn't try to stop him. He's still not sure why. He's seen Craig's body with black eyes before and even heard Stripe's voice through his mouth, which was off-putting now that Craig is a teenager. But those can't be the reasons he didn't stop Stripe from going to another room. He's been so worried about his friend's body this entire time that he didn't hear Stan's sudden exclaim.
"I Get That You Can't Sleep, But You're Gonna Need To Try."
To be honest, Clyde is afraid to. He knows the first thing he'll dream about is evil Craig. His silver eyes have been haunting his mind for minutes. He probably won't ever forget them even if he tries to delete the mental imagery from his brain. "Do you know if Stripe is asleep?"
"I Figured You Were Agonizing Over That. Rest Assured, He Is. Yuna Casted A Soporific Spell On Him." Clyde is partially relieved. "Now Will You Go To Sleep?" The brunette frowns. He hears Leon sigh. "What Are You Worried About This Time?"
Just because Clyde is a little less troubled doesn't mean the many thoughts plaguing his mind have decreased. He shakes his head. He's not going to tell Leon that he's scared to sleep because of potentially having a bad dream. He'll definitely ridicule him about it. "I'll go to sleep eventually."
"You're Making Your Dad Here Worried, Ya Know."
Clyde is aware, however he can't help how he's feeling right now. He also knows that his father is concerned about Craig as well. He doesn't know much about magic, Leon only imparted information he deemed were worth enlightening about the three attributes to him.
Clyde sighs in defeat. There's no point trying to delay this any longer. He gets out of bed to turn the ceiling light off.
"Hang On, Your Dad Wants You To Wear A Different Shirt."
Clyde stops when a grey light shaped like a shirt manifests out of thin air in front of him. He touches it and the glow fades away to reveal a red and black gradient T-shirt he's certain Craig picked out for him at the mall. He grabs it with both hands, smiling slightly.
"Don't forget to clean the blood off of you first."
Clyde is momentarily startled after hearing his father's stern yet caring voice. That's the first time he spoke to him while being in Leon's domain. He smiles again with a bit more feeling. "I won't." He changes his destination, going to the bathroom. He opens the door and inhales a vague fragrance of chestnuts. He feels the right side wall for the light switch, the illumination from the room faintly lighting up the bathroom, which seems a little big. Once his fingers touch what feels like the mechanism for the ceiling light, although it's not designed the same as the one in the room, he gently pushes it. Light overhead brightens the entirety of the bathroom.
On the left side are a porcelain toilet, a wooden built-in shelf with two stacks of neatly folded up towels on the top and bottom shelves, next to the towels on the top shelf is a basket. It's most likely intended for dirty clothes. On the bottom shelf are a single stack of folded up white washcloths, a pair of shampoo bottles, and a container of body wash. Underneath the shelf is a wicker trash can that's empty. In the back center is a walk-in shower with a single shelf on the side. The glass door is closed. On the right side are a sink with three small drawers on the left and two big ones in the middle; on the surface of the spotless marble countertop are a bottle of citrus-scented hand soap and a plastic bottle containing a bundle of brown diffuser sticks—there is a slim amount of oil in it, and above the sink is an oval-shaped mirror with an ivory-colored frame.
Clyde steps in while closing the door. He sets his new shirt down on top of the sink, then strips out of the one he's currently wearing. He stares at himself in the mirror, ignoring the crusty blood. The exercises Leon made him do weren't anything extreme, hence why the muscles on his arms aren't too big and he has a six-pack. Leon prioritized buffing his physique and improving his stamina. Craig may be taller than him, but at least he has more muscles.
He contemplates if he should dump his bloodied and damaged shirt into the basket or not, until Leon offers a solution.
"Just Dispose Of It."
Clyde shrugs and does just that. He sticks his fingers into the claw holes and rips the shirt up. When he can't tear it any further, he dumps the strips into the trash can. Now, he can wipe the blood off himself. He grabs a washcloth and the body wash with each hand. He goes back towards the sink and turns the left knob. The water comes out cold for ten seconds, then starts heating up. Once it's hot, he twists the other knob, changing the water's temperature to warm. He dampens the washcloth and squeezes out a long string of bluish-white liquid soap onto it. It smells really nice. He inspects the bottle for what kind of scent it is, it's called invigorating sea breeze. Fitting. He creates a lather by rubbing the body wash into the washcloth's smooth fabric, then starts cleaning away the dried blood.
By the time he's finished, the washcloth is thoroughly dirty. He leaves it in the sink. He puts on his new shirt, then leaves the bathroom, turning off the light and shutting the door along the way. He ambles towards the room's light switch. He stops by it and faces the beds, so he can remember where the first bed is. It's going to get really dark as soon as he flicks the switch down. When he does, he tries not to envision silver eyes shining into the darkness. He takes a deep breath and heads to where he memorized the first bed when there was light. He gets under the covers as he lays down on his left side, clutching the covers close to his chest.
He closes his eyes, shoving the persisting worries behind him. It's not easy for he is mainly concerned about how profound the aftereffects will be once Stripe ends 'Forced Power Link'. What if Craig becomes unconscious for two months or maybe longer than that? What if the fevers strike again, but they're much worse? What if-
"Clyde, Just Relax." Leon's voice was oddly conciliatory. "Don't Think About Anyone Or Anything. Let Your Body And Mind Rest."
Clyde's tensed body starts relaxing, his grip on the covers loosening. All of the uneasy thoughts disappear. He feels himself quickly drifting off into a deep sleep.
Kyle
"You were quite fortunate this time, in terms of still being with your companions, I mean."
A meter away from Kyle are fangs in the form of a derisive grin. Hundreds or perhaps thousands of bright dark green eyes surround him and the pointy teeth in the void. He narrows his eyes, unperturbed.
"Whether it's by luck or whatever, I am not going to be taken to your prick of a Master."
All of the eyes glare angrily at him.
The fangs chuckle. "Such foolish confidence and a childish attitude. You know you cannot defy fate for too long. You will come to us by any means"
Kyle smirks. "Try as much as you want to, your forces will only run straight into their demise."
The sharp pearly whites widen eagerly. "Is that so? Then it's a good thing our Master has an unlimited number of pawns at his disposal."
Kyle frowns nervously. It was dumb of him to act boastful when the enemy side has such a huge advantage. He may have made a grave mistake, but he has no doubt that him, his friends, and the allies they will continue to acquire during the rest of their journey will triumph. So long as they play their cards right...
/
Kenny
Monstrous shrieking rouses Kenny from a sleep he did not want to be rudely woken out of. He blinks his eyes open with an irritated groan, nothing but blackness appearing in his vision. He sighs. Seems the rain has spawned multiple monsters. Was bound to happen sooner or later. He's sure the noise will wake up everyone else, well maybe except Kyle.
Kenny knits his eyebrows. Something is causing slight tremors only near the upper part of the bed. There's no way the monsters are doing this. So that must mean...
"Stan is shaking." With a frown, Kenny turns on his side to face Stan and reaches out to touch his arm, but instead makes contact with his back. Heat rises within his cheeks, but he can confirm that Stan is indeed the one trembling. "He must be having a nightmare." Which is understandable. Kenny is surprised he didn't have a bad dream himself. He ponders what he should do to help Stan calm down. He can't talk to him, and he doesn't know any spells that can infiltrate a person's dream. He wonders if one even exists. He'll ask Yuna one day.
After a minute of thinking, Kenny has to rely on physical touch. Feeling his cheeks getting warmer, he caresses Stan's well-toned back. His shaking gradually begins to subside. Kenny doesn't stop until he's completely composed. Seconds accumulate into two minutes. Stan has stopped shaking, however he's not at ease. How Kenny knows this is because he's tense. He inches closer to the noirette, driven by a strange impulse, his chest touching the other's back. He drapes an arm over Stan's chest, feeling his hand gripping the gemstone to his necklace. Kenny clasps his hand over Stan's, feeling his pounding heart slowing down.
Tuning out the horrendous racket and focusing on Stan's heartbeat, Kenny goes back to sleep.
/ /
Come the afternoon, Stan opens his eyes. The absolute darkness is not a very pleasing sight to see first thing. Despite that, he feels a lot better compared to yesterday, almost refreshed even. It's quite unexpected since he recalls undergoing a nightmare, though the contents are hazy. As he stares in Kyle's direction, the background remains unchanged, but their positions don't. Stan is now standing, his tear-leaking eyes staring down at Kyle, who is not breathing. Then all of a sudden, the dreadful image and sensation vanish. Stan feels himself returning to reality; he's lying back down on the bed, warmed both inside and outside. He blinks, puzzled more so than content.
That's when he notices two things simultaneously: a bunch of abhorrent screeching coming from outdoors and a body really close to him. The dark raindrops were going to produce monsters eventually, so he's not surprised. He directs that feeling towards Kenny hugging him. He can feel his heart calmly beating against his back, and each breath ruffling one spot in his hair. Did he perhaps have a nightmare as well, and unconsciously closed the small distance between them? He dips his chin, but can't make out the silhouettes of their hands. He wasn't aware that he's clutching the sapphire gem, and feeling Kenny's hand clasping his gives a protective impression. The warmth in his chest feels incredibly weird now. He's not sure if he likes it.
Suddenly, the doorknob rattles. Stan closes his eyes, feigning he's still asleep. The ceiling light turns on and someone gasps. It wasn't out of horror, but shock.
"Are you guys seeing what I'm seeing?! Kenny is hugging Stan!"
Stan recognizes who spoke in a loud whisper just now, it was Bebe. Based on the two pure and the other two impure energies, Wendy, Henrietta, Leopold, and Tweek are also awake. They're wearing their raincoats securely.
Henrietta walks into the room. "Who cares?" She stops in front of the television and raises her hands up to her chest. "Alright," she starts clapping her hands loudly. "Up and at 'em!" She stops when the three boys groan.
"Wow, you even woke Kyle up," Bebe comments.
The redhead rubs his eyes while rising into a sitting position. "Jeez, was that necessary? It's loud enough outside." He was hoping to rest a little longer, the stupid dream or whatever it was he had ruined the vigorous effects of the healing he received. He's positive Wendy healed him.
"It got you three up, so yeah, it was necessary." Henrietta turns to leave. "Now that just leaves Clyde."
"I wonder if Stripe managed to wake him up yet," Wendy says as she follows the woman. "He was sleeping so soundly."
While Tweek walks out as well, Leopold is stunned in place by utter curiosity. He didn't think Stan and Kenny had feelings for each other as well. They never flirted or gave the other affectionate compliments like Ingrum did to Cloud. Perhaps they both had an inclination for their relationship to kept under wraps similar to what Cloud wanted. He then departs from the room, going to where the others went.
"Kyle, quick! Look," Bebe whispers excitedly, pointing at Stan and Kenny.
Kyle quirks an amused eyebrow at his super best friend and best friend. "Well you two certainly look comfortable."
Stan blushes, embarrassed. "It's not what you think, alright?"
"Mm, yeah...jus' ten...more minutes." Kenny unconsciously snuggles Stan's hair, deepening the noirette's blush.
Bebe giggles. "You two look super cuuute~"
"You're not making this any better," Stan deadpans.
Kyle laughs as he removes the covers from over his legs. He scoots towards the edge of the bed, facing away from Bebe, Stan, and Kenny. "Did me almost dying strengthen you guys' bond or something?" He bends down slightly to put on his brown snow boots.
Stan frowns, eying the dried blood on the redhead's sweater. "Don't even joke about that."
There is a tense beat of silence, the monsters' shrill and distorted screaming worsening the atmosphere. "Uh, I'm gonna go now." Bebe speed walks out.
Kyle stands up. "That was in poor taste. Sorry." He ambles closer to the closet and opens the door that intentionally hides him from Stan's view. "So, did you all figure out why Craig was acting like a total psycho last night?" He asks, changing the topic.
Stan fills him in on everything Kenny told him while he tries to wake up the bicolor-haired teen by gently nudging him with his elbow. It's effective after five pokes.
Kenny's eyelids slowly flutter open. His pillow feels both soft and prickly. When his vision clears, he realizes that the supposed pillow is actually a head full of black hair. That's when he remembers taking it upon himself to mitigate Stan's anxiety, so he could sleep contentedly. He hears the teen speaking to Kyle, who's taking all three of their raincoats from off the hangers and setting them down side by side on the bed he slept in.
Kenny's eyes widen and red colors his cheeks. He separates from Stan like he abruptly caught on fire, being back on his side of the bed. He conceals his blushing face with both hands. Kyle bursts out laughing. Releasing the gemstone, Stan sits up with a sigh. He relieves the tension in his hand by opening and closing it a few times, his palm faintly indented by the beautiful gem.
Calming down, Kyle grabs one of the raincoats. "I got the gist of it, Stan." He walks towards the door. "I'll give you two some privacy." He exits the room pulling the door by its round handle along the way, leaving it open a crack.
An awkward air descends upon the room. Stan looks over at Kenny to see him lowering his hands, his lips in a line and his cheeks still flushed. He decides to speak first. "Sooo, why-"
"Because you were having trouble sleeping." Kenny locks eyes with him. "I rubbed your back for a couple minutes, but even when your shaking stopped, you were still tensed, so..." Kenny's eyes look away towards the ceiling. "That's why I was close to you like that," he murmurs, abashed.
The warm feeling from a few minutes ago rekindles within Stan's chest, extending up to his cheeks. He feels bad that Kenny had to comfort him when he was already tired. "Thanks and...sorry."
Kenny shakes his head, giving him a small smile. "After everything that happened last night, you deserved to have a good sleep. I'm just glad I was successful."
Stan's heart starts beating fast. Kenny's kindness is nothing new, so why is his body reacting like this all of a sudden? Despite his bafflement, he smiles, appreciative. "We all did. I didn't mind being your teddy bear, by the way." His jesting comment earns him a short laugh. "Let's get ready, then meet up with the others."
" 'kay."
In Clyde's and Craig's room, no one has been able to wake up the brunette. Had he not been breathing, it would've seemed like he's dead.
"He's been subjected to a Soporific Spell," Yuna says, frowning. "However, this is different from the one I casted on Stripe. Leon forgot to switch elements." Said Inner Guardian sweatdrops.
"So does that mean we can't wake him up?" Henrietta asks, not looking as concerned like the others.
"It is still possible, but the method..." Yuna appears hesitant to voice out the solution. Clyde's friends most likely will not like it.
Henrietta summons a light purple needle into her possession. "Let me guess, he needs to feel pain?" Her question doesn't sit right with the teens, just like Yuna anticipated.
"Y-yes, but it does not have to be potent."
Henrietta rounds the bed, so she can be in front of Clyde.
"Remember, be gentle," Bebe says, strongly emphasizing the word 'gentle'.
Henrietta ignores her and pulls the covers down, then sticks the thin needle into Clyde's arm. Seeing that he's wearing a brand-new shirt reminds Kyle that he'll need to do the same, but at a later time. Stan and Kenny walk in—Stan carrying his raincoat on one arm while Kenny's is slung across his shoulders. Bebe gives them a playful smirk. Stan merely rolls his eyes. Kenny doesn't get why she's making that expression at them, but only for a split moment. His cheeks become bright red, which makes Bebe, Kyle, and Leopold chuckle. Raven shakes her head in amusement, her raincoat not completely fastened. She's wearing a clean black dress similar to one she'd been wearing ever since she transformed into human form. Wendy explains to Stan and Kenny why Henrietta is prodding Clyde's arm with her magical needle.
Clyde becomes conscious of a stinging twinge. It's steadily getting stronger. He squeezes his eyes, then snaps them open. "Ow!" He springs upright, looking at his arm to see the needle disappear. A bead of blood oozes out. He puts a hand over that spot and begins to soothe the pain away by rubbing it. He glares at Henrietta. "What the fuck did you do that for?!"
"Ask your Inner Guardian," is all she tells him. "Anyway, Stripe, what's your answer?"
Stripe becomes the center of attention. He purses his lips as he looks down at the floor. He's given this much thought and although he fears the outcome of 'Forced Power Link', he has to assist with the Enhanced Purification process. If Craig is out of commission, then he won't be able to contribute. Getting permission to come to earth will take a while, plus he won't be able to stay long. He balls his hands into fists. "I'm terribly sorry, Master Craig." "I...I will stay..." He doesn't see Clyde's upset frown.
"Good," Henrietta nods, not expressing her relief. "Before we begin recasting Enhanced Purification, with the exception of us with Light magic cuz we need to save every bit of our magical energy, you all will kill the monsters first. Raven, do you think you can conjure a shield or barrier to stop the flow of the rain throughout the whole State?"
Leopold and Tweek frown at the crazy request. Raven nods without any hesitation. "Yes, I can do it."
"Are you sure?" Leopold asks, doubtful. "Won't it completely drain your magical energy?"
"If I reduce the shield's durability, I will conserve a little bit of magical energy. Prioritizing a specific aspect of certain spells can preserve ones magical energy, though it's best not to do it often." That was both informative and reassuring to hear.
"Hurry up and get ready, Clyde," Henrietta says. "Ingrum and Cloud are already waiting for us at the tower's rooftop."
"Wait," Kyle says. "We should eat first." Right after he mentioned eating, a few stomachs rumble.
Henrietta rolls her eyes. "Fine. I'll teleport us to my house. I should have enough food there."