#[I made this joke with Lin and thought it should be on here.]

[ofstarsandskies]

Bad End Small Chat -- Think of the Children!

Koun: Oh fuck this-- Julius: Koun, children could hear you. Watch your language. Koun: You're pointing at your brother, you know. Julius: Did I stutter?

[tiredfox64]

Hellooo! First of all, I love your fics, especially Tomas's. They are very entertaining and the way you write is just great ^^

This is more of a question than a request, although you can develop it further if you want.

How would the linkuei trio react to a s/o who says "I hate men... except you"

It came to me out of nowhere and I thought it was funny 🙃

There Are Exceptions

Prior notes: Hehehe I throughly enjoyed writing this. Also I forgot to say this with other people’s requests who gave me compliments but thank you so much for liking my writing! (*´∀｀*)

Pairing: Lin Kuei Bros x Afab reader

Warnings ‼️: Men

Bi-Han

These dim witted, nitwit goobers who serve your husband are too much to handle. All they know how to do is punch and kick. They have no other survival instincts that can save their asses.

It’s so tiring being the one to try to help them with whatever. A woman can only do so much.

You tried teaching them how to sew only for them to say something stupid like it’s a woman’s hobby. Forget about cooking. You have never seen someone screw up scramble eggs so much that it doesn’t even form. How the fuck does it stay watery? And why are you the only one who knows how to fold clothes? Screw steaming out their wrinkles.

Your last straw today came in the nighttime when one of the clansmen came up to you and ask the most stupidest question you have ever heard.

“Uhm, some of the men were telling me that a woman’s period was when she peels her skin every month. Is that true? Cause if it is you hide it well.” This clueless assassin…oh goodness.

You just stared blankly at the young man. It had to be a joke, right? They can’t be that stupid. Actually, you don’t want to know if they are that stupid. You walked away briskly with one thing on your mind and you had to shout it out. The moment you walk into your bedroom you slammed the door shut and screamed,

“I hate men!”

Bi-Han was already in bed, waiting for you to come around. He stared at you with that grumpy expression he always has before folding his arms in front of his chest. A low grumble was being emitted by him.

How can you say you hate men when you are married to one? One that treats you like the queen you are considered you are the grandmaster’s wife. He is also one who pleasures you till you are fully satisfied. Course, it’s more like you have to go on until he is satisfied.

“…except you.”

“Mhm, that’s right. I should be the exception here. I am the grandmaster, I deserve your full respect.” Bi-Han reminded you of his role as if he doesn’t do so every day.

“And you are also my husband,” you walked up to him and placed a kiss on his forehead, “Now would you mind spooning me for tonight.”

“After that outburst, I am unsure if you deserve it.” Now he’s just being petty.

You pouted as you changed into your sleepwear. If Bi-Han looked for at least five seconds he would have caved. But he looked away immediately to prevent himself from changing his decision. You huffed as you slipped into bed. You went on your side and pretended like you didn’t care. You did because you always lost the idgaf war.

“Please, I love you.” You said over your shoulder.

Bi-Han let out a groan before turning over and wrapping his arms around your waist. Haha you win.

You may not like men but you love this man. You like this man because he’s your man.

Kuai Liang

Why does no one think of the logical answer to something?

You go out to the market all the time so you could help feed the Shirai Ryu. It helps lessen responsibilities for your husband. But even this simple task is made difficult and stupid because of some of the venders. More specifically the men.

You asked for watermelon and they hand you plastic containers with the funkiest bits of watermelon. They are discolored and are definitely past their ripeness. Yet they all tell you it’s fine. It’s not fine! It’s not good quality! Why even cut the watermelon in the first place you can do it yourself!

You want some mangos? Well you can’t fucking have any because they don’t got it. Oh what’s that? A BUNCH OF FUCKING MANGOS RIGHT BEHIND THEM! And they tell you that those are honey mangoes you didn’t specifically ask for those. They told you no because they thought you wanted Haden mangoes. Just give the woman a fucking mango!

You’re so over those male venders. They never even help you pack the carts up.

You’re too tired went you get back to the temple. You let everyone else pack the food away without helping out this time. You can’t be bothered. You take your shoes off, step into the temple, and sigh heavily.

“I hate men.” You groaned.

You didn’t realize Kuai Liang was coming up to you to greet you. You looked up and saw his face. He stared blankly with a bit of concern.

“…except you.”

You wanted to make it right so you ran up to him, giving him many kisses and hugging him.

“What has made you so hateful, my love? Did someone at the market bother you?” He asked with concern.

Kuai Liang was not at all mad at what you said. He found it odd which meant there was something wrong. His hands went up to check if maybe it was something physical. He would hate to find out you were hurt while out. What kind of husband would he be if he can’t protect his wife?

“Many people bothered me at the market today. Some people are unfortunate stupid.” You replied.

“Perhaps you can tell me all about it in bed. I’ll make you some tea to help with the stress.” He took your hands as you both walked to the bedroom.

Kuai Liang is the kind of man you need in your life. If only the men at the market had his intelligence. Though you do like being cared for when there is any sign of distress from you. It makes you feel like a princess.

Tomas

To help train the Earthrealm champions is like trying to train a seal, a kangaroo, a bison, and a Komodo dragon to leap at least a meter out of the water. One will succeed, another will jump but not reach it, another one won’t try to jump, and the other will be too busy trying to mate with you.

They are all nice in their own way but Johnny is the worst of them all. You tell him you are happily married and it’s in one ear and out the other. Just because his marriage failed doesn’t mean yours has to.

Kenshi is alright he just has stubborn. He believes it’s nerves that wins fights. If that were true why does he keep failing to you. And when he is not going against you he’s going after Johnny’s throat. You get it, Johnny won’t give back Sento. But now is not the time to bust his ass.

Kung Lao just gets on everyone’s nerves. You have never seen a bunch of monks ready to implode and strangle someone. Don’t forget that you almost lost your head because he flung his hat in the wrong direction. All you got back was a small ‘sorry’ before he took his hat and ran off.

And Raiden…he’s fine. He’s done no wrong.

Yet no matter what you always have to return and help the fools. You give and give and what do you receive? Hell!

You are exhausted when you return home. You don’t talk to anyone you just go straight to your bedroom. You let out a groan the whole time and when the door closes you let that groan become words.

“I hate men.”

Tomas was already waiting for you in the bedroom. He was walking up to you to hug you until he heard those words. He looked concerned and even a little sad.

Well he’s a man, do you hate him? Did he do something wrong? He hopes he didn’t, he doesn’t want an unhappy wife.

Your attitude immediately went away at the sight of Tomas.

“…except you.”

You ran into his arms and hugged him tight. You could never hate a man like Tomas. He is your husband after all. You picked a good one compared to all the other men that you have seen.

“I’m guessing they upset you again.” He asked.

You nodded. The day is already over you don’t feel like talking about every single stupid thing that they did. Tomas understood and hugged you tight.

“Do you want me to beat them up?” He whispered jokingly in your ear.

For once today you laughed. He always manages to bring a smile to your face. You wish you could let him but that would be a bad decision. Though it’s funny to think about. He was just happy to hear that wonderful laugh of yours. It just shows that he’s a good man to you. He can turn a frown upside down and make you see the good in men. Or at least the good in him.

After notes: Can you tell I got pissed off with Kuai Liang’s part? That shits a little too true. Those instacart tik toks be crazy. Here’s a little experience of when I hated men: one didn’t take no for an answer for YEARS. He still can’t take no even from other girls. But most of the men I know are good. Alright enough yip yap I must march on. Adiós!

[restinslices]

MK1 x Winter Soldier Reader Intros

Me not writing only about the Lin Kuei Bros? Who would've thought. Idk why I thought of this but here we are. For those not into Marvel the simplest way to explain TWS is he was in the Army in the 50s then he was injected with the super soldier serum and forced to become an assassin with over two dozen assassinations in the last 50 years. You're not a white guy named James “Bucky” Barnes, you just hold the title. Also you got a metal arm, it’ll make sense later-

Kung Lao: You’re a Winter Soldier? 

Y/N: I am The Winter Soldier 

Kung Lao: Ugh, more training?

Y/N: Do you expect to get better through sheer luck?

Kung Lao: I take it Liu Kang doesn’t allow assassins to be Earthrealm’s champion?

Y/N: Assassins and failures, such as yourself

 

Kung Lao: How do I become a Winter Soldier?

Y/N: You don’t 

Raiden: It is an honor to be trained by you 

Y/N: As is to train Earthrealm’s champion 

Raiden: I can’t imagine going through what you have 

Y/N: Good. You’ll save yourself nightmares

 

Y/N: Sometimes I worry I’m not a good person

Raiden: You are a good person through and through

 

Y/N: I wish I had lightning powers

Raiden: I wish I had your metal arm

(These rabid dogs behind him-)

Liu Kang: I hoped your life would be better this time

Y/N: Why hope when you had the power to change it and didn’t?

Y/N: You let my life go down this path?

Liu Kang: I cannot control everything

 

Y/N: You let me be a part of Earthrealm’s defenses, why? Pity?

Liu Kang: Because you are a capable warrior who deserves more in life

Liu Kang: Do you doubt my care for you?

Y/N: You expect me to still believe our friendship is real?

Y/N: I am not playing an assassin in your movie

Johnny: Aw, but you have tons of experience 

Johnny: How much for the arm?

Y/N: Not for sale

(That debt kicking his ass)

Johnny: Your life could make an amazing movie

Y/N: You’ll become a real victim if I see it

Johnny: Over two dozen assassinations but a date with me would ruin you?

Y/N: If I had to pick between being a mindless assassin and dating you, I’d put my mask back on

Kenshi: Wanna trade predicaments?

Y/N: A blindfold looks much better on you

 

Kenshi: Have you ever fought a blind swordsman?

Y/N: Not sure it’d be fair to count it as a fight

 

Y/N: I too understand the need for a new life 

Kenshi: Perhaps that is why we are such good friends

 

Kenshi: Planning on giving me a hand?

Y/N: I don’t think you’d see it coming

Y/N: And they call me The Winter Soldier 

Bi-Han: Jokes will not help you win this fight

 

Bi-Han: You have not a shred of hope against the Lin Kuei’s Grandmaster

Y/N: Your ego is what’ll knock you down in the end

 

Bi-Han: You won’t have the element of surprise with me

Y/N: Oh Bi-Han, I’ll be the last thing you see before you die 

Bi-Han: You alone won’t take the Lin Kuei down

Y/N: I’ve taken a whole country down in one night. Excuse me for not being scared

Kuai Liang: I am glad to have your support 

Y/N: You always will

 

Y/N: Are you willing to kill Bi-Han if he does not back down?

Kuai Liang: I am not sure

Y/N: Liu Kang could’ve made all our lives better and chose not to

Kuai Liang: You have to believe in his judgment

 

Kuai Liang: Liu Kang is not your enemy 

Y/N: He is certainly not our friend

Y/N: I’ve heard you’re a great fighter 

Tomas: I’ve heard the same about you

 

Tomas: You look great for 106 years old

Y/N: God, you gotta stop hanging around Johnny

 

Tomas: Why still defend Earthrealm if you’re so angry?

Y/N: The same reason you do; the need to protect is bigger than anger

Tomas: Why’d I have to hit Madam Bo and not you?

Y/N: I’m left/right handed and that’s the metal one soooo…

"I'm gonna write angst soon" *proceeds to write dumb Marvel x Mortal Kombat shit* I could've looked for gifs when they clash but my tumblr is actually so glitchy, if I did that I'd Kate Marsh. Also disclaimer. I should be writing Liar pt 3 and I have some of it written but I'm fr not having fun with it. For whatever reason it's just not making me happy like Mortal Kombat is. And as a bitch who has bad depression and that shit gets alarmingly bad during this time of year, uhhh I don't wanna do something that's not making me happy. I'm not tryna go to another hospital so Imma put off writing it until I'm having fun. Who knows, maybe that'll be next week. But yeah, that's for the Shadow and Bone fans here. Also also a fanfic, oneshot, drabble, whatever the fuck about being with Liu Kang (or being friends) and thinking your relationship is fake because as your creator he must've forced it to happen (he didn't but ya know). Am I cooking 'cause I feel like I am.

[thewalkingwillowtree]

Courting Ayelýn

Series Listing Found Here

Aonung x Original Na'vi Female Character

Summery: Pressured by his parents to enter a formal courtship, Aonung rebels in his own way and what starts as a ruse, turns into something real. 

Note before reading: This is a spin off of my Safe Haven Series.

Reading Safe Haven is not necessary to follow this story.

Some characters have been aged up. Aonung in particular is 25.

Ayelýn is my own creation. *Pronounced Aye-Lin

~

Part 2 - When They Agreed

“Absolutely not!”

The smile on his lips died. “No? What? Why?” 

“W- what do you mean, why?” she implored. “I should be the one asking you that! What is this about, Aonung? You have to explain yourself! You can’t just-” 

“Hey, hey, okay,” he tried to sooth, as she turned upset. “I’m sorry! You’re right.” He was already messing up, forgetting everything he and Lo’ak had practiced beforehand. “Will you at least give me the chance to explain?”

Ayelýn scoffed in disbelief.

What in the Great Mother’s mighty name was happening?

“Ayelýn.” 

Out of habit, she nervously tugged at her tail, staring at him with no response. Lýn wanted nothing more than to desert their present conversation. She was uncomfortable and trying very hard to stay respectful. For the fifth time, she had to mentally remind herself she was talking to her future chief. Cursing him out would not bode well. 

“Lýn?” he called again. 

Reluctantly nodding, she agreed to hear him out. “Okay.” 

His shoulders slumped in relief. “Okay.” 

“So,” she said lamely. “I’m sensing there’s a story here?”

“A tiring one, yes,” he agreed, turning away and plonking himself on a mat around her family’s tiny crafted table.  

Ayelýn watched dumbly as Aonung made himself comfortable- body sprawled in a lounged position that showed off his- well his everything. Abs, thighs, chest- arms that held him up as he leaned against them. 

Eywa, the man was large!

He patted the space beside him expectantly, and she complied, but not without a dramatic huff. 

“I need your help. More specifically… I need a courting partner,” he started. “I’ve been instructed by my parents to find one.”

“And your first thought was me?” she snorted, thinking this was all some kind of cruel joke. 

“Not exactly,” he replied with a chuckle that seemed more sad than amused. 

She fidgeted as he launched into his story, telling her everything from his parents’ expectations, to his elaborate plan that heavily relied and involved her… Technically she was right. He didn’t exactly want court… he only wanted her to pretend. 

And when he was finished, Lýn was just as confused and no less convinced. “Your story is sad and all but I’m sorry, I-”

“It’d be for a short while, Ayelýn. Just long enough that it seems real.” 

“Real?” she frowned. “Alright, let’s say we did… We’d make that happen how exactly? Have you noticed we can’t have a single conversation without breaking out into an argument?” 

“That’s not fucking true. I-”

At her pointed look, he bit his tongue. “Ayelýn, all I’m asking is for you to show up to a couple feasts and ceremonies with me, maybe hold my hand or kiss my cheek, bat your eyelashes and pretend that we-”

“Are in love?”

“Like each other,” he bit out. “Just enough to get my parents off my tail.” 

“Why me?” 

“Why not you?” he tried to tease, but she wasn’t impressed. 

“Will you stop behaving as if this is no big ask and be serious for once?! You came to me of all people to help you. Why? I’m sure you have a slew of women who’d be more than willing to play pretend with you, Aonung. There are rumors you know? About you and- and your-”

His lips quirked, entertained at how flush she was suddenly getting. Her blush was fucking adorable. “My what, gorgeous? Go on, you can say it,” he taunted. “I believe in you.”

The stinging smack against his chest in retaliation was well deserved, and it was taking everything within him to not burst out into laughter at her expression when she realized what she’d done. 

“Again I say, you are such a child!” she seethed, too caught up to apologize to her future chief for her violence. The man was ridiculous!

“Me? You’re the one that can’t say the word, co-”

“Your playmates, Aonung!” she belted. “I don’t know what you were thinking, but I was going to say playmates.” 

The smug skxawng had the audacity to look disappointed that she hadn’t said what he was actually thinking. 

“And judging by just how many rumors I’ve heard, I’m sure they are very true!” she continued. “Just look at you!” she emphasized, moving her hand up and down towards his body.

“Aw thanks, gorgeous. You think I’m attractive?”

“Aonung!”

“What does it matter?” He was getting slightly annoyed now. He was so used to getting his way with women. Why was she making this so difficult? Truthfully he knew she wouldn’t agree straight away, but he didn’t think it’d take this much to convince her. 

“It matters to me, you skxawng!” Her tail thrashed behind her, irritated and itching to whip him again. “I’m not stupid… I’m from Keftxo and not- not Awa’atlu.”

“What does that have to do with anything?” 

“Oh we’re pretending already, are we?” she asked sarcastically. “Have you thought this through enough? Who’s going to believe that you choose me out of all the options you have? I’ve got nothing, Aonung! Nothing! I’m from Keftxo. I have no status, no achievements-” she listed, gesturing to her body that bore no tattoos of any significance besides the small one for completing her coming into adulthood rites. “I’m a scrubber for Eywa sake! Who’s going to believe that you’d want me as your future mate, because I sure won’t!” 

He leaned into her personal space, arms practically trapping her as one rested on the table and the other on the floor- brushing her folded knee. “You sure don’t think very highly of yourself, do you, gorgeous?” 

“That’s not-”

“I promise you that the reason I picked you has nothing to do with you being from Keftxo, and certainly nothing to do with your status.” 

She licked her lips and he caught the action. “Why then?”

“Because for some strange reason, you’re immune to my charm. You didn’t even like the tongue thing I did,” he said, sounding almost disappointed. “They all like that.”

“Stop.” 

“Say yes.”

“No.”

“If I wanted another woman, I’d have done so. But I didn’t… I want you.”

That had no right sounding the way it sounded.

“Aonung…” her tone was warning.

“Ayelýn.”

“People will talk.”

“Let them. Their opinions mean nothing to me.”

“What about what it means to me?”

“You don’t care what people think.” 

“You don’t know me!”

“Then I’ll get to.” 

“I’ll get on your nerves.”

“Oh, I’m counting on it.”

“You’ll get on mine.”

“Can’t be helped but I’ll work on it.”

“I might stifle you in your sleep.”

He grinned. “Already thinking of us sleeping together, are we? Naughty, naughty, Ayelýn.” 

“Aonung.” She tried to push him backwards needing space- and air to think. Eywa, he smelled good.

The bastard didn’t budge though. He was doing a weird pleading thing with his face that made her tummy give a little swoop. Ayelýn groaned and slumped forward, forehead smacking against one very firm pectoral… She felt her resolve slipping. 

Maybe she wasn’t as immune as he’d said.

She straightened up when she felt the vibrations of his chuckles. “This is an awful lot you’re expecting from me… It might sound selfish but what exactly do I get out of it?” 

“What do you want?” 

Ayelýn nibbled on the edge of her thumb. Given the sudden rare opportunity, there was one thing she really wanted, but it seemed too big a thing to ask. 

“The entire thing is insane, you do know that right?” she complained instead, backtracking again. She couldn’t even believe she was actually considering it either. 

“What else am I supposed to do?”

“I don't know, have you tried being honest with your parents?” 

“No. I really haven’t. I won’t either,” he replied candidly. 

“So you’d rather lie to them? You’d rather create this whole scheme- this… this ruse-”

“Yes,” he said firmly, cutting her off. “Ayelýn, please… This is my only option at the moment.”

Silence descended between them. He stared at her while she studied him. Desperate eyes dancing with searching ones.  

“You’re good at this, you know, convincing me to do things that I damn well know is going to end in disaster.”

That cocky smirk began to grow across his lips. “Well, you kn-”

“Don’t speak. Or you’ll ruin everything.” 

He pressed his lips together, unable to hide his amusement. The skxawng knew he’d won. 

‘When have you ever done anything daring?’ her mind mocked as she ran through possible scenarios of how badly this could all end.

“Okay,” she decided after her silent moment of deliberation. “Okay, I’ll help you.”

Aonung opened his mouth to speak but she cut him off before he could, index finger sternly pointed up at him. 

“But! I reserve full right to end this whenever I want to… If it’s too uncomfortable or- or too much.”

“Deal.” 

“And, only if my parents agree with your request to formally court me… As much as I hate this- lying to them- they can’t know the truth either.”

He was a little less confident about that aspect- only because her father didn’t appear to think much of him- but he nodded anyway. 

“Easy. Double deal.”

Ayelýn eyed his outstretched arm warily for a beat too long, then clasped it with hers- the size difference drastically noticeable since his swallowed hers entirely. 

“Double deal,” she repeated. 

~

The rest of the afternoon passed in a world wind. 

Right after they’d made their deal, Lýn’s family had shown up- evidently too eager to stay away any longer and Aonung was invited for dinner the moment he tried to apologize for overstaying his welcome.

While he and Aldurf- Lýn’s father, engaged in awkward small talk that was thankfully interrupted by an excited Kaiiff, Ayelýn helped her mother prepare a simple spread consisting of spicy, roasted fishtails, a fragrant seaweed and tslikllte broth and some leftover nectar dipped fruit. 

Throughout their meal, Bwena blushed profusely and flicked her wrist in an “oh stop” motion, every time Aonung complimented her.

He praised cooking skills after tasting each dish offered to him and Ayelýn had to force herself to stop rolling her eyes at each flattering remark given. Especially the ones when he admired her mother’s grand tapestry that had taken her many moons to complete.  

Kaiiff, on the other hand, bombarded their visitor with question after question. “Do you have your own spear?” the eight year old asked after a big gulp of broth. “Did you craft it yourself?” He wiped his mouth messily and pointed. “What’s this tattoo for?” He listened intently as Aonung explained, then, “Oh and that one? And what about the one on your calf?”  

Aonung thankfully took it all in stride, delving into tales of his adventures in the far oceans when he’d been asked, “Did you really defeat an akula on your own? I heard a rumor that you did.” He grinned at the wide-eyed, awed expression on the youngling’s face that so reminded him of his own little brother. 

To Ayelýn however, it was incredibly annoying how quickly her family became besotted with the skxawng. Thankfully she could rely on her father to show some sort of emotion other than instant acceptance. 

Aldurf didn’t glare per say, but sat back quietly while everyone spoke, staring at their guest with uncertainty. And by the time their stomachs were filled, the sound of her father clearing his throat lulled their chatter- future Olo'eyktan included. 

“Kaiiff, go play.”

The little boy pouted at being dismissed, but got up anyway, taking a long piece of driftwood with him. He’d apparently been trying to whittle it into a spear all week. 

“So,” Lýn’s father started, gaze trained on Aonung who shifted nervously. “What brings you to our home, son of Tonowari? What makes you seek out my only daughter?”

“Well I-” Aonung was suddenly anxious. When did that ever happen to him? “I was hoping to get to know your daughter, sir… with your permission of course.” 

When Aldurf made no effort to respond, Aonung glanced at Ayelýn who rolled her eyes at his silent plea for help.

Taking pity, she gestured to the man sitting beside her. “Sempul, the skxawng said he intends to court me.”

“Gorgeous!” Aonung chastised, the nickname rolling naturally from his lips as a whispered hiss. “You can’t call me that in front of your parents.” 

“Then you can’t call me that either.”

“Not happening.”

“Then skxawng it is,” she smiled.

“Wow…” He stared. “You should do that more often.”

Her smile dropped. “Do what?”

“Smile. I like it. It’s pretty. Do it again.”

“I only smile with people I like.”

“Ouch, and here I thought you liked me plenty.”

“Shut. Up.”

“Never.”

The clearing of a throat had them straightening up as though chastised- both reminded that the same thing had happened once before.

Bwena was grinning so wide, she appeared giddy while Aldurf finally seemed more at ease- more his usual relaxed self. Obviously they saw something Lýn didn’t.

Disappointed by her parent’s reactions, Ayelýn knew it wouldn’t take much for them to agree to Aonung’s request.

She guessed she was going through with this facade after all. 

~

A week later, Ayelýn was slowly placing the length of the beach near Aonung’s private hideaway. It would be the first time they saw each other since he’d approached her with this wild idea and she’d be lying if she said she wasn’t nervous. 

The loud shriek of a skimwing alerted her of Aonung’s arrival. His water beast coasted expertly, finned wings causing large rippled waves before the future chief was soon lurched and landing on the sand with grace. 

“Show off!” Ayelýn called out in greeting, causing him to grin. “Skxawng, you’re late.”

“Only a little. I got back from my hu-” When he’d closed the distance between them and had finally seen her properly, his words got stuck in his throat, causing him to choke. 

“You, alright there?”

“Fine, mm,” he croaked, knocking his chest with his knuckles. “You-” He coughed and tried again. “I like your- you look beautiful.”

“Oh… Thank you.” 

Ayelýn had put some effort into her appearance for tonight’s plans. Hair tamed with a salt and sweet scented herbed balm, Lýn’s natural curls fell above her waist, shiny and defined. She wore her best top- an intricate creation she’d made with brightly coloured coral that was delicately woven. Her flowy tweng had detailed braided cords and beads along the edge and she’d borrowed her mother’s neck piece which glittered with rare stones her father had traded for many years ago. 

“Well uh, let’s go. We really are late.”

“Wait, wait!” She hurriedly grabbed his hand. “Shouldn’t we discuss this first?” At his confused expression, she huffed. “What are the rules? The plan?”

“Rules. Can’t we just go with the flow?”

“Aonung, this will be the first time anyone sees us together. Your friends are going to be at this feast… your family.”

Aonung tracked her expressions. “You’re nervous,” he concluded, feeling like a dick. He pulled her closer with the hand she was already clutching. “Alright. Tell me what you need to know.”

He felt pleased from her grateful sigh of relief, and listened intently as she began to explain herself. At some point, whilst she rambled on, listing her rules of do’s and don’ts and definitely no kissing, Aonung unconsciously zoned her out.   

Because Eywa… He couldn’t stop staring at her. 

~

Awa’atlu was an explosion of festivity. 

Ayelýn had been to her fair share of feasts and celebrations at other neighboring villages, but this would be her first one at Awa’atlu. Everything in the main village was bigger, grander… And tonight was no exception. 

The beach was packed, all in the name of celebrating the first harvest of the new moons. Lit torches along the shore glowed brightly in contrast with the dark sky and sea. And past the dancing bodies that moved to the thundering beats of massive drums was an archway- it was majestic, thick mangrove roots twisting and connecting, leading to an enormous communal space.

Lýn kept hold of Aonung’s hand as they made their way through a throng of clan members. Bows and signs of respect followed them with every step- along with whispers and stares of curiosity. 

When they approached the feast area, Aonung squeezed her hand. “Fuck.”

“What’s wrong?” she asked, tilting her head upward to catch his expression, finding it closed off.  

Instead of responding, he changed the direction they’d been going in and Ayelýn quickly caught on.

They’d been summoned.

She didn’t think it’d be this soon. 

Ahead of them sat a line of regally adorned Na’vi. The council. And seated directly in the middle of that row was none other than Tonowari and Ronal. 

Growing up, Lýn had seen the clan leaders from afar on a rare couple occasions, but this would be her first interaction with them. 

At the impressive sight of Tonowari, she silently chastised herself for not figuring out who Aonung was sooner. Just like his son, the chief was a beast of a man- and even seated, Lýn felt small in comparison.  

Both she and Aonung bent with respectful greetings toward the Olo'eyktan and Tsahìk. The act meant the loss of Aonung’s grip, a comfort Ayelýn instantly missed. He’d gone completely ridged beside her, thus causing her anxiety to spike. 

“Late again, Aonung,” his mother voiced, tersely and although her words were directed to her son, her attention was trained on his female companion. 

“Apologies, sa'nok.” 

“Who is your friend?” his father asked.

“I am Ayelýn,” Lýn said. “It is an honor to meet you, Olo'eyktan. Tsahìk.”

Tonowari was kind enough to politely return her greeting, but Ronal’s gaze only intensified. 

Ayelýn knew Ronal’s stare was meant to intimidate, and she’d have cowered at any other time, but somehow a surge of boldness took over. She did not back down, did not break the fierce eye contact until Ronal blinked and bared a hint of a smile that conveyed her intrigue. 

“Ayelýn… I’m assuming this is your mysterious courtship partner?” Tonowari questioned, and before his son could answer, the chief was addressing Lýn. “Aonung has told us too little about you. It is good to put a name and a face to Aonung’s stories. I was beginning to think you didn’t exist,” the chief said, and though Lýn knew it was a joke, she tensed at the tone of his words. 

Sending a fleeting glance to her pretend partner, she caught the irritated tick of his jaw. The tension was glaringly extreme, so Lýn tried to break it with a chuckle that came out more shaky than amused. 

“It’s my fault for that actually, ” she lied, addressing the chief. “I wasn’t quite ready to take the next step. I’m grateful Aonung has been so patient with me.”

Her fingers reach out to tangle with Aonung’s as she ignored his burning stare. 

“Is that so?” Tonowari asked intriguingly. His gaze found her village’s beads. “How is it that you two met? I didn’t realize that Keftxo held your interest, son.” 

Head still bowed, a cloud of growing rage appeared on Aonung’s face and as his lips parted to speak, Lýn quickly cut in again. 

“That would be my fault too, Ma Olo'eyktan,” she laughed- more believable this time. “How we met is quite the story. You see I had narrowly escaped a dangerous riptide. My canoe got caught on some rocks and thankfully it washed up near here. Seeing that I’ve never been to Awa’atlu, Aonung was kind enough to take care of me… He was quite charming, and well… here we are.” 

Careful with her explanation, she made sure not to be specific about their timeline. As far as his parents thought, they’d been secretly together for months. 

“Here we are.” Tonowari gave an impressed, hum. “Well. I'm pleased to see that he’s finally settling down. And to you Ayelýn, welcome. I hope we see more of you. Aonung, we shall speak later,” he said, dismissing them. “Go on. Enjoy the celebrations.”

Later on and after she’d been briefly introduced to Aonung’s rowdy group of friends who gestured approvingly at her in the way men usually did with each other over a woman, the pair settled amongst them to enjoy the feast. 

Away from the leaders of her clan, Lýn finally relaxed somewhat- shoulders slumping as pent up tension slowly left her body.

Uncaring of the stares, she awkwardly shuffled closer to Aonung, leaning against his side as if it were natural- and after a while of them both figuring out what worked- it did… feel natural. 

She felt his breath tickle her hair as his shoulders shook. 

“Are you sniffing me?” 

“No!” she lied. Then, “Fine, yes. Only a little,” she whispered back. “I’m stressed and your scent is annoyingly comforting,” she huffed. 

Instead of teasing her for her comment like he’d usually do, he tugged her closer, one large palm curling across her hip. And sure it might have all been for show, but some small part of him fluttered happily at the feeling of him being her comfort. 

“Eywa. I think I feel my heart in my throat,” she mumbled. “Do you think your parents bought it? It felt like they saw straight through me!”

“You did good,” he mumbled in praise against her temple. “Far better than I did… My mother likes you.” 

“Really?” she snorted, peering up at him, dubiously. “How could you possibly tell? She said not one word to me and glared the entire time, you skxawng.”

Aonung shrugged. “She smiled. She doesn’t do that with just anyone.” He snickered as if realizing something. 

“What?”

“Seems like you and my mother have something in common.” 

“Mm… Aonung,” she said gently, shifting a tad closer so they wouldn’t be overheard. “Is it always like that? With them,” she clarified. 

His tongue poked the inside of his cheek and he shook his head. “Not always. They’re not very happy with me right now, is all.”

“Why?” she frowned. “Because of the courtship?”

“A little bit… My parents don’t love it when I rebel against the life they intend me to be living.” He smirked in faux amusement. “Unfortunately, I am a stubborn disappointment and I just can’t help myself.”

Ayelýn didn’t find any humor in his words, she felt sympathy if anything. “How would you like to live your life?”

Aonung blinked in surprise. No one had ever asked him that question. “I'm still figuring it out,” he whispered honestly. 

A high pitched whistle and bang of a drum interrupted their moment.

Everyone’s attention fell on Tonowari who stood before them. His voice was resonant as he greeted them and his speech was beautiful and full of praise for his people.

Then, after Ronal led the clan in a chanting, melodic prayer, they feasted.

Aonung begrudgingly untangled himself from her when the food arrived. “Are you hungry?” 

From the lavish spread they were sharing with others around them, he dished out her meal for her, adding more and more despite her feeble protests. 

“That’s way too much, Aonung!” she laughed, tugging at his arm and wrist to stop him from putting another serving. “I can’t possibly finish all of that.” 

“Then I’ll finish what you can’t,” he responded easily, swiping a slice of fish from her leaf and licking the juice from his fingertips. 

It didn’t take long after that for them both to start bickering.

And, so lost in the moment between the two of them, when Ayelýn finally glanced around- if she thought people were staring before, they most certainly were now.

Even Rotox was peering at them in surprise. Catching himself, he smiled at her and engaged her in small talk, making her feel welcomed. 

Midway through their meal, they were interrupted by two newcomers. 

An omaticaya male who Ayelýn figured was none other than Lo’ak- gave her a knowing smirk as Aonung introduced her to his sister. 

“I thought you were finally done with this, foolishness,” Tsireya chidingly whispered to him sometime later, while Lo’ak and Ayelýn were in the middle of a heated debate about the tastiest part of a fish. 

“Reya-”

“You promised you’d try.”

“And I am.” He gave her a meaningful look.

“Oh… So, she- Ayelýn’s the one you said you found then? The one you told us about?”

Aonung felt a stab of guilt for lying to his sister. He nodded. 

“I owe you an apology then,” she sighed. “I thought you lied… and that she was just another plaything of yours.”

“She’s definitely not.”

Tsireya smiled. “Good. Because I like her.” 

They both watched as a fiery Ayelýn and Lo’ak continued to argue their points- each trying to get poor Rotxo to take a side. 

“Me too,” Aonung agreed.

~

At Aonung’s instance, he accompanied her back Keftxo- her hanging off his back as his skingwing glided them through the ocean. Avoiding the long journey, they used a shortcut through a coral filled channel and arrived on the northern side of her village. 

But something was wrong… Lýn sensed it the instant they stepped foot at the edge of a dilapidated dock.

The loud roar of crashing waves could be heard from the south. In addition, orders being called out, mingled with screams and shouts of terror coming from every direction accompanied the clan’s mess of movement. 

Lýn ran to the nearest person- Aonung close behind, calling out, “Slwen!”

Slwen, an elderly Na'vi, held a crying toddler in her arms, whilst two little ones clung to her legs. “What is happening?”

“The terrace wall at the south side. A breach. It- it happened so fast. They tried to barricade it, but the waves were too rough.” She was shaking. “Homes collapsed, Lýn” she revealed. “They are searching for the missing.”

“Lýn, wait!” Aonung tried to pull her back but she slipped past him in a flash. “Fuck.” Moving quickly, he gave a stern order to a terrified teenaged boy- telling him to get to the nearest village and bring help. Then, he was running after Ayelýn.

Sprinting through her village, Lýn’s heart pounded as people ran in the opposite direction. The terrace wall was centuries old. There had been breaches in the past- breaches they were able to mend- but if it ever broke all the way… their little village was no match for the fury of the sea. 

“Ayelýn!” Aonung caught her around the waist, flinging them around so he faced her. “Stay!” he ordered loudly with a pointed finger. 

“My family!”

“I mean it! Don’t!” And with that, he took off in the direction of the commotion, leaving her behind. 

The further south he got, the worse he saw. 

Water came up to his shins along what was once a southern dock. It was rising alarmingly fast. He could see men and women straining to hold up the barriers- high waves angrily splashing over the illuminated natural wall that creaked loudly.

Snapping sounds rippled with every new crack and more and more water escaped between them- washing away Na’vi with its powerful force.

And just ahead he spotted the remains of collapsed maruis- the tops of their ceilings splintered and jutting out of the sea as they slowly sank. 

Quickly assessing the situation, Aonung began to call out orders. 

Those being rescued emerged one by one, and the entire time Aonung’s gaze was on the lookout for Lýn’s family. 

“You, and you, help me with this!” Directing two men- and three others who fell in, they used their knives to cut the ropes of a section of pathway. Lifting the heavy material toward a gaping section of the barrier, they successfully secured it.  

Catching on, many others followed suit- some even climbing high to stretch the material further up. 

On Aonung’s third patching, he caught sight of a familiar man emerging with rescues- a child in his arms and an injured elder leaning heavily on him. Aonung called his name, but the waves were too loud. 

“Aldurf!” Aonung called out again running towards him. He caught him by the shoulder before he could dive off again and the older man seemed surprised to see him. “Kaiiff? Your mate?”

“Safe,” Aldurf assured, panting as he wiped at his brow. “My Lýn?”

“Safe,” Aonung said as well. “Are there many others down there?”

“Ten trapped. Three still missing. There’s too much debris. I’ve got a team trying to find another way in.”

“I’ll go. Take over for me up here.” It was an order. 

Before Aldurf could agree or not, Aonung was diving deep without a second thought. 

~

Only when the faint rays of morning made itself known did things finally calm. 

Fatigued and aching, Aonung and many others made their way to the shoreline to where the rest of the clan were gathered and waiting.

Ayelýn spotted him first and ran towards him. Looking deeply relieved, she was trying to appear brave and unaffected, but the wringing of her tail and the way in which her eyes tracked over every inch of his body told him that she was nervous- that she was genuinely worried- about him. 

“I’m fine, gorgeous,” he assured, brushing a strand of hair off her cheek when she came within reach. Then, to his surprise, her forehead fell against his chest with a quiet mumble.

 “Thank Eywa.”

“You were worried about me,” he teased in a singsong voice, ducking so that his words got muffled in her hair. 

“Shut up, skxawng” she said without heat, slipping her arms around him. “Sempul told me what you did… Thank you.”

Surprised for a second time by her actions, he realized they were engaging in physical contact that was again not for show- or part of the plan, but for comfort… for them. 

His knuckles ran along her spine as he observed the beach. The people of Keftxo were hugging each other in relief. Over the top of Lýn’s head he caught sight of her family- all safe. They waved at him and approached. 

Bwena fussed over him, planting a fat smooch on each of his cheeks in thanks. Even Aldurf patted him on the back while Kaiiff launched into a story about how he’d heard that Aonung saved so many people. 

Soon, the entire village was gathered in their communal space, singing in unison a soft melody of thanks to Eywa until the morning burst from the dark. Although nine homes were lost and many were injured, they all still had their lives.

Aonung stayed that day to help pick up the pieces- along with the few others who’d come from neighboring villages.

With the waters residing, they cleaned away the debris, made more patches to the terrace wall and crafted makeshift temporary homes for those who’d lost theirs.

Ayelýn and her family’s home was thankfully still intact and had only suffered minimal water damage.

Aonung was already mentally making plans for how to reinforce their marui- he even voiced a couple suggestions to Aldurf who accepted his offer to help him execute the improvements.

They hosted him again for another meal, again thanking him for his efforts. And when he was finally about to leave, whistling low for his skingwing- Ayelýn called out his name. 

She jogged down the rickety dock towards him, determination ablaze in her eyes. “I know what I want.”

“Want?”

“You asked me what I wanted in return for helping you… Is that- still an offer?”

“Oh. Right…” he cleared his throat. “Of course.”

“Sempul said that you two are going to do repairs? To our home?”

“Ah. Yes. I’ve got a couple ideas.” Actually he had a lot. Not only for her home.

She nodded. “Can you- I was hoping…” Her arms folded and she shook her head as though thinking something was stupid.

“Ayelýn. Ask me.”

“Keftxo. You know we are sort of the forgotten village… We try but-” she hesitated. “I know that technically I should be going to our village’s chief councilor- and that it is a big ask, but, you have the power to make a change- a difference… All I want is for us to flourish-” She gestured to her village behind her. “To not be broken and always need mending… To not be known as… lesser.”

Aonung took in the view of Keftxo- really looked. Mauri pods were falling apart- familiar reinforcement like what Ayelýn had used on her canoe could be seen covering up much of the pod shells. There were numerous tears and rips and holes along the village paths, docks had missing gaps and that was only the half of it. 

The biggest issue was the terrace wall of course… an issue that if not properly tended to could wipe the entire little village. 

Without her ask, he been planning to bring it up with his father anyway- he’d been ready to head to Awa’atlu to ask the Keftxo’s councilor what exactly the fuck he’d been doing all these years for the village… and seeing Ayelýn staring up at him so pleadingly broke a tiny part inside of him. 

Suddenly all he wanted to do was scoop her up and hide her away somewhere safe and pretty. She deserved it. 

And she was right too. He did have the power to make a change for them. 

“Okay. I can do that.”

“Yeah?” 

Her grin was so blinding, he couldn’t help returning it. He almost teased her about it, but he didn’t want her to stop. 

No. Instead, he was going to try his damn hardest to see that gorgeous smile as often as he could. 

~

Hello friends! 💛

I hope you enjoyed this part. Please let me know, you know I love hearing from yall.

Little disclaimer; but because this is a mini series, there's going to be some time skips ect. Also, I have a tiny bit of it already kind written- but do we want smut in this series?

~

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Mi Galleta (Part 3 - Salted Caramel)

4.5K / Modern AU Grumpy Bouncer!Pero Tovar x Sunshine-Rich Girl!reader

Summary: Dating Pero feels like a dream, until you overhear something that makes you question everything.

Warnings: 18+ Content (MDNI please), dating Biker!Pero needs a warning (check out the ✨vibes✨), allusions to smut (reference to oral, unprotected PiV, aftercare, fingering, semi-public sex), dirty thoughts, the bike helmet stays on 🤷🏻‍♀️, pet names (Cookie, princesa, hermosa, etc.), misogynistic, classist and degrading language used to talk about women (not by Pero, but... you'll see).

A/N: A friend of mine once told me that the restaurant business can be super misogynistic and I was actually shocked to hear some of her stories 😣 For our story, Lin isn't one of those types of establishments, but sometimes, bad eggs make their way into a good carton.

Series Masterlist

You wake up the next morning naked and snuggled into Pero’s side, your arm draped over his broad chest.  Trying not to wake him as you carefully climb out of bed, you look back and admire Pero’s peaceful face, much soften with sleep and framed by hair messy and tossed from the previous night’s activities.  Gosh, he’s so handsome.  Even the scar over his left eye is becoming one of your favourite features; a fearsome token of some past violence that belies the softness of the gentle giant who bears it.  You wonder if he’ll ever tell you where it’s from.  Throwing on a camisole sleep set and robe, you pad out to the kitchen and leave your snoring Adonis to his rest. 

Grinning to yourself lazily as you make coffee, your mind drifts back to events of last night.  Of the multiple orgasms Pero pulled from you with his skilled mouth, hands, and cock.  Of the heaviness of his balls on your tongue and how sweet and salty he tasted as you worked his length down your throat.  God the things that man said in bed: calling you a goddess one minute, then his dirty fuck doll the next, all while you bounced cock drunk on his lap.  His eyes, however, never expressed anything but devotion and wonder, grounding you even as he made you shudder and convulse in pleasure.  Humming contently while cooking eggs, you’re pulled from your daydream state only when a strong pair of arms wrap around your waist and patchy scruff tickles into your neck where Pero whispers, “Good morning, Cookie.”

Turning in his arms, you immediately lose yourself to the searing kiss Pero lays on you.  He had missed you the moment he woke up and found himself alone.

After Pero accepts your invitation stay for breakfast, he sips on his coffee and takes in your apartment; you’ve decorated for a clean and classic aesthetic, it’s not overly opulent but there are obvious touches of luxury and understated elegance that trim the furniture and personal items that litter the grand space.  You catch him admiring the breathtaking panoramic view of the city through the window wall running down the length of your apartment, “Really nice place you have here.”  He doesn’t miss your slight wince at his compliment; blink-and-you-miss-it, but he catches it before you smile, almost apologetically, “Thanks.  It used to be an investment property of my parents’.  They gifted it to me when I started work in the city to help me out.  Or to claim the tax deduction.”  You make the joke, not sure why you think you should feel embarrassed?  Because normally, you’re not.  You love your place and you’re so grateful to your parents, but you don’t want Pero to think you’re some type of… freeloader?  You're not even sure where you head is at with this.

Sensing your discomfort, Pero sweeps you into his arms; kissing you gently, he explains, “I just meant, this place is beautiful and I can tell you’ve poured yourself into making it a home.  It’s calm.  And welcoming.  I see you everywhere here.”

Your chest swells with emotion and a little embarrassment at how quickly you had gone on the defensive; Pero’s been nothing but kind and sweet.  Face still buried in his shoulder, you nuzzle in even closer to envelope yourself in his warmth and whisper, “Thank you.  It’s my favourite place in the world.”

Over a delicious breakfast, Pero asks you what your plans are for the day and you tell him all about the famers’ market you like to visit on the weekends.  When asked if he wants to join you, Pero looks thoughtful, “I’d love to, Cookie.  But I have to work at 3:00 today… and I had planned on making you come a few more times before that.”

Giggling at his shit-eating grin, you cross to the other side of the table where Pero is sitting and climb into his lap, “How do you plan on doing that?”

“Over you, under you.  On every surface of this gorgeous apartment, Cookie.  Gonna give you a couple more reasons for it to be your favourite place,” nudging your nose with his a few times, Pero urges you to open your mouth and let him in.  His kisses are unhurried, long and sweet; sated with good food and the promise of unfettered access to your body, Pero feels no reason to rush.  Fingers finding the knot of your robe, he works it loose with his nimble fingers and opens the garment to reveal the soft satin number underneath, “My my, what do we have here, princesa?”  Pero licks his lips and his eyes darken as he takes in the way you shiver and your nipples perk up and tent the delicate fabric when he slides the robe off your shoulders.

You never make it to the farmer’s market.

Dating Pero is like something out of a movie.  Most nights you enjoy decadent, late dinners with Pero after he gets off work; he takes you to some of the city’s most celebrated and exclusive restaurants, always entering through some hidden staff entrance and eating in private rooms or employee access only areas.  Whenever you ask about paying, Pero waves you off and say there’s a restaurant staff quid-pro-quo arrangement with Lin.  You’ve never heard of any type of restaurant industry secret community, but you suppose it’s possible.  Either way, the food is always impeccable and the company is dreamy.

Being a biker’s backpack is one of the most unexpected, yet fun things you’ve ever experienced; you love riding with Pero.  Some nights, he’ll take you for casual, aimless rides in the city, just weaving through the busy streets; the city lights always seem to be brighter and even beautiful when whipping by in streaks.  Other times Pero will pick a farther destination under the guise of trying a bakery or some local delicacy, taking you out on the open road for longer rides.  You think you like these rides more; when you’re alone on a highway or side road, you’ll egg Pero to go faster and he will just to amuse you, loving when you squeal from excitement and hug him tighter. 

Pero loves taking you out on his bike, too; he loves the weight of you against his back and the feel of your hands wrapped around him and the way they press up against his stomach, and, if he plays his cards right, grip and rub his thigh. When he lowers his speed, he’ll hold one of your hands in his glove, loving the way your slender fingers intertwine with the leather.  He should buy you gloves, he thinks.  He does buy you a helmet. 

Surprising you one day after work, Pero, looking like a dreamboat, turns heads in his sleek dress clothes topped with his motorcycle jacket as he leans against his parked bike.  Crying out in delight when you see him curbside in front of your office building, you practically leap in his arms before slotting your lips over his in a hungry kiss.  Not caring if your co-workers see, you open your mouth to Pero’s and let him lick into your mouth slowly and sensually; he cradles your head in one of his big hands, the other pressing you flushed to his broad frame.  Pero on the other hand wants your co-workers to see (and maybe even hear) as he worships your soft, supple lips with his own, his hands working their way lower on your body until they’re both full of the plush globes of your ass.  Mine, he brags, as he massages and gropes, turning you into putty under his touch. 

“What are you doing here, Pero?” you exclaim happily, thrilled by the surprise.

“Took the day off today, Cookie.  Thought I’d come grab ya, surprise you with a present.”

“A curbside pick-up and a present?  What did I do to deserve this?”  You’re still learning not to be surprised by Pero’s thoughtfulness.  Turns out you didn’t have a clue just how thoughtful he could be because you’re positively floored when he reaches into his backpack and pulls out a helmet smaller than the one he wears, and holds it out to you with both hands.

“For me?” A question more rhetorical than anything, you’re astonished as you reach out to accept.

Pero is pleased by your reaction, “For you, princesa.  Gotta protect that pretty head of yours.”

“Should I feel special?  Or is this the helmet you keep on hand for all the girls you let ride… your bike?” your eyes crinkle mischievously, leaving no doubt of the double meaning to your words.

But Pero isn’t about to let this romantic moment get away; he turns the helmet in your hands so that you’re looking at the back before he leans in to plant a soft peck to the upturned corner of your mouth, “Brand new just for you, Cookie.”

You look down and see that on at the very back, near the base of the shiny black helmet, is a small silver etched cartoon of Hello Kitty baking cookies.  You love it!  It’s so cute.  So you.  Pulling the helmet over your head, it smells brand new and you feel the baby pink lining personally picked for you fit snug against the sides of your head; definitely not a shared helmet.  Internally, you swoon.

“I love it!” you call out loudly so Pero can hear you through the thick plastic.  Grinning big back at you, Pero helps adjust your chin straps before playfully flipping down your visor, “Looking good, hermosa.  Ready to ride.”  He winks at you before helping you up onto the back of the bike and putting on his own helmet.  You’re overcome; it’s more than the fact that Pero cares for your safety.  Your heart flutters at the idea that Pero is planning for future bike rides with you, frequent enough that it warrants you getting your own gear.  When he takes off, you hold on to him tighter than necessary.

---

That night, he fucks you on all fours, naked except the helmet.  The protective headgear muffles your pornographic screams of ecstasy, while the sensory deprivation amplifies every orgasm he pulls from your overwrought cunt.  After he paints your insides white, Pero runs you a bath to help soothe your strung-out body; cradling you in his arms under the steamy water, he asks if you might like to do that again, but where he keeps the helmet on as well.  Sleepily, you tell him the truth, “Anything for you, Pero.”

The next morning you come twice while riding him just from watching the way your tits bounce in the shiny reflection of his helmet visor.

Sleepy Sunday mornings with you are Pero’s favourite.  The two of you still naked from the previous night’s lascivious activities, bodies tangled in your crisp bed sheets, just talking; he’ll press soft kisses to your hair while you draw endless designs on his chest with your perfectly manicured nails.  It’s as close to domestic bliss as Pero’s ever felt.

“Cookie, don’t take this the wrong way…”

You tilt your head up to see Pero smiling indulgently and raise your eyebrows to play along.

“Why aren’t you married to some rich investment banker, living in a mansion and being treated like the princesa you are?”

You can tell it’s a genuine question, not meant in any way to be insulting; you think you also read unspoken questions in Pero’s eyes: Is that the life you want?  What are you doing with me, then?  Something to get out of your system before you settle down?

You lay your head on Pero’s chest, chin resting on your hands as you try to be thoughtful about your response.

“I probably could be, if that was what I wanted?  I’ve dated those guys before, I grew up with a lot of them, and they can be nice enough.  Although, I suppose some of them aren’t.”  Pero’s eyes darken at this but lets you continue.  “It’s just that with everything they do, they… I guess, maybe a way to describe it is, they lead with money.  Having money, making more money, showing off what money they have – it’s what drives all their decisions.  It’s core to who they are or who they want to be.”

You take a deep breath, “And that isn’t necessarily a bad thing, and it doesn’t mean they are bad people.  But, I don’t know?  My measure of value and success has never been wealth.  I just… never want money to define me like that.  I wouldn’t want to feel like it’s my identity.”

Pero seems quiet, giving you a chance to add, “I know that that’s a very privileged thing for me to say.  Money is important, and I’m very lucky to not have to worry about it.  I’d just want to live a life and be someone, be with someone, that contributes beyond that.”

You sigh.  It sounds silly even to your ears; first world problems, indeed.  But Pero pets your head lovingly, lightly massaging your temples with his thumb and reassures you, “I don’t think you have anything to worry about, Cookie.  I’ve seen the way you care for your friends, and the love you hold for your family.  Life has treated you well and you don’t take it for granted.  You carry yourself with gentleness and pour kindness into everything you do.  Everyone you meet or is lucky enough to know you is made better having had a chance to bask in your sunshine.  Including me.  Especially me.”

Pero’s sweet words have you tearing up.  You’ve suspected it for a while, but now you’re sure that of the two of you, he’s the kinder one; he of the tender heart.  You remain convinced that it must be some sort of cosmic prank that one of the most deeply feeling men you’ve ever known makes his living being intimidating and scaring people on purpose.  You think you’re falling in love with him.

“You’re so different than people think you are,” you whisper, contemplatively.

“Oh, how’s that, hermosa?” he gives you a deep scowl, not unlike the one he wore when you first met, but you’re not fooled.  You don’t think that scowl will fool you ever again.  You crawl up his body, and break up your words with soft kisses all over Pero’s neck, jaw, face, lips, “So you’re a little grumpy.  But grumpy is a mood, not who you are.  You’re fiercely loyal; maybe you don’t have a million friends but the people you decide to let in, you treasure.  You’re a friend for life.  You’re hardworking and you love what you do; and even though you’re supposed to be intimidating for your job, I’ve never seen you treat anyone disrespectfully.  More often than not, you lead with kindness.  And you’re so generous!  Both with your time and your good humour.  And thoughtful.  The most thoughtful man.  You’re always so considerate of my heart and feelings – don’t think I don’t notice when you do things just because you think they might make me happy.  I’m so lucky, Pero.  Maybe I’m not living in a mansion, but I’m already being treated like a princess.”

“You deserve it, princesa.  And more,” Pero wraps his arms around you and rolls you gently so you lie beneath him, caged in by his strong arms and his heavy gaze, “I’d do anything for you.”

“I know,” you whisper, before closing your eyes and letting Pero show you how deeply your words have affected him.

Once, you asked Pero what he loved the most about riding a bike, and he told you it was probably the sense of freedom and also calm that the open road brings him; then throwing you a wink, told you that having a pretty backpack to show off was getting up there. 

Your favourite part of rides with Pero is ironically when you’re not riding at all, but when you’re stopped by the side of the road for a breather, to take in a pretty view, or if you just can’t wait to get home to sample the food you rode all that way for.  You’ll sit on the backseat and Pero will sit with his back against the fuel box facing you, the shared food placed in between.  As you savour the trip’s procured delicacy, Pero will pull your legs off the back peg and massage the back of your calves lovingly, melting away the tension built up from the long ride.  Inevitably, he’ll start to inch his hands higher and higher; how far you let him go really depends on how horny you are that day.  Most of the time, you're wet with want for Pero by this point of the ride, powerless against how adept he is at turning you on – once, while you were parked in a rest area right next to the highway, he had walked his hand up your skirt to stroke you over your soaked panties so expertly, you had been one shudder away from just letting him finger fuck you to completion while unsuspecting traffic zoomed by.  You don’t tell Pero, but lately you’ve had an increasingly vivid fantasy of sinking down on his cock and riding him on his bike out in the open, public decency be damned, until you both come, moans drowned out by passing commuters who get the show of a lifetime.

As it is, sex with Pero leaves you breathless and more than fulfilled.  He worships your body and reaches parts of you that you didn’t even know existed, setting you on fire with his every touch.  His particular brand of filthy dirty talk combined with gruff praise, gets you shockingly wet every time; just the memory of his low baritone growling ‘good girl’ in your ear can have you distracted and fantasizing about his dick at the most inconvenient of times.  More than once, you’ve had to turn off your camera during a work video call, afraid that your colleagues would be able to read your far off, cock drunk expression for what it is.

You’re definitely falling in love with him.

“Do you think it’s weird that I’ve never been to Pero’s place?” you wonder out loud.  You’re not sure it bothers you, but it’s something you realized only recently.

“No? Not weird… but I didn’t know you hadn’t,” says Eloise, surprised.

Dorothy doesn’t even look up from her magazine, “No, it’s not weird at all, babe.  I mean, I’m sure your place is way nicer than his.”

“Maybe.  Well, I don’t know really, I guess,” you crinkle your nose.

“No, babe, it’s definitely nicer.  Maybe he thinks his place isn’t good enough for you.  Or maybe he’s too scared to find out if you don’t think his place is good enough for you,” Dorothy says with certainty.

You can’t imagine Pero being scared of anything, “That kind of thing doesn’t matter to me.”

“We know it doesn’t!” sympathizes Eloise, “But if you’re thinking about it, why don’t you just talk to him about it?”

You nod; you think the next time you see Pero, you will.

The next day, you make your now typical lunch time trip to visit Pero; when you walk into Lin’s lobby, it’s empty but that’s not unusual.  Walking over to the reception desk where Pero works, you see that his computer is on so you decide to just wait until he comes back, unpacking a small container of snickerdoodles you brought for him in the meantime.  As you put the container on the desk, you’re surprised to hear voices coming from the small alcove for the staff elevator hidden in the corner of the lobby.

“Heard you got yourself a designer pussy, Tovar.”

“Best part of working in restaurants like this is getting a shot at all these rich sluts who wouldn’t normally look twice at you on the street, but now they want to slum it with the kitchen staff.”

“Hey, come now…”  That’s William’s voice, you realize; the other two you don’t recognize.

“Oh you’re a married old fart, but I’m sure you’ve got some of these wannabe trophy wives throwing themselves at you.  You can’t expect us to believe you’ve never had a taste!”

“Yeah, how you can look at that piece that Tovar is tapping and not want a slice for yourself?”

“Or do you guys share her?  She into that?”

“Fuck, if she’s into that, then please, please call me the next time she wants to go to Paris.  Better yet, bet she’d pay for an actual trip to Paris.  Chick probably has more money than she knows what to do with.  Let her pay for that good dicking, yeah?”

“A couple of us have a little competition on who can bag the hottest, most desperate sugar mama from the restaurant.  You want in, Tovar?  There’s a prize for who can keep it running the longest too.  You’ve been banging her for a few months now, so you’re a shoo in for that.  So fucking easy.  All you gotta do is give these dumb rich bitches a little bit of attention and they’re opening up their legs… and cheque books like that.” You hear a finger snap, followed by loud, spine-chilling cackling.

You think you’re going to be sick.  You’ve never heard such misogynistic, classist, and honestly vile talk in your life; you’re about to march over to the alcove where these assholes think they’re so cleverly hidden and given them a piece of your mind when you hear Dorothy’s name.

“Your girl got that friend, Dorothy?  Oh fuckkkkkkkkkk, wanna tap that snobby, entitled pussy so fucking bad.  She’s always strutting around the restaurant like she owns the place; want to put her in her place… on my cock.”

“Introduce me, Tovar.  Or you saving her for yourself?  This skirt you’re fucking now is just a stepping stone to a bigger, richer fish?  Hey!  Kudos to you man, but do me a favour – when you’ve moved on and up, send that pretty thing over my way for some comforting.  I’ll make sure she’s fucked so good she doesn’t even remember your name.”

You haven’t heard Pero’s voice at all during this stomach-churning exchange; you keep waiting for him to speak up and shut down this type of talk, when you hear the cruelest sound you’ve ever heard.

Pero’s laugh.  He’s laughing.  Then you hear William join in, and soon all four men are laughing uproariously.  At you.  At your friends.  At women.  Women who have the means to dine at this restaurant which apparently means they’re stupid, desperate, and not worth any respect or even the decency of being treated like human beings with feelings.  All of this is what Pero thinks of you.  Every cadence of his ongoing laugh is sharp like cruelty itself, piecing and shattering your heart.  You didn’t even know there were men out there that debased and demeaned women this way; how could you have let one into your life, your bed.  Your heart.  They laugh for what feels like forever; you can’t stand to listen to it anymore and you flee.

---

Pero can’t help but laugh at what fucking idiots this busboy and dishwasher are.  They were spewing such despicable garbage and they fucking dared to talk about you in any such derogatory way, and did so with big smug grins – did they seriously think there wouldn’t be repercussions?  No fucking way anyone could be that dumb, he laughs.  William joins in on the same wavelength as Pero.  The laughter crescendos for a while before William catches his breath and manages to choke out, “You guys don’t even know...”  Still laughing, one of the idiots manages to ask, “Know what?”  And that’s when Pero goes silent, grabs the asshole by the neck and shoves him up against the wall, “You don’t even know how much shit you’re in, talking about my girl like that.”

“Hey dude, we were just kidd-,“ the busboy doesn’t even get to finish his sentence before Pero reaches out and William shoves him into Pero’s outstretch hand. 

“Shut up.  I talk now.”

Though gritted teeth, Pero growls menacingly, inches away from the dishwasher’s face, “You piece of shit.  You don’t deserve to think about her.  Talk about her.  Or share the same air as her.  If you ever go near her, you’ll be eating through a tube.”

He slams the busboy up against the wall next to his friend, “This is what is going to happen, William’s going to take you upstairs, and you’re going to thank him, because it was me, you’d both be losing blood before the elevator doors even closed.  You will get your things, and you will never fucking set foot in this restaurant again.  You’re fired.  Your last cheques will be mailed to you.  Never come back.”

He punctuates his point by pulling back and shoving both frightened men into the wall again, harder than before, hands firm on their throats, “…I’m this fucking close, just give me a reason to squeeze.”

“Pero.” William’s voice is barely audible through the thick cloud of rage fogging up Pero’s brain.  He felt physically disgusted at the way these two morons had talked about you and that they had even thought about you in the manner they were describing.  His sweet Cookie - the kindest and gentlest creature he had ever known.  That these assholes had contemplated laying a finger on you made him see red.  Never mind they trying to taint your friend, or any woman at all, with their gut-less filth.  They had said there were others like them, he seethed; he would root them all out and deal with it today.  If he could find it within himself to let go of their necks, that is.

“Pero.” William’s second attempt to bring Pero back down to earth finally ringing through.  He lets go, and the two pathetic excuses for men slide down the wall they had been pinned against, gasping for air. 

“Every restaurant worth working at will know what kind of shit you pull with their female patrons, don’t ever bother trying to apply for another restaurant job ever again.  Get the fuck out of my face now.”

William roughly hauls the two idiots into the staff elevator and out of Pero’s sight as quickly as possible, lest Pero failed to contain his rage any longer.

Taking some deep breaths, willing himself to calm down and for his breathing to even, Pero walks back to the front desk hoping there aren’t any patrons waiting in the lobby.  When he gets to his seat, his heart plummets.  There, on his desk, is a container of cookies.  From you.  You had been here.  What had you heard?  It couldn’t have been anything good because you had left without making your presence known.  He’s desperate to see you, comfort you.  Pero frantically rushes out the front doors and looks up and down the busy sidewalk, but you’re long gone.

Fuck.

[softmagenta]

androids and their soul

"It's a big topic to discuss! But here we are, talking about it. We did a small poll to finally understand what you, friends, think!" "Mary, 24 Of course, they can be considered as a person with their own thoughts and personality... <...>...my aunt finally found her man. His name is Richard, he's such a good dude! He jokes, soothes, makes you happy. He can decide. He can understand. Isn't that enough?" "Darryl, 36 It's a tough question, because anything they, androids, decide is artificially made, based on the events and experiences they had in the past, and things that could happen in the future. But then you start to think - we, humans, also make decisions based on our experience and predictions. Isn't it funny? So it depends on the meaning that you put in the words "human", "soul", "personality"." "Lin, 32 Do they have a soul? Do you really think that something artificial can have a soul? Why didn't you call those old AI-helpers in technical support a human? What, aren't they talkative enough? Imagine a situation: you need to choose path, the left is filled with hungry angry lions, the right is empty. What would an AI and a human choose? AI would choose the right path: "Lions = danger, Empty path = no danger => Going right", and a human would choose the same: "Damn, lions will eat me, I will go right" and that's all! They ruined my life. You should start using your brain just a little bit, humanity." ..."A-ha!... That's all... Thank you for participating...? It was really nice to hear your opinions! And what do you think, Caspier?" "They're alive, Paul." "...got it."

[destinedfordiaperstories]

Sammy's Little Problem, Chapter 21

Sammy let Lindsay hold her hand as she followed her downstairs. It felt strange at first, but given her morning, she needed to feel closer to Lindsay.

And what a morning it was.

Sammy tried to process everything that happened in the few minutes she’d been awake. Having Lindsay see her like that, sleeping in her crib—and even worse, onesie—was deeply embarrassing. She must have looked just like a baby!

How could she ever look Lindsay in the eye again and think of herself as an equal, and not some diaper-filling Little? It was one thing for Allie to see her like that. Allie was always like a big sister to her.

But Lindsay was much more than a friend. She always thought of Lindsay as a sister. And now she’s here babysitting her. Sammy couldn’t put into words how it felt to go from Lindsay’s best friend, someone she shared everything with, to being so helpless that Lindsay was now in charge of her.

It was humiliating enough to have Lindsay change her diaper earlier. Sammy never felt more little than at that moment, listening to Allie give instructions on how to properly change her diaper. All Sammy wanted to do was disappear.

Yet, she was glad Lindsay was there to help. It may be humiliating, but so is being a Little. It was better than going to the Adoption Center to have some random Caregiver adopt her.

Sammy saw Allie had already set the table for lunch. She assumed Allie must have been super busy, because she never served take out. But to her surprise, there was a bag of McDonald’s waiting for them.

“I hope you guys don’t mind, but I didn’t have time to make anything. So, here’s to hoping you like McDonald’s!” Allie said, with noticeable embarrassment in her voice.

“Oh stop, Allie, McDonald’s will do great,” Lindsay laughs.

“Sammy, honey, I got you some chicken nuggets, apple slices, and some apple juice here,” Allie says, pointing to Sammy’s spot.

McDonald’s chicken nuggets were Sammy’s guilty love. She always tried to eat healthy, but chicken nuggets were the exception. Of course, when she went, she’d get a large Diet Coke with it. She doubted Allie would ever let her have one of those again. Another privilege lost to being a Little.

Sammy sat down next to Lindsay, hoping she wouldn’t mention her sippy cup.

Ten minutes later, lunch was done. Lindsay never mentioned the sippy cup to Sammy’s relief.

“Okay, well, I need to head out,” Allie says to both of them before turning to Lindsay, “I should be back before, but if not, Sammy’s bedtime is at 8. Make sure you put her in her nighttime diaper before you do. You should have everything you need in the meantime.”

Sammy blushed again having her bedtime announced so casually. She hated her bedtime. It was so early.

“I got this, Linds. Everything is under control.”

Allie smiles, turning to Sammy. “I want you to behave for Lindsay, okay, Sammy? You two can have fun, but you need to listen to what she says. She’s in charge. I don’t want to hear you were misbehaving.”

Sammy just nods, feeling like a toddler being chided for misbehaving.

“Do you want your paci?” Allie asks her.

“Okay,” Sammy concedes, allowing Allie to clip her paci onto her shirt before putting it in her mouth.

With that, Allie leaves. Sammy turns to Lindsay, unsure what to do next. Would Lindsay act like her friend or babysitter? What would Linsday let her do? As she looked at Lindsay, she wished she hadn’t wanted her pacifier, knowing it only made her look more like a little.

A slow smile grows on Lindsay’s face. For a split second, Sammy thinks it’s a bad sign.

“Soooo…this is awkward,” Lindsay jokes.

Sammy smiles, happy that Lindsay broke the ice. “Definitwy” Sammy lisps through her pacifier, causing Lindsay to break down laughing.

“I’m sorry, Sammy, but that was just too funny! I’m not laughing at you!” Lindsay admits.

Sammy spits out her pacifier, letting hang on her shirt, face red with embarrassment. She knows Lindsay isn’t making fun of her, but still.

“What should we do?” Lindsay asks, “I kinda want to see what the wreckage of that is.” Lindsay points to the Legos.

Sammy blushes, remembering her tantrum last night. “Well, it’s supposed to be the Millenium Falcon. At least it was until I broke it,” Sammy admits sheepishly.

“Well, why don’t we start over? You always loved your Legos, even when I made you play with Barbies every time. So, sounds like it’s time I play Legos for once! I owe you!”

“You do! Do you know how many times I had to pretend Barbies were fun growing up? And you always made me play with Ken!”

It was Lindsay’s turn to blush. “Sorry! I just loved it and wasn’t good at sharing yet!”

“It’s okay, now you have to play with Legos!”

“Sounds good to me!” Lindsay laughs, “and speaking of Ken…” Lindsay hesitates, realizing she should avoid telling Sammy about boys.

“What about Ken? Ken from school?” Sammy asks, interested.

Lindsay panics, wishing Sammy wouldn’t have put that together. “Oh, it’s nothing. Let’s build some Legos!”

“What about Ken, Lindsay? I want to know! You always had a huge crush on him!”

Lindsay knew she was in trouble. Allie wouldn���t want Sammy hearing about parties and boys. And she definitely didn’t want Sammy to be jealous that she was out going to parties and finally kissed Ken, especially when she had bedtimes and diapers instead of freedom and fun. How was she going to get out of this?

“Tell me, Linds! I know something happened! Don’t think just because I’m a Little now doesn’t mean I don’t know how you look when you have a secret!”

“I don’t know, Sammy. I don’t think it’s really appropriate to talk about now.”

Sammy looks both scandalized and hurt. “W-why not, it’s me, Linds!”

“Sammy…you know I want to tell you, but its not something I’m comfortable talking about with a Little. It’s not fair to you and it’s a bit too mature for Littles.”

“That’s not fair! I’m not a baby, Lindsay! I’m your best friend!”

“I know you aren’t a baby, Sammy,” Lindsay replies hesitantly, “its just…you are a Little now. These things aren’t supposed to be heard by Littles. You don’t need to worry about them!”

Sammy was on the verge of a tantrum. She knew it but was torn. The last thing she wanted to do was act like a tantruming Little in front of Lindsay. But, this was ridiculous. They’d spent hours talking about this stuff all year. How could she say it was inappropriate now?

“Just tell me, Linds! You’re being stupid! I can handle an ‘adult” story!’” Sammy demanded, putting up sarcastic air quotes when she said adult.

Lindsay sighed. “Look, Sammy. I don’t think its appropriate, okay? You can yell at me, but my decision is final.”

“Oh, so now you get to decide everything?”

“Yes, I do, Sammy. Just drop it, please!”

Sammy was seeing red. “No, that’s dumb! You don’t get to tell me what to do! This is bullsh*t.”

Sammy knew she went to far, but didn’t care. She had to tell Lindsay what she thought.

“I really didn’t want to do this, Sammy. But I think it’s time for a timeout. You can’t yell at me like that—and especially not use that language. You can go into timeout now or I’ll have to call Allie to tell her what you just said.”

Tears welled in Sammy’s eyes. This was so unfair. Lindsay was putting her in timeout? Her best friend? Yet, she didn’t want her to call Allie, she couldn’t handle Allie’s disappointment.

Lindsay walked over to Sammy, putting her pacifier into her mouth before giving her a hug. They embraced each other for a minute before anything was said.

“I’m sorry, Sammy. I really am. But I have to put you in timeout. Can you go stand in the corner for ten minutes? If you behave I won’t tell Allie about this, okay?”

“O-kay, Windsay,” Sammy sobs, walking to the corner.

Sammy couldn’t believe she was back in timeout again. She never got in trouble at school, but here she was being sent to the corner by her best friend. At least this time, Sammy promised herself, she wouldn’t throw herself down on the ground. She’d stand there like an adult. Even if she didn’t feel like it.

Lindsay watched Sammy as she stared at the corner. She hated that this was all her fault. She never should have brought Ken up. If she hadn’t, they’d be perfectly happy building Legos together.

Once time was up, she walked towards Sammy. She wanted to apologize, but she knew she had to check her diaper first. She hated that she had to do this. She wished Sammy never needed this. But it didn’t matter now, it had been too long since they changed her diaper, she needed to know how wet she was.

“Sammy, it’s been ten minutes, are you ready to play?”

She could see the ghosts of tears on Sammy’s face, though she was noticeably calmer. “Yeth, Windsay,” Sammy whimpers.

“Good, I’m sorry for needing you to go to timeout. Let’s not do that again, okay?”

“Okay.”

“But I need to check your diaper, Sammy,” Lindsay says, trying to sound casual as she pulls down her jeans, checking Sammy’s diaper. It’s wet, but not full.

Sammy shivers in embarrassment. Her best friend just checked her diaper like it was nothing.

“It’s wet, but not ready to change,” Lindsay says, “now can we start playing?”

Go to Chapter Twenty Two.

[crybabycinna]

Favorite Girl

Sugar mama Lin Beifong x sugar baby reader

Summary: just a normal day for you and Linny

I was bringing Linny her lunch today. As I walked into the building I looked around to see if I could find Mako or Bolin just to say hi but I didn’t see either of them. “Is there something that I can help you with?” Someone asked. “Oh no thank you.” I said. “You sure, you look a little lost sweetheart.” He said. “No, I'm ok.” I said and made my way to Lin’s office. I knocked and waited for her permission to enter. “Come in.” She said and I entered. When I walked in I noticed Korra and Kya. “Hey guys.” I said. “Hey sweetie, how are you?” Kya asked and gave me a hug. “I’m good, how are you?” I asked and hugged her back. “I’m good.” Kya said.

Korra and I hugged. “You brought your girlfriend some lunch?” Kya asked. “Yes I did.” I said. “Ooo what did you make?” Korra asked as she tried to look into the bag I brought. I playfully swatted her hands. “Get out, this isn’t for you.” I said. “Lin can share.” Korra said. “Korra let’s go. We don’t need to ruin these lovebirds lunch time.” Kya said and grabbed Korra. “Bye korra.” I said and waved goodbye as she got dragged out by Kya. “You ready to have lunch?” I asked Lin. Lin nodded and sat on the couch and pulled me into her lap.

“Why were Korra and Kya here?” I asked. “Kya was giving Korra and I an update about some officers that had to go into the hospital this morning.” Lin said. “What happened?” I asked. “Robbery gone wrong.” Lin said. “Are your offices ok?” I asked. “Yes they are, just simple flesh wounds.” Lin said. I nodded. As we started eating I thought about Mako and Bolin. “Are the boys ok?” I asked. “What?” Lin asked. “Your son and Bolin, are they ok? I didn’t see them when I came in.” I said. “They’re fine. They weren’t a part of the group that got hurt, they weren’t even there.” Lin said.

“Oh ok.” I said. “They are just fine. Don’t worry.” Lin said. “Good, I was worried.” I said. Lin nodded. Once we finished lunch we kissed goodbye and I made my way to the front where I saw Mako waiting for me. “Come on let’s get you home.” He told me. “Where were you earlier?” I asked. “Lots and lots of paperwork.” Mako sighed. “You poor thing.” I said as we walked back to the apartment. “Oh I have to show you something! I can’t believe I haven’t shown you this yet.” I said as I dragged Mako back into the apartment and went to go find Tofu. I grabbed the stuffed animal off the bed and showed it to him.

“This is me and your moms daughter. Her name is Detective Tofu Noodle and you are her big brother.” I said and let Mako hold the badger mole. “This is kinda cool but also I’m surprised mom let you do this.” Mako said. “Your mother doesn’t have a choice, she loves me.” I said. “She spoils you.” Mako said. We laughed and then he left. I skimmed the bookshelf and found the book that Lin was reading to me while I was in the bath. I decided to grab it then sit on the couch and read. As I read I could hear every word in Lin’s voice. I should get her to read to me again. I read until it was time for me to cook dinner.

I placed a bookmark in the book then closed it and went off to the kitchen. Before I could start cooking I heard the front door open. “Linny?” I asked. “Yes hon it’s me.” Lin said. “I didn’t expect you to be home so early.” I said. “I wanted to come home and see my favorite girl.” Lin said. Oh there goes my heart. “I’m your favorite girl?” I asked. “Oh no I was talking about Tofu.” Lin said. I know she fucking didn’t just say that. “I’m not cooking anymore.” I said and walked out of the kitchen. “Oh honey come on. I was just joking.” Lin said. “No no you want Tofu right, well here she is,” I picked up Tofu off the couch and gave her to Lin.

“Baby.” Lin said. “No no no this is your baby right here.” I said and pointed at Tofu. “No you’re my baby.” Lin said and pulled me towards her. “No I'm not. I’m not your favorite girl nor your baby.” I said and pulled away. “You are my baby and my favorite girl.” Lin said. I turned to her then stuck out my tongue. “You’re such a brat.” Lin said. “I’m your brat.” I said. “Yes you are my brat.” Lin said then kissed my head. “Will you read to me?” I asked her. “Right now?” Lin asked. “After dinner and our shower.” I said. “Ok.” Lin said. I smiled then went back to the kitchen.

[redcatmusings]

~The Language of Love~

Prompt: Love Language

The soft rapping of rain against the window woke Lin from her rather peaceful sleep. As she turned to embrace the warmth of a body that should have been there, her eyes caught the clock on the wall while her arm met emptiness. It was far later in the day than her usual 6am rise, the darkened rain clouds having led her internal clock astray, which explained the absence in her bed. A soft, disappointed sigh escaped her lips as she rolled over and sat up into a stretch. Kuvira would already be at work and with the rain, Lin had little desire to run any errands. Probably for the best she thought, for last night they had decided to neglect chores in favour of expressing their love in more physical ways. A smile tugged at the corners of Lin’s lips as she recalled the evening’s events, making every bit of today’s cleanup worth it; though her brows furrowed in disappointment that Kuvira had not woken her before leaving. Slipping a white tank top over her head and tying the strings on her pants, Lin glanced at the photo of her retirement from RC Police Force. She had little doubt that Mako would do a good job of keeping the Force strong and unified; especially with Kuvira at his side. Lin walked into the living room on her way to the kitchen to grab some coffee before starting the cleanup effort.

What greeted Lin was a much different image than she expected. The clothing they had discarded in haste last night now lay in a basket destined for the laundry. The clean clothes previously occupying the basket were now folded on the edge of the sofa, uniforms and dress shirts ironed and hanging from a hook on the door. Couch blankets were also neatly folded and placed along the back while the pillows had been straightened up.

As Lin made her way to the kitchen, she passed the washroom and peeked her head in, curious to see if Kuvira had addressed the mess they’d made here. Sure enough, she had. The towels were hung to dry. The mirror no longer had a steamy handprint on it and the shower curtain they had pulled the edges loose of, had been replaced.

Moving on to the kitchen, Lin was greeted with another surprise sight. At the table was today’s newspaper neatly folded, the vase with an array of colourful flowers placed back at the center with the tablecloth evenly covering the wooden table. This wasn’t how they had left it previously, flowers pushed aside, tablecloth balled up in Kuvira’s hands as Lin leaned into her lover’s embrace.

At the far end of the kitchen on the counter rested a cup next to the coffee, accompanied by a note being held down by it. Lin’s green eyes scanned over the note written in a the most beautiful cursive; something only a skilled and attentive hand could muster. She takes as much care with her writing as she does with pleasuring her partners, Lin thought to herself.

My Stubborn Ox,

I dare not wake you from your blissful slumber.

I apologize for not being there when you wake,

but I hope you have a relaxing day all the same.

I’ve gone ahead and done a few chores before work

so the place isn’t such a disaster.

Love Your Metal Rose

A warmth engulfed Lin’s heart as she looked up from the note. Kuvira may not be here, but love was there, in all the little details. Everywhere she looked were little ‘I love yous.’ From the clothes that had been ironed, hung or folded in the way she preferred, to the dishes that now laid clean and drying in the rack. They accentuated her current lonely presence while embracing her in the promise of love’s return home. The thoughtfulness spoke to Lin’s heart in ways words never could and Kuvira knew this. To be at the forefront of her lover’s thoughts as Kuvira was in hers, made Lin’s heart fill with joy and longing. She made a slight scoffing sound through a smile as she folded her arms across her chest. Once the coffee was ready Lin filled her Chief Baefong mug, a standing joke with the RC Force, and took a seat at the table; flipping open the newspaper. “I love you too, my Metal Rose.” She said, as she took a sip of her coffee and began to read the news.

Meanwhile, as the rain softly connected with the windows of the RC Police Force, Kuvira sat at her desk for lunch amidst piles of paperwork. Nearby Bolin could be heard defending his new employment to Mako, claiming this time he had found his calling. Here we go again Kuvira thought, as the two brothers drew closer and she opened up her lunch. Inside was the array of crackers and cheese she had prepared along with some cut fruit. However, it appeared something else had been tucked inside the lunch bag. Kuvira reached in and produced two tickets to a theatre dance she had her eye on. Bolin leaned over her shoulder with Mako a few steps behind.

“Oooh, what’s that?” Bolin inquired while Mako brought the palm of his hand to his face.

“That’s love Bolin. True love.” Kuvira replied with a smile.

[lesbianxreader]

Chapter 2 is up again I’m still trying to figure out how to use this! If anyone has suggestions on where else I can post I’d really appreciate it!

Chapter 2: a sandbender past

Lin led Savannah into a room with a bed and a desk. “You’ll be staying here,” she said, closing the door behind her and freeing her from the entanglement of cables. “Talk to me. Start from the beginning—who are you, and how did you get mixed up with those criminals?” Lin leaned against the door, her arms crossed, waiting for answers.

Savannah took a deep breath. “My name’s Savannah. They took me from the orphanage in Misty Palms… I didn’t want to work for him, but they didn’t give me a choice. He said he’d kill me.” It all came out of her like a waterfall. It felt good to finally tell someone, to maybe be given freedom.

“So you were kidnapped?” Lin’s voice was sharp with shock. “By who?”

Savannah hesitated, unsure if she should share more. Should I be telling her this? she thought. “…His name’s Rajan.” Savannah couldn’t explain it, but something about Lin made her trust her. Lin’s sympathetic eyes made her want to cry and curl up into her arms. She felt safe.

Lin pushed herself off the door frame and started pacing. “Rajan…” she repeated. “I’ve heard whispers of him before but never had any proof of his activities.” She stopped abruptly. “You’ve just given me the break I needed to take him down. Thank you.” Without another word, she left the room in a hurry.

Lin radioed Mako. “Listen, I need you to look up someone on the missing children’s registry. Her name’s Savannah, from Misty Palms. She probably went missing 10 or more years ago…”

“Found her,” Mako responded quickly. “You’re right. She went missing 15 years ago from the orphanage. She should be about 27 now, disappeared when she was 12.” He paused. “Why’d you have me do this?”

“We found her,” Lin said, her voice filled with a rare moment of happiness. Savannah’s story checked out, which meant she was innocent. The realization hit her hard—she had been just 12, forced to work with pirates. Lin’s stomach turned with disgust. How many more children have been taken like this? she thought to herself.

Savannah sinks into the beds soft covers. Today was hell. She thought to herself, knowing Rajan will find her soon she decided to sleep while she can. But she just tosses and turns in her bed unable to sleep, when she hears laughter coming from the near by beach. I wonder what’s going on, she thinks and looks out her window to see 2 girls laughing and passing a bottle between them. Curious she slips on her sandals and sneaks out to the beach.

“If you’re going to drink and keep me up you can at least share.” She says earning a shock from the girls.

“Oh you’re the pirate Lin found.” Said one of the women. She was wearing a blue water tribe getup, “I’m Korra, it’s nice to meet you.”

“Like wise” Savannah said reaching for the bottle.

“I’m Asami.” The other girl smiles at her.

“Savannah.” she says back joking the girls for a drink.

After a while of talking and drinking Lin approached with a stern expression. “You shouldn’t be out here in the open.” She said

Korra and Asami took the bottle and hid it behind their back. Lin noticing it reached down and snatched it. “And public intoxication is illegal ladies.” She said earning a giggle from the two drunk girls.

“Oh come on I’m still on the island.” Savannah said with a pout.

“You're not making this easy, you know that? I have a duty to keep you safe, not to enable reckless behavior!” She said rolling her eyes. “Now let’s get you back inside.” She said gently grabbing you by the arm.

“Well it was nice meeting you, Korra and Asami!” Savannah said before following Lin inside. “Buzzkill.” She joked.

Lin rolled her eyes before responding jokingly “whatever you say you drunk.” She stifled a laugh opening the door to your room.

Once inside Savannah started to realize how quickly the alcohol had hit her. She didn’t really eat much. She falls over slightly bumping into the wall.

Lin laughs. “And I thought pirates were known for their ability to hold liquor.” Helping you to bed. “Carful now, just lay down.” She says putting you under the covers

“Stay…” she whispers.

Lin freezes a faint blush creeping on her face. “That wouldn’t be appropriate…I’ll leave some aspirin and water by the table for you.” She said before reluctantly leaving the room.

[silly-guy-123]

BADSANSUARY DAY 8 - BOXED IN

CAN YOU TELL IM EXCITED?!?!? DUST IS MY FAVORITE

so when i heard "boxed in" i thought about being boxed into this opinion that everyone has made about someone because of something that they did and it causes them to be treated badly just because of something they're trying to make reparations for

kinda like being boxed into a stereotype just because of your personality and appearance, but different? i guess??

anyway here's the story

Dust x Self Insert (platonic mostly)

Lin was so done with everything. They were at their wits end, completely ready to just run away from the stupid town they lived in and leave everything behind just to get a break.

No matter how they tried to present themselves, all people saw was the person they used to be.

Lin used to be a not so nice person. They had a very negative mindset and they were just.. Rude.

Nowadays they regret all of that. They tried to make amends. They've apologized. They've started therapy. Worked on their behavior. Stopped acting like such a bitch.

But nobody cared.

Everyone still continued to treat Lin like they were still that same old person they didn't want to be anymore.

They had to get a break.

So, they started walking. They didn't have a direction in mind. They didn't pack anything aside from their phone and their wallet. They had nothing worth packing, anyway.

They walked until they reached the next town. It was late at night. They began looking around for a hotel just to stay the night.

They eventually found one, but it was old and in low condition. They didn't really care.

They talked to the receptionist to get their room key and on the way there they almost bumped into somebody. They had not been paying attention at all and accidentally shoulder checked.. Well, whoever they just bumped into.

“I am so sorry-” Lin started to say.

“watch it, asshole,” the person.. no, skeleton, said. He was wearing a hoodie that had spots of dust on it.

Lin hoped it wasn't what they thought it was.

The skeleton had a hood up, too, and his eyelights were mismatched. Both of them were red, but one had a ring of blue around it.

“Wow. Rude.” Lin furrowed their eyebrows.

“oh, im sorry, im guess im supposed to be all sugary sweet when i nearly get pushed to the ground, right?” the skeleton said.

Lin fought to keep themselves calm, digging their fingernails into their hands. They took a breath, before smiling brightly at the skeleton, forcing the anger and obvious annoyance off their face.

“You're right. I was the one in the wrong. I apologize. Won't happen again!” Lin said.

The skeleton looked a bit stunned, like he expected more of an argument.

“what?”

“What, I'm not allowed to be polite?” Lin continued, keeping their tone sugary sweet.

“...heh- hehehh…” The skeleton began to laugh. “you're funny. you're obviously upset yet you continue to act like a fuckin’ customer service worker- pfftahahhaha-!”

Lin just continued to smile at him.

“y'know what? i was bein’ outta line. sorry, you didn't deserve that,” the skeleton said, “i’m dust. and you?”

Lin let out a breath they didn't know they were holding. “I'm Lin.”

Lin didn't talk much to him after that, although Dust told a few jokes to them. Lin felt a bit better. They went to bed that night, thinking that maybe they should stay in this new town for a while longer.

____________________

Dust Sans belongs to Ask Dusttale!

[thekuraning]

like 3 of y'all voted sure when i polled about uploading the fic chappie rejects it says 4 but one was me by accident oop so HERE'S THE FIRST ONE: Maelstrom Fic Chapter 2 reject

Originally it was going to be a scene where the heroes were all having a chat after they got back from the ch1 hero action and while it was pretty fun, it was getting too banter-heavy and... well... a little ham-fisted in some parts :') but i do have a deleted scene with subaru and thomas that i thought was kind of funny that i'd really like to salvage a few joke beats from huehuehue anyways the maelstrom ch 2 dump is! under the cut!

Barnaby Brooks Jr. had never been more tired in his life.

He wouldn't say anything was particularly out of the ordinary. He was still working the same shifts for Hero TV: three twelve-hour days, two twelve-hour nights, one twelve-hour PR day, and one day completely off. Ever since beginning his career as a hero, his schedule had remained largely the same. The hours sounded stressful, of course, but most of the time was spent on-call with a few hours each day set aside for exercise and training, so as long as he responded to his communicator, it wasn't like he didn't have time to eat or sleep.

Maybe it was burnout. He'd been working like this for years, now, and especially after the shitshow with the X riots, and the attacks by Fugan and Mugan before that, maybe he just needed a break or a vacation or something. That was what he tried to tell himself as he scanned his keycard at Justice Tower that afternoon, anyways.

He nodded politely to the security guard and rode the elevator to the top, a brown takeout bag clenched in his fist. He only paused briefly at the locker room to hang his lanyard and windbreaker, then wandered into the training room and plopped down at one of the tall bistro tables in the rest area when Karina waved him down. She was sitting with Ryan, Nathan, and Pao-Lin, who all greeted him warmly as he approached.

“Nice work today!” Karina said as he sat, “I really appreciate the assist.”

“Same here,” Ryan agreed, “you saved our asses, Junior.”

“Too bad I wasn't there sooner,” Barnaby replied, “are you and Fire Emblem okay?”

Ryan looked across to Nathan, who grinned and crossed their arms across their chest, drumming perfectly-manicured nails along their bicep.

“All the better for you showing up, handsome,” they teased, “but I could have done without Sky High on top of me, today.”

Ryan snorted and Pao-Lin broke into a little fit of giggles. Karina leveled Nathan with a pointed stare, but they only laughed along with the others.

“What?” they innocently batted their eyes.

“Kid?” Karina answered, motioning to Pao-Lin, who rolled her eyes.

“I'm seventeen!” she protested, “and my friends at school make way worse jokes!”

“No, no, Rose's right, I should behave,” Nathan chuckled, waving one hand. “But we did all get banged up pretty bad. Could have been worse I guess, but I'm going to be feeling those bruises for weeks.”

“I got chewed out for letting my suit get damaged,” Ryan piped up. “Robert was pissed. Said Apollon was going to bill us a small fortune for the repairs, but it's not like that's my fault.”

“Shouldn't have been in the way,” Karina teased him.

“You're just lucky Junior over here saved your ass,” he bit back. Barnaby smiled.

“I still think 'hero rescue' should get us extra points,” he chimed in. Karina made a show of acting scandalized (“Hey, I had that NEXT right where I wanted him!”) and the group laughed. Barnaby opened his take-out bag and rummaged inside for his food.

There were two orders inside. His face fell. Nathan, who was listening intently to Ryan's play-by-play account he was now giving to Pao-Lin, suddenly caught Barnaby's eyes, and they frowned.

“Hey, handsome,” he interrupted the conversation, “why the long face?”

“What?” Barnaby looked up. Karina, Nathan, Pao-Lin, and Ryan were all staring at him. Why was everyone on Hero TV so nosey? They always had to be up in everyone else's business, but as much as Barnaby wanted to feel irritated, that wasn't an emotion he was capable of stirring up at the moment. He knew they were worried and had been since.... always? Especially now that he was on his own. It was more endearing than anything, these days. He supposed this must have been what it felt like to have brothers and sisters.

“I picked up lunch after my debrief and physical,” he explained, and his mouth pulled into a dejected frown. “But I must not have been paying attention when I placed the order, because....” He tipped the two compostable clamshell food containers out of the bag and onto the table. The others were quiet for a moment, watching his every movement, staring hard at his take-out with blank expressions. Pao-Lin was the first to react. Her eyes grew large, her face fell, and she let slip a mournful “oh, no!” And that was what rang the bell for the others.

“Oh, Barnaby,” Karina sighed, “it was an accident, just don't think too much about it.”

“She's right,” Ryan agreed, “and you know, I'll bet he's done that a couple times, too.”

“Come on you all, Tiger retired, he's not dead,” Nathan pointed out. “Handsome, just text him and invite him up to visit. You know he never turns down a meal.”

Which was true. Kotetsu was a bit of a big eater, but also he had trouble turning down anything nice someone did for him, regardless of whether he wanted it or needed it. Barnaby couldn't count the number of times he'd tried to do something small for Kotetsu—bringing him a drink or a snack or a towel after a workout, something—only to discover he had tried to do the same thing and hid it once he'd found out Barnaby had, too. Even more, those were only the times Barnaby knew of. Maybe there were hundreds more. Thousands. Little things that Kotetsu did that made Barnaby feel relied on. Useful. Appreciated.

Valued, even.

And that was why he most definitely could not text Kotetsu and ask him to come visit, because he would bring those feelings back with him, but they wouldn't remain. He was retired, and he would have to leave. He would take those feelings with him. They had been pried from Barnaby's hands three times so far—he didn't think he could handle it again. He didn't want to get lost in the small, hopeful, deluded voice that he buried deep down inside of him that wondered if, maybe, Kotetsu would take one look at the heroes' workout room, sigh wistfully, and tell Barnaby the words he most wanted to hear at that moment.

Bunny, he hoped for, I've decided to come back to hero work. You didn't miss me too much, right?

And they would be Wild Tiger and Barnaby Brooks Jr., Kings of the Buddy Heroes. Just like they were supposed to be.

But just like all the nights spent wishing he would wake up and the bullets in his parents' skulls were nothing but a bad dream, no amount of hope would change anything about his situation. No more banter in the office, no more arguing about who ate who's sandwich or when to jump into the action during a broadcast, no more noise or takeout or patrols together. He was Wild Barnaby now, and he was alone. Of course, there was no way in hell he would say any of that to anyone ever, especially not a bunch of busybodies like his dear, dear friends.

“I don't want to bother him,” he sighed, which wasn't exactly a lie. “I think he's got interviews today.” Which was a lie, as far as he knew. None of them seemed to buy it. For a second it seemed like Pao-Lin was going to be particularly pushy about it, but Lady Justice was smiling upon him that day as Keith stepped out of the elevator.

He thanked Barnaby then thanked him again when he offered him the extra lunch.

- - - -

“Hey, don't you think it's been quiet around here without old man Tiger?”

Thomas was used to ignoring Subaru's chatter. He liked to talk a lot, which had been very annoying when they were first partnered together. It was still annoying a little—which was why Thomas usually tuned him out—but really only in the way white noise was annoying. He'd been annoying all day since they'd gotten to Justice Tower, pestering Thomas with the details of his activities on their day off (Thomas did not and would never care what score Subaru got on their local arcade's rhythm game) and other asinine, useless bits of trivia.

“Has it been?” Thomas answered him flatly, repeating his reps on the machine fly. “I hadn't noticed.”

“I mean,” Subaru continued, much to Thomas's chagrin, “not just like we don't hear Tiger anymore. Everyone else is a little more quiet, too.”

Thomas wrenched the fly bars back in front of him and pause there, his usual frown deepening. He turned his head to eye Subaru around the edge of his jacket's hood, straining to listen to the wide open workout room. Some of the others were over in the rest area eating lunch together. They were talking, but no one was getting rowdy. Ivan was all the way down doing target practice with his shuriken, and every now and then there would be the faint whup of them striking the training dummy. Antonio was doing bench presses a little closer to them, but his usual obnoxious grunts and groans had been reduced to pitiful huffs of air as he worked. Lara was on the treadmill with earbuds in.

“You're right,” Thomas found himself agreeing. “No wonder you've been more annoying than usual.” He relaxed his arms, took a pause to breathe, and pushed forward again.

“Hey!” Subaru protested. Thomas smirked. His partner came around in front of him so he couldn't hide behind his jacket, arms petulantly akimbo. He was so easy to rile up.

“What do you want me to do about it?” he asked. Subaru just pouted at him.

There really wasn't anything they could do. Thomas didn't make any decisions for Hero TV, he just worked here.

——————————————————————————————————

....And that's as far as that one got! I'd really like to use the heroes as a group a lot more but it's so easy to get carried away. :( And I'd particularly like to have more scenes with Pao-lin & Lara and Subaru & Thomas........ It really gives me an appreciation for scenes in the anime where all of the heroes are together, just due to how much personality each of the heroes exudes. (9òvó)9

[animanganerd]

Everything Annoys Me And I’m (Too) Hot - Chapter 24

The Untamed / Mo Dao Zu Shi Fanfic

Ao3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/47881336/chapters/131719762

All chapters: here x

Chapter 24 ❖ Lin Yue (Part 1)

The papers Lan Xiaoli and Mu Chun had stolen from Murong Zheng’s home proved to be quite useful indeed. Using the information contained in the documents, the party quickly mapped out a route to follow Murong Zheng’s trail.

The town mentioned in the most recent letter, Tianxuan, was about two months away. It was too far to travel on foot, so the group once again hired two carriages with an additional horse for Mu Chun. As before, Zhang Chengling led the carriage with Wen Kexing and Zhou Zishu while Lan Xiaoli led the carriage with Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian.

Mu Chun rode his horse confidently beside Lan Xiaoli. Despite feeling Lan Wangji’s eyes throwing glares at him like daggers, which he ignored as best as he could, he continued to take every opportunity to shamelessly pester Lan Xiaoli.

Lan Xiaoli, on the other hand, dismissed his advances as inane banter. He’d thought a lot about Wen Kexing’s explanation the other night, and while he’d briefly considered the possibility, he’d come to the conclusion that it must be nonsense. Neither he nor Mu Chun had these kinds of feelings for each other.

He also had to admit that he was afraid of reading too deeply into Mu Chun’s actions. It would be far too humiliating to fall for his stupid jokes and allow himself to get hurt when Mu Chun clearly had no such intentions toward him.

All things considered, Mu Chun himself had made it obvious that he just wanted to tease the apology out of him. And since Lan Xiaoli was so easily flustered, it was all the more fun to bully him.

But even though it seemed no one had ever taught Mu Chun the concept of personal space, he never did anything truly despicable. So, while he made sure to keep Mu Chun at arm’s length to avoid any further misunderstandings, his rejections weren’t as firm anymore. Instead, a small smile would play around his lips.

In the end, Lan Xiaoli interpreted his own newly found affection toward Mu Chun as admiration. Although he’d never say it out loud, he was genuinely impressed by Mu Chun’s skills and truly appreciated his help.

They advanced a lot quicker on horseback, but it would be weeks before they reached their destination, so they still needed to rest. After leaving quite some distance behind, it was time to take a break. Not only to eat and drink, but also to stretch their legs.

While the others built a small campfire and stocked up on water and such, Lan Xiaoli settled the horses. Once he was done, he took a well-earned apple from one of the bags attached to Mu Chun’s horse. Just as he was about to bite into the juicy fruit, he saw Mu Chun lying on the ground, leaning leisurely against a rock. He was fiddling with his many rings and seemed to be deep in thought.

Munching on his apple, Lan Xiaoli watched Mu Chun for a while, then slowly approached him and gave him a gentle kick.

“Maybe you should take them off. They are a bit tacky. It does not really suit a servant,” he teased.

Mu Chun was slightly startled by the kick but then looked at him with a small smile. Without responding, he lowered his lashes and slowly began to remove his rings, one by one.

“Are you going to keep them for me?” Mu Chun asked with a grin.

Lan Xiaoli was stunned for a moment, then held out his free hand to accept the rings. When Mu Chun handed him a particularly striking signet ring, he said, “I don’t care much about the others, but make sure you don’t lose this one.”

Lan Xiaoli held it between two fingers to examine it. Upon closer inspection, he noticed that the embedded gem matched the one in Mu Chun’s hair crown – a dark but vivid green, engraved with a coiling dragon.

“Why? What makes it special?”

“It’s all I have left of my family,” Mu Chun replied.

“Oh…” It was the first time Lan Xiaoli could relate, so he didn’t retort anything. He simply nodded before taking another bite of his apple and pointing out, “You are still wearing one.”

Mu Chun fiddled with a plain looking silver ring on his right little finger, his smile pensive. “It feels wrong not to wear one.”

Lan Xiaoli raised his eyebrows. “Why keep this one though? It does not look…” he paused briefly, glancing at the signet ring while searching for the right word. The robes and jewellery Mu Chun usually wore gave the impression that he was prone to extravagance. This ring, however, had no engravings or incorporated gems of any kind, which surprised Lan Xiaoli. 

“...fancy,” he finally said.

“Exactly,” Mu Chun lifted his eyes again, “It’s the most believable one for me to wear.”

Lan Xiaoli was stunned once more. It was meant as a joke, but Mu Chun seemed serious about maintaining his role as the fake servant. So much so that he even considered the accessories he could wear.

In the end, Lan Xiaoli just shrugged and mumbled, “Suit yourself.”

With that, he turned on his heel and walked back to the carriages. They soon resumed their journey, but came to another halt about half an hour later when they reached a fork in the road from which three paths diverged.

Mu Chun hopped off his horse. “This is it,” he said.

They had not yet reached Tianxuan, but the group had incorporated a small detour into their planned route. The three pathways before them branched toward villages that had required Murong Zheng’s assistance in the past. Their aim was to find out what had happened to the villages for them to need support in the first place, and what role Murong Zheng had played in their restoration.

Each of these villages was about the same distance from this fork in the road, so they’d decided beforehand to split into three smaller groups for their investigations. The groups consisted of one couple each, and the youthful trio.

Seeing Lan Xiaoli about to get off his horse, Mu Chun stepped beside him and held out his hand in a helping motion.

“No need. I got this,” Lan Xiaoli said, waving him off.

However, when he swung his leg over the horse to dismount it, his other foot got stuck in the saddle and he almost crashed to the ground. Mu Chun was still in position to catch him, and Lan Xiaoli fell right into his embrace.

Lan Xiaoli had convinced himself that there were no deeper feelings between them, yet every touch of Mu Chun felt so electrifying that it made all the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. Suppressing the urge to squirm, he quickly pushed him away.

“Stop it with your dirty tricks!”

Mu Chun innocently held his hands in the air, “Always a pleasure, Young Lord.”

Wei Wuxian suddenly erupted in laughter. “Young Lord?! Hahaha!” He hugged his stomach with one arm while he held onto Lan Wangji with the other, still laughing. “I like that one!”

“Shut up!” Lan Xiaoli snapped and stomped away. Rubbing his arms to get rid of the goosebumps, he randomly stormed down one of the paths. Zhang Chengling and Mu Chun promptly hurried after him.

About thirty minutes later, the three arrived at what appeared to be a quaint fishing village. All houses were constructed from dark wood, some of which perched gracefully on sturdy stilts above the gently lapping waters.

A narrow limestone path meandered through the heart of the village, leading to the village’s small harbour. A handful of weathered boats, their paint worn by countless voyages, bobbed languidly on the water’s surface.

The smell of freshly caught fish lingered in the air, carried over by a crisp breeze that gradually helped Lan Xiaoli’s mind to cool off. He was ripped out of his racing thoughts for good when he heard a threatening voice bark, “Yo bitch, where’s our money? Our boss has already given you a two-week reprieve!”

A gang of rowdies was surrounding a girl, and the thug that threatened her was caging her with one arm braced against the wall.

Lan Xiaoli abruptly stopped in his tracks. “We need to help her.”

Mu Chun crossed his arms. “You got the sword. You go and help her.”

Lan Xiaoli gave him a look. “They are just mediocre gangsters, I cannot raise my sword against them.”

To avoid being caught between the fronts, Zhang Chengling took a step back to stay out of this quarrel.

“...” Mu Chun sighed and approached the group. “Leave her alone.”

The thug that stood closest to Mu Chun turned around. He sized Mu Chun up, then sneered. “Or what?”

Mu Chun returned the sneer with a mirthless smile. He cocked his head and taunted, “Why don’t you come find out?”

Now he had the attention of the entire group. It was five guys in total, all putting on their most dangerous faces. From the visible scars on their skin and their generally deformed features it was obvious they liked to brawl. The gang members slowly started to close in on Mu Chun. He, on the other hand, remained unfazed, hands clasped behind his back.

It wasn’t until one of the rowdies threw the first punch that Mu Chun showed off his skills. And for that, he didn’t even need to move a muscle.

Fresh leaves that had been plucked from the trees by a spring breeze and lay scattered on the ground around them began to quiver, then suddenly shot up all at once. The leaves acted like sharp blades, smoothly severing the hand of the bravest ruffian, stopping his strike mid-swing. Before anyone could react, the leaf blades swiftly surrounded the gangsters, coming to a halt mere inches from their eyes.

Mu Chun’s gaze wandered lazily from gangster to gangster, as if daring them with his eyes to make another move.

As soon as shock gave way to realisation, the now one-handed rowdy seized his own arm and started to scream as blood gushed from his stump. Scared witless, the other gang members quickly took flight, leaving behind their friend… or colleague? Either way, he didn’t seem to hold it against them. Though he looked like a corpse with all the colour drained from his face, he still had enough life in him to run away as well, followed only by a trail of his echoing screams.

Lan Xiaoli and Zhang Chengling both gaped at Mu Chun with eyes and mouths wide open. But not because he had just casually sliced off a hand – they had both seen more horrifying things in their lives already.

Lan Xiaoli was the first to snap back to his senses. “You can use spiritual energy?! Why did you never tell??”

Mu Chun shrugged. “It wasn’t relevant.” He nodded at the girl. “Hey, are you okay?”

With the shadow of the big gangster out of her face, the soft and beautiful features of the girl, who seemed to be about their age, were revealed. Her skin was smooth and fair, and her long black hair was tied up with lots of small braids woven into it.

Though she had a small frame, there was nothing delicate about her. Instead, she gave off a rather barbaric air, which was emphasised by her crude clothing style. Wrapped around her head was a simple headband, and she was layered in robes of vibrant red and blue linen. The small brown leather accents that ran through her outfit rounded off her distinctive style.

She was definitely a fighter – this much they could tell.

The girl didn’t look at Mu Chun. Visibly sullen, she rubbed a bloody cut on her cheek which one of the gangsters must’ve inflicted on her. With a grim expression she replied, “I’m fine.”

Mu Chun’s eyebrow twitched. “...you’re welcome.”

The girl languidly moved her eyes towards him and spat, “For what?”

“We just saved you.”

“I didn’t ask for your help,“ the girl objected.

Mu Chun’s eyebrow twitched even more. “Did you have time to ask??”

The girl acknowledged her mistake and adjusted her wording. “I didn’t need your help.”

Mu Chun’s face dropped. “What’s up with this generation!? Everyone’s so ungrateful!“

“Nah, you just do not deserve our courtesy,“ Lan Xiaoli chimed in.

The girl pointed at him. “Exactly. Thank you.“

Mu Chun twisted his neck back to face Lan Xiaoli. “Are you fucking kidding me? You told me to help her!”

Lan Xiaoli waved him off and addressed the girl, “Do not listen to him… However, there is something you might be able to help us with!”

Mu Chun and Zhang Chengling could almost hear a wink in his voice; he’d never acted so smooth before.

The girl eyed him sceptically. “With what?” 

“We have a few questions about the history of this village,” Lan Xiaoli replied.

The girl didn’t answer right away, weighing the pros and cons in her mind. “Fine,” she said at last. Wanted or not, they had helped her after all, so there was no harm in answering a few questions.

“Thank you. My name is Lan Xiaoli by the way,” he introduced himself. “And the others are Zhang Chengling and Mu Chun.”

The girl nodded. “I’m Lin Yue. Follow me.”

Lin Yue led them to a tavern where they ordered a few drinks before interviewing her.

It turned out that a broken dam had flooded her village, and Murong Zheng just happened to be close by. As with Linguang, he had used his own resources to help the villagers rebuild their homes. In gratitude, they had presented him a medal for his selfless support, a small mansion with a bust of his head at the front to commemorate his bravery, and some sort of high rank.

“I don’t remember his rank,” Lin Yue said, “but he’s rarely on my mind in general. He’s hardly ever here, visiting maybe once every other mon–”

“LIN YUE!!” A man bellowing at the top of his lungs interrupted her explanation. An instant later, the door to the tavern was kicked down and a mob of gangsters burst in.

The owner of the tavern brandished his cleaning rag at them. “Hey!! You keep your business out of my establishment!”

Lin Yue was already on her feet. “Sorry guys, but we have to continue this another time,” she said and dashed off.

She leapt over the counter and ran through the kitchen door to escape out the back exit. The mob of gangsters dismissed the tavern owner and followed her.

The tavern owner clicked his tongue and whirled his cleaning rag in the air as if to shoo them away. “Whose tab should I put the broken door on?!”

Lan Xiaoli and company also wanted to follow, but angry as the owner was, there was no way he would let them pass through the kitchen as well. Instead, the trio left through the front door and hurried around the building, but it was too late. Neither the girl nor the mob were still in sight.

“Do you think we should wait for her?” Zhang Chengling asked.

The interview was all they needed and they got the answers they wanted, yet it felt wrong to leave just like that. Lan Xiaoli nodded, his face solemn. “Yeah… let’s wait.”

Since they didn’t know when Lin Yue would return, Lan Xiaoli decided to pay Murong Zheng’s mansion a visit to kill some time.

“I’ll come with you,” Mu Chun said.

“No need,” Lan Xiaoli replied.

“Then I’ll come too!” Zhang Chengling piped up.

“Guys, someone needs to be here in case she returns. You both stay.”

The other two exchanged a glance but ultimately let Lan Xiaoli leave on his own. 

As Lan Xiaoli made his way toward the mansion, a soft evening breeze swept through his hair and robes, sending them aflutter.

The mansion sat at the end of the village, where a small footpath branched off the main road, leading up to the house. Unlike Murong Zheng’s main residence, it wasn’t guarded. He probably didn’t hide anything of value in his secondary homes, so there was no need to arrange for guards.

The bust Lin Yue had mentioned stood on a small pedestal at the intersection. Lan Xiaoli scrutinised the bronze head, tracing its facial features with his fingers, then gave it a firm slap.

It wasn’t as satisfactory as he’d hoped it would be.

He shook his hand and blew some air into his palm to ease the stinging pain left by the slap. The house in the distance stood desolate and vacant. It was rather plain, much less pompous than his courtyard house. With the woods towering behind it, it almost seemed haunted.

Lan Xiaoli clasped his hands behind his back and wistfully stared at the house from afar. The thought of burning it to the ground briefly flashed in his mind, but he quickly abandoned the idea. Losing a small house probably meant nothing to Murong Zheng.

While Lan Xiaoli was away, Mu Chun and Zhang Chengling booked rooms at the tavern to get some rest. To make sure they didn’t miss Lin Yue, they asked the owner to let them know in case she returned. With the right amount of money, the owner happily complied with their request.

The sky had already turned dark when Mu Chun heard a ruckus outside his window. Though he couldn’t make out what was being said, he could tell that the voices were furious. It was a young, clear voice against a deep, grumbling one. Mu Chun didn’t even need to check to know Lin Yue was involved. A quick glance through his window proved him right.

Outside, in a dark, narrow alley behind the tavern, Lin Yue and a huge, burly man were engaged in a brawl. Mu Chun didn’t recognise him as a ruffian of the groups that had surrounded and chased after Lin Yue earlier.

She managed to keep him at bay for a good while until he seized her by the neck with one of his large hands and lifted her into the air.

Her legs thrashed about and she managed to plant a solid kick to the man’s abdomen, causing him to stumble backwards and loosen his grip. The moment she freed herself, Mu Chun appeared in the alley.

The man was about to lunge at her again, but Mu Chun knocked him out with a deft and powerful chop to the neck.

The man’s eyes rolled back in his head and he collapsed. As he toppled over like a freshly felled tree, Lin Yue appeared behind his large body.

She was sitting on the ground, rubbing her ankle. When she had broken free of the man’s grip, she had fallen awkwardly and sprained her foot. Mu Chun wanted to help her up, but she slapped his hand away.

“I don’t need your help,” she grumbled.

Mu Chun rolled his eyes and sighed. He crossed his arms as he watched her pitiful attempt to get up. The moment she put some weight on her injured foot, she faltered. Mu Chun wasn’t in the least surprised and caught her fall.

Frustration washed over her, and in response, she grabbed his sleeves, burying her head into his chest with gritted teeth. Tears welled up in her eyes. She despised feeling this vulnerable and helpless.

With one hand firmly on Lin Yue’s elbow for support, Mu Chun patted her head with the other. “Who are these people?” he asked.

Lin Yue’s grip tightened but she said nothing, biting down on her lip to stifle her tears.

Just then, Mu Chun locked eyes with Lan Xiaoli, who at that moment happened to pass by the alley. When he spotted the two of them in their embrace, Lan Xiaoli halted for a second, his expression indecipherable, then quickly moved on.

“...” Mu Chun let his head fall back in exasperation. He gave Lin Yue a firm pat on her back and said, “Come on, let’s get your ankle cooled.”

She pulled away from him, angrily rubbed the tears from her eyes and nodded her head at the unconscious guy. “What about him?”

Mu Chun didn’t even spare him a look as he walked past. “Don’t worry about him.”

The two of them entered the tavern and Mu Chun briefly scanned the hall, but Lan Xiaoli was nowhere to be seen.

Mu Chun then helped Lin Yue onto a bench. Sitting to her left, he took Lin Yue’s sprained foot and placed it on his lap after removing her boot. The tavern owner brought them the jar of wine they’d ordered and some wet rags, which Mu Chun held to Lin Yue’s ankle.

“Now, who are these guys?” he asked again.

Lin Yue gnawed at her lower lip. Mu Chun applied some pressure to her ankle.

“OW!”

“Speak.”

Lin Yue glared at him but complied nonetheless. “I owe them money.”

“Why?”

“None of your business.”

Mu Chun applied more pressure to her ankle.

“Fuck! You really suck at this!” She sighed. “My mum is sick, so I’m in charge of our family.”

“Ever thought of getting a job?”

Lin Yue jerked her leg in an attempt to kick Mu Chun, but he had a firm grasp on her leg. “Who do you take me for?!”

“No one really. I don’t know you,” he replied flatly.

“...” Lin Yue crossed her arms and averted her eyes. “Of course I did. But no matter what job I took, it never paid enough. I needed quick money, so I borrowed some.”

“What about–”

“My dad is a gutless runaway. Don’t mention him.”

Mu Chun stared at his lap and nodded in understanding.

She didn’t need to say it, but her situation was hopeless. If the money she had honestly earned wasn’t enough to live on, how would she be able to pay back the money she had borrowed within a set time limit? And would the people to whom she owed the money not charge interest, adding to her debt? Apart from that, she’d soon need more money to buy more food and medicine.

In order to afford all this, wouldn’t she have to borrow even more money and end up in a vicious cycle?

All she could do was fight and run away until her mother died or her siblings were old enough to help earn some money. But there was no way the debt collectors were going to wait that long. If she couldn’t pay them back, it was only a matter of time before they’d collect something else as her debt.

“Hey, why is he staring like that?” Lin Yue asked, ripping Mu Chun out of his thoughts.

[thearchivistsjournal]

Day 244,

We’re on our way home.  This morning we said our goodbyes to Iole, thanked her for letting us stay with her and copy her book, and headed to the boats.  Lin made the crone a promise to come back and check up on her the next dry season.  I think she’s low-key angry that everyone just left the old woman on her own for decades without even stopping by to see if she’s still alive.

As for Iole herself, it was honestly a bit hard to get a read on how she felt about the whole thing, even after sharing dinner with her every evening for the past two weeks.  Not that she ever said much during those meals.  I came away at the end of last night thinking she was glad to have us around, but she was pretty curt with us this morning.  Then again, that might have just been tired grumpiness from only having slept a couple of hours after staying up all night.  I certainly know I was pretty out of it this morning.

Speaking of which, I’m alone with the boats at the moment while the other three are checking out this island we’re taking our midday rest on.  I was nodding off enough all day with the boat alternatingly rocking me to sleep and jolting me awake that I figured it’d be best to take a nap once we stopped moving for a bit.  Should be more useful for the rest of the day now.

Maybe that wasn’t the wisest decision, sleeping alone in unknown territory, but I was tired enough that my judgment was shot to the point where I was insisting to everyone that I’d be fine.  I guess it worked out though.

And so here I am.  Woke up alone, walked a bit while keeping the boats in sight to stretch, and then sat down and started writing.

Huh, I’m alone but no nature sprite.  Didn’t even put crabs in my boots while I slept or anything.  Guess it’s got something else to keep it occu-

The others are back, Cass taking the lead and behind her Lin and Maiko are holding hands and it’s adorable.

*******

First day of the return trip down.  In proper bookend fashion tonight’s almost a replay of that first night of our expedition.  All of us around a fire, talking and smiling and laughing, even as I write, slightly apart from the others but promising to join back in soon.  Everyone in high spirits, not yet worn down from days of rowing, excited for our ultimate destination, and this time around we have the added satisfaction of knowing this trip went as well as we had hoped for, even better in some ways.

Watching the three of them, it strikes me that up until now (or at least before this outing) I’ve kind of thought of myself as the common point of contact for multiple friends of mine that I brought together more than them being friends with one another.  While that was never exactly true (and kind of self-centered to think) it certainly isn’t anymore.  I think it’d be fair to say that over the past almost-month they’ve all bonded with one another more than I have with any of them.  It’s a weird thing to watch from the sidelines when you’re not personally there for most of it.

Not that I’m complaining by any means.  I’m happy for them.  Maiko and Cass actually seem to have in-jokes now.  Half a year ago, and I wouldn’t have thought Maiko capable of humor.  Cass and Lin have me increasingly convinced that they’ve got some sort of silent agreement to double down on the “childish adult and adult-ish child” bit for dramatic/comedic effect when you leave them together too long.  And Lin and Maiko…

Seeing those two together gives me hope that Maiko might not feel the need to hide from people forever.

And now we’re singing.  Taking that as my cue to stop the journal for the night.

<==Previous          Next==>

[notsocheezy]

Brain Curd #64

Brain Curds are lightly edited flash fiction - practically first drafts - posted daily and sometimes written with the express intention of being terrible… but, you know, in an endearing way. Please enjoy.

Disney’s The Girl Without Hands - Review

Why did they make this?

I’ve reviewed a lot of films in my day, but this one has to be the most baffling. After the middling reception to Wish, their previous feature, most hoped that Walt Disney Animation would take a step back and reorient themselves. If they don’t know how to get back to their roots, maybe they should try something new instead?

Sadly, that wasn’t the case here. Digging down to the bottom of the barrel, the studio decided now was a good time to make a musical adaptation of an obscure Grimm fairy tale about amputation. Despite the name of the story, the hand-less-ness is really just an incidental detail. It’s really a story about the devil trying to get a young girl to sin so he can take her soul, and when put that way it sounds like this could be a slam dunk. Maybe they could have come up with a different name to fit modern sensibilities - The Girl Without Evil, maybe, I don’t know. Their writers get paid a hell of a lot more than I do.

When you watch it, though, you’ll be forgiven for thinking not a single person working on this film so much as read a synopsis of the original story. There’s no devil, no climactic scene of the protagonist’s hands being cut off, nothing like that at all. She’s already hand-free when the lights fall in the theater. The opening song is called I Want To Have Hands. Yeesh. Yeesh and woof. Plus, it’s written by Lin-Manuel Miranda.

I’ll give them this: it sounds like a real musical number and not a pop song, but it’s just embarrassing. It’s an unending stream of jokes about how having hand stumps makes it really hard to work on a farm - like, the tools are meant for people to use with hands. She lists every single farm tool that she can’t use, and then tries to use a hoe with her mouth during the song. I wouldn’t even know the lyrics of that section if I hadn’t been given access to the demo version, recorded by Lin-Manuel himself. Suffice to say, they don’t improve things.

The villain of this film is another one of those twist villains, but you can see it coming from a mile away. Of course it’s her father, he has four hands. He made a deal with an evil wizard so he could do more farm work at once, and the wizard gave him his daughter’s hands so he could hold two tools at the same time. It’s complete nonsense, and accusations of Disney having used AI on the script are only far-fetched in that I don’t think an LLM could come up with something so deranged.

So, what about our protagonist? What’s her personality like? Essentially, she’s clumsy. That’s her whole character. She’s always trying to grab things but her arm stumps knock them over. How can a person go her whole life without hands and forget that she can’t grab a glass of goat milk from the table? She should know by now she needs to use a straw.

Anyway, her father arranges her to marry a wealthy aristocrat, but her heart belongs to a winemaker with no feet. I have to give Disney props here for decent wheelchair user representation, but the motorized scooter really pulls me out of the medieval era this is allegedly set in. Ditto for the talking cow, Hope, voiced by Chris Pratt in falsetto, who regularly talks about taking selfies and how hard it is to do that with hooves. Read the room, Hope, it’s even harder to do that with stumps.

At some point, the film just ends. She gets her hands back, sure, but none of the other plot points are resolved, so one might suppose that they thought, “well, she has hands now, so we should save the rest of this for the sequel.” I don’t think they’ll be making a sequel. But maybe the avant-garde crowd will appreciate a big-budget animated feature without a three-act structure. All I can tell you is that I decidedly did not.

The animation was lousy, the music middling, the plot contrived and nonsensical, and it made me yearn for a time when Home on the Range was the worst we could expect from Disney. The popcorn was the most enjoyable aspect of seeing this film… and it was stale.

4/10

⭐⭐⭐⭐

[sagittariusdarkarrow]

HI FAKE MONK THIS WILL BE OBVIOUS TO YOU BUT

"Luci's random question to people" moment!!! Which Guardian character do you most relate to and why? And DMBJ character? (Feel free to send me back a random question if you want!)

Lin Jing, without a second thought. I'm buddhist-hindu based to exist, but in my own way, that works for me. I can't sit for five minutes to meditate, but I'm not just any Indian dude, as Lin Jing is not just any monk. I talk more than I should, and I never learn how to shut up, I'm too curious and often nosy, and I like my pay at the end of the month to come with bonus (in this regard I'm luckier than Lin Jing because my boss doesn't threat me and doesn't take away my extra money). I know I'm not the protagonist, not even in my head, but I know how to chant mantras and do the tricks to save other people's asses. I'm not always here, but I'll be here when I'm needed. DMBJ has too many characters, but in some way, Hei Xiazi: jokes too much in moments when jokes shouldn't be made and knows how to survive to apparently anything, except that something in himself that might be killing him slowly. Kan Jian in the way he'll be really glad to help and be useful to the people he loves/is loyal to, even when he's not always there, he'll be there when needed. And sometimes Huo Xiuxiu, in the way she relates to her family. My aunts are amazing, but all the other family members… are not. And I refused to follow their path in the past.