#//you can take the certification exam and everything

[fox-poke-fanatic]

Random fun fact about me: I actually have EMT training. I took a course when I was 17 and passed the certification exam.

[red-riot-unbreakable-heart]

AAAA are you planning on continuing the "How They Kiss" series? If so could you please do my sweet baby Hitoshi next? :cccc

Ooooo yessss - I've been wanting to write some Hitoshi fic for a while!! 💜

Shinsou x Reader | Headcannon: How Hitoshi Shinsou Kisses 💋

The first time Hitoshi kisses you – you totally don’t see it coming. It happens in the library on a quiet Sunday afternoon. Hitoshi is sitting in your favorite spot of the city's library – a cozy corner hidden from view behind the oversized art book section. He’s dragged two large beanbag chairs into the tiny space, waiting for you to join him as he studies for an upcoming Pro hero rescue certification exam. He’s flipping through flashcards when you arrive bearing a purple travel mug filled with his favorite caffeinated beverage. You know your friend is a chronic insomniac – with his permanently baggy eyes and constant yawns - so you decided to get him a refillable mug so he can keep his coffee close throughout exam week. You’ve stuck a cute sticker of a black cat with big eyes to the side of the mug, knowing his TikTok algorithm is almost exclusively cat videos.

“’Toshiiiiii!” You warble quietly as you drop your school bag next to your beanbag chair. “I brought you a ‘lil treat for studying so hard!”

Hitoshi looks up in surprise, his forehead still wrinkled in concentration. He puts down his flash cards and when he realizes it’s you standing over him, he smiles easily. Things have always been like this between the two of you – soft and comfortable. 

“You brought me something?” He instantly locks on to the steaming mug of coffee, his eyes crinkling into a smile when he sees the cat sticker. “Is that the cat from Kiki’s Delivery Service?”

“Yup!” you hand him the cup as you plop down into your chair and start shuffling through your bag for your notes. “You told me it was your favorite movie as a kid, so I found a little sticker of Gigi on Etsy.”

After a few moments of digging through your bag, you finally find the sheaf of notes you’re looking for and you yank them out – sheets of paper flying all around you. “Whoops!” You hastily gather the papers back into a neat stack.

When you finally look up, you meet Hitoshi’s eyes – he’s giving you an intense, searching look. His eyes are wide, and there’s a soft pink blush across the high points of his cheeks. He absentmindedly smooths a hand through his wild hair, seemingly lost for words.

“What?” You say, a little startled at the sudden tense atmosphere. “Everything okay? Is that not your preferred flavor of coffee?”

“Of course you remembered my favorite flavor.” His voice a quiet rumble and seems to catch in his throat.

You swallow, suddenly feeling hot around the collar as he continues to gaze at you through those bright violet eyes. You can see him biting back his next sentence, seemingly steeling himself to say something.

After a few moments, he takes a steadying breath and his eyes sparkle with a look of resolve. Hitoshi softly places the hot mug of coffee on the ground before leaning towards you. Instantly, he’s a breath away from your face – his delicate features magnified as he tilts his face towards yours.

“You’re just so…” He whispers, moving to brush his thumb against your cheek. Your skin feels like it’s blooming with tiger lilies at the contact. “���sweet.” His tired eyes flutter shut and he leans into you – guiding your lips to his.

The first kiss is feather light – tentative. He wants to make sure you want him back – he needs you to want him with the same deep intensity he’s been feeling in his gut for you for so long. His lips are impossibly soft and taste like a light berry lip balm, and you find the flavor absolutely delicious. When you respond eagerly he smiles into the kiss, blissful. How lucky is he to get to kiss your pretty face?

Hitoshi climbs into the beanbag chair with you deftly, moving his hands to cradle your face. He moves his mouth against yours slowly, purposefully – almost lazily. It’s such a Shinsou way of kissing that it makes you giggle.

“Hey, now.” He breaks the kiss, bringing his forehead to yours as he takes a shaky breath. “Is my kissing that bad?” He’s smiling, but you can tell he’s the tiniest bit nervous for your answer.

You lean in to kiss him again and he pulls back, his lips just out of reach – teasing.

“Your technique can use some refining. But I know someone who can help you practice.” You grin, winding your arms around his neck and pulling him back in for more. He loves that – the banter, the ways you are able to both make him feel comfortable and keep him on his toes. He deepens the kiss, and you know it will be a while before you get back to studying. His flash cards lay abandoned on the floor by your stack of notes.

---------------------

After that, he’s hooked on you. Any trace of nervousness is nonexistent. In just one afternoon, Hitoshi Shinsou has become a lean, mean, make out machine. He absolutely cannot be stopped. He kisses you everywhere he can – in the library, in dark corners of your favorite bar, at the convenience store. He’s constantly trying to sneak away with you so he can crash your lips together in that way that makes his brain feel all blissed out and fuzzy.

I think we’ve all seen just how much determination Hitoshi has – it takes a lot of unwavering dedication to claim a spot in the hero course. He’s just as determined to figure out how you like to be kissed. He pays attention to what makes your pulse race – maybe he kissed your neck a certain way and you moaned? He’s filing that away in his brain so he can do it again and again and again. You don’t like it when he bites your lower lip? He takes note and never does it that way again. He’s committed to figuring out exactly what makes you tick and how he can maximize your pleasure every time. He can’t believe how lucky he is to have the affections of someone like you – someone so sweet and gorgeous and goddamn perfect.

Of course, once he realizes you find him irresistible – he’s smug AF. He becomes such a goddamn tease. You’ll get a rare private moment and move in to kiss him, only for him to dodge your advances until your lips form a disappointed pout. He absolutely revels in how much you want him and loves to build up the tension between the two of you. He’ll kiss you playfully on the cheeks before your disappointed look causes him to concede. “Sorry, Sweetheart.” He says in his low, gravely whisper. “You know I love to tease.” And then he’ll kiss you with as much passion as he can muster, until your legs turn to jello. After all – it’s not in a hero’s nature to do anything half-assed.

----------------------------------------

Thanks so much for reading!!

Interested in some ~smuttier~ Shinsou content!? Check out my story:

Never Too Tired To Love You💜

My Master List! 💜

[souliebird]

[[and then I met you || ch. 5]]

Series: Daredevil || Pairing: Matt Murdock x Fem!Reader || Rating: Explicit

Summary:

A one-night stand years ago gave you a daughter and you are now able to put a name to her father – Matthew Murdock. Everything is about to change again as you navigate trying to integrate your life with that of the handsome and charming blind lawyer’s and Matt realizes he needs to protect his new family from not only Hell's Kitchen but from the world.

pt: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

words: 4.4k

It has been one week since you saw Matt Murdock on the evening news, and it feels like it has been a complete whirlwind. First, you reintroduced yourself to him and let him know he was a father, then you had a nice little outing, and to tie it all up, a trip to the doctors to confirm what you already knew. 

Matthew Murdock is the father of your daughter.

It is nice to have an official statement from a doctor and now you can start the process of changing Minnie's paperwork to include his name. You have to go to the courthouse to file for an updated birth certificate. Matt has very kindly offered to take that task on for you - he goes to the courthouse often for his job and he knows the ins-and-outs of navigating legal paperwork. You just have to go and drop off the right documentation. 

You had a brief call last night, after Minnie had been put down, and decided that you would visit his office today to do just that. You are going to kill two birds with one stone - hand over what needs to be filed and give Matt more time with his daughter. 

To your great surprise, your timid little Mouse absolutely adores him. She was not happy to have to be at the doctor's office yesterday and was on the verge of tears before he showed up. Her whole mood shifted, and she had spent the brief time you were in the waiting room and exam room telling Matt about different things around them. 

You have a feeling, when you sit down and tell her the truth, she is going to be thrilled. 

You told her that you are going to visit Matt at work today, and all morning she has been hunched over her sketchbook making pictures for him while you try to get in some hours at work. Try being the key word, as you've been thoroughly distracted by today's news cycle. 

You were half listening to a puff piece about something or other when breaking news flashed across the screen. A neighborhood in Connecticut has been leveled by some sort of explosion, killing hundreds. They don't know if it was an accident or some sort of attack - the epicenter of the blast was a school, so it could potentially be either. You pray it was a freak accident, some faulty pipeline or a weird meteor, because the world doesn't need any more horribleness in it. 

The idea that it might have been an attack makes you nervous. You've been through two horrible attacks on New York, and you didn't realize another big event so close to home would shake you so hard. 

It scares you that you have to raise Minnie in such a harsh world, where monsters of all kinds are very very real and you don't know who you can rely on. The police and government have been shown to be all kinds of corrupt and people who can shoot laser beams fight each other in the skies. 

You end up clocking out and going to sit with Minnie to get yourself to stop your doom-listening. She's got a few drawings scattered around the table and you pick up the one closest to you, smiling at her handy work. 

You recognize the shapes as her interpretation of people - oblongs with stick arms and noodle legs. Unknowingly, she's made her first new family portrait. There are three blob-people all holding hands: you suspect you're the big orange one with a smile, Minnie is the little pink one in the middle with what you guess are pigtails, and Matt is the black one with red eyes, who is also holding a stick. To confirm, you ask her.

"Is this one Mister Matt?"

Her head shoots up and a big grin spreads across her face, "Yeah!  And that's you and that's me and we're gonna go to the zoo!" There is a little flurry of motion and suddenly you are getting a picture show. She holds up the paper she was working on - there's another family drawing, but this time there's green scribbles all around you and a blue square with zig zags all over it. You guess that is some sort of animal. 

"You want to go to the zoo with Mister Matt?" You ask, examining her masterpiece.

"Yeah!" She says, pulling over another picture that you know are her versions of flowers, even if they are all different colors. "And the park!"

"And the park? Wow, that's a lot of things to do. Do you want to ask him if he wants to go to the zoo with us when we see him today?" Minnie eagerly nods at the question and that makes you smile. "Okay, we can invite him to the zoo. When are we going to the zoo?"

The question makes her bounce in excitement, "My birthday!" 

You laugh at her enthusiasm and give her a little back rub, "Exactly. We're going to go for your birthday. And get a big cake with whatever you want on it." That makes her a giggly mess and you temporarily forget all the bad things in the world. 

You hand her back her drawing before kissing the top of her hair, "How about you finish this one up and we get ready to go see Mister Matt? We can only visit for a little bit, because he's working, but I bet he'll love everything you made him."

Greedy little hands take back the paper and instantly Mouse is hunched back over her zoo scene, purple crayon in hand. You get up and go to make sure that you have everything you need to bring to Matt in order. You are extremely lucky that the doctor has the ability to print out things in Braille, so you don't need to make an extra stop to get things translated. 

You debate bringing Matt lunch, but ultimately decide against it. You don't want to push too much too fast, and you think it might be a little weird for his coworkers, to see a random person bring him homemade lunch. You know he hasn't told anyone yet about yourself and Minnie - he had shyly admitted it didn't feel real until the test results were given and you completely get it. 

You tidy up until you spy Mouse dropping her crayons into her bucket and cleaning up her drawing area. You let her do her thing, then approach, "Let's put your drawings with the other things we need to give Mister Matt. That way they won't get lost or wrinkled."

She nods like you've just said something very wise and gathers up her stack of papers before handing them over. There's five in total; the three she showed you and two more full of colorful lines. You decide you'll listen in on her explanation to Matt on those two, as you're curious as to what goes on in her little mind. 

Once everything is safe and ready to go, it's just a matter of getting shoes on. You go with your sensible sneakers while Minnie opts for her frog themed Wellingtons. The plan is for both of you to walk to the office, and after one final wallet-keys-phone check in your purse, you head out hand-in-hand.

It's mid-morning, so foot traffic is decent, but not heavy - nothing that makes Minnie too uncomfortable. Dark clouds are gathering on the horizon, and it makes you wonder if the rain that has been promised in the forecast will be coming sooner than expected and you are glad this outing is the only one you have planned. Taking Minnie around in the rain is never fun. It always seems like everything becomes more bustling in the rain and trying to navigate that with a crying toddler just makes you want to cry as well. 

But the promise of her new favorite person and mild weather has her walking like the born and bred New Yorker she is - a determined little pout with no nonsense steps. No one will be trying to sell her things on the sidewalks once she gets bigger. If she had a different personality, you'd want to teach her to say "Hey, I'm walking here" just to hear a toddler say it. 

As you spy the building Matt's office is in, you realize you should have sent him a text to say you were on your way. You did let him know vaguely what time you planned to stop by and he had assured you that they had no appointments - it was catch up on paperwork day - but that didn't mean walk-in clients hadn't come by. You're so close to already being there that you think the gesture is pointless, so you just keep walking until you get to the building.

"This is where we are going," you tell Minnie as you approach. You scoop her up to show her the business directory on the outside of the building. There aren't very many plaques to begin with, so it's easy to find the Nelson, Murdock, and Page one. "That is where Mister Matt works with his friends."

She leans out and feels over the embossed sign, running her fingers over the different letters. "'M'! For Minnie!" She says, pointing out the letter with a big smile. 

"Exactly. Mister Matt's last name starts with M, too. That word is his last name - Murdock."

That gets her to turn back to the sign, fingers dancing over the letters, brows knitting with curiosity, "How is it spelled?"

You spell out Murdock for her and Minnie repeats each letter after you. You do this a few times until she's able to say it out loud on her own. You don't know how long she'll retain the information, as spelling isn't really on the board yet, but you're happy she's interested. You set her back down and she makes a beeline up the steps, grabbing and pulling at the door with all her three-year-old strength. 

The lobby to the building is sparse, with basically only an elevator and staircase, with a door to what you suspect is a supply closet. "We're going up two staircases," you tell your daughter. 

"Two!" She confirms before taking off towards the stairs. You have a brief moment of panic that she's going to zip up both sets faster than you can catch her, but to your great amusement, she grabs a hold of the banister with both hands and pretends to use it like a mountaineering rope to climb the stairs. She even adds little fake huffs and puffs. You follow behind her, ready to catch her if she slips. She doesn't, and when you get to the floor Matt's office is on, she turns to beam at you, clearly proud of herself, "We did it!"

"We did it," you parrot, offering out your hand again. She takes it and you lead her to the correct door. The same plaque that was on the exterior of the building also hangs beside their door and Minnie astutely points to it.

"Murdock!" 

"That's right, it says Nelson, Murdock, and Page."

"Can I knock?" Mouse asks, raising her fist to do just that.

You hum, then gently explain, "This is business, which means work. For work, we don't have to knock. We can go in if it is open."

As soon as you say that she's opening the door and marching inside and you quickly follow her. 

Matt's law partners, Foggy and Karen, are in the reception area with a man you assume is a client of theirs, talking in hushed annoyed sounding whispers. He radiates intimidation, with a huge black eye and what looks to be a makeshift cast made of duct tape around his right wrist. The three of them turn to look at you and you get the sense Minnie had the right idea in asking if she should knock first. 

Your little one quickly latches onto your leg, turning timid in the space of a second and you can't really blame her. Part of you wants to turn and run. 

Karen recovers first, breaking away from the two exasperated men to step towards you and going into receptionist mode, "Hi. You were here last week to meet with Matt, right?" 

"Uh, yes, that's right. Is he, uh, available?" You ask, feeling like you no longer know how to speak English. The energy in the room is not a pleasant one and you very much feel like you've interrupted something important.

"He's on a call currently but I'll let him know you are here," Karen replies in a voice far kinder than what she uses to address the men behind her a beat later. She turns to them and points to the office you know is not Matt's. "In there. Now."

Foggy throws up his hands, like he's frustrated with whatever is going on and disappears into the other room. The man you don't know doesn't follow, eyes on you and your daughter as Karen crosses the room to knock on Matt's door before opening it and slipping into the office. You quickly decide you are not going to make eye contact with him, instead ducking your head and putting a comforting hand on Minnie's head. She's practically hidden herself behind your legs, clinging to your pants so tightly you fear they might rip.

"I like your boots," the man says into the quietness. You expect him to sound like gravel, but his gruff voice is rather soft, and you get the feeling he understands how to talk to children "My daughter used to have boots like those."

 Part of you wants to tell the man to not talk to your daughter, but that would be rude and just because he looks like he's been through the ringer doesn't mean he's a bad man. You decide to let her determine how she wants to proceed.

You feel Minnie poke her head out from where she's hidden herself. At first, you don't think she's going to reply, as you know how she is, but she surprises you yet again by mumbling out, "They're froggies." 

"Yeah? You like frogs?"

Mouse somehow tightens her grip, "I like animals." She presses her face against your leg, then admits, a little louder, "we're gonna to the zoo for my birthday."

That makes the man smile, and that changes his whole demeanor. Suddenly he looks friendly and kind and not like he's likely to stab you, "That's a good place to go for your birthday. How old are you gonna be?"

Before she can respond, the door to Matt's office swings open and Karen stalks out, followed by Matt, who seems much less agitated than everyone else. The blonde points to the unknown man, a little scowl on her face, "What did I say?"

The man holds up his hands defensively, stepping away from Karen and towards the office he was previously told to go in, "Alright, alright, I'm going. I'm going." That doesn't seem to help soothe her at all, as she grabs the man by the bicep and frog-marches him to join Foggy, closing the door behind them. 

"They didn't make you wait long, did they?" Matt asks, bringing your attention back to him. There is a cut on his lip that wasn't there the last time you saw him, and your instinct is to ask if he is okay, but you don't know if you are at that level with him yet.

So instead, you address his question, "No, no, we just got here."

He motions back to his office, a smile spreading across his face, and you almost forget about the cut, "Come on back and we can review everything." 

Minnie lets go of your pants only to take your hand again and you lead her into the other room. As you pass Matt, she looks up at him and gives a tiny wave.

"Hi, Mister Matt."

Matt's shoulders visibly relax at her greeting, and you can't help but start to smile, "Hi, sweetheart. How are you doing today?"

"Good! I maded you pictures," she says proudly. That causes him to pause as he starts to follow you into his office. You can tell he is surprised by the news - his voice gets a little choked up when he responds.

"You made me some pictures?"

"They are very good pictures," you advise, squeezing Minnie's hand slightly before letting go, "Do you want to tell Mister Matt what you drew for him?" She nods eagerly, so you point to one of the chairs in front of his desk. "Go sit like a big girl and you can tell him."

She makes a dash for the chair, and you take the time to address Matt, "I'm sorry, I should have called ahead."

He shakes his head, and as he walks past you to go behind the desk, he reaches out and brushes his hand along your arm. A little shiver runs up your spine at the touch and you tell yourself the action was so he could orient himself. "Not a problem, I knew you were coming. How is everything?"

"Everything is good," you reply, a little shyer than you intend to. "I, uh, have everything for you. Is there anything else I need to fill out?"

Matt shakes his head, "Just a signature and date. You've done all the work for me already. I don't think I've ever had to file where I don't need to actually do anything but sign the document. It's a refreshing change."

"Do you know how long it will take to process?" You ask as you move to join Minnie in sitting. "The website gave multiple timelines and I just want to be realistic."

Matt takes his seat with a cocky grin, "Not long at all, I know a few judges I can ask to push it through."

You flush at the idea of him asking a favor to a judge on your account, "That's not necessary, Matt, I don't mind waiting."

He shakes his head, getting that soft look again, "I don't want to wait. I want it to be official in the eyes of the government."  

His words make you feel even warmer, and you distract yourself by pulling the file with all the paperwork out of your purse and pass it over to him. "Minnie's additions are at the bottom of the stack. The last five pages"

His fingers twitch slightly, and you wonder if he wants to flip right to those. You get your answer quickly.

"Minnie, is it okay if I go over the paperwork with your mom before you tell me about your pictures?"

"It's okay!" She replies, her voice much more cheerful now that you are alone with Matt. "Do you needs help?"

Her sweetness makes Matt smile more and he shakes his head, "Not right now, sweetheart. I need to read, and I can do that with my fingers, but after that you can help with some other things."

"Okay," she says happily, kicking her feet a little bit.

You catch her attention and motion to your purse, "Do you want a toy while you wait?" 

She shakes her head and beams up at you, "No thank you, I'm a big girl!"

Both you and Matt chuckle at her declaration and he moves to open the file. 

"There's multiple copies of everything," you tell him as you move onto business, "One printed text and one in Braille for the courts and the same for you. I have the same at home, as well. They are bundled in packets. The court papers are on top, Braille first."

He thanks you then begins to read the forms. Mouse sits up straighter in her chair to try and see what he is doing. She can just peek over the edge, and she watches in fascination as his fingers move over the pages. You wait quietly, not wanting to distract in any way. 

"Everything appears to be in order. We will just need a signature," Matt says after a minute. 

"Should I do that now?" You ask. The response is him offering you a pen, so you lean in to sign the various forms. As you set each document aside, Matt adds his own signature. It is silly how giddy you feel just having the forms finally completed. You don't know how long you've had just blank copies, waiting to be filed. 

"And done," Matt says with a final flick of his pen on the last page. "I'm going to the courthouse on Tuesday, so I'll get it processed then. I'll push to get an updated certificate as quickly as possible."

You have to bite your lip to keep from smiling like a crazy person. This isn't some dream or far off fantasy. Matt isn't just saying he wants to be Minnie's father. He is following through, with urgency. This is something he wants and it's almost surreal for you - you are so used to promises being broken and no one being on the same page as you in your desires. Even if this is all for Minnie and not for you, it is still on the edge of overwhelming for you. 

You never thought you'd be so happy over paperwork. 

"Thank you, Matt," you whisper, leaning back into your seat to sit properly.

Immediately, Minnie parrots you, thanking Matt even though she has no idea what is going on.

"No, thank you. Thank you both," he says, and you wonder if he is also holding back from smiling. He gathers the papers and sets them aside before running his fingers over the folder you gave him and addressing his daughter. "Okay, sweetheart. Do you want to come tell me what you drew?" 

You expect Minnie to stand on the chair and even prepare yourself to balance her, but that does not happen. She hops down and scurries around the desk to be at Matt's side and a moment later, he is pushing his chair back and she is climbing up into his lap. Embarrassment rushes through you - she's only ever behaved like this with you. She actually used to fuss and cry if anyone else tried to hold her. You haven't seen her sit in anyone else's lap since she had a say in who gets to hold her.

"Minnie!" You scold but Matt quickly shakes his head as he helps her up.

"It's okay, I don't mind," he tells you even though he looks completely shocked. If he wasn't her father, you wouldn't allow this, especially with someone so new to her, but he is her father, even if she doesn't know, so you don't tell her to get down.

Instead, you give a stern frown, "Minnie, you still need to ask before climbing on anyone, okay? Can you apologize?" 

Your little girl nods, then looks up at him, "I'm sorry, Mister Matt."

"It's okay, sweetheart. Like I said, I don't mind, but your Mommy is right, and you should ask so I know you are there. Next time, you'll know. Now, your Mommy said there were five pictures. Which do you want to start with?" He asks, scooting his chair back to the desk while wrapping one arm around Minnie's waist to keep her secure. 

Once she's able to, she leans in and picks up the first drawing in the stack. It is the family portrait, and you quickly get your phone out so you can record this interaction as Minnie lays out the picture. She then takes Matt's free hand and guides it to the paper before letting go to point at the circle that represents him.

"This is you," she tells him. He quickly finds where she is pointing and begins to trace the figure. 

"That's me?" And there is definitely more than a little bit of emotion in his voice. 

"Uh-huh, and that is me and Mommy and we're gonna go to see the duckies. Mommy said we can go again. But we're gonna get ice cream too. And a balloon," she says, moving her little finger all over the page. 

You watch Matt's finger follow hers - first over the doodle of himself, then Minnie's, and finally yours. Then, he traces back to the center figure. "We're holding hands?" He asks tentatively.

"Yup!" She answers, popping the p. "Mommy says we gotta hold hands if we go outside." 

Matt licks his lips a little and you see his muscles flex under his jacket as he holds Minnie a little more firmly to his chest, like he doesn't want to let go of her. "That's a good rule." 

"Mommy makes good rules," your little one replies wisely. That makes your ego sing a little. Mouse has always been good at doing what she's told, and you are proud that she understands your rules keep her safe.

Before she moves onto the next picture, you gently prompt her. "Sweetie, was there something you wanted to ask Mister Matt?"

Matt's head jerks up at that, looking right to you with brows slightly knit. Minnie bounces in his lap just a little, squirming so she can turn to look up at him, "I'm gonna go to the zoo! For my birthday! Do you wanna go?"

His lips part in surprise at the question and before you know it, he has both his arms wrapped around Mouse, hugging her to him. She instantly responds, looping her little arms around his neck and squeezing back. He rests his cheek against her head, and you see him slightly rock her from side to side. "I would love to go with you to the zoo, sweetheart."

Minnie giggles into his neck and you one hundred percent know that the transition to suddenly having two parents is not going to be hard for her at all. It might be confusing because Matt won't be living with you, but you have never seen her so comfortable with someone who isn't you. You know it's not just because he gave her a toy. They just click together so well.

You switch from video to your camera so you can sneak as many pictures as you can of Matt and Minnie hugging. They've completely forgotten about you and that is a-okay. 

In this moment, nothing else matters to you - not the strange man in the other office or the devastation a few states over or all the other trivial things that nag you and make your stomach turn. 

Your world is right in front of you and for the first time in a very, very long time, you really, truly believe everything is going to be just fine. 

@midnightreids @cloudroomblog @yeonalie @thychuvaluswife 

@dorothleah @mattmurdocksstarlight @mars-on-vinyl @mywellspringoflife @sleepdeprived-barelyalive @simmilarly @soupyspence @darkened-writer @akila-twt

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@mayp11-blog @danzer8705 @thinking-at-dusk @remuslupinwifee @akila-twt  @mattmurdocks6thscaleapartment

[justatypicalwizard]

Until The End Of The Night | Ch 1

-midnight-

✦ College!au, characters in early twenties, support!reader, slight angst to happy ending

✦ Synopsis: after over three years abroad you come back to continue your education. Despite gaining new friends and living a great life in Europe nothing feels better than home. You are quickly sucked in the everyday drama and everything would be just as you left it if not for Bakugo. Three years ago you two shared a moment, a short and meaningful moment that no one knows or should know about. That is until the situation gets out of control.

✦ Warnings: smut

✦ Word count: 4k

✦ Chapter: Few days until you take of to Europe, UA graduation bonfire party and a conversation with Bakugo you thought you'll never have. The two of you mean nothing to each other, don't you?

Masterlist

“One more round, one more! You’re not bailing out Eiji!” Mina’s clamorous voice echoed out as she pushed shots into her friend’s hands.

The graduation party turned out just as you expected, or maybe even helped out to plan. Midoriya clumsily bumped into Ochako every now and then, genuinely thinking he’s not that obvious, as they both balanced, sitting on a log and recollecting mutual memories as if they were sticking photos into an imagined album. The tipsiness made them a bit more nostalgic. Mina, Sero, Denki and Kirishima, despite losing Bakugo somewhere, were chugging beers and spilling shots, the alcohol soaking into the green grass underneath their feet. Laughs, bickering and Denki’s loud singing disturbed the night’s soothing peace. Shouto and Tokoyami discussed the written exams while Jiro and Yaoyorozu desperately tried to change the subject, even the top class girl was in too good of a mood (due to some fireballs) to give a damn about school.

School, well it was nice while it lasted. Even though you were having a heck of a time at the bonfire UA graduation party, the squeezing feeling in the pitch of your stomach never left. It first grabbed at your intestines when the teachers handed you the graduation certificate. Or maybe even earlier, when you applied for college abroad, chewing on the end of your pencil as you tried to come up with a motivational letter. Or was it later, when you sang the school anthem, neatly lined up with your colleagues from the support class, while looking at the back of Mina’s pink head?

Never mind when it started, what pained you was not regret or sorrow but simply fear of starting a new chapter of your life. It was nice to dream about college in Europe when you were safely tucked away under the covers of your comfy bed, texting Mina and Denki your options. Now, when you were about to face reality head-on in a matter of days your knees trembled a bit. Luckily you felt not only fear but also excitement. What will Europe be like? Will you gain new friends? Are the city centres really as picturesque as they describe them? Will the classes be hard? Will you manage all the household chores by yourself? Can you really cook as good as you think or will you poison yourself?

Questions, questions, questions. They itched under your skin like a nasty rash and spread the second you dwelled on it too much. Now is not the time to make your head bubble up with concerns, it should rather be spinning due to an excessive amount of alcohol in your system.

You took a deep breath and shook your head, taking a step to the side in the meantime, the tipsiness reminding you of its existence.

“Why the fuck are you talking to yourself?” A head of blonde speaking with an irritated voice caught your attention. This guy.

Bakugo was a friend of Kirishima’s and Kirishima was a friend of Mina’s (and Denki’s) so you knew each other. You often saw the blonde in the common room spitting curses at ‘Dunce face’s’ stupid ass, you had him in the periphery of your vision at parties, always a bit to the side of the room, you told him a bunch of unimportant stuff and listened to a solid dose of the same nothing from him, never close enough to hold a meaningful conversation, never far enough to ignore each other completely.

He was mean, got angry quickly, and always had something to complain about. He was also one of the top students, that you found a challenge for yourself rubbing your achievements in his face while he wiped yours with his scholarships. He was also ambitious, hard-working and disciplined. Success poured out of every pore of his body, distilling at the nape of his neck like sweat during his murderous work-outs. He really had it all, every ingredient necessary to create the perfect hero - strength for missions, talent for catching villains, endurance to pain, looks for the fans and a personality worth looking up to (not taking into consideration his mean ass but you were sure his future PR team would take care of it).

But Bakugo was just a colleague of yours, nothing much.

“Because I’m drunk.” You stood in front of the blonde, resting hands on your hips. “Aren’t you?” A cheeky grin sprung up on your face.

“I know how to hold my liquor. I’d rather not look like a pathetic, fun deprived idiot stumbling from left to right, on her journey to fetch some water.” For a newcomer's ears it sounded like venom reforged into words. You on the other hand knew to look for answers not in his bitching around but rather on his face. Even in the omnipresent darkness you were able to catch the smirk plastered on his lips. You could guess that freaky little smile was accompanied by a crooked brow, Bakugo assessing his superiority while also having fun with it.

“You forgot to add I’m talking to myself.” An accusatory finger shot his way and you giggled a bit, taking another step to the side to keep your balance.

“My bad.” The giggle died out in your throat and silence fell upon the two of you.

You were ready for some more bickering but Bakugo decided to cut this conversation short. What were you supposed to talk about now? Would he just prefer to be left alone? Sure, you should just go and grab that water and go back to your idiots by the bonfire, sing some Mr. Worldwide songs and get Denki even more drunk, up to the point where he’ll confess love to anyone and anything. Maybe you could get him to ask Mineta out just to laugh at him in the morning. Or maybe you could stick your nose in something that’s absolutely no business of yours - getting Kirishima and Mina to finally go out. Graduation bonfire would be a great moment to confess, so romantic.

“So what, you’re going abroad for college?” The discourtesy of your actions hit you straight in the face. You already ended this conversation in your head while Bakugo was still standing in front of you. Your lazy seeing focused back on the blonde. Dionizos must be laughing at you right now, reminding you from up in the heavens that you are, in fact, drunk.

“Yeah, sorry.” You rubbed your eyes a few times before looking back at him. “Yes, I got in. The application process was tiring. The schedules in Europe and here are totally different so I had to balance between getting all the shit finalised while assuring the universities abroad that I will get my certificate any day now. But it all paid off and now I’m moving out and that’s with a scholarship from the start!” You giggled once more, the thought of your ground-shaking success made your insides bubble up with joy. Well, maybe it shook only your ground but it was enough to feel self-satisfied.

Somehow you were walking, not standing. When you focused on that you realised that your journey for water hit a detour. Both of your figures disappeared further and further into the darkness of the nearby forest. It was nice and cool, a bit chilly even, with the wetness in the air that stuck to your bare shoulders giving you the chills.

“I’m also getting a scholarship.” Bakugo’s voice was out of place, calm and way more quiet than usual. Somehow on the way he stopped with this superiority shit and you felt like you were trodding the same ground as him.

“That’s nothing new.” He gave you a dissatisfied look that you barely caught in the moonlight. “But I’m not saying you shouldn’t be proud, or I shouldn’t be proud. We all should be proud of you.” You added the last part quickly, getting too caught up in your blabbering.

“So you’re proud of me?” The blonde started to snicker but you cut him short.

“What I mean is, you’re a great student and person, a hard-worker and any other epithet you can think of, but it doesn’t mean anyone should take your success for granted. It’s all your hard work, no matter how many times you do it.” You spoke from experience. When you’re always at the top people tend to think you’re glued to the peak of the mountain while in fact you climb it, all the way up, every single time. No one is born successful.

“Yeah, as if you knew.” That snickering of his will echo in your head for months if he doesn’t stop drilling it into your brain like this.

“Oh come on, cut me some slack. I’m also good, great even!” You threw your hands into the air, gesticulating dramatically. “Just because I don’t sweat my ass in training and prance around with a fancy quirk doesn’t mean I’m worthless.” You sassed at him, or at least in your head it was sass. You go girl, slay. “Besides, you didn’t complain when I improved your gear after spending nights on your samples.”

You and Bakugo were paired up one time during an assignment. Giving your biological specialisation you were able to analyse the samples of his sweat and spice up the storage of extracted explosives in his gear. He on the other hand was supposed to be as unproblematic as he could, and use your findings to the best of his ability. The blonde sure did exceed in at least one of these tasks.

“Cuz they were good.” This boy, why does he play hot n’ cold with you?

“I don’t understand.” You groaned, slapping hands on your cheeks. “Are you praising or criticising me?”

“Both.” He was looking straight ahead so his face was a mystery for you.

“Both! Both. Both.” You parrot him in a squeaky voice. Then you stop in your tracks and laugh quietly.

“What?” He seemed irritated by your sudden halt.

“Nothing, I just never thought a peasant like me could get a compliment from the great Bakugo.” You bowed dramatically and snickered sarcastically.

“Stop shitting around and start walking.” He turned and proceeded straight.

“Where are we even going?” Now that you thought about it you didn’t know where you were. All the trees around looked the same, the grass was covered in dew kissing your exposed ankles and the chatter of the bonfire died out some time ago.

“Doesn’t matter.” Bakugo threw disinterested.

“Objection judge! It does.” You grumbled. “I still need to get Denki a whole lot more drunk. I wanted to make him ask out…”

“Stop talking about fucking Dunce face.” Now it was Bakugo’s turn to groan.

“Denki, Denki, Denki.” You chanted gawking at him with wide-spread eyes.

“Seriously stop.”

“Why?” A cheshire grin entered your face. How come Denki was annoying someone while not even present.

“It’s ruining the mood.”

“Oh so we’re having a moment here?” You gasped theatrically.

“No we’re not. The thought of him is ruining my mood.”

“Are you sure?” You crooked a brow, turning around and walking backwards.

“Stop that idiot, you’re gonna fall and crash your stupid ass.” Bakugo’s face was vague in the dark, the sensation fueled up by your slightly murky vision.

“I know what I’ve heard. The great Bakugo is having a moment with old little me! And poor Denki is ruining it.” You pouted.

“Be delusional all you want.”

“I’m gonna have to tell Mina. Friends don’t keep stuff like that from each other. Wonder what she’ll say?” You hummed as if you were studying some very important samples.

“No you won’t. Or else I’ll smash your stupid ass.”

“Catch me if you can then.”

You turned around and ran for your life. The drunkenness, shaky breathing and uneven path that promised to betray your wobbly knees any moment now didn’t stop you from laughing madly while leaping through the twists and turns of the dark forest. Your fun was short lived as the blonde heroe-to-be was obviously quicker. He crashed into you as if you were a thief running after robbing a jeweller. It took you a few turns to brake but nothing hurt you in the end. After all, you were tackled by the one and only.

“Sorry, sorry.” You laughed apologetically, eyes closed as tears prickled them. You were dizzy after the stumble. “Don’t mind my drunk babbling, I was just joking.” Realisation hit you and maybe you took the act a bit too far, now that you think about it.

Looking up you saw him on all fours, over you. He kept silent, just staring down at you as if you had something on your face.

“What?” You propped yourself up on your elbows but was quickly shoved back down. “The fuck dude?”

His face was more comprehensible now. Moonlight shone down from between the rustling treetops, bouncing from one of his cheeks, the other dark, hiding half of his face. Red tinted the area of his nose, spreading over the whole of his face. Close up he also looked a bit drunk.

“Can you just stay silent?” His voice was not like him once more, low and inches from being a mere whisper.

So you did, looking up at him. Your brain fought a hard battle between trying to understand what was going on and at the same time giving up on clarity, just going with the flow of the strange situation.

Before you could choose a side and undertake appropriate actions Bakugo pressed his lips into yours. Sometimes you thought about how he would be, how he would act? The same you thought that Kirishima was a snack but also a golden retriever so he would most likely be gentle. The same you thought Shouto was good looking but most likely a virgin. The same you thought Denki was the last thing on mother earth you would fuck. In all the scenarios you made up in your head, never have you thought Bakugo would be subtle, or did it feel more like hesitation?

His lips were more like grazing yours than kissing them and quickly moved away as if he burned himself.

“What are you doing?” You asked, realising your voice was laced with irritation. What were you irritated about?

“Dunno, I’m drunk.” He answered, red eyes still caught up in your lower lip.

“Oh so now it’s an explanation.”

“Shut up.” He kissed you once more, firmly pressing his face into yours and pushing your slightly raised head into the moisty ground.

“I’m cold.” You mumbled between sloppy kisses, shivering from how hard the chilly ground pressed into your back. No, it was your back pressing hard into the ground.

Bakugo stood up on his knees and shimmied out of his jacket, grabbing at the front of your strapless shirt to guide you up. After you were laid back down, this time with his warm jacket shielding you from the cold, your brain turned on sluggishly and started to mull over the situation.

Bakugo didn’t explain why he was pressing his chest to yours while moving his lips faster and faster on yours, guiding himself down to your jaw and back up seconds afterwards, as if he didn’t want to lose time. You didn’t explain to yourself why you allowed him to, combing his fair hair with your fingers.

Between the kisses and gasps you managed to ask him one thing. “How far do you wanna take it?”

“Till the end. You okay with that?” His dialled pupils locked on your face and you finally realised he was looking straight at you, straight through you. It was only the two of you, wrapped up in each other's limbs like a tight knot, pressing onto one another as if battling who could do it harder. Were you really about to have sex with him? Did you feel excited about it? Yes, yes you did, you wanted it so bad right now. Why did he want to do it with you? No clue but it’s not important.

“Mhm.” You murmured, placing one of your palms on his cheek and guiding him back down to meet you halfway. “Show me.” You asked quietly, tugging at his shirt. Without objection he pulled it over his head and it was gone, letting you grab his bare shoulders and thread his muscles. You didn’t remain indebted for long, pulling your tight-fitting shirt up, letting your breasts spill out of their constrictions.

Two soft mounds quickly caught Bakugo’s attention but they were only a passageway for his palm to trace down. You nodded your head and pushed up your hips to make it easier for him to pull down your pants and leave them dangling over one of your tights. He straightened up once more and pulled out a condom from his pocket before undoing his own belt.

“You bastard!” Your finger pointed at the condom but Bakugo ignored it, finding his way between your tights.

It wasn’t your first time but it still took a while to get used to feeling him inside. Fortunately he was acting surprisingly nice, staying still with his face buried in the crook of your neck. After a short while when you felt ready you scratched his bare back delicately and murmured an ‘I’m ready’ into his ear.

Suddenly, the world turned around, your dizzy head not catching up with it. The cool breeze hit your back once more as the welcoming warmth of Bakugo’s coat was gone. You were sitting on him, watching his hard breathing, chest rising and falling in a steady but fast rhythm, one that matched your heartbeat.

“What…”

“It’s my first time, can you…” The words were cut short in his throat and he looked to the side, embarrassment grasping him faster than he could formulate his ask.

“It’s your first time?” It sounded a bit louder than you wanted it to.

“I don’t wanna fucking tell you this twice.” His anger rose quickly.

“No, no, that’s not what I mean!” You quickly assured him. “Don’t be embarrassed, it’s just… why do you want to have your first time with me?”

“Why do you have to fucking ask.” His gaze melted with the floor close to his head.

You realised that you were somehow destroying the mood, trying to get that answer out of him.

“You know what, never mind, you don’t have to tell me. I just wanted to, I don’t know, I just want it to be special now.” You whispered the last part and before he got to tell you how you ‘shouldn’t make a big deal out of it’ you were already moving your hips, pressing your chest into his and finding his kiss swollen lips once again. Between making out he remained silent, except for the occasional quiet gasps and hisses. His eyes were closed and hands palmed your ass as if he was holding it for dear life.

“Do you wanna try yourself?” You murmured into his ear and he nodded.

Turning around you were once again hugged by his coat but this time you felt it was unnecessary. Your body was hot, flushed against his burning one. Putting your hand on his lower sides you started to guide him, in and out, rotating his hips slightly to make him hit all the sweet spots and press tightly to the whole of your welcoming tights in the process. He caught it after a while and your help was no longer needed so you let yourself enjoy the moment.

“Not gonna last long like this so you better tell me how to make you cum too or I’ll feel like shit for the rest of the night.” His harsh voice disturbed your trance.

“Don’t worry, ‘m gonna take care of it. Just feel the moment, you look the hottest when you’re enjoying yourself.” You murmured, licking your fingers and guiding them down to help yourself.

After countless hastening gasps of yours you finally came with a soft whine and nails digging into Bakugo’s biceps. He came short after, falling over and crushing you under his weight. There was a short silence before you both started to gather yourself.

You sat wrapped up in his coat, ass slightly wet from the moisty grass. Fuck womens’ shorts, can’t they be slightly longer? Bakugo looked ahead, giving you a view of his pretty profile, with the upturned nose and lips lacking his usual frown. You felt a lot more sober now, the adrenaline evaporating from your veins. You sat in a hole in the dense tree line that gave you a view of the lake down in the valley. You didn’t even realise that you ran up a hill earlier. It was quiet, save for the night critters.

“So are you going to tell me why I got your v-card?” You eyed his still form. “I mean, you already had a condom on you so you either decided it was the big night and you're gonna lose it with whoever or, excuse me jumping to conclusions, you were hunting for me.” Your expertise was always precise when you were not stupid drunk.

“The latter.” Was his only response.

“Well then, did you like it?” You had a hard time comprehending what was going on. On one hand it was nice, sitting in the quiet with him after banging such a hot guy, on the other hand you tried to puzzle out what was his case but it turned out harder than you thought.

“Yes.”

“Great.” You looked to the side, up to the sky and down on your feet, trying to distract yourself from the awkward feeling creeping up your back.

“So you’re going away.” It was more of a statement than a question from him.

You mumbled out something in the lines of ‘yeah’, nodding your head and trying to figure out the sudden change of topic.

“Good for you, you deserve it.” 

It was silent mostly and you were really lost. This was all so messy.

“Are you going to keep in contact with Mina?”

“Yes, of course. I think I’ll also keep in contact with the one whose name I shouldn’t pronounce.” Somehow you made him laugh dryly.

“So maybe I’ll pop up in the back sometimes.” He seemed to be speaking more to the grass under his feet than to you with the way he refused to face you.

“What’s up with you?”

“Listen.” He finally turned toward you. A quizzical look covered his features. “I told you I was gonna take it till the end and I’m gonna.” He was speaking another language and it was getting on your worn out nerves. Bakugo was never so elusive but now suddenly he decided to play a maze with you. “Do you want to be my girlfriend till the end of the night? Later you forget about me.”

It took a lot for you to hold your composure. What kind of kindergarten scenario was this? Why should you forget him?

“Just till the end of the night.” His voice was firm but his eyes spoke louder. They were dialled and pleading, locked straight into yours as if you were to disappear if he blinked. “Then you’ll be gone and it won’t matter anymore.”

“Do you have a…” You wanted to ask, you wanted to know. Why did the Bakugo Katsuki act so strange all of a sudden? Why did he play weird romantic scenarios and act as if you were dying and not simply moving to another country. Did he have a crush on you, could you really let such a thought live in your head?

“Don’t ask me that, just answer the question.”

And in the end it was not important because he was right. You will move away for a few years, you will meet new friends, new lovers. You will find a new life and let the old one away. You will grow and hurt and achieve and lose. You can’t be anchored to the past. You saw the answer in his intense eyes and it pained you to realise that you could guess what he would have said if you pushed him. You saw the opportunities fly by and escape into the night. If he only told you earlier you could have a thing, you could change some things… but do you want to change some things? Did he do you good or bad with his decision to keep to himself? It didn’t matter because that time is gone and now is now. Now you have to give him an answer as he is still observing.

“Okay, yes.” You said, blinking a few times trying to wake up from a dream, but it wasn’t a dream. It was his arm snaking around your waist as he pressed you firmly to his side and stole another kiss from your lips.

Bakugo was not your first nor last boyfriend but he was the one that you remembered the most, even if he was yours just for a few hours.

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[macgyvermedical]

What's the difference between a nurse and nurse practitioner?

They are two different "levels" in the nursing hierarchy.

Here's how that hierarchy works in the USA:

At the very beginning rung you have STNAs, or State Tested Nursing Assistants. STNAs have taken a class that lasts in the weeks-months range of time and received a certificate. They have then taken a test to prove that they understand the material. In a job context, STNAs do a lot of the direct patient care- they bathe and feed patients, take vitals, turn patients who cannot move for themselves, etc...

The next rung up is an LPN, or Licensed Practical Nurse. LPNs have gone to a nursing program lasting usually between 1 and 2 years, have received a diploma, and have taken a test called the NCLEX-PN. In a job context, LPNs can do everything an STNA can do, plus they can gather information about a patient's condition, pass medications (except some IV medications) and do many nursing interventions like wound care, placing IVs and catheters, etc... An LPN must work under the license of an RN.

The next rung up is an RN, or Registered Nurse. RNs have either an associates' degree (2-3 years) or a bachelor's degree (4 years) in nursing, which has allowed them to sit for a test called the NCLEX-RN. No matter which education route the nurse takes to get their RN the license is the same and they are allowed to do the same things in a clinical context. In a job context, an RN can do everything an LPN can do, but can give all medications (including IV) and are allowed to also make care decisions LPNs cannot. They also hold an independent license, meaning they can provide nursing level care without needing to be supervised by a higher license-holder.

The next maybe half rung up is a Certified Registered Nurse. These are nurses who have worked in a particular area of nursing (med-surg, psych, ICU, etc...) for a certain number of years and taken classes and a test to say they know a lot about that area of nursing. Now, unlike the nursing license itself, this certification is usually through a private organization instead of the state of practice. Certified Registered Nurses don't have any additional skills they can do, but they do act as a resource for other nurses and may get paid more depending on the organization they work for.

The next rung up is an APRN, or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. An APRN is a nurse who has a masters degree or higher in nursing, and who, again, has taken a test. Here is where things get complicated. Because 4 different licenses fall under APRN:

Nurse Practitioner (NP). An NP is an APRN who works under a physician's license in some states and hold independent licenses in others. They are able to do a lot of things that doctors can do, including diagnose, treat, and prescribe (what they are able to prescribe depends on the state they are in). NPs specialize in a specific patient population, and they can only work with the type of patient they have specialized in.

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS). A CNS is an APRN who acts as a consulting nurse. Basically, they have gotten specific education in a specific area of nursing for a specific population, and they consult with the multidisciplinary team, generally at a hospital, about the nursing care for that type of patient. CNSs typically cannot prescribe medications, but may prescribe nursing interventions.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). A CRNA is an APRN who works as an extension of an anesthesiologist. They provide anesthesia during surgery and procedures.

Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM). A CNM is an APRN who delivers babies and helps mothers and children through the entire maternity and birth process. They may also do things like women's health exams, nutritional counseling, and the like.

[ficsbyuzi]

All the ways lead to you - part 1

Characters: Aemond Targaryen, Inara Maegyr (Original female character) in a Modern HOTD AU

Warnings : FICTIONAL PLOTLINE. Established relationship. Me swooning over Aemond Targaryen and writing this🤭 Inara being a sweet and awesome girl.

Note: This post and that a mutual of mine (@/elegantsplendour) remarked that this fic series has 'Succession' vibes. I wasn't aware of the show when I wrote this last year, and I still haven't watched it. Any resemblance to its plot is purely coincidental. Everything that is going to be re-posted here, comes from my delulu mind.

Inara's thoughts and a little background about her are in italics.

Word count - 1.2k

"You know me, mom, I can't just start working in some random hospital as a junior doctor," Inara spoke to her mother on phone, cradling it between her ear and shoulder as she watered her kitchen plants on a Saturday afternoon, “I am trying to find a job where I can practice both medicine and my art.”

"Where on earth will you find such a job, Inara?" Her mom questioned disapprovingly. "You will soon be a licensed doctor and able to practice medicine. You should start with a clinician job and save up for your MD tuition."

"Let me at least try, Mum. Maybe I can join some makeup manufacturing labs or intern with those big-shot skincare providers."

Inara heard her mom sigh and tut in response to her plans, a reaction she was quite used to by now. Yet, the conviction in her voice didn't falter as she continued, "I will definitely enroll in an MD program. Don't worry.”

As long as Inara could remember, she had always loved makeup. Even as a child, she would rummage through her mom's makeup kits and spend hours in front of the mirror, painting her own face and sometimes her mother's.

Her parents always wished to see her in the white coat of a doctor - a dream she shared with them. Cracking the medical entrance exams straight out of high school was a cakewalk, her sharp intellect paving the way for her.

Despite plenty of medical schools in Essos, the allure of studying abroad was too strong and liberating. The prestige of the renowned Citadel Medical School in Westeros had captured her attention long ago, and securing a seat there felt like destiny fulfilled.

While medical school required her to focus entirely on classes and books, her creative side yearned for exploration. Her love for makeup never faded, and after dedicating half her life to studying, she decided to follow her heart. A heart that always danced between two worlds, two passions, yearning to embrace both simultaneously.

As soon as she adjusted to her new life on a foreign land, she enrolled into a weekend certification course near her medical school. And, thus began her journey towards becoming a rare combination of a licensed medical practitioner and a trained makeup artist.

Days blurred into nights as she balanced the demands of medical studies with the pursuit of her passion.

Six years flew by in a whirlwind of learning and she was now nearing the end of her curriculum. After the sixth and last month of her hospital training and formal graduation, she would be a licensed medical practitioner. Thanks to her dedication to both medicine and makeup, she now stood as a certified makeup artist, with an expertise in skin care and prosthetics.

After freelancing a bridal makeup assignment a couple of months ago, she decided to take a detour from a predictable route towards advanced degrees or clinical positions straight after college. She planned to give herself a year of exploration into other career options before enrolling into an MD in Dermatology. And so she made up her mind on freelancing or finding a job that could extend her stay in Westeros, thereby allowing her to save up for her MD.

"Anyway, you've been so busy with everything else, you haven't even thought about finding someone. You're not getting any younger!" Her mom steered the course of the conversation to the topic she dreaded the most.

Oh boy, here it comes!

The inevitable discussion about her biological clock and society's expectations for single women was about to begin.

"Mom, please, I'm twenty four, not forty four!"

"Yes, and about time you started thinking of settling down!"

Rolling her eyes, Inara let out a sharp sigh.

"I have chores to do, mum. I gotta go," she cut the conversation short, trying her best to hide her rising impatience, “Bye! Love you!”

"Fine, But please think about what I said. Love you. ”

After ending the call, Inara continued staring at her phone's home screen. Smiling faces of her family stared back.

Her mom’s words still lingered in her mind, as she made herself a cup of chamomile tea and settled herself infront of her laptop.

She sipped her tea, smiling and recalling her mom's statement about doing tons of different things at a time. She had always loved to hustle. And, she loved how chimeric her career goals were. It wasn't an easy road, but she was determined to make it work somehow. Career satisfaction had always been her first priority; finding someone to date or marry, wasn't.

Inara's attention snapped back to her laptop screen, her eyes widening as she noticed the fourth and fifth unread emails from the top. Both arrived around the same time from the job search website she had signed up for.

The subject of the first email read:

Requirement of an assistant make-up artist on an upcoming TV Show.

The second one read:

Requirement of a physician / medical officer(s) on a TV production.

Universe works in the strangest of ways. All you have to do is ask.

She quickly opened both emails in separate tabs. They were from the human resources department of a television production house in King’s Landing. A period drama based on mythological history was in pre-production, and the HR team was hiring people on contract basis.

As someone who rarely watched television,or movies, she chuckled at the thought of working on a TV production house. Nevertheless, she decided to give it a try. With a few quick clicks, she accessed the links for both the positions and uploaded her resume. As she crafted cover letters for each position, wishful thoughts surfaced again. She let out another exhilarating chuckle, as a wave of nervous excitement crawled down her spine.

How fun and cool it would be, if I could somehow do both the jobs simultaneously.

-

A week later, as Inara was on her way home from the hospital where she interned, her phone rang. Seeing a number with the King’s Landing code, she gasped.

With her heart alight with anticipation, she answered the call. Clearing her throat, she adopted her sweetest and most professional tone before greeting the caller.

"Hi, Dr. Maegyr, this is Stannis calling from the HR department at Red Keep Productions. We've shortlisted your resume for the opening we posted about. Will you be available for an interview next week?"

"Hello, Mr. Stannis. Sure, I...I will be available!" She tried her best to mask the excitement in her voice. "Uh, I applied for two positions. May I know which one I have been shortlisted for?"

"Dr. Maegyr, your profile is one of the most interesting we've received so far. You have been called to interview for both positions. I can't say with certainty right now if you'll be hired for one or both roles as that will be decided based on your performance in the interviews." She could sense his smile through the phone.

"Thank you," she mouthed, looking up, her amber eyes sparkling with gratitude.

---x----

Part 2

[ask-sister-solaris]

“Wait me?”

Ray Stantz X reader ficlet

Warnings; none just toof rotting floof

————————

You had an extensive education. Psychology, science (physics, biology and chemistry) aswell as some more ‘niche’ studies including neuroscience and parapsychology. You had quite a deep understanding of the paranormal and occult, seeing it as nothing but a hobby, but when the Ghostbusters come around you realize you could actually make use of your PhDs and knowledge.

You stood infront of the tall and rundown building looking back at the paper. Yup this was the place, old Fire station. You peeked in before stepping in and going over to the reception desk. A dark red haired female looked up at you and she gave you a confused look before you explained why you were there

“I’m here about a job..I believe I can be of assistance to the Ghostbusters, I have proof of my PhDs and exam results..”

She hummed and turned around yelling for someone a man, no taller than you, pelted out of his office and vaulted over the border between the back room and reception. You recognized him as Peter Venkman. You’d never met him personally but you’d heard from students he’d had.

“Well hello, how can I help?” Peter gave you that signature smile and you rose a brow, how did women actually fall for him..shaking your head gently you held out the envelope containing all your certificates

“I’d like a job” your voice was surprisingly firm despite how shaky you felt. Peter looked it over and hummed impressed before smiling holding a hand out toward you. “Welcome to the Ghostbusters, follow me and Dr Stantz can get you all situated” you nodded and followed him as they reached some sort of garage. A pretty beaten up car was sat with the bonnet up and it looked as if someone was working on it, a small radio blasted out rock music, Peter turned the radio off.

“Ray! We have a new recruit walk them through the proton packs and stuff will you” he walked off before the poor man could answer. You gave him an awkward smile and wave. Ray wiped his hands and held it out, which you shook with a smile.

“Ray Stantz, I’ll try to explain the whole proton pack thing but we haven’t even had a test run of them yet” he rubbed the back of his neck. You chuckled and smiled gently waving it off “It’s fine Dr Stantz honestly, I’m just happy Dr Venkman took me on..”

He smiled gently “please call me Ray” he led you to the storage room where the suits and packs were kept. He explained it briefly, it peaked your interested quite a bit and you took in every word he said. You’d always been the same, attentive, friendly and hardworking.

It didn’t take long for you and your fellow ghostbusters to actually gain popularity, after the hotel everything seemed to be smooth sailing. Most of your time was spent in the lab with Egon and Ray, or in the garage with Ray. Venkman usually left you two alone in the garage teasing he didn’t want to interrupt two lovers bonding. You found it funny that he’d say that, considering you’d had a massive crush on Rag since day one, and little did you know that Ray felt the same.

Time seemed to fly by, you, Ray and Egons researched revealed more about Dana’s apartment and you and Ray spent even more time than you had previously. You had to confess but you were so scared. And she panicked when she was called and found out Ray and the others had been jailed. She rushed to the police station and told them you were also a Ghostbuster and if they were jailed you should be to.

Admittedly Ray found that downright attractive that you’d put yourself up there proudly claiming you were a Ghostbuster. Shortly after you were called in to the Mayors office. You stayed silent while the madman that had turned the grid off ranged (Egon had filled you in) and you hummed “Hold on. If what you’re saying is correct then it’s your fault, you turned off the grid releasing all the spirits and ghouls onto New York. And not to mention you blatantly ignored Dr Venkman”

The other four looked at you surprised and you turned to the Mayor “Now id listened to my colleagues before the whole of New York is destroyed and plunged into darkness” you stepped back and stood beside Ray his eyes never leaving you. God his heart was pounding even faster for you. Once the Mayor finally agreed offered a lending hand all five of them set off in the Ecto 1.

Fighting Gozer wasn’t easy, nor was it fun. Venkman taunting said cursed spirit. After Ray accidentally summoned a huge Stay Puft you stood beside him and fought bravely. With Stay Puft defeated and the gate closed you stood up with a groan covered in Mallow fluff. You were hugged by an equally covered Rays and you both laughed. After the two entrapped by the Keymaster and Gatekeeper you and the others headed down. You were holding Rays hand and he looked at you as people cheered.

What happened next you didn’t expect to happen at all, Ray tilted your hand up and kissed you gently. Your eyes widened before you melted into the kiss as everyone cheered, you swore you heard Venkman yell at Egon about owing him.

[luimagines]

Not a request

But Monday I took a certification exam and failed…so that’s both discouraging and embarrassing and was wondering if ud be willing to tell me one thing each LU boy might do to cheer me up? Like just

1. Twilight: takes u for a ride on Epona

2. Wild: …

If it’s still too much and u consider this an ask/request don’t worry about it and have a great day!

Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that. I hope you get to retake it.

Wild

He would make you a very warm and comforting soup. Something thick and hearty and sinks deep into your heart where you'd need it the most.

Time

He'd probably just take you a quiet walk. Somewhere deep in the woods where no one would bother you and there would be nothing but the sounds of nature to accompany you both as you destress.

Warrior

FIGHT! Not kidding. You want and/or have aggression and frustration you have to get out? He'll spar with you. He's willing to be the punching bag for you to let it all out.

Hyrule

Adventure Time! Forget everything else. Like Time he'd probably take you someplace far away but he'd make it fun. Kinda like wanting to go find buried treasure or something or go climb a mountain just to see what's at the top.

Four

Offers his condolences and shares similar experiences where he wanted to succeed but didn't. Offer kind words and words or wisdom to lift your spirits up.

Legend

He'll let you vent. You wanna complain? Give him all the tea. He's got you. He'll even throw in his own two cents for the heck of it.

Sky

More soup!! Like Four he would talk about it and give you some encouraging words. And a hug. He gives the best hugs.

Wind

Story time!! Time for distraction! Wanna hear about the time he blew up a pirate ship and barely escaped with his right eye? What about the time he went under a house to explore a hidden dungeon? No? That's ok. He has other stories that he can share. :)

Twilight

Time for Wolfie! Dog therapy is the best. He also ropes Epona into giving you the cuddles and animal time needed to heal your heart.

[canonicallyobserving911]

WIP Wednesday

Fanonwriter2023 on AO3

Where CANON and FANON collide!

Season 7 FANON FanFic: Buddie Multi-Chapter Fanfic - Hiatus Reading: “I’m still in love with you but... I needed to learn how to love myself too!”

Chapter 28 will be posted soon.

This is an EPIC LOVE STORY!

Currently 27 chapters completed: 1.09M Words; Rated: Mature

One chapter will be posted at a time.

___________

I'm excited to finish writing Chapter 28 because at the end of Chapter 27, Buck, Eddie and Chris had just arrived in Philadelphia, PA so that Buck could say goodbye to his friend, Malone who passed away in December. Also, he wants to visit Daniel's grave again but this time he brought his husband and their son with him. While they're in PA, they're going to Hershey and Lancaster but is it possible they'll bump into the Buckley parents while they're visiting museums and eating Hershey's chocolate? When they were planning the trip, Eddie hoped they wouldn't but with their luck, it's possible. Buck planned a celebration for Eddie while they're there since he received his Paramedic Certification Certificate but Eddie's the only one who doesn't know about it.

When they return to L.A., of the four cardiac tests Dr. Salazar scheduled for Buck, he'll have two left to complete but the Diazes are worried since he fainted during the tilt table test and they're wondering if there are any long-term effects to his heart after the lightning strike. Additionally, all three members of the Diaz family are supporting one another as Buck continues to face the fact that he died last year and as he proceeds to deal with all 7 stages of grief. He was on the bargaining stage at the end of Chapter 27 but the next stage is depression so how will he deal with it, especially with everything else that's going on in their family?

___________

Here's a snippet from Chapter 28 of Buck and Eddie having a conversation while they're in bed in their hotel room in Philadelphia, PA.

___________

They're lying in bed facing each other and Buck decides to ask the question he's been wanting to ask since Tuesday. “Can I ask you a question?”

“You know you can ask me anything.  What would you like to discuss?”

He unwraps one of his arms, lifts his hand and cups his cheek.  “First, I want you to know how proud I am of you.”  After the words leave his lips, he closes the millimeters of space between them and he places a kiss onto his lips that’s soft, tantalizing and filled with love and devotion.  When he pulls back, he continues.  “Babe… from September to December, you worked hard to pass your Paramedic Certification Course, you accomplished your dream and me and Chris wanted to celebrate your achievement with you again.  I know we did it back in December after you finished your final exam but you’re officially a paramedic now and that’s important.”

Eddie nods as he remembers everything they did earlier in the day to celebrate.  With a smile on his face, he replies, “Thank you for the cake, the song and for the tour at the Giant Center”.

“You know you don’t have to thank me.  We wanted to do all of it just for you, Eddie because you deserve it.”  He takes a moment to prepare the next part because he knows how his husband internalizes everything and he wants the next thing he says to land properly.  “You becoming a paramedic is huge and extraordinary but we didn’t know you received your official certificate until I found it inside of one of the drawers in our credenza.  Um… you didn’t tell us about it but do you want to talk about why you didn’t mention it?”

Eddie sighs as the internal conflict he’s felt since it arrived last week increases.  “When it was delivered last Friday… I opened and looked at it but…”  He shrugs his shoulders as he tries to think of the words, he wants to use to describe how he felt.

“But what?” 

“With everything we have happening right now... it all seems so far away and I’m wondering if I should…”

He interrupts him and whisper asks, “If you should what?  Eddie, please don’t say you’re thinking about stopping.”

How is Eddie going to respond to Buck's question? 👀

Is he really considering giving up his dream of becoming the Critical Care Paramedic of Los Angeles County? 🙃

If so, why? 🤷🏽‍♀️

___________

Fic Summary: Months after Buck and Eddie were hit by the same lightning strike; they’re still struggling with the aftermath of it.  But before they make their love confessions, they’ll spend time getting to know themselves as individuals first. Eddie learns to enjoy the simple things in life as he participates in activities on his own and with new friends while Buck learns the rest of the 31-year-old deep dark family secret about his conception and birth. Their journey to forever is still a work in progress but once they finally admit they’re in love with each other, everything that follows their love confessions will be cataclysmic.

__________

Chapter Summaries

Chapter 1 - Eddie makes a new friend while Buck receives devastating news regarding the sperm donation he made for Connor and Kameron.

Chapter 2 - Buck does a lot of research to learn more about the abnormalities found in his red blood cells and Eddie starts a new therapy journey that’s all about him and not the traumas he’s experienced.

Chapter 3 - After more than a month, Buck and Eddie finally spend time together outside of work but it doesn’t end well and they part with a lot of uncertainty regarding their places in each other’s lives.

Chapter 4 - Eddie has a few realizations about his life which causes him to consider moving back to El Paso, TX while Buck continues to be reminded of his past which causes him to take an impromptu road trip across America.

Chapter 5 - Both Buck and Eddie have difficult conversations with their parents and Buck finally learns the truth behind the reason why his mother despised him while Eddie finally tells his mother about the way she tries to control him.

Chapter 6 - More than two weeks after Buck pushed Eddie away after suggesting they needed a break; Eddie decides to try again. Eddie’s there for Buck when he’s at his worst just like Buck was there for him when he was at his worst and he won’t let Buck give up.

Chapter 7 - After Buck’s mental breakdown, Eddie has his back the same way Buck had his when he had his own breakdown more than a year ago.  They share several vulnerable and emotionally intimate moments with one another and they begin to realize their small, sweet and caring gestures matter just as much if not more than any grand gesture ever could because these are the foundations of a long-lasting love relationship.

Chapter 8 - Buck, Eddie and Chris all have their own therapists and during their sessions, they reflect on their pasts while they’re in the present so they can prepare for their future together as a family.

Chapter 9 - Buck and Eddie are there for each other when Buck has to testify as a witness during the trial.  But by the end of it, they’ll both realize their individual and shared traumas are going to keep resurfacing until they talk about them, deal with the fact that they’re in love with one another and face the fact that they can’t live without each other.

Chapter 10 - As Buck and Eddie finally begin to confront their past traumas, they realize how much they need each other to fill in the gaps of their memories.  Additionally, the universe screams at them for what appears to be the one hundredth time so Buck can realize he doesn’t have to ‘find it’ because he already ‘made it’ and Eddie’s reminded tomorrow isn’t promised and he doesn’t have to die alone if he doesn’t want to.

Chapter 11 - A “virga” or dry thunderstorm is in the forecast but once the rain starts, the thunderstorm happening outside won’t be able to match the storm brewing inside between Buck and Eddie.  It’s the universe’s final scream and when the tumultuous winds begin to blow, they’ll have one last chance to hold onto everything they’ve built over the last six years or they’ll lose it all forever.

Chapter 12 - Buck and Eddie have always shared a deep physical attraction and an emotional intimacy that’s unmatched but now that they’re in a relationship, they’re learning how to navigate the romantic intimacy they’ve been waiting for six years to explore. The love they have for each other is a once in a lifetime, soulmate, love of their lives type of love that transcends space and time.

Chapter 13 - While navigating the newness of their romantic relationship, Buck and Eddie take advantage of every moment they spend together. As their individual lives, people from their pasts, time constraints and the possibility of losing each other again make attempts to interrupt and interfere with their journey to forever, they love, care for, support and hold onto each other even tighter to withstand it all.

Chapter 14 - Buck and Eddie can see the lights at the end of the tunnels regarding the results of Buck’s Cancer Screening along with everything else they’re dealing with. But are the lights they see exits to the tunnels or are they headlights on different runaway trains that are speeding towards them in an effort to interrupt their forever?

Chapter 15 - Buck and Eddie have known they were exactly who the other one wanted in a partner since they met six years ago when they agreed to have each other’s backs. They’re in a romantic relationship, they’re both preparing to ask the other one to spend forever with them and by the end of the seventh week into their relationship, together they will plan their most important and greatest adventure for their future.

Chapter 16 - As Buck and Eddie begin to prepare for their marriage ceremony that will take place in Rome, Italy in December 2023, they start planning their first international adventure as a romantic couple. Even though Chris is still the only person they’ve told about their relationship, several people who know them have already witnessed the love they share and as the days continue, others will witness it too.

Chapter 17 - As Buck and Eddie get closer to departing Los Angeles for their international adventure, a moment in time will remind them; life is fragile, tomorrow isn’t promised and every second of everyday should be cherished because everything can change in an instant. The result of that realization will cause them to hold onto each other even more.

Chapter 18 - As Buck, Eddie and Chris prepare for family gatherings before and during the Thanksgiving holiday, the “Santa Ana Winds” start to blow and all sorts of expected and unexpected familial drama ensues.

Chapter 19 - As Buck and Eddie get closer to their wedding day, the universe begins to align everything so that some of their parent and children's relationships are strengthened while others come to an abrupt end.

Chapter 20 - With only 14 days remaining until Buck, Eddie and Chris depart Los Angeles, CA traveling to Rome, Italy, for their first family adventure, an early morning conversation about “tying up loose ends” helps Buck and Eddie realize there are still several things left unfinished on their ‘To Do’ lists. The question is will there be enough time to complete all of them?

Chapter 21 - Buck, Eddie and Chris are finalizing their ‘To Do’ Lists, double checking their itineraries and packing their suitcases in preparation for their trip to Europe so they can board their flight that departs Los Angeles, CA on Friday, December 15, 2023 at 3:25PM.

Chapter 22 - While Buck, Eddie and Chris spend the first 8 days of their European family adventure in Italy, their primary reason for going will be fulfilled as well as several others they hadn’t considered or anticipated.

Chapter 23 - As the Diaz Family continues their Italian family adventure, they’ll say, “Ciao” or hello and goodbye to a lot of things almost immediately after they become an official and legal family.

Chapter 24 - After Buck, Eddie and Chris arrive in London, England on December 24th; the Diazes immediately start preparing to spend their first family Christmas together. During their stay, each of them will hear a few choice words that will be the life raft to get them home to complete their searches to be seen and to be found.

Chapter 25 - After spending more than two weeks in Europe, Eddie, Buck and Chris are back in Los Angeles and they’re getting ready to attend Maddie and Chimney’s New Year’s Eve party. During the event, they have plans to make two surprise announcements but the question is, who’s really going to be surprised, the Diaz family or their found family at the 118?

Chapter 26 - Buck and Eddie are once again faced with their greatest fear of losing each other but this time it could be permanent and if it is, then they won’t be able to spend the rest of their lives together.

Chapter 27 - After Buck resumes therapy, he’ll continue to face the fact that he “DIED” in March 2023 and during those sessions, he’ll learn about the 7 stages of grief. As he continues his healing journey, Eddie will be right by his side just like he promised and the Diaz family will start to deal with their three minutes and seventeen seconds loss as a family.

Chapter 28 - Will be posted soon.

__________

Read chapters 1-27 are available on AO3.

Continue reading on AO3

[ravenwriter16]

Creative Minds Think Alike!

Episode 1---Episode 2---Episode 3—Episode Four---Episode Five--Episode Six

Featuring the amazing: @amymaleneart

Reminder! If the content creator doesn't approve of how i represented them, or their AUs/OCs then I will edit my work or DELETE it. It's not my intention to mock or belittle anyone's work. This series is supposed to showcase amazing creators!

I do not beta read! YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!!

I hum a random Disney song to myself while I finish up preening my wings. I grunt when I untangle and pluck a few of my downy feathers. Holding the offending feathers up to my face I narrow my eyes at them.

I exam each one before selecting a couple to keep, tossing the rest into the bag hanging by a hook nailed into the side of my desk.

My hands smooth over my preened wing before the whole thing shifts back behind my back. I roll my shoulders, getting comfortable. I hold the smaller feathers in hand close to my chest as I lean back in my spot on the windowsill.

It was a very relaxing day today. A few complaints here and there from Residents, a couple certificates stating new worlds starting up, and some even came over and registered their OCs. Very easy paper work, so easy in fact that I had handed the reigns over to my little servants.

The robots handling the records after some sprites review them for any falsities or spelling errors. A small Mothman wearing reading glasses was signing documents in the corner. Whenever one of my servants finishes a document, record, or more commonly a letter, they wrap the parchment up, tie it with a strand or ribbon, then hand it off to my messenger ravens.

I open the door with a small smile as one of said ravens waddle up to me. I nod my head in courtesy as it takes to the skies. A small white roll of paper tied to its leg.

I hum and get to my feet, stretching while I suppress a yawn. “I should do some work to pass the time…”

Looking down at the feathers in my hand an idea comes to mind. Snapping my fingers, two plushies encased in a green light float over. They weren’t sewn shut yet, so it made it easier to deposit equal amount of the feathers into each of them.

I wave my hand and they seal with magical thread. I grin and hold out my palms. The green fades from them and they drop into my awaiting hands. Two Squishmellow-like plushies, with one looking like a cute frog the other a baby bat.

As I head to the door with the plushies in hand, a couple pixies fly over with my cloak, my Archivist coat of arms pin, and side satchel. I thank them, taking each object one by one.

They bow, giggling as they head back to their cleaning tasks.

I eye them suspiciously but end up just sighing and heading out. It was noon right now, and I take a few steps away from my mushroom before stretching my wings out fully. I hum in content before folding them back up and heading down the cobblestone path to the Castle.

I wave to castle workers, mainly gardeners currently, and to creators who happen to be out or were tidying up their houses. It was a peaceful day…

Which made it a very boring day…

I sigh and fold my hands behind my head as I walk, biting the side of my lip slightly. “I know I need to protect this place from thieves and assassins…But I could really go for anything like that right now…”

Hmmm…

When in doubt, head to the art room!

Now here’s something you must understand about the Castle’s Legendary Art Room. It is HUGE!!!

Of course it has to be, with all the creators here who uses this room and its materials for their own enjoyment. It was like a grand extravagant ballroom but with multiple floors connected by floating stepping stones. The room having enough space for canvases of any size. You can find whatever color paint you could think of and a plethora of brushes, paints, markers and pencils.

If you choose a spot to use and want privacy, you can even raise up walls that block everything out. There you could change your surroundings, add music to help you to focus, and even the smell to suit your tastes.

Already there were a bunch of creators, some taking a little snack break and sitting at the tables in the middle of the room. On either side of the walls were a few boxes and opening areas in use. The sunlight falls in through the glass ceiling, providing a comforting warmth.

A few people pass by me, either carrying their new creation out of the room, or hurrying into the room with a huge smile on their face that gave away their excitement to start on a new project.

I head into the room, arms falling to my sides and wings folding in closer to my back, not wanting to knock anything over.

I reach an open wall on the first floor. A small easel with a blank canvas is positioned in front of a simple wooden stool. On a small table near the canvas was a simple six well pallet, three already filled with simple green, red, and blue. Next to it was a small tin can, with paint splatters all over, which was filled with paint brushes.

I grunt softly as I take a seat on the stool, my wings draped behind me and on the floor. Lucky it the floor looked newly cleaned, so I didn’t worry too much about dirt getting on my freshly preened feathers.

I sigh and eye the brushes. A flat acrylic brush with white bristles stands out. The white wooden handle covered in splattered paint of various bright colors, most of yellow. I reach into my bag and pull out white fingerless gloves, making sure they stay tight around my palm as I slide them on. Then I snap my fingers and my wings melt into my shadow. My clothes turn white and my leather bag becomes a light beige, slightly fuzzy material.

Now prepared, I reach over and lift the brush I was looking at earlier. It feels rough and light in my hand.

I dip the brush in the green paint and lift it to the canvas. It’s sloppy and I think I made it too small, but I enjoy myself as I paint a simple door. I finish up with a small circle that made up the knob and then I set the brush down.

I can’t help but smile and wiggle un my seat in excitement as I lift my fist up to the canvas. I knock on my painted door, green staining my knuckles. I pull my hand back and wait.

I hear the sound of the keys jingling, then metal shifting against metal, then the door knob turns. The door slowly opens and a bright light greets me.

I laugh as the light becomes blinding. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I get tossed into a room, landing roughly on my bottom. I yelp and groan in pain while standing up and rubbing my back side.

“Oww~…Forgot about the rough landing…” I grumble.

The room I was in was white and bright. No shadows around expect for my own under my feet. I dust my pants off, making sure I still have everything on me. I straighten up and take a deep breath.

What happens next is going to be a tad difficult but nothing I haven’t managed to do before.

I plant my feet down fully and flex my hands into fists then relax them. I repeat this action while taking a deep breath.

It all happens so quickly. A bunch of bright and popping colors start splatting on the white walls, floor and ceilings. It was strange yet amazing to look at.

Though there was the usual itch at the front of my mind that told me to move, I knew it was better to just let it happen and go with the flow of colors.

Moving one foot in front of the other, the splatters start to actually form real illustrations.

Soon I was under a bright blue sky with a couple white clouds. I smile as a small breeze blows by, rustling a few trees nearby. A multitude of flowers surround me, scattered around these grassy hills that made up this strange painting-like world.

Everything seemed to be painted into existence. While I walk, paint squishes underfoot. Splattering on and staining my white clothing. Seeing some brighter flowers in the distance and up a small hill, I break off running.

Laughing as I’m covered in paint.

When I reach the top of the hill, I spread my arms out and take in this world’s sunlight. Covered in bright pinks, reds, yellows, blues, and greens.

A long and high whistle draws my attention. I look around, holding my hand over my eyes as I scan the fields.

I smile when I see a familiar yellow Fox Fae waving excitedly down the way. I wave back and start my descent down the hill. I lose my footing and start tumbling down instead of the graceful run that I had envisioned.

I hit the bottom in a face plant. Groaning in embarrassment when I hear the fae give a windchime like giggle. I hold up a finger, face still planted in the ground.

“Not…a word…”

More laughter than something poking my head. I look up and meet a green and blue gaze. Her yellow, gray, and black fur puffing out as She keeps trying to contain her laughter. She wears her usual blue overalls with the multi colored sleeves and legs.

A big bushy black tail, which had yellow paint coating most of the tip, swings happily behind her. Her ears pull back slightly as she covers her mouth.

“Oh ha, ha. Yeah, laugh it up.” I halfheartedly scold.

After getting back to my feet. I take in the giant colorful splatter all on my front and probably on my face as well. I gesture to my messy cheeks and raise a brow.

The fae giggles again, holding out both her paws. The yellow pads on her left paw turn white and she dips her right clawed index finger. It becomes coated in paint and she begins drawing in the air.

I watch and hold out my hand underneath the magical drawing. She pulls back with a smile and snaps her fingers. A handkerchief falls into my awaiting palm.

“Thanks, Color.” I wipe my face off with the offered cloth while the Fae nods her head happily before turning around and heading back to her easel and canvases.

I pull the handkerchief away enough to get a peek at the already completed sixty-four paintings. Yes, I counted them…I WAS JUST CURIOUS!!!

Anyway…Twenty-two of these canvases have the familiar blue and yellow aliens with their little human pet. I smile, laughing evilly but quietly so Color won’t hear me. Both Veterinarians were really nice and Stardust was so cute when they found out I could understand them.

Color scolded me though for teasing them…So of course I’m gonna do it again today!

Tucking the dirtied hanky into my satchel, I walk over to stand behind Color as she works on her newest painting. It was still in the beginning phase of her creative process, but I could already make out two VERY worried aliens and a very loopy looking Stardust.

“Painting #23 looks great, Color. Though, I expect nothing less from a talented Resident such as yourself!”

Color nods her head, claws flying over the canvas with such ease. She pulls back from the finished product and holds her chin, tiling her head. I watch as she turns her gaze to me and gestures to the painting.

I blink owlishly at her before something clicks. I smile and the feathers in my hair start to puff out in excitement. That’s all she needs as she grabs my arm, fur glowing a bright yellow as she jumps into her painting, with me screaming in confused delight behind her. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The ship was pristine and busy. Species of all types in various uniforms pass by the two of us. To fit in better, I had allowed my wings to come out once more. Color walks next to me, leading the way.

A few people recognize the emblem pin on the strap of Color’s overalls. Color was not only the creator of this world, but she was also the Head Chef on this ship, making food for both Alien and Human alike. I watch as she smiles and waves at people she knows, my eyes wander to her new pair of arms that she made of paint.

I snicker and look down at my own arms, only the one pair. I was glad I could play my whole appearance on being from a distant planet. Color helped me with that when I first met her, letting me volunteer at a human shelter for a while so I could better integrate into this world.

“Miss Color!” I look up to find a white-feathered Cosmodian wearing a pink uniform walking towards us. She had a sash around her chest that was bulging with two wiggling bumps.

Color beams and waves at the ship’s head scientist. As Dr. Chica Cygnus walks up, Color starts doing her usual sign language. Luckily, with a little translation spell, I could understand her like everyone else on this ship…with some extra words that the signs couldn’t express.

-Hello Chica! How are you?-

“Just dandy! These two little sweeties are so well behaved!” She pats the sash and two cute little chubby faces pop out.

I gasp and try to keep my squeal to myself as I fish out the two plushies. Color smiles and pets the yellow and white/blue heads. The harpy toddler versions of Sun and Moon chirp, Sun’s blue eyes sparkling as he almost jumps out of the sash, while Moon’s red eyes only peak out from the fabric.

Color keeps Sun in the sash, Chica and her fussing and lightly scolding him, while I put the small plushies into the sash.

Sun immediately dives after the frog while Moon raises the bat and starts to chew on its head. I smile then look to Chica, “Giving their Caretaker a break?”

Chica nods, “Poor thing is working so hard. Thought ze might like a small breather!”

-That’s really sweet of you Chica! When I get back I’ll do a little check in with ze.- Color signs, giving one last scratch to both the harpy chicks, who purr in response.

“Miss Color?” a familiar voice calls out, drawing our attention down the hall.

There they were, Dr. Sunafetia Obqaurtz, Dr. Moontiedea Obquartz, and Captain Dawntitus Eclipseso. All looking profession in their uniforms, and looking very cute with their fluffy ears. I could just reach up and run my talons through the fluff all day—,

I clear my throat and look away while Color and Chica greet them. Chica gives a small bow before taking her leave, cooing at the two little bundles of feathers and happiness as they play with their new toys. I stop her subtly and place two more of my longer and softer feathers.

I say a quiet thank you before turning my attention back to the conversation color was having with the three boys.

Dr Sun was smiling, cradling a small form close to his chest, “It’s so good to see you again, is everything well?”

Color nods her head, ears happily twitching. -How’s little Stardust?-

“Not so good, I will admit,” Sun looks down at the little human in his arms with small pink, star-shaped scars all over their skin. They whine and nestle their nose deeper into his fur. “Poor thing got into Monty’s medicine. But after they sleep it off, everything will be fine.”

I snicker, very happy with the whole situation. Last time I was here , the little brat that Sun was holding, threw their lunch at me, bit me, and thought it would be funny to toss their toys at me in a nice game of catch…but only with my face.

Don’t get me wrong! I do hope they get better and I understand that they were forced into this. They were fun to hang out with and I…kind of deserved all their onslaughts…

Color and I can understand human speak as well as Cosmodian tongue. So, I might have…teased Stardust with it for a while…

…

IT WAS FUNNY!

Moon spares me a glance, raising a brow, “Miss Raven. Fancy seeing you out here.”

“Oh uh…Yes, I’m here because Ms. Color invited me over for…” I spare her a glance, “Tea?”

She snorts, covering her mouth, her ears shaking. She calms down and raises her arms, -I wanted to show her around the ship a bit more. Were’s the harm?-

The Captain rolls his eyes, all of his ears, folding back slightly as one of his canines peaks out from his lips. “The harm is, last time you brought this certain Cosmodian, it resulted in an all-out brawl with her and Private Lunesetia. Which ended with both of them in the infirmary.”

“Great job by the way.” Moon comments and I smirk. Sun was trying to hide his amusement by checking on Stardust.

“Not helping.” Eclipse growls.

I hold up my hands, “With all due respect, she had it coming.”

“Really?” He crosses his arms, “And why, in the great abyss, is that?”

I look to Color for help, eyes pleading.

She raises a brow, a mischievous smile splitting her lips as she takes a step back, her tail happily swishing to and fro behind her. Her yellow fur gaining a pinkish hue, reminding me if a sunrise. My wings puff up in surprise before my gaze darts back to Eclipse.

Sun was now standing to the side with Color, Moon joining them as well, leaving me alone to have a stare-off with Eclipse.

“Traitors…” I mumble, blowing some hair out of my eyes.

“I’m waiting.” Eclipse steadily taps a finger against his arm.

“Okay so uhm…funny story actually—,” I fidget with my hands, rubbing the leather of my gloves. Why was this feeling like I was getting scolded by a parent.

“YOU!” a shrill voice shrieks.

Color flinches, ears twitching irritably, in fact, all of the four Cosmodians present fold their ears back. My wings jolt up, spreading out and hitting a poor cleaning bot. Slamming the poor thing to the ground.

Before I offer my apologize, a gray blur charges towards me. I yelp and grab both the oncoming fists, making sure to keep a steady hold on them. I slide back a bit, the force almost knocking me off my feet. I grit my teeth and look up at the offender.

My green eyes meet burning yellow eyes. I grunt and take in a sharp inhale, “Heya Roxy! How’s it going? Lip feeling any better—,”

“SHUT UP!” She growls, spinning me around.

As I’m turning, I shoot a glare at Color, once again asking for help. But she was holding Stardust now, rubbing their hair while giving me a coy grin, her fur bristling.

“You’re evil!”

Moon raises a brow, “The Private or Ms. Color?”

“Both—?”

“I SAID SHUT UP!” Roxanne yanks one of her fist away from my grip. She rears it back before sending it hurtling towards my jaw.

I barely have time to dodge, releasing her other hand. She’s slams on the floor, face first. I shout as I tackle her, keeping my weight on her to pin her down. Ny wings were very helpful in that regard, adding more weight.

She growls as I grab her arms and pin them on her back. She twists and turns, trying to snap her giant teeth at me.

My chest rises and falls as I greedily gulp down air. Roxanne, though a jerk, was a worthy advisory in combat. I really need to brush up on my training.

“Yield?!” I ask.

“LIKE HELL I WILL—,”

“Enough! I will not have this on MY ship!” Eclipse’s booming voice causes both of us to still.

Moon and Color snicker while Sun, covers his mouth. But his flapping ears give away his real feelings towards all of this.

“Raven, get off the private, NOW.” Eclipse levels me with a hard stare as I climb off the gray Cosmodian.

Roxanna scrambles to her feet, giving me a stare that screamed murder. Then she dusts off her red uniform, growling slightly at the massive boot print I left on the side.

“Private, you were out of line—,”

“WHAT?! BUT SHE—,”

“Was doing NOTHING that warranted you charging at her.” Eclipse takes a step forward, his tall stature dwarfing both of us. “You’re already on thin ice already! I ordered you to stay in my office while we went to fetch human 411811*13112-8.”

“I received no such order from you, Captain.” She puffs out her chest in defiance, though I could see the slight tremor in her form as Eclipse flexes his hands in an attempt to calm himself.

I balk at her boldness, eyes darting between Eclipse and her while my mouth hanged open.

Before Roxanne can make her situation worse, Color steps in. Having handing calming blue to Moon, she was free to use her hands. Her colors changing to a calming mixture of blue and green.

 -Captain…if I may be so bold?-

Eclipse looks down at her, eyes losing some of their fire now that they aren’t directed at me or the Private. He takes a deep breath, “You may.”

-I would like to be in charge of their punishment. I can assure you that this won’t happen again.-

“I’m not so sure…” Eclipse looks over her and straight at us. The wolf and I flinch, then shuffle away from each other.

-Trust me…-

Eclipse sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose, “Fine…You’ve never steered me wrong before.”

He then waves to us, “Be my guest, Ms. Color.”

Sun chuckles while Moon grins. The oldest of the twins lets out a whistle, “You guys are in for it now~.”

She smiles and turns around. She spares a glance at me, and upon seeing the evil twinkle in her eye I’m suddenly very afraid. She turns all her attention to Roxanne.

-Private. You will help the cleaning crew with caring for uniforms for the rest of the day

“WHAT! ARE YOU SERIOUS—,”

“Private!” Eclipse warns, making her shrink into herself slightly.

Color just raises a brow, a small streak of red piercing through her calm greens and blues. -I hope this will help you reflect on the error of your actions today…-

Roxanne growls lowly, clenching her paws into fists. She turns tail and storms off, her stomps booming thanks to the sound echoing off the walls. Her tails swishes angrily behind her.

Color smiles then looks at me and I flinch, a shudder going down my spine.

As an Archivist I have a sort of…Spider Sense so to speak. I’m able to sense a Creator’s Aurora, a small pulse of otherworldly power that ebbs out of their body. Every Aurora feels different, unique to its user.

Color’s—Amymalenart’s Auora felt like invisible feathers flying through the wind, soft enough to tickle. Though as her stare continues to linger on me, I could feel the wing pick up, making the feathers slightly sharp as they fly over my skin.

My own feathers bristle at the feeling.

I swallow the lump in my throat. I wish they taught me how to deal with handling these type of things when I was back at the Academy.

-You…will help me in the kitchen!-

I blink, my wings stilling. “That…That’s it?”

“Boo…” Moon voices, yelping when Sun elbows him, reminding him to behave.

Sun steps up to Color, who gives him a warm smile. The yellow Cosmodian gives a small bow, “Moonie and I will take our leave now. It was nice seeing you again.”

Moon rolls his eyes, rubbing Stardust’s back as he begins walking away. When he reaches my side, he leans in slightly, “Next time, put more strength into your grip.”

I give him a pointed look. Of course he would want me to get into MORE trouble…

Sun pats my shoulder when he also passes me, giving me a reassuring smile. The brothers turn down the hall, removing themselves from view. Eclipse steps between me and Color.

He folds his hand behind his back, “Behave…BOTH of you.”

‘Fat chance…’

I roll my eyes mentally while I assure him I won’t and Color does the same. He gives us a look that said he didn’t believe us, but sighs tiredly before leaving, following after his younger brothers.

I let out a sigh myself, “That was a lot…”

-You’re not done yet~.-

I eye her, “Well I know I have to help you in the kitchen, but like…only as a taste tester right? Or helping you cook something?”

Color lets out her usual chime-like laughter. Her magic wavers and I see her human form. Blue hair framing pink glasses. Her black and yellow sweater having a few paint spells. She wipes a tear from her eye, her fae form returning.

-Hardly! I received a shipment of…We’ll say potatoes. AND THEY WON’T PEEL THEMSELVES!-

She snatches my arm and drags me to the kitchen. I groan which she ignores, laughing. I can’t help but laugh as well, Color’s joy contagious.

I shrug, resigned to my fate of peeling alien tubers with my colorful friend.

Guess I’ll have something to do today after all…

***

Episode Three is completed!

I want to say my most gracious thanks to @amymalenart! Thank you for letting me write your AUs and you amazing Fae-sona.

And thank you for roleplaying with you on your blog! I've been having so much fun!

Thank you all for reading! I hope you enjoyed it as much as i had writing it!

Have a Fantastic day or night!

[cyberstudious]

Tips for Studying Cybersecurity

I created this post for the Studyblr Masterpost Jam, check out the tag for more cool masterposts from folks in the studyblr community!

Getting started in cybersecurity involves learning a lot of concepts and techniques from all across tech, from networking to operating systems. After that, there's a lot of security-specific tools and knowledge to absorb as well. This post focuses on some of the big things that helped me as I've studied for certifications over the past few years.

Memorizing Acronyms

There are a ton of acronyms used in cybersecurity - if you're studying for the Security+ certification, there are about 300 acronyms that you're expected to understand, and a lot get thrown around while you're on the job. It can sound overwhelming, but my two main strategies are 1) make and use flashcards (I use Anki) and 2) take the time to learn what the thing behind the acronym actually is. The ones that confused me most were always the acronyms for a protocol or something where I didn't actually know what the protocol did.

Memorizing Tool Usage & Command Line Options

How do you specify the target architecture in msfvenom? Which nmap option starts a TCP connect scan? If you're on the tech side of security and not governance, or if you're just studying for certifications, a lot of them will ask you to use command line tools and therefore memorize some of the most common options. The best way to learn these is to just practice using the tool! Anki can be helpful if there's a lot that you have to memorize to pass an exam, but practicing with the tool is a more interesting and memorable experience.

Also, it's not the end of the world if you can't remember everything - manpages exist for a reason! Memorizing common flags and options just lets you work faster, and eventually you'll memorize the most important ones just by using the tool.

Memorizing Common Protocols & Port Numbers

More foundational knowledge here - this is important for entry-level certifications and just being able to interpret things on the job. This is just memorization again, so 1) create a flashcard deck and 2) make sure you know what the protocol actually does. It's harder to remember that IMAP over TLS is on port 993 if you don't know what IMAP or TLS is - build up those connections in your brain!

Understanding Complex Protocols, Processes, and Attacks

When you're trying to learn about network protocols (TCP, HTTPS, etc.), encryption algorithms (Diffie-Hellman, etc.), or the process of a specific attack, sketch a diagram! Draw it out and get as specific as you need. Keep trying until you can break the process down into tiny steps and explain it from memory.

When studying attack chains, you can make use of Mitre ATT&CK to note the different techniques used at different stages. Professional write-ups do this too, so it's a great way to practice.

Organizing your Notes

If you're studying for a GIAC certification, the tried-and-true strategy for passing the exam is to organize your notes and make an index - essentially a giant table of contents for all of the course material that you can search through very easily. GIAC exams are open-note, but there's an enormous amount of material in each course and you don't have time during the exam to search through the book for every question.

Lesley Carhart has a great write-up on their process that's worth a read - this is one of the resources that SANS.edu advisors point students to!

If you're studying for an exam that isn't open-note, making an index can still be helpful, especially if you keep your notes around for later reference. It's also a good way to review and find topics that you need to put a bit more time into.

The tl;dr here is:

Make flashcards for anything that you need to memorize. Use a spaced repetition tool like Anki that will let you study in short bursts over a long period of time, because cramming won't help in the long run.

Get your hands dirty! Practice the labs or sample problems, play with the tools, and experiment.

Keep good notes. It's very easy to feel a sense of information overload in cybersecurity, so having a system that lets you store information outside of your brain but still access it quickly is key.

If you have any questions about how I handle a specific topic or studied something, feel free to send me an ask!

[kittydesade]

I'm very sorry. Six months ago you commented on a Gordon Ramsey accessibility post that your job to help make websites accessible. How do I get that job? I would love that so much. I'm sure you've answered this before but I can't find it.

I, too, am sure I've answered this before, but I can't remember where and I'm not about to brave the Tumblr search feature to go looking, so you and @the0dd0ne get a twofer.

Hi, I'm not a bot, and I was wondering if I could ask you a weird career question? I saw your addition on that "Accessibility Nightmares" post where you mentioned it's your actual job to email websites about their lack of accessibility and what they need to do to make it accessible, and can I ask how you got into that? I got injured on the job and need to make a huge career change, and that type of work has always been really interesting to me, but I don't even know where to start to get into it! Also feel free to ignore this lol I know it's out of left field.

(This is actually the third question I've got on this, so no, not that out of left field.)

So the first thing to understand is that it's actually pretty hard to get into digital accessibility because there just aren't that many companies doing it. As far as I know from company meetings there aren't that many schools teaching it as a part of their core web development curriculum. It's just not that common to think about it as part of web development. Which is vastly irritating.

I started mucking around with the web when there was first a web to muck around on, but when the pandemic hit and my Mom suggested (in a hilarious twist of circumstances) that I go to one of those Learn to Code boot camps to get a certificate that said I actually knew my shit so I could get a job in web development. A number of these boot camps also have job placement programs and pipeline agreements with certain companies. and in a nutshell that's how I got into it. The company sent my boot camp a letter saying "we need N warm bodies" and they sent the company a list of names, I got interviewed, I got hired as a contractor, and after a couple years of good work for them I got invited to interview for a permanent position, which I got.

These days due to the state of the everything, there are probably 10-50 programmers for every open development position, depending on language and job type and company. It's a rough field out there and I got very, very lucky in my timing. But if you want to try it, the boot camp to job pipeline is probably your best bet. Ask the boot camp recruiters if they have connections to accessibility firms. If they don't, you can always try asking if they have connections to web development/site packaging firms and then check if the firms have an accessibility department. Tell the recruiter up front what you're looking to work in, and keep in mind that the recruiter's job is to convince you to give the boot camp your money. (Mine was $12k USD.)

For resources to study in the meantime, there's the A11y Project which has discussions, videos, articles, posts, etc about digital accessibility, a lot of good information. You can also look at the resources for the CPACC exam, I don't recommend taking it unless you have a few hundred USD to burn but you can definitely study up on the Body of Knowledge, which is a free PDF to download. And there is, in fact, an accessibility job board, although I don't have any experience with applying for any of these jobs cold.

The languages I use most in my job are HTML and jQuery, and I passively use (meaning I read and interpret but don't actually program in) JavaScript and CSS. This is mainly because we work with client sites and there's only so much of the client code we can touch; if there's a problem in the client code we can't touch we have to write it up and tell them to fix it. If you end up in house for some large brand you may end up working in more web development languages, but a lot of accessibility can be handled by basic HTML attributes called ARIA attributes (and roles) and there's the documentation on that. Another tool to have is your soft skills: communication, specificity of language, writing up good descriptions of what code does what so you can explain exactly what needs to be fixed where and why. You might also want to look at documentation on what makes good alt text, where it's needed, what kind of labels are standard, etc. I think you can find that in the A11y Project pages, but honestly I just learned it on the job working with senior developers.

It's a hard time to get into software development at all, let alone a niche field like web accessibility. But Europe is about to have a digital accessibility law come into effect in July of next year (that encompasses more than just the web, that's just my area of expertise) and the US is making slow but steady strides in requiring digital accessibility as well, so there are jobs out there and there might be companies hiring to capitalize on the need. There will definitely always be companies putting off conforming to regulations until the last possible minute, and then needing services and specialists. So study up, practice, and good luck!

[vashtijoy]

I was wondering if it is possible that the surname "Akechi" is actually a pseudonym/alias . . . like, his celebrity name, and not the surname of his mother. I don't think the game ever hints at it but it came to me because Dietman and the Silent Requester uses the alias concept and my brain kinda automatically assumes everything in that mission has some kind of parallel to Akechi himself, and because it would make sense to use a different name (that he chose for himself) from his mother for his Detective Prince image, honestly. Do you think that's possible?

This is a fun one, but for myself, I think it probably isn't that likely. Ditto the idea that Akechi is mukoseki (essentially, unregistered at birth, which would have put him at a very significant disadvantage).

Akechi obviously has a life beside what we see. He's registered in high school and is participating in university entrance, all of which he might struggle to access if he was unregistered; he's presumably registered as "Akechi Goro" and not a second name unknown to us. He's remarkably high-achieving, which tells us that he hasn't just been parachuted into a (probably private, as he makes a big deal of earning his school fees) high school post-Shido; he was likely in a good middle school before that, through his own efforts. He tells us he obsessed about his grades so someone would want him. School will have been a big deal for him—up to a point.

He must have been registered with a doctor at some point, and so on. He will have taken standardised tests in elementary and middle school, and those tests will have needed a name, and have gone on file. By the point of canon, he's taken the national mock exams. By the time he's in high school, people do not know that he's an orphan, that he was an unwanted child, that he never had a father—he's successfully hidden it all. Which is a story in itself, if you ask me; a story which might suggest a successful change of identity—or simply that he got into private school, perhaps on a scholarship, and never told anyone his history. Yusuke mentions that his Kosei scholarship entitles him to a free place in a dorm; I like to think that Akechi, in middle school, may have benefited from something like this.

He also works in multiple fields—he must get paid by someone, even if Shido isn't paying him a yen. So he must have a bank account; he must pay tax on that income—two things Shido might certainly be able to help him with, if he saw fit. But even if Shido gave him the apartment he lives in and a credit card for his day-to-day expenses, there's still a lot going on, that that alias would have to take into account.

Shido is capable of a lot, but Akechi can't ask Shido for help establishing his anti-Shido alias; that would ruin the plot. He could, perhaps, strongarm people's shadows into doing things for him, changing things, forgetting him; we know he interrogates them. We never see him do any of that, but you could easily hypothesise it, and I wouldn't put it past him at all.

But in the days before the Metaverse, Akechi already has a lot of paperwork pointing to him; he's not a ghost, he hasn't fallen between the cracks; he's a boy with a life and a history. He's not somebody who can just start going by a different name—not without it raising questions, and drawing attention. Not without people looking up years later, when he's on TV, and saying "hey, that's <name>".

but mom

It seems to me that Akechi is just going by the same name he's had all along, perhaps because some part of him wants Shido to know who he is, perhaps because it's his mother's name, it's his name, and he doesn't want to cast it aside. But then why doesn't Shido recognise his name, like he recognises his face?

It's often said that Shido just doesn't remember people, but in fact he remembers Joker's name—he remarks on it when he sees the death certificate, though he doesn't know where he's heard it. He is doing the same thing Joker is, when he knows Shido's face, his voice, but can't place them.

My suspicion is that Shido just never knew Akechi's mother's name, and that Akechi knows that was the case, and why it would be the case. I think she was a sex worker all along, and that Shido was one of her clients; that, perhaps with the charm and cleverness her son would later show, she wormed her way into his good graces, as much of a mixed blessing as that would have been.

Akechi does not really say, for instance, that his mother and Shido "had a relationship"; he uses the word aijin, which is much more like a mistress, or plaything. Some boys at Shujin talk about how Shiho is going to be Kamoshida's next aijin after Ann. Shadow Okumura suggests to Cognitive Sugimura that he make Haru his aijin—"just take her as your lover". A couple of women on Harmony Alley laugh about becoming the aijins of politicians so they can be spoiled rotten. And Akechi says that his mother and Shido had an aijin kankei—an aijin relationship; she was his mistress, and when she became pregnant, she was dropped like a hot potato.

Akechi's mother might well have used a name that wasn't her own, for her work. She might well have gone only by a given name. That seems more likely to me than Akechi setting one up for himself.

is it a stagename?

One thing makes it very clear that "Akechi Goro" is not a stagename, even if it is an alias: Akechi is not famous at the start of canon, and so he has no need for a stagename. We watch the Detective Prince develop in realtime. And Sae, who's clearly known him awhile, knows him as Akechi; he hasn't adopted a different name for the screen.

could you do it anyway :|a

Absolutely. Go wild. You don't even have to think about this shit if you don't want to. That said, if I was writing this, I would probably face tweeny Goro with at least a few of these issues.

[aspens-dragons]

can you tell us more about your job? or maybe the sanctuary in general?

oh for sure!! i dunno if ur asking for like job advice so im gonna try to be as objective for the first part of this!

i typically work 20 hours a week, 4 PM to 8 PM on mondays, wednesdays, and fridays, and from 1 PM to 9 PM on sundays, and i get paid 2895₽ an hour. i was referred to hideaway by mu dad (not the lawyer one) and my official job title is "veterinary assistant", and important things to note are that ive been with hideaway for over a year now, and i have a cpr certification, nursing assistant certificate, and i am currently enrolled in a pokemon emergency course at nar-uva. on this blog i mostly talk about a lotta the more lighthearted/silly parts of my job like c4 the torracat and all the clients but thats also like. definitely not the full picture.

as a vet assistant, i actually spend a lot of time inside; a lot of my stuff involves cleaning the exam rooms, taking samples of bodily fluids, sometimes i help with surgery prep, and i give medications and immunizations, as well as administering emergency first aid when necessary. outside of that, i also do other caretaking activities like helping with excerise and enrichment but that is typically a secondary task for me! up until recently though, i was in less of a tradition vet assist role b/c i was assigned to take care of one pokemon in particular and i was doing more general pokemon care but only for that pokemon. it was really fun honestly, a nice breath of fresh air; i was kinda nervous at first, i opted in for personal reasons i don't want to get into in this post and the pokemon in question was considered semi-slightly-dangerous, but honestly everything was pretty swell. i dont like that word im not saying it again.

as for more info on hideaway!

the sanctuary i work at is actually only one branch of an organization that has branches in every continent; this is the european one. there are a few asian ones (one in vijagha, one in johto, and one in hoenn), and i know unova has one too.

hideaway isn't really well known in terms of like the average joe knowing about us, but it's the kind of thing of if you're involved in conservation circles, you've almost definitely heard of us. we specialize in rehabilitation; a lot of the pokemon hideaway takes care of are victims of poachers, natural disasters, etc. hideaway also works semi-closely with a lotof governments, and our paldean branch specifically has even had paradox mons here (although i was too inexperienced at the time to handle them and even now tbh i refuse to get too close to a paradox mon.) the alola branch has taken care of ultra beasts which is. yeah no. im not transferring :(

anyway. we're also pretty involved in the community too and we also will take volunteers!! please volunteer we would love to have you!!!!!!

[compo67]

Is everything okay? You haven't been around in a bit and I'm worried! (Sorry if this is too parasocial of me! I don't want to intrude on your personal life. You don't have to respond to this!)

Hello anon,

Thank you for reaching out. I really appreciate it. I have been struggling to juggle everything on my plate, with varying degrees of success. Below the cut for an extended "why."

My father needed more care than I anticipated after coming back from Chile. I am caregiving twice a week, sometimes three. This includes taking him to appointments, doing his grocery shopping, setting up adaptive equipment, taking him out so he can walk around safe spaces, and keeping him company. I got respite from my older sister this past weekend, but it was just not long enough. I am so tired.

I have been battling flare ups and side effects. Still going for infusion therapy, PT, and other various appointments for myself. I have a nasty bruise on my left arm from infusion therapy, and a nasty bruise on my right arm from my liver MRI. Good news is that infusion therapy went well and the liver MRI came back stable. I am very grateful.

I had a health scare this week about my kidneys, but it seems like it's just costochondritis. It's painful, as it affects my ability to breathe or move, but I am used to my ribs flaring up. It's just... not ideal?

Finishing school was great! But then it launched me into attending a ton of webinars/seminars/networking events. I have been able to keep up with 90% of them, but it's been a real trip. I hate networking. I have had to push myself out of my comfort zone and that has been incredibly draining and anxiety-provoking.

I also received "feedback" on my LinkedIn profile from my mentor that I need to "tone it down" in regard to what I post/repost and comment on. All I post/repost/comment on about are queer/poc-related things. I spent an entire day crying about this "tone it down." I have been told before by society, by partners, by family members, by friends... to "tone it down," or, "stop being so obvious," or "don't go around flaunting it." Does anyone know how *difficult* it is existing in the world as my authentic self? If someone on LinkedIn doesn't like it, then they can kindly fuck off. I wouldn't want to work with them anyway.

It's been tough, anon.

Hockey is over, Delly got traded, and the Panthers blew their lead.

My HR certification exam is in 16 days. I do not feel like I've been able to adequately study/prepare. The amount of material to study is overwhelming. I have apps and flashcards, plus books, but I feel like I have neglected all of them this past week.

So. I have a lot on my plate right now. I can't even get my library books turned in on time because it feels like I never have enough time to do that. Not that I have time to read anyway.

Then there's the usual stuff like depression, shitty executive function, anxiety, and mood swings. Also, medications and side effects.

TLDR: I'm struggling and I am doing my best. You'll see more of me after July 6th (exam date).

I'm also just... really, really tired.

[helenstudies]

I hope I'm not being rude but how did you have the time to do everything on your bio when you're only 24? Can you share how you learnt a lot of languages?

It's fine. Believe it or not, people ask me that A LOT.

I'm born in Myanmar and only spoke Burmese until I was 10 and my mom decided her children should be able to speak English. She sent me and my sibling to an English Summer School and then started speaking English at home. I've been bilingual since then. Burmese people are very good at English (read: we were colonized by the British) I started learning Chinese at age 12, I think. Then at age 14 and 15, while writing novels and fanfictions, I taught myself how to read hanguel (korean script) and hiragana/katakana (japanese script) then started studying formally after graduating highschool.

In Myanmar, until a few years ago, high school students used to graduate at age 16 and go to the university. So when I graduated high school, I went the distance education route in University and became a freelance translator and interpreter. I also did some transcribing and content writing. Then I went to Korea and studied in a language program. I came back after nine months and at age 19 I just started taking things seriously and self studied everything to pass all the language certification exams.

In 2021, because of the military coup, I dropped out of high school, realized my freelance translator job is not really going well due to the dictatorship, so I started to branch out. Now I read tarot and interpret astrological birth charts, teach classes and tutor people, sell books and ebooks. That's just how freelancing is. I think.

Anyways, all these things seem a lot until you realize I just spent a decade of my life just doing things I want. A lot of people tried discouraging me of course They're always like "choose a language!" "choose a path!" but I just don't like to listen to people. Hopefully, a few more decades and I might become a jack of all trades. And learn a few more languages. And read a few more books. And get into a few more hobbies. Yeah.