A Cultural Fusion || Neteyam X Fem!Omaticaya Reader

A Cultural Fusion || Neteyam x fem!Omaticaya reader

Masterlist

Summary: Neteyam instructs you on the customs and significance of Valentine's Day, a special day celebrated by humans

Warnings: none

Word count: 1690

Author: Rouge

A/N: prior to reading, it’s important to know that: the reader is female Omaticaya ✤ you'll find a glossary underneath the fic ✤ today’s prompt: learning about Valentine’s Day

Neteyam had always been fascinated by the ways of the humans. He had spent many evenings listening to his father recounting stories about the strange and exotic customs of the outsiders. But one particular story had always stuck with him - a tale about a special day called Valentine's Day.

As he walked through the lush forest, Neteyam spotted you sitting alone by the river, lost in your thoughts. He approached you with a gentle smile, curious to know what was on your mind.

You looked up at him and returned the smile, happy to have some company.

“Oel ngati kameie, Y/N," Neteyam greeted you. "Are you okay? You seem a little troubled."

You shrugged, feeling a little embarrassed. "I'm fine. I'm just thinking about something."

"Would you like to talk about it?" Neteyam asked kindly, taking a look around, smiling as he spotted a few kenten sitting in the nearby bushes.

You hesitated for a moment before nodding. "It's just that tomorrow is Valentine's Day, Lo’ak told me about that, and I don't really know what it means. I’ve never heard about this before. And your brother said it has something to do with love and feelings, but I don’t know if I can believe him."

Neteyam's eyes lit up with recognition. "Ah, I know about this day. My father told me about it. It's a day when humans show their love and affection for one another."

You looked at him curiously. "How do they do that when they do not have anything similar to tsaheylu?"

Neteyam paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts. "Well, they exchange gifts, like flowers or sweets, to show that they care about each other. And they spend time together, doing things they enjoy."

You listened intently, fascinated by the concept of expressing love through such simple gestures. "But why is it called Valentine's Day?" You asked.

Neteyam shrugged. "I'm not sure. My father didn't tell me that part. But I think it's because there was a human saint named Valentine who used to help people express their love. Humans have a lot of saints, after all."

"Saints? What are those?" You asked, puzzled.

"They are people who are believed to have lived holy lives and are now in heaven. Humans pray to them for help and guidance," Neteyam explained, taking a seat by your side, slipping his feet into the water.

You looked at him, surprised. "Really? Humans have so many beliefs and traditions. I can't keep up with all of them."

Neteyam chuckled. "I know it can be overwhelming. But I find it fascinating to learn about all these different customs and beliefs. It helps me understand humans better. My dad was one of them, after all."

You nodded, but you still didn't quite understand why humans would pray to someone who was no longer alive. Neteyam could see the confusion on your face.

"It's hard to explain, Y/N. But I think it gives humans comfort to know that there are people in the heavens watching over them," he said.

You looked at him curiously. "Heaven? What's that?"

"It's a place where humans believe they can be happy forever, with no pain or sadness," Neteyam explained, playing with a tuft of grass.

You nodded, trying to understand this concept. "So it's like a place of eternal peace?"

"Exactly," Neteyam nodded with a smile. "It's like becoming one with Eywa after death. Humans believe that they can reunite with their loved ones who have passed away and be with them forever in heaven."

You felt a sense of understanding dawn on you. "I see. It's like the ultimate reunion."

"Yes. It's a way for humans to find comfort in the face of death, to believe that they can be together with their loved ones again someday."

You smiled, feeling grateful for Neteyam's insights. It was always interesting to learn about the beliefs and customs of humans, even if they were different from your own and usually meant danger. And in some ways, the concept of heaven was similar to your own belief in the afterlife, of becoming one with Eywa and the spirits of your ancestors. It was a reminder that, despite all our differences, there were still common threads that bound everyone all together. You thought about this for a moment, trying to wrap your head around the concept. "I see. I guess it's like how we believe in the spirits of our ancestors who guide us."

Neteyam smiled. "Exactly! It's different, but it's also similar in a way."

You smiled back at him, feeling grateful for his insights into the human world. It was always interesting to learn about their many beliefs and traditions, even if you didn't always understand them.

You nodded, feeling grateful for Neteyam's explanation. "Thanks for telling me about it. It sounds like a nice tradition, that Valentine's Day. But it’s a little strange that humans have one particular day where they are affectionate with their loved ones."

Neteyam had been thinking about Valentine's Day for a while, and he decided to make a small gift for you. He spent many hours working on it, putting all his love and care into each stitch and bead. "Y/N, I made this for you. It's not much, but I wanted to give you something special for Valentine's Day, even if it would take place only tomorrow," Neteyam whispered, reaching for the little bag hung over his shoulder. He pulled out a beautiful bracelet made of woven leaves and colorful beads. It was delicate and intricate, and you could see the time and care that Neteyam had put into making it.

“Neteyam,” you whispered, looking up at him, accepting the gift. “Ma Eywa! It’s beautiful.”

Neteyam smiled, happy to see you enjoying the gift. "I'm glad you like it. I wanted to bring something from human tradition, because that's what father does for mom, and I thought a handcrafted gift would be a good choice."

You nodded, feeling grateful for Neteyam's effort and his understanding of human customs. It was fascinating to learn all that stuff about sky people.

"Thank you, Neteyam. This is a wonderful gift, and I'll cherish it always," you said, putting the bracelet on your wrist and admiring its beauty. “But… I don’t have anything for you, and after what you said I understand that Valentine’s Day is about exchanging gifts.”

Neteyam's smile widened, pleased to have made you happy. It was a small gesture, but it meant a lot to both of you, a symbol of the growing bond as Neteyam had his eye on you for a long while. "There's something you can do for me," Neteyam suggested.

Your head tilted to the side, and you asked, "What's that?"

In a bold voice, he asked, "Kiss me." Neteyam gazed into your eyes, feeling his heart racing with anticipation. He took a deep breath and reached out to gently take your hand in his. Neteyam leaned in closer to her, feeling a surge of courage. "There's something that draws me to you. I feel a connection with you that I can't explain." He paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts, and then he leaned in even closer until your faces were just inches apart. 

Your heart skipped a beat as you looked into Neteyam's eyes. You saw the sincerity and vulnerability in his expression, and you felt your own heart begin to race in response. Without a word, you leaned in and met Neteyam's lips with yours, feeling a jolt of electricity pass between them.

For a moment, the world around you fell away as you shared your first kiss. It was a gentle and tender moment, filled with the promise of what could be. As you pulled away, Neteyam looked at you and smiled, feeling a sense of hope and joy that he had never felt before. He looked at you, his eyes wide with awe and wonder. It was as if a new world had opened up to him, and he was seeing everything in a different light. He couldn't believe how soft your lips were, how your touch had sent shivers down his spine, and how his heart was beating so fast in his chest. It was like nothing he had ever felt before, and he knew that he was completely and utterly smitten. For a moment, he was lost in his thoughts, trying to process the overwhelming feeling that had taken over him. As he looked at you, he saw the way your eyes sparkled in the light, the way your smile made his heart flutter, and he knew that he was in trouble. He had never felt this way before, and he knew that he wanted to explore this new and exciting world of emotions that you had introduced him to. Neteyam couldn't wait to see what the future held for the two of you, and he knew that he was ready to take on any challenge as long as he had you by his side.

In that moment, you knew that everything had changed. You felt an intense connection with Neteyam, and you were completely enamored with him. It was a kiss that you would never forget, and you couldn't wait to see where this newfound attraction would take you. “Neteyam,” you whispered softly, trying to find proper words to describe your feelings.

“Shhh,” he whispered, wrapping his arms around your shoulders, pulling you closer to his strong chest. “I’m also lost for words.”

You couldn't help but nuzzle your face into Neteyam's chest, basking in the warmth and comfort that emanated from him. It felt like you were melting into him, and the feeling that rose within your chest was indescribable. As you breathed in his scent, you felt a sense of calm wash over you. It was like you were exactly where you were meant to be, and everything else in the world just fell away. You closed your eyes, savoring the moment, and letting yourself be completely enveloped by the feeling of being in Neteyam's arms. It was a moment you knew you would treasure forever.

Glossary:

kenten - fan lizard

tsaheylu - bond

oel ngati kameie - I see you

Just a kitten || Dabi x Hawks

Summary: One day, Keigo comes home with a tiny kitten he found on the streets during heavy rain. Determined, he does his best to persuade Dabi to agree to let the kitten stay with them

Warnings: cuteness overload 😻

Word count: 3117

Authors: Cass & Bear

Rain poured relentlessly outside as Keigo trudged wearily back to the shared apartment he called home. Shivering slightly from the chill that clung to his damp clothes, he slipped through the door, eager to find solace in the comfort of his own space. However, as he stepped inside, he couldn't help but notice the piercing gaze of Touya, his roommate and secret lover, who sat perched on the couch, his turquoise eyes gleaming with curiosity.

Suppressing a nervous smile, Keigo attempted to conceal something concealed under his jacket, the source of his clandestine mission to the bathroom. It was a task he was determined to complete with utmost secrecy, fearing Dabi's inquisitive nature and penchant for uncovering hidden truths. As he made his way past, he hoped against hope that his lover wouldn't detect the concealed object and unravel the surprise he had in store. "It's a little bit rainy today, isn't it?"

"Seriously? A weather talk? That's a new low for you," Dabi muttered, giving Hawks a disapproving look with a raised eyebrow. "As a spy, you can't seem to act natural whatsoever."

"Hey, Dabi," Hawks called out, his voice betraying a hint of urgency, as he maneuvered swiftly towards the bathroom. "How was your day?"

"It was all good until you showed up, acting so strangely," he said, his frown deepening as he scrutinized Keigo from head to toe. "Something feels off."

Meanwhile, Hawks skillfully locked the bathroom door behind him, a mischievous glimmer in his eyes. He couldn't let his guard down for even a moment, as he aimed to conceal his secret mission from prying eyes. With a quick glance around, he breathed a sigh of relief, assuring himself that the coast was clear.

As water droplets cascaded from his dampened clothes onto the bathroom tiles, Hawks knew he had to act swiftly. Unveiling a little, soaked kitten from beneath his jacket, he gazed at the animal with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. "It's fine, little one. Let's dry you up."

Touya wasn't as clueless as Keigo, though he could have his moments. He let out an irritated sigh and stood up from the couch, trailing behind Keigo as he headed to the bathroom. There, he listened for a moment, furrowing his brows. "Oi! Are you communicating with your clothes now?!" Touya attempted to open the door but found it locked. "What's gotten into you today?" he growled, banging on the door.

Startled by Dabi's unexpected attempt to breach his privacy, Keigo froze, his heart pounding in his chest. He frantically tried to compose himself, realizing that his attempts at secrecy had been abruptly shattered. Taking a deep breath to regain his composure, he spoke with a mixture of exasperation and pleading. "Wait! Just a minute, Dabi!" Keigo's voice wavered slightly, the urgency evident in his tone. "I... I need a moment, can you please grant me that? Just go to the living room." Frustration laced his words, a tinge of irritation creeping into his voice. The lack of privacy within the confines of their shared abode was beginning to grate on his nerves.

"Oh, that wasn't suspicious at all," Touya muttered with another annoyed sigh. Turning around, he took a few steps away. Touya decided to wait nearby, curious to see what was going on.

With the kitten now comfortably dried and wrapped in a soft towel, Hawks took a moment to collect himself, stealing a quick glance at his reflection in the bathroom mirror. Assured that he appeared composed, he cautiously opened the door and stepped out, only to be startled by Dabi's unexpected presence nearby. Hawks nearly jumped, his surprise evident in his widened eyes and a faint blush tinting his cheeks. He cleared his throat, attempting to regain his composure despite the sudden encounter. "I asked you to wait in the living room, didn't I?" Hawks' voice carried a mix of mild exasperation and lighthearted reproach, his gaze meeting Dabi's with a hint of playful annoyance.

"And when did I start listening to you?" Dabi asked, tilting his head with a frown and arms crossed over his chest. "So? What got your feathers all so ruffled?"

Letting out a soft sigh, Keigo's exasperation melted away as he shifted his focus to the adorable bundle in his hands. Gingerly, he unwrapped a portion of the towel, revealing a tiny, trembling kitten nestled within. Its wide eyes and delicate form tugged at his heartstrings, reminding him of the vulnerability and innocence contained within such a small creature. "They did," Keigo whispered, his voice filled with a mixture of tenderness and awe.

"A cat? Seriously?," Dabi asked with a scoff. "That's the reason you act like a weirdo? Is it some kind of birds of prey thing? Does your bird brain compel you to bring stuff home?"

A frown creased Hawks' features in response to Dabi's words, his voice carrying a touch of hurt. "You can be so cruel sometimes, you know that?" Keigo's tone held a hint of frustration and weariness, his patience worn thin by the constant jabs and nicknames. He was tired of the playful mockery. "Stop calling me names, Mr. Patchwork," he muttered, his voice laced with a mix of annoyance and a plea for understanding. Turning away, Keigo made his way to the living room, his wings flicking slightly to shed the lingering water droplets.

"Mr. Patchwork, how original," Dabi rolled his eyes, following him. "You wiped that thing, but you are still dripping wet. You seriously have a bird brain."

After these words Dabi went to find a towel, then he came back and started to pat Keigo's wings dry.

"Thank you," Keigo replied with a tiny smile, his attention focused completely on the tiny cat. "We are keeping them, Dabs."

"No fucking way," Dabi said, simply putting the towel on Keigo's head to dry his hair. "One big annoying bird is enough. We don't need any four legged pet in here."

"Daaabs!" Keigo's heart ached as he longed for Dabi's agreement to keep the precious feline. With a hint of desperation in his voice, he began to lay out his heartfelt arguments. "Dabi, please," Keigo implored, his tone tinged with vulnerability. "This kitten needs us. It needs a loving home, and we can provide that. We have the means to take care of it, and I've seen how gentle and caring you can be. Just imagine the joy it will bring to our lives. We can create a space filled with warmth and compassion, not just for each other, but for this little life that has found its way into our path."

Dabi groaned, getting more and more pissed with Keigo's behavior. "Did you fly into a window recently or something? How do you imagine this?” He asked, ruffling Keigo's hair a bit too hard. "Sometimes we are out for days, you think they will be able to be alone for so long?"

"Dabi, I understand your worries, but we don't have to do this alone. We have friends who would be more than willing to lend a helping hand," Keigo proposed, his voice gentle yet resolute. "We can ask them to babysit the cat when needed, ensuring that we have the flexibility to balance our responsibilities and still provide a loving home for this little one."

Dabi laughed in a nasty way. "Oh! Yeah, I can see you walking up to my old man and being like, 'Endeavor-san... Please, take care of my kitten today' or you'll pass them to that weird rabbit chick. How pathetic," he took away the towel, making sure Keigo was completely dry. "Twice and Toga would probably be eager to take care of the kitten but I wouldn't trust them with such a small creature."

"Endeavour as a babysitter for a little kitten? Now that's an interesting image," Hawks quipped, a playful glint in his mismatched eyes. "Well, your vampire-like friend might surprise us," Keigo replied, a touch of lightheartedness in his voice.

"Not gonna happen," Dabi shook his head. "Why do you even want to keep them?"

Keigo settled himself on the couch, gently placing the little kitten by his side. He turned his gaze towards Dabi, his expression earnest and full of hope. "Dabi, please," Keigo implored, his voice laced with sincerity. "Look at this little one. Look at how it trusts us, how it seeks our care and affection. I can see the love in your eyes when you look at it, too. We can be its family, its guardians, its source of warmth and comfort."

"Honestly, once I had the same look. I looked at my parents expecting a lot and where it led me," Touya shrugged again, crossing arms over his chest. "It's just a cat, Keigo. It doesn't care about us. All it wants is food and warmth to not die. I bet it'll scratch me as soon as I get closer," Touya summed up, and to prove his point, he walked closer to the kitten and offered it his hand.

As the little kitten continued to tremble, its innate curiosity overcame its fear. It tentatively reached out, sniffing at Touya's hand with a delicate twitch of its tiny nose. Sensing the warmth emanating from him, the kitten found solace in his touch. With hesitant steps, it mustered the courage to climb onto Touya's palm, its small body curling up, seeking comfort and security.

This was so sweet and unexpected! Dabi huffed with a deep frown, trying his best to not show how he really felt about that.

Carefully, he picked the kitten up and put his other hand over them to warm them up more effectively.

His eyes moved to Keigo who was looking at him with a stupid grin and sparkles in his eyes. "What? They are still not staying here. You can nurse them to good health and find them a home. Who wouldn't adopt a kitten from Japan's number two hero?" Dabi mocked him a little. "I really have enough of one chicken making a mess here, I don't need a kitten in this mess as well."

As the little kitten nestled into Dabi's palm, its trembling form gradually subsided, finding comfort in the warmth and security offered by his touch. It let out a feeble attempt at a meow, the sound resembling more of a tiny squeak, as it expressed its contentment.

Keigo's gaze turned earnest as he locked eyes with Dabi, a silent plea reflecting in his expression. "Dabi, look at them," Keigo implored, his voice filled with a mix of conviction and tenderness. "They have already found a place in their heart for you. Can you deny them the love and care they deserve? They've chosen us, and it's our responsibility to provide them with a safe and loving home."

"I had a pretty good example that I indeed can deny them the love and care they deserve," he chuckled dryly, petting the kitten on the head with his thumb. "Did they really pick you or you just found it and snatched it from the streets?"

Hawks' lips curled into a gentle smile, his heart warmed by the sight of the tiny bundle of fluff in Dabi's palm. "I saw this little one almost drowning in a puddle," he recounted softly, his voice tinged with a mix of compassion and determination. "They were so small, and with the heavy rain today, I couldn't bear to leave them to fend for themselves. As a pro hero, it's my duty to save lives, whether they be humans or animals," Keigo continued, his eyes shining with sincerity. "This little kitten needed someone to lend a helping hand, and I couldn't ignore their plea for help. They needed a chance at life, and I couldn't turn away."

"God, you make me sick with all the hero talk. 'I saved it from drowning' wasn't enough? I didn't need this whole speech they teached you in school or something," Touya said with a disgusted grimace, still stroking the kitten's head. "They can stay until they're better. After that, you'll find them home."

____________

As the days passed, Keigo couldn't help but smile in quiet contentment, observing Dabi's interactions with the little feline. He cherished the moments they spent together, watching as their bond grew stronger with each passing day.

However, as time went on, Keigo's busy schedule began to catch up with him once again. Overworking himself had become an all-too-familiar routine, and one morning, he woke up to find that he had overslept. Panic set in when he realized that it was already half past 8am, and he hurriedly got out of bed, determined to get ready for the day.

His heart skipped a beat as he scanned the room, his eyes searching for the little kitten. But to his immense surprise, the little feline was nowhere to be found. His heart sank, worry gnawing at his thoughts as he wondered where the kitten could have gone. Had he gotten out of the room somehow? Did he need help?

Dabi slept peacefully until he heard Keigo running around like a headless chicken. He was laying on his belly with arms crossed under his head, but soon Keigo's thrashing around pissed him off. "Did you fucking lost your head or something?! Get to bed or go to your fucking job and let me sleep!” He groaned not even raising his head.

"Kitty! He's gone! Move your ass and help me look for him!"

Dabi just raised his head and there was the kitten, sleeping quietly on his pillow in his arms. "Happy now? Can you be quiet now?"

Relief washed over Keigo as he discovered the little kitten snuggled comfortably with Dabi. His initial shock quickly gave way to a mixture of exasperation and affection. He scolded Dabi, "My God, don't do that again!" Keigo chided, but a soft smile softened his reprimand. He couldn't help but feel grateful that the kitten was safe and sound, finding comfort in Dabi's presence.

Sitting on the edge of the bed, Keigo observed the endearing scene before him. The kitten yawned, its tiny eyes blinking open. In response, the little feline snuggled even closer to Dabi, seeking warmth and affection.

Keigo's heart swelled with tenderness as he watched the bond between Dabi and the kitten. It was clear that they had grown fond of each other, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this newfound addition to their home. As he reached out to gently stroke the kitten's soft fur, he couldn't help but marvel at how this little creature had brought even more warmth and love into their lives. "Today I'll speak with one girl who is interested in taking him home."

"Cool. You gotta tell her the offer isn't up to anymore," Dabi shrugged and nuzzled his nose against the kitten's head. "Sucks to be her, but he isn't going anywhere."

Keigo's frown deepened as he rose from the bed, his voice tinged with a mix of frustration and disappointment. "Wait a second. You were the one who didn't want to deal with the cat," he pointed out, his annoyance evident in his tone. "I've already made all the arrangements, man, and the girl from the other city is coming to pick him up."

"I don't care, I am not giving him away. I can even scare her off if needed," Touya summed up. "He's staying with us."

Keigo's voice carried a mix of confusion and frustration as he confronted Dabi about his change of heart. "Why did you change your mind, huh?" he asked, his tone tinged with exasperation. "You were so adamant that we didn't need a cat, that he couldn't stay with us. And now, you don't want to give him away?"

"No," Dabi said, simply hugging the kitten. "I'll burn anyone who will try to take my boy away, even you, chicken brain," Dabi warned and like nothing would ever happen he got comfortable and attempted to get some more sleep.

"So he's your boy already, huh? Oh, Touya, you're such a softie."

"I am a softie and you are late. Get the fuck out."

As Keigo smiled to himself, he couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth and contentment in his heart. Before leaving the room, he leaned down and planted a soft kiss on Dabi's cheek, the gesture filled with affection and appreciation. "My little softie," he teased gently, a playful glint in his eyes.

With a parting glance at the adorable scene before him, Keigo left the apartment, giving Dabi some space to think about their decision.

The kitten, seemingly awakened by the gentle exchange, let out another adorable yawn before stretching its tiny body. It looked up at Dabi with its innocent eyes, seemingly unfazed by the potential changes in its living situation. Playfully, it tapped Dabi's nose with its little paw, as if to say, "Hey, I'm here, and I love you too!"

Dabi hummed and opened one eye. "Oh? Are you hungry, little one? Are you?" He asked, nuzzling his nose against the kitten's head and kissing it.

With newfound energy, the kitten hopped off the bed, its tiny form brimming with friskiness and curiosity. It trotted towards the kitchen through the open door, meowing occasionally.

A little reluctantly, Dabi got up from bed and followed the little kitten to the kitchen. There, he grabbed him and lifted him onto the counter to feed him. "We need to give you a name. You can't be a kitten all the time."

The kitty meowed loudly, instantly rubbing his chin over Dabi's palm, purring.

He put some of the cat food into a bowl. "Eat up, little buddy.'

Kitty sat by the bowl and quickly finished his meal, purring.

Dabi looked at kitten and booped his little nose. "How about Nori? Do you like it?"

The kitty purred loudly, trying his best to climb Dabi's shoulder.

"I'll take it as a yes," Touya simply picked the kitten up and helped him on his shoulder. "Comfortable?"

As the tiny kitten settled comfortably on Dabi's shoulder, he seemed to find a sense of security and peace. He curled up into a ball, content in his new perch, and within moments, his little body relaxed into slumber. The rhythmic rise and fall of his breath against Dabi's neck created a soothing melody, and the soft purring sound further affirmed his trust and affection for his human companion.

Dabi smiled, at least now he could go back to sleep, so that's exactly what he did.

He returned to the bedroom and carefully laid back down, taking Keigo’s pillow to rest his head on.

A small bouquet || Joel Miller x fem!reader

Masterlist

Summary: when Joel presents you with flowers, it reminds you of the good old days when the world was different

Warnings: none

Word count: 532

Author: Fenrir

A/N: today’s prompt: presenting them with a bunch of flowers

"Even a simple roadside bloom is a creation of love, hopefully," Joel thought as he prepared a bouquet for his girlfriend. In the end, they were two people who had fallen to the wayside of society, on the edge of a world that was already in a state of decay. Since they had seen each other as unique and special blooms, he knew his lover would agree that this Valentine's Day bouquet was perfect, even though people stopped celebrating this holiday of love when pandemics struck. 

He met your worried gaze at the door after returning from work later than usual that day. "I was worried about you, Joel, are you okay?" You asked him, walking straight to the hallway to see how he was doing.

Your cheek was instantly rubbed with his calloused palm as his thumb slid slowly across your soft, warm skin. "It's okay, babe. I promised you to stay outta trouble, and that's exactly what I'm doing," he assured, his tone somewhat husky.

You gave him a look that indicated you were far from believing him. It was clear to you that Joel was prone to troubles of all kinds, even if he didn't intend to be involved in them. You tilted your head again after noticing him hiding something behind his back carelessly. "What's that?"

His lips curled in a small, shy smile before he replied. "I have something for you."

The intrigue level had now reached a new level. Without asking any more questions, you waited for him to show you.

In a hesitant manner, Joel offered you the messy bouquet he had hidden behind his back. "You once told me that you miss the ordinariness of the old world, so I thought I would bring you some."

It was hard to believe what you were seeing. Joel, the toughest man you've ever met, gathered some flowers for you, and to do so, you were sure, he had to leave the quarantine zone. “Oh, Joel! You didn’t have to!” The bouquet was quickly accepted and brought close to your nose to smell the sweet, almost nauseating scent of those wild flowers. You mused sweetly, "Is there an occasion for them? Or was I just a good girl? They’re beautiful though." Joel placed one hand on your hip with a sigh. "If not for the fungus, today would be Valentine's Day."

As you parted your lips, an almost audible sigh escaped your mouth as you accepted Joel's explanation. He was more than right.

He rubbed your back gently and pulled you closer to his broad chest without saying a word. "I don't want to sound like an idiot or a wimp, but I will love you unconditionally, regardless of how tough times get. You are the only one who keeps me going."

While standing on your tiptoes, you kissed his stubbled jaw. "I love you too. I appreciate this beautiful gift, it brightened my day. Let me throw them in the water." Before heading to your tiny kitchen, you glanced at him over your shoulder. "I am grateful you have given me some kind of magic that I had thought had been lost for a long time."

A BRIEF COLLECTION OF POETRY: Dune

Number of poems: 4

Author: Bear

A/N: I hope you'll enjoy a few poems concerning the world of Dune

In the sands of Arrakis, where spice is found, A duke arrived, his fate unbound. Leto Atreides, a man of great might, To govern Dune, and its harsh plight.

With his lady by his side, And his heir, a source of pride. He faced the desert and the foe, To establish his rule, he fought toe to toe.

But treachery was in the air, And a betrayal was waiting there. For his allies turned against him, And his dreams were left dim.

Despite his valor, he fell in a trap, And his legacy was left to wrap. But Leto Atreides, a man of renown, Will never fade, he will always wear the crown.

Upon Arrakis, sands doth reign, Where Duke Leto seeks to gain. A world to hold, a dream to chase, But lurking in the shadows, an evil base.

The Baron Harkonnen, a name of dread, A cruel ruler with darkness fed. In league with the Emperor's plot, To bring the Atreides down and their dream to rot.

The Duke arrives with noble intent, A new beginning, a life well spent. But in his heart he knows the risk, Betrayal and death, a fate to whisk.

Lady Jessica, his love and strength, Her presence with him to the end, at length. But even her powers cannot avert, The Harkonnen's wrath and their cruel assert.

In the end, the Duke's fate is sealed, His sacrifice and courage revealed. On Arrakis, he fought and fell, A hero's death, a tale to tell.

So let us mourn for Duke Leto true, His loss, a tragedy, forever anew. But his memory will always survive, In the hearts and minds of those who strive.

From Caladan's seas to Arrakis' sand, Duke Leto Atreides leads his land. A hero born of strength and might, A noble lord with honor bright.

In royal court and battle grand, He stands as leader, true and grand. With strength and wisdom, he commands, The might of armies in his hands.

In darkness, he leads with shining light, A beacon in the endless night. With courage, he faces fear and dread, For his people and his house, he bled.

In death, he falls as martyrs do, His spirit soaring, strong and true. A legend born of honor's flame, Duke Leto Atreides, forever in fame.

In the world of Arrakis, where sands did drift and shift, There lived a noble Duke, Leto, with a family to uplift. His rule was just and fair, his people looked up with pride, And in his wife, Jessica, he found love, with whom to confide.

But destiny is cruel, and it struck with a mighty hand, As the treacherous Harkonnens plotted their plan. They ambushed the Duke, and he fell with a cry, His lifeblood on the sand, his legacy to die.

But Leto's memory endures, in the hearts of his kin, And Jessica carries on, with the strength from within. For the Duke's spirit lives, in every noble deed, And in his loss, a legacy, for all who would lead.

A Carefree Rascal || Jake Sully x fem!Omaticaya reader

Summary: Jake Sully is the Olo’eyktan of the Omaticaya clan but his carefree attitude often results in injuries. As the healer of the clan, you are not impressed with his reckless behaviour despite having feelings for him

Warnings: none

Word count: 4436

Authors: Cass & Fenrir

Jake had been living with the Omaticaya clan for several years now, serving as their Olo'eyktan and leading them through countless challenges. He had come to love the people and the way of life here on Pandora, and he felt a deep sense of pride knowing that he was a part of this tribe.

On this particular day, he had gone out on a hunting expedition, determined to bring back a kill that would feed the village for days. He had tracked a huge herd of talioang for hours, unfortunately before he could have stroked, Jake came face-to-face with the ferocious palulukan. In the intense struggle that followed, the creature had inflicted several deep wounds on Jake's body with its sharp claws and fangs, leaving him bloodied and battered.

Despite his injuries, Jake managed to make his way back to the village, where he was greeted with cheers and relief from the members of his clan. They immediately sprang into action, tending to his wounds with the skill and expertise that had been passed down through generations.

As he lay there, Jake felt a sense of gratitude and awe wash over him. This was his home now, and these were his people. He had come to understand their ways and their values, and he had learned to respect and cherish them all.

As the healer of the clan, you swiftly received news of an almost fully successful hunt. While some might argue that it was completely successful since everyone would have food, it was difficult to call it a success when it had resulted in injuries.

After gathering the necessary supplies, you hastened to assist whoever required your aid. Upon arriving at the location, you had to shoo away others to be able to work effectively. It came as no surprise to you when you discovered that the injured party was none other than Jake himself. "You seem to enjoy getting hurt, don't you?" You remarked.

Jake rose to his feet, wincing slightly from the pain in his wounds. He turned to you and gestured for you to follow him to his tent, a serious expression on his face. You fell into step beside him, feeling your heart race with anticipation and concern for his well-being.

As you entered the tent, Jake motioned for you to take a seat on a nearby stool. He then proceeded to recount the story of his latest hunting excursion, during which he had been attacked by a fierce palulukan. He described how the creature had ambushed him from behind, raking its sharp claws across his back and leaving him with several deep wounds. "It was a fierce battle, but I managed to take it down. Unfortunately, it managed to get in a few good hits before I did. Its claws are razor-sharp, and I couldn't dodge them all. It's nothing too serious," he added, though the pain etched on his face suggested otherwise. "I've had worse."

It was clear that Jake was a skilled hunter, but even the best could fall victim to the dangers of the forest.

As he finished recounting the details of the attack, Jake turned to face you and asked if you would be willing to help treat his wounds.

You sat with your arms crossed, listening to an unnecessary story that you had never asked for. As you heard him out, your tail began to move restlessly, reflecting your growing impatience. "Considering how senseless your question was, I might as well leave you to deal with it alone," you retorted, tapping your fingers against your arm in frustration. Letting out a deep sigh, you stood up and approached the injured person to inspect their wounds more closely.

Jake sat on his cot, his back facing you, revealing the deep wounds left by the palulukan. You could see that the scratches were still fresh and bleeding, and it was clear that the hunt had been a difficult and dangerous one.

The palulukan, a fierce and formidable predator, had put up a fierce fight, and its razor-sharp claws had left a trail of deep, jagged wounds across Jake's back. The cuts were long and deep, some of them still bleeding and oozing pus, and it was clear that they would need careful attention if Jake was to make a full recovery.

You touched the wound gently, thinking carefully about your next steps. Fortunately, this wasn't your first time dealing with such a situation; in fact, it had happened more often than not. "Stupid," you muttered under your breath, flicking Jake's ear lightly. "So skilled, yet so stupid and reckless," shaking your head, you began your work by cleaning the wounds first. “A carefree rascal. Nì’eveng!”

Jake winced as you gently touched his wounds, his body still sore from the recent attack. You could feel the heat radiating off his skin, and you knew that he was in a great deal of pain. But despite the discomfort, Jake remained stoic and silent, determined to tough it out. "Look, I'm not stupid," Jake said, turning his head to look at you over his shoulder. "I know that even the best hunters can't always see an attack coming from behind." He winced as you applied pressure to one of his wounds, but he continued speaking. "That palulukan was faster than I expected, and I paid the price for it." He let out a deep breath and clenched his jaw as you worked on another wound. "But I'll be back on my feet in no time. I'm not going to let a little thing like this keep me down for too long."

You looked straight into his eyes and hissed at him, turning his head away from you to make it easier to focus. "If you're going to be back on your feet in no time, then why am I even here? I have more important things to do," you snapped.

Your skilled fingers worked swiftly on the wounds, ensuring that he wouldn't bleed out and would make a full recovery. Your anger towards him wasn't due to hate, but rather worry. He had a tendency to get injured more frequently than others, and for some reason, you cared about him deeply, which made you anxious.

Jake expressed his frustration at having let his guard down, as he prided himself on being a vigilant and cautious hunter. You could see the pain etched on his face as he spoke, both from his physical wounds and the wound to his pride as a warrior. 

As you continued to tend to his wounds, he softened his tone and thanked you for your care and attention.  "I knew Mo'at made the right choice in accepting you as a healer," Jake said, looking at you again with gratitude in his eyes. "Your skill and care have helped me tremendously, and I am thankful to have you among the people."

Frowning, you flicked his ear once again, this time much harder in an attempt to shut him up, and turned his head away from you once more. "You sure like to talk, Sully. Maybe you got so hurt because you tried to talk the palulukan to death?" You quipped.

After finishing the cleaning and ensuring it was done correctly, you carefully began to apply ointment on the wounds.

Jake felt a sharp pain as you tended to his wounds, and he had to fight back a hiss. He tried to stay quiet, not wanting to show any signs of weakness or discomfort. He knew that the Omaticaya valued strength and resilience, and he didn't want to appear weak in front of you. He took a deep breath and focused on keeping his composure as you continued to work on his wounds. Despite the pain, Jake couldn't help but feel a growing sense of attraction towards you. He had been drawn to you ever since he first met you, and he couldn't deny the chemistry between the two of you, at least it was what he hoped for. But he knew that his duty as Olo'eyktan came first, and he had to stay focused on leading the Omaticaya clan. "Ha-ha, how funny you are, Y/N."

"Who said I was joking?" you asked with a smile as you pressed on one of the wounds, knowing it would elicit a reaction from him.

Of course, you were fully aware of how to do this without causing him any additional pain, but just to give him a little shock.

Jake grunted with pain as you pressed down too hard on one of his wounds. He tried to stay quiet, but a hiss escaped his lips. He gave you a brief glance, showing his fangs as well. "Nìktungzup!"

You didn't hold back from baring your teeth in return, but you soon gave him a mocking grin. "What? Did I hurt our big and mighty Sully? I thought you were tougher," you taunted.

"Behave, Y/N," Jake hissed in a stern voice, his eyes locking onto yours. "I'm tough when I need to be."

You hissed back and laughed softly, mocking him slightly. "I'll behave. It's just that I have a fussy hunter on my hands."

Jake rolled his eyes, not bothering himself with commenting on your words.

With a smile, you continued your work. After properly cleaning and applying ointment to his injuries, you proceeded to wrap them to ensure they were secure.

After his wounds were treated, Jake's expression relaxed and he breathed a sigh of relief. As the Olo'eyktan, he knew the importance of having skilled members in the tribe, and he expressed his gratitude for your presence. "Thank you for your help," Jake said with a smile, as you finished treating his wounds. "I think some of the other hunters might need your assistance as well. It was a fierce battle out there." He standed up from his cot, wincing slightly at the pain spreading all over his body but still looking determined.

After patting his shoulder, you added, "You should rest for a few days. It won't make you look weak if you lie down."

Then you left the room to attend to others.

The next day, not having heard from him, you decided to check on Sully. Knowing him, he probably wouldn't heed any of your words, and the last thing you wanted was for him to bleed out.

You made your way to his tent, humming softly.

Jake stood at the edge of the High Camp, his eyes scanning the horizon for any signs of danger. He heard the sound of footsteps approaching and turned to see a group of young trackers returning to base. "What happened out there?" Jake demanded, his voice stern.

One of the young trackers stepped forward and began to explain, but Jake cut him off. "I don't want to hear excuses. You were supposed to be back hours ago. If you can't keep up with the pace, you have no business being out here."

The young trackers hung their heads, looking ashamed. Jake walked over to them, his expression softening. "Listen, I know it's tough out here. But we have a responsibility to the clan. We have to keep them safe, no matter what, and RDA is acting up again."

He looked each of them in the eye, his gaze firm but kind. "You need to rest and heal your wounds. But tomorrow, you get back out there and do better. Our people are counting on us."

His ears perked up and he turned his head around to see you walking towards them. "Y/N, oel ngati kameie."

You nodded, looking right at him. "Stubborn as always, I said to stay down for a bit and you didn't follow. But it seems you're doing well despite your wounds." Crossing your arms over your chest, you tapped your feet against the ground, not out of anger, but out of a mix of amusement and mild frustration.

As you finished speaking, one of the young trackers smirked and muttered something under his breath. 

Jake's keen hearing picked up on it, and he turned to face the tracker with a scowl. "Is something funny?" He asked, his voice low and dangerous.

The young boy's smirk disappeared, replaced with a look of fear. "No, sir," he stammered.

Jake gave a nod. "You're dismissed."

After approaching you, he let out a deep grunt. "Listen, I know I should be resting, but I can't afford to stay in bed right now," Jake explained to you. "As the Olo'eyktan, I have a responsibility to keep the clan safe. I can't do that from my cot. There are threats out there that we need to stay vigilant against. Omaticaya have a strong connection to Eywa, but that doesn't mean we can let our guard down. The RDA is still out there, and they're always looking for a way to exploit our weaknesses."

You gave a little smile and waved to the others before returning to pestering Jake once more. "Trust me, I'm well aware of all that," you said, shrugging. "My point is, I took the time to patch you up, and I don't want you to mess it up by not being able to sit down for two days."

He growled at your words. "Aren't you a little too dramatic?"

"You know me, always the drama queen," you said with a smirk as you followed Jake to his tent. "But in all seriousness, I just want to make sure you're healing properly. Let me take a look at those bandages." You stepped inside  and began to inspect his wounds, making sure everything was as it should be.

Jake let out another grunt of annoyance. "I'm fine, you don't need to check upon me," he told you.

"I'm afraid I do have to check on you. I need to ensure your injuries are healing properly."

Jake took the garb off his shoulders, revealing his muscular arms and chest. He let out a deep breath and stretched his arms, feeling the cool air against his skin. He looked over at you and smiled, the tension from earlier melting away. He folded the garb carefully and set it aside before sitting down on his cot.

You couldn't help but appreciate his physique for a moment, but you kept your expression neutral so as not to give him any satisfaction. "Thank you," you nodded, approaching him. "So, how do you feel? Any pain other than your injuries?"

He fell silent for a moment, lost in thought. Then he turned to you with a serious expression. "Does emotional pain count?"

"It depends," you replied, sitting down and beginning to carefully unwrap the bandages to examine his wounds. "Care to tell me more about it?"

He looked at you intently, as if trying to convey the weight of his responsibility. "I know I could be tough to deal with sometimes," he said. "But I took my responsibilities as Olo'eyktan very seriously. The safety of my people was always on my mind, and sometimes that meant I had to make hard decisions. I hope you understood that."

You gave him a gentle tug on his ear and said, "First of all, those are also my people. I live among them and I help them however I can. Second, I understand that, but the truth is that a dead Olo'eyktan is good for nothing, so you need to remember this as well."

Jake smirked more to himself than to you. "There's a great truth in your words."

"You seem to forget that I have a healer's duty to keep you alive," you said with a playful smirk, checking his wound. Your fingers deftly probed the edges of the injury to ensure it was healing properly. You were relieved to find that everything seemed to be in order. Although you tried to hide it, your tail gave away your happiness at his recovery. "Looks like you're going to make it. For now, at least."

Jake noticed your tail wagging back and forth. He couldn't help but feel amused by the sight. "Looks like someone's excited," he commented with a chuckle.

You lightly tapped his shoulder. "I'm not excited, just relieved that you'll be okay. It's a normal reaction. I still think you're foolish and impulsive, just a reckless child."

Jake got up from his cot, stretching his muscles as he stood. Jake walked over to you and wrapped his arms around you, pulling you close. You could feel his warmth and the solidness of his body against yours. He nuzzled his face into your neck, his breath hot against your skin. "How long will we pretend, hmm?"

You huffed in annoyance and nuzzled him, wrapping your arms around him. "I have no idea what you're talking about, Sully," you replied with a playful grin, your expression lightening.

Without saying a word, he leaned in and brushed his lips against yours, the kiss gentle and tender.

You pulled away from him, a growl escaping your lips. "Oh, I hate you so much, Jake," you muttered before leaning in to kiss him properly this time.

For a moment, everything else faded away and it was just the two of you, lost in the sensation of the kiss. Jake felt as though he could stay like this forever, wrapped in your arms and lost in the kiss. He murmured softly in your mouth, enjoying the sweetness of your lips.

Once again, you pulled away from him and observed his face with a mocking grin. "Well, well, well. Our mighty Olo'eyktan falling for a healer. How the mighty have fallen," you teased.

Jake took a deep breath and looked into your eyes, his expression serious. "I need to tell you something," he said. "I know I can be a bit difficult to read sometimes, but I want you to know that I care about you deeply."

He took your hand in his and squeezed it tightly. "I know we've been through a lot together, and I just want you to know that I'm here for you, always. I want to be more than just your friend, if you'll have me."

You wrapped your arms around his neck. "You can be a pain in the ass sometimes, but you're easy to read. I saw everything you did and heard everything you said. I just decided not to let you win me over so easily."

"I didn't know you felt the same way," Jake said, his frown deepening. He seemed surprised by your confession, and you could see the emotions playing across his face. "But I'm glad you told me," he continued, a small smile breaking through. "I've had feelings for you for a long time, but I wasn't sure if you felt the same way." He pulled you into a tight embrace, holding you close. "I don't want to hide my feelings for you anymore," he whispered in your ear. "I want everyone to know that you're mine and that I'm yours."

You let out a soft chuckle before gently holding Jake's cheeks and turning his face to look at you. "Just so you know, I care about you deeply," you said with a small smile. "But that doesn't change the fact that, to me, you are reckless."

Jake scoffed, his expression turning sceptical. "You can't be serious," he said, crossing his arms over his chest.

Chuckling, you nodded and gave him a playful tap on the nose. "I know you're serious, but that doesn't change the fact that I like you a lot too."

As soon as Jake spotted Mo'at approaching, he moved away in a slight move. 

As she entered the tent, Jake stepped aside, giving her space. He had great respect for the Tsahìk and always made sure to defer to her wisdom.

Mo'at looked around the tent, her sharp eyes taking in everything. Jake waited quietly, his posture relaxed but respectful. When she finally turned her gaze to him, he met her stare without flinching, his expression open and honest. "I somehow knew I would find you here, Y/N," said Mo'at, fixing her yellowish eyes on your face.

You turned to her and gave a soft smile. "Is everything okay? I just had to make sure that our stubborn Olo'eyktan lives to see another day."

Mo'at gave you a significant glance as she reminded you that others required your assistance.

You apologised to Jake and gave him a quick look before telling him quietly that you would be back later. After that, you left to attend to your duties, not wanting to neglect them any further and bringing Mo'at's anger on your soul.

The evening came quickly, taking his busy schedule.

He made his way back to his tent, feeling a sense of relief wash over him as he stepped inside. The air was cool and quiet, a welcome respite from the chaos of the day. Jake quickly shed his gear and settled onto his cot, stretching out his tired muscles. 

As he lay there, he could hear the distant sounds of the Na'vi speaking as the eclipse was approaching. He closed his eyes, imagining the sight that would soon unfold: the sun disappearing behind Polyphemus, the sky darkening, the world falling silent.

You decided to surprise him by sneaking into his tent. Standing at the entrance, you rested your hand on your hips and looked straight at him. "Oh, look at that. My most stubborn hunter is finally lying down. I think I need to thank Eywa for this miracle."

"So, what brings you here?" Jake asked, raising his eyebrow slowly. "Not that I'm complaining, of course. I'm always happy to see you, but it's hard for me to believe you came just to check upon my wounds for you've done it earlier."

You raised an eyebrow and let out a short scoff. "I came to check up on you, but if my presence is bothersome, then I'll leave."

When you finished, he gave you a warm smile. "Oh, come on, where is your sense of humour?"

You playfully hissed and let out a deep sigh. "I'm just tired, Jake. Sorry."

He cocked his eyebrow, listening to you. "A lot of work, huh?"

"Yes, not only injured but sick as well, especially kids," you nodded, rubbing your eyes. "Am I bothering you? After all, I promised to be back."

"You're not a bother," he said, his voice calm and warm. "I'm always happy to spend time with you. I enjoy your company," he added, his eyes meeting yours. "So please, never hesitate to come see me."

You nodded once more and took a comfortable seat next to him. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm doing fine," Jake said with a small smile. "It's been tough, but I'm getting through it. How about you?"

You gently examined his injury and let out a relieved sigh. "I'm glad to hear that, but don't push yourself too hard. Rest is important for healing."

Jake got up from his cot and letting out a contented sigh, he walked over to the small table in the corner of his tent. There was a bowl of fruit sitting there, and he picked up one and took a bite. He chewed thoughtfully, savouring the sweetness, looking at you, pointing at the bowl. "Would you like some?"

"Well, I was starting to think you'd never offer. I was afraid I'd have to die here before you'd bring it up. Yes, please. I would love one."

He walked to you, his hand outstretched with the fruit resting in his palm. "Here," he said, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. "It's one of the best fruits on Pandora, but I'm sure you know that."

“Irayo.” You took a bite of the fruit and your eyes widened in surprise. The sweetness exploded in your mouth, and you felt a burst of energy flow through your body. You couldn't help but let out a small moan of pleasure. You quickly finished the fruit, savouring every last bit, and couldn't believe you felt refreshed and rejuvenated, ready to take on anything that came your way.

Jake smirked at you as he stood by the entrance to his tent, watching the hustle and bustle of the village. He looked relaxed and content, as if he was enjoying the simple pleasures of life on Pandora. "It's a beautiful sight, isn't it?" He said, turning to you with a smile. "There's something so peaceful about watching the village like this. It's like everything else fades away and you're just left with the present moment."

"That's true," you said, walking up to him and wrapping your arms around his waist from behind to give him a hug. "These moments are priceless and so peaceful. I hope we can continue to enjoy them together."

Jake's body tensed for a moment, but then he relaxed into your embrace, tilting his head slightly to the side to rest it against yours. He took a deep breath, savouring the feel of your arms around him.

You teased him, squeezing his waist, "Someone tensed up here for a moment. Am I making you nervous?"

As you hugged Jake from behind, he turned to face you and wrapped his arms around your waist, pulling you close to him. You could feel the warmth of his body and the strength of his embrace. Jake let out a contented sigh, enjoying the feeling of your touch. His hand caressed your back as he held you close, savouring the moment. "Kxawm. Or maybe not."

Your hands curiously moved up and down his belly, exploring every inch of his skin and every strong muscle beneath. "Oh, really? That's why you got so tense when I touched you?"

Jake closed his arms around you, holding you tightly as if he never wanted to let go.

With a smile on your face, you snuggled up to him, feeling pleased with your teasing attempt. "Oh, didn't you like that?"

His strong, yet gentle hands moved up and down your spine, loosening the knots that had formed there. "You okay?" he asked, concern etched on his face. Jake continued to rub your back for a few more minutes, and you felt your muscles begin to relax under his touch. Eventually, he stopped and gave you a reassuring smile. "Better?" He asked.

You relaxed, leaning comfortably against him as you let out a soft purr. His touch was indeed making you feel better, easing the tension in your sore muscles. "It seems like you can do more than just get hurt," you told him, looking up in his eyes.

Glossary:

talioang - sturmbeest

palulukan - thanator

nì’eveng - like a child

nìktungzup - carefully

oel ngati kameie - I see you

kxawm - maybe

irayo - thanks

The Offspring || Douma x female demon!reader

Summary: Despite all obstacles, you were able to grant Douma with a demon child

Warnings: None, just Douma teasing Akaza and Akaza being so done with Douma also soft Douma

Word count: 3853

Authors: Cass & Rouge

Douma was taken aback by the news. He never fathomed the possibility of impregnating you. Did he feel remorseful about it? Perhaps slightly, but his intrigue and captivation overshadowed any misgivings he may have had.

Frequently, he would sit with you on his lap and caress your burgeoning belly with slender fingers, all while his iridescent eyes fixated on the stirring movements beneath the skin. The sensation of feeling a life growing inside of you was something he had never experienced before, and it left him entranced.

Upon the arrival of your little one, his fascination only amplified. 

Six months passed. 

He stood there, beholding the small bundle in his arms with reverential awe. The baby’s eyes, like a burst of rainbow hues, met Douma's own gaze, as if recognizing the demon before him.

You stood in the hallway, your gaze fixed on Douma as he played with your child. The door was half-opened, allowing you to watch the scene unfold without disturbing them. 

You couldn't help but smile at the sight before you. Douma had a special way with children if he only wanted to, and you were thankful that he was a part of your and your child's life; instinctively, you knew he'd have done whatever it takes to keep the both of you safe and sound.

The little baby was looking at Douma, his chubby hands reaching out towards the man.

Douma's low hum interrupted the quiet atmosphere. The corners of his lips tugged up into a sly smile, his eyes fixed on you as he addressed his son. "You like to watch me, don't you, Y/N?"

You smiled as you slowly entered the room, improving the cardigan over your shoulders. "Hey darling, forgive me, I didn't want to interrupt. I also love to watch you two interacting."

You approached Douma, and looked down at the baby boy he held in his arms. You saw the boy's tiny finger curling around Douma's slender, index finger, his colorful eyes looking up at you with curiosity. He was dressed in a soft blue onesie; it made him look even more adorable. 

You couldn't resist the urge to interact with your son, so you lowered your head and rubbed your nose against baby's tummy. This playful gesture earned you a burst of laughter from the child, his little body wriggling with joy. You smiled as you continued to tickle and play with the baby, enjoying his infectious giggles.

Douma tilted his head to the side, his gaze fixed on the tiny bundle in front of him. "It's hard to believe we created something so precious," he mused, his voice barely above a whisper.

You looked at Douma and smiled warmly at him. The corners of your mouth curled up, and your teeth were visible; your cheeks lifted, and your eyes crinkled with joy. 

The baby boy's gaze shifted to Douma, and a smile spread across his chubby face. His eyes sparkled with delight as he puffed out his cheeks, and his little arms reached out towards the man; his fingers wiggled as he tried to grab hold of Douma's turtleneck. The baby's whole body seemed to radiate with happiness as he cooed and giggled.

"Keito is in love with you, there's no doubt," you chuckled, looking up at Douma.

Douma couldn't shake off the strange feeling that lingered within him. He kept replaying the events in his head, trying to convince himself that it had all actually happened. "Is he not the most precious thing you've ever seen?" Douma beamed, cradling the baby in his arms. "I played a vital role in his creation, after all. Without me, he wouldn't be here."

You rolled your eyes, but couldn't help but smile at the way Douma was cooing over the baby. "And without his mother, he wouldn't be here either," you countered playfully. "Douma, could you please place Keito on the ground for me?" You requested, watching as Douma carefully lowered the boy to the floor.

Meanwhile, you made your way across the room and took a seat on the floor on the other side.

As you watched your son sit confused on the floor, you couldn't help but giggle. Patting your knees, you said loudly, "Keito! Keito, love! Come to mama!"

As he settled into his spot, you couldn't help but notice the way he patted his knees in a playful, almost childlike manner. His voice, too, took on a tone of cheerful exuberance, as he cooed in a singsong voice, "Keito! Come to your daddy."

The baby boy was absolutely confused about where he should go, whether to his mom or to his dad. He looked around with a blunt expression glued to his little face, his little hands reaching out to both of you; he was turning his head as if searching for an answer. His eyes darted from his mom to his dad.

Douma viewed parenting as a competition, a game he was determined to win at all costs. "Come to papa, my little blessing," he cooed, his voice dripping with honeyed sweetness. "Come to daddy. Daddy's going to cuddle you just how you like it."

You tried to make little Keito look at you and crawl towards you by calling out to him, "Hey Keito, look at me! Come on, you can do it! Come to mama!" You waved your hands and made silly faces to get his attention, but he seemed more interested in his father crouching on the other side of the room. 

Eventually, after a few more attempts, the boy finally looked up and smiled at Douma before trying to crawl on all fours like a little explorer towards his dad.

Douma's iridescent eyes twinkled with sheer delight as he eagerly outstretched his arms, beckoning the little boy towards him.

As the child reached him, Douma let out a boisterous laugh, scooping him up into a warm embrace. "My little blessing!" He exclaimed, his voice brimming with affection. "Of course you would come to me, your beloved father."

You improved your position to sit on your butt while letting out a sigh full of sadness. "Of course! I could have predicted it! I'm getting jealous of you, Douma. Keito always chooses you over me."

Demon's eyes sparkled with joy as he gently bounced the baby boy in his arms. "Of course he does," he said with a chuckle. "I am his father, after all. And we share those beautiful eyes." He leaned in close to the baby's face and whispered, "You're a blessed child, just like I was… and am still."

You smiled a little to yourself, even though your heart ached, as you thought about how your son always seemed to prefer his father over you. It wasn't that he didn't love you or want to spend time with you, but there was something about his father's carefree demeanor that drew him in.  

It hurt, but you knew that it wasn't a reflection of your love or your abilities as a mother. Instead, it was just a phase that you had to accept and be patient with. Despite the sadness that lingered in your heart, you knew that your son was lucky to have such a loving and involved father in his life.

As you sat on the wooden floor, lost in thought, you couldn't help but think about how much Douma had changed since you had become pregnant. It was as if the presence of new life growing inside you had awakened something inside him that he had never known existed before. He was always a curious and intelligent man, but now he seemed to be discovering the world and its human emotions in a new and profound way.

In the past, Douma held a disdainful view of children. They were a nuisance, always getting in the way and making noise. He had no desire to interact with them and would have been perfectly content to live a life without their presence.

However, all of that changed when his own blessed son was born. As soon as he held the little one in his arms, he felt a deep sense of attachment and responsibility. Suddenly, the child became his everything, his one and only source of pride and joy. "I never thought I would care for a child," Douma confided to you. "But now that I have one of my own, I can't imagine life without him. He's the most precious thing in the world to me."

After getting up from the floor, you cleared your throat. "Hey, Douma, I needed to tell you something, and I've almost forgotten. Kokushibo announced his visit. As far as I know, he'll bring that other demon you spoke about a lot, Akaza, was it his name?" You rubbed your chin with your sharp nail. "I think that Muzan is sending them to calculate the possible risks, you know what I mean?"

Douma's eyes widened as he perked up, a glint of excitement sparkling in his gaze. "Akaza is coming to visit me? How delightful! I have been dreaming of this for decades!" His voice dripped with anticipation, his mind racing with thoughts of what he could offer his esteemed guests.

Suddenly, the booming voice of Kokushibo interrupted his thoughts, filling the room with its powerful presence. Douma wasted no time and eagerly slid the door open to reveal both demons standing before him.

"Kokushibo-dono, welcome, and Akaza-dono! I cannot express how overjoyed I am that you have decided to visit me!" Douma exclaimed, his tone effervescent with pleasure.

Kokushibo merely strode into the room with a nod of acknowledgment, his stoic demeanor in stark contrast to Douma's bubbling enthusiasm.

You bowed my head respectfully towards Kokushibo, acknowledging his presence and authority. You approached Douma and stood behind him, as if you were trying to hide a little.

Akaza was not at all thrilled about the visit that he was forced to take part in, but he stepped in regardless. As he looked around the room, his eyes eventually fell upon you, and he was taken aback by your beauty. He couldn't help but feel surprised that Douma had managed to find someone as seemingly pretty and cute as you.

Akaza quickly regained his composure, and continued with politeness, albeit with a hint of skepticism in his tone. "Interesting place."

"My followers come here to see me. And, well now, him as well," Douma smiled proudly, showing off his baby to Akaza. "They ask me for all sorts of stuff."

Akaza couldn't help but feel a little annoyed at Douma's boastful attitude, but he kept his cool. "I see."

"That's why we are here. The child," Kokushibo said, pointing at little Keito.

Although you felt the urge to take the boy out of Douma's hands, you resisted the temptation.

Akaza glanced over at the tiny bundle cradled in Douma's arms, his brow furrowed in confusion. "Is that it?"

You nodded a little, looking at the pale demon from behind your partner's shoulder. "This is Keito."

Douma couldn't resist adding his own comment. "Oh yes, Akaza-dono! This is my little Keito. A child as blessed as me," he boasted, a sly grin spreading across his face.

Kokushibo strode over to the trio, his eyes fixed on the tiny bundle in Douma's arms. Without a word, he reached out and plucked the baby from Douma's grasp, holding him up by the back of his collar as if he were a mere kitten.

As Kokushibo carelessly plucked your son from Douma's hands, you felt a sudden wave of dizziness wash over you; your vision began to blur, and you swayed unsteadily on your feet. You couldn't believe how casually Kokushibo had handled your precious child, as if he were nothing more than a mere object. Your maternal instincts kicked into overdrive, and you fought to stay upright as a rush of panic coursed through your body. "Careful, you're handling a baby, not some kind of doll."

Akaza took notice of your distress and turned his gaze towards you, his expression betraying a hint of concern. His eyes darted between you and Douma, assessing the situation at hand.

Meanwhile, Kokushibo glanced at you before expertly cradling little Keito in his arms, as if he had done it a thousand times before. It was clear that he was confident in his abilities to handle the child.

Douma noticed Akaza's expression and sought to reassure you. "You see love? No need to worry! It's Kokushibo-dono," he said, flashing you a reassuring smile. "Oh! Right! Akaza-dono, this is my one and only Y/N," he said, tapping your shoulder to get your attention. "Love, this is my best friend, Akaza," he introduced, gesturing towards another demon.

You let out a loud sigh full of relief when Keito was placed safely in Kokushibo's arms. After looking at Akaza, you bowed your head slightly.

As Akaza turned to face Douma, his curiosity piqued. "How did you manage to find someone like her?" He asked, gesturing towards you. "I had no idea that demons were capable of breeding, though."

Kokushibo, cradling a small baby in his arms, looked up at the conversation. "Because they aren't," he chimed in a stoic tone.

Douma, however, remained unfazed. He simply smiled, pulling you close against his side. "You see, my dear Akaza," he began, his voice smooth as silk. "It takes more than just biology to create life. It takes love, devotion, and a strong desire to create something beautiful in this world."

As you heard Kokushibo's words, you could feel your face flush with embarrassment.

As Douma spoke, Akaza scoffed in disbelief. He couldn't believe what he was hearing, and his expression made it clear that he was highly skeptical of Douma's claims. "Yeah, surely. I bet you were blessed after devouring so many women."

The infant nestled in Kokushibo's arms looked up at him with wide, curious eyes, studying him intently, as if he were trying to decipher his intentions.

Kokushibo's six piercing eyes scrutinized the child before him, his curiosity piqued as to why it wasn't cowering in fear. His gaze bore into the tiny creature, searching for any sign of weakness or vulnerability.

With a dismissive roll of his eyes, Douma waved a hand at Akaza, as if brushing off his words. "Come on, Akaza, you know how it is. I at least devour women and gain strength from them. And I was simply fortunate enough to come across this cute little thing," he gestured to you, "who was kind enough to give me a child."

Akaza's patience was wearing thin as Douma continued to speak in his usual arrogant and disrespectful manner. With a deep scowl etched on his face, Akaza finally spoke up, his voice low and dangerous. "If you don't stop speaking that way," he warned, "I'll be forced to give you a punch, like the last time."

To Kokushibo's surprise, the baby suddenly broke into a wide, toothless grin, his chubby cheeks dimpling with delight.

Kokushibo's gaze shot up from the infant in his arms at the sound of Douma's voice. The tension in the room was palpable, the air thick with unspoken animosity. "Akaza," Kokushibo growled softly, his voice low and warning. "I did not bring you here so the two of you can fight."

Douma merely rolled his eyes, a look of pure boredom etched onto his features. "I don't want any blood on those floors. It's hard to clean."

You just stood there, facepalming at the entire situation. "Kokushibo-dono, can I have my son back?" You asked.

Kokushibo nodded and carefully handed the boy back to you.

You set your arms in a little cradle, to make sure Keito was safe in them.

Douma couldn't resist the urge to taunt Akaza. With a sly grin, he presented the baby boy to his fellow demon, holding the child up for him to see, almost shoving Keito into Akaza's face. "Look at this, Akaza," Douma chimed, his voice dripping with amusement. "I made this."

"Douma, please," you said firmly, your tone serious. "You need to be on our best behavior here. Remember, you weren't the only one involved in making this child."

Without a word, you simply reached out and gently took the child from his arms, cradling him against your chest.

Akaza let out a deep chuckle, shaking his head in amusement at the entire situation. "Well, well," he said, looking at you with a wry grin, "It seems that your woman has some balls after all, Douma."

Douma gasped, feeling offended. "Well, I at least have a woman."

"Kokushibo-dono, can I have a word with you?" You asked the Upper One, handling the baby back to Douma after a moment.

Douma gladly accepted and hugged the boy.

Kokushibo nodded and followed you to the other room.

"Kokushibo-dono, forgive me for asking, but did Lord Muzan say anything?" You asked after sliding the door closed.

Kokushibo's words hung heavy in the air, his face etched with a deep sense of concern and apprehension. "Lord Muzan wasn't pleased about this development," he said slowly, his voice low and measured. "It was something that should never have happened, yet he's holding onto a glimmer of hope."

As Kokushibo spoke, you listened intently, calmed a little by his words. "I wasn't even aware that it was possible for a female demon to get pregnant," you said, your voice filled with wonder. "So, what does this mean for us? To me and Douma? I just hope Lord Muzan won't kill any of us."

"He said that getting rid of you or Douma would be a waste of his time, but he will need the child's blood to run some tests on it."

"Of course," you whispered, nodding your head. "Thank you for bringing the good news, Kokushibo-dono."

Meanwhile, Akaza observed Douma interacting with the baby.

"What are you looking at?" Douma asked, a small smirk playing at the corners of his lips. "You want to hold him?"

Akaza furrowed his brows, looking hesitant for a moment. "I don't know," he said, his voice uncertain, "I'm not really good with babies."

But despite his reservations, Akaza eventually relented, reaching out to take the baby from Douma's arms. As he held the child, his expression softened, and a look of wonder crossed his face. He gently poked the little boy's cheek with his finger. "Squishy."

As Douma observed the scene before him, he couldn't help but emit an amused chuckle. "Awwww! Akaza-dono! You two look so cute together! I never expected to see you looking so soft," he gasped, his voice laced with playful mockery.

"He's so small," Akaza murmured, gazing down at the baby in his arms. "And so fragile. Everything would be fine if not your scent lingering over him," Akaza looked at Douma, his face serious. "You don't deserve any of this, you do understand?"

Douma's grin never faltered as he spoke. "You may say that I don't deserve it, but I have everything I could possibly want. I have a woman I adore and a child that we brought into this world together."

Akaza's expression suddenly turned stern, and he glared at Douma. "Stop grinning like an idiot," he growled, "Or I'll wipe that stupid grin off your face. I have no idea why and how she got involved with you, and it's not my business. She seems like a decent demon, not that strong, yet still intriguing. I can assure you, that if anything will happen to any of them because of your careless behavior, I won't be that nice anymore."

The corners of Douma's lips curled upward as he watched Akaza interact with Keito. The sight was simply too precious to ignore. He couldn't resist the urge to tease his companion. "Aww! Are you going to be a good uncle, Akaza-dono? I always knew you had it in you!" Douma exclaimed, his voice light and playful as he wrapped an arm around Akaza's broad shoulders.

Akaza stood there, his fist clenched at his side, his eyes fixed on Douma's smirking face. He was trying his best to remain calm, to control the overwhelming anger that was bubbling up inside him. But it was difficult. So difficult!

Douma had always been a thorn in his side, with his arrogance, lack of respect for women and his self-assured demeanor. And now, with this baby in the picture, it was even worse.

As much as he wanted to punch Douma's face in, Akaza knew he couldn't. Not now, not when there was a child in the room. So he took a deep breath, closed his eyes for a moment, and tried to compose himself. "Whatever, Douma."

As Douma's fingers wove through the strands of Akaza's disheveled hair, a mischievous grin played across his lips. 

Soon, you and Kokushibo returned to the room and after exchanging some more courtesies, you thanked him and Akaza for the visit and assured them you and Douma were at Muzan's disposal at any time.

"Keep the boy safe," Kokushibo had reminded the two of you before leaving for good.

The baby smiled at him widely, blinking shortly after as the little hiccup kicked in.

Suddenly, Douma let out a low chuckle, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Look at this, a hiccup."

You walked closer and looked down at the boy, who had a clearly confused grimace glued to his little face. "He's adorable. He's perfect."

"Only because he has a perfect mother," he whispered.

You smiled at Douma briefly, kissing your son's forehead.

"Y/N? I was thinking...” He hummed.

You gave your partner a glance, tilting your head slightly.

"Well, since we made it once, and now we know it's possible..." he trailed off, biting his lip softly. "Maybe our boy would like to have a little sibling?"

"I'm not going through this ever again," you told him with a sweet smile. "Once was enough."

"Oh, Y/N, please!” Douma whined. "Making the baby is fun! So let's make another one."

After giving him another glance, you let out a sigh, massaging your temples. "Douma."

As he leaned into your shoulder, his voice low and sultry, you couldn't help but feel a shiver run down your spine. "Do you see him?" He murmured, nodding towards the young demon playing in the corner. "He needs a playmate, someone to keep him company while we're away. We could be the perfect family, two beautiful demons and two adorable little ones."

You let out a sigh. "Firstly, how will you explain this to Lord Muzan? Secondly, how can you be sure it'll happen again?"

"Well... We won't know unless we try," he smiled at you sweetly.

"Fine," you told him, taking Keito into your arms. "Fine. Let it be."

"Oh, I love you, my goddess!" He exclaimed, his voice filled with pure adoration.

You smiled at his words, feeling your heart swell with love for both him and your child. "I love you too," you said softly, leaning in to place a gentle kiss on his jawline. "You both are everything to me."