#‘renewal’ ‘change your face’ etc

[carefulzombie]

early doctor who’s “throw it at the wall and see what sticks” approach to its canon is so fun to look back on having the hindsight on what it would eventually evolve into. just imagine the in-universe excuse you probably came up with on the spot as to why the main characters actor had to be replaced kept your shitty little time traveling show with a budget of a paper clip and a stick of gum going for six more decades

[dear-ao3]

Sorry i tried to scroll past but, i know nothing about f1 other than max verstappen is fast, my dad doesnt like lewis hamilton, fast car goes in a loop and sometimes expodes. Could you give me a crash course in f1 drama? Im very intrigued. Whats the tea as it were?

a terribly loaded question, but i will do my best. i’ve talked about some of the drama before like the red bull second seat and the chronicles of haas but allow me to briefly try my hand at explaining the nightmare that is the upcoming silly season

under the cut we go

silly season is when the drivers go through contract renewals, extensions and switches. usually it’s confined to the first half of the season (march-july) but it has been known to extend all the way to the last race of the season and they like to switch people around at random sometimes. driver contracts are complex, there’s a lot of money involved and basically You Are The Face Of The Team so if you have a shit season then you make the team look bad. but at the same time you could have a shit season because you have a shit car. it’s sticky stuff.

so. there are only twenty seats in formula 1. 10 teams. each team gets two drivers. (there’s also reserve drivers but we’re not going to get into that). who ends up with a contract is largely up to the teams, they can pull the contract out from under people they can also cut you mid season. they’ve done it before.

of the 20 drivers on the grid, 14 of them have contracts expiring at the end of the year. yes. 14. you see how this could get complicated.

so let’s meet the teams.

red bull racing. they came first this year (and last year) in the championship. like aggressively first. like they won the championship by over 350 points. they are definitely the team to beat. but if you end up with a seat at red bull, you do have to deal with max verstappen being your teammate and he won all but three of the races last year. he’s the golden boy. red bull are also notoriously silly when it comes to contracts and famously swap people mid season who aren’t performing.

mercedes. merc is home to 7 time world champion lewis hamilton and they have won the championship a great many times, though not since 2021. they are kind of in their flop arc and their car the last 2 years has been pretty garbage, but they have still made it work because they were able to come in second last year.

ferrari. god help the poor little meow meows with a ferrari contract. ferrari is a notoriously great team and they’re trying to get back to the top again but their strategy every single time has fallen short. to the point where their drivers are the ones doing the strategy in their cars while driving. they came in third last year and have been decently consistent at getting first in qualifying and then getting beat by max verstappen on race day.

mclaren. they’ve definitely worked their way up over recent years. they ended fourth last year and have had some championship wins before but not nearly as many as say merc and ferrari. their team ceo (owner? director?) is a little interesting and their car started out a pile of flaming hot garbage at the beginning of the year but they did manage to get their shit together.

aston martin. they are owned by canadian billionaire lawrence stroll, father of lance stroll (one of the drivers for the team). they’ve undergone several name changes over the recent years (force india, racing point, etc). they positively slayed at the start of the season and then one day they sucked. they finished fifth in the championship.

alpine. the frenchest french team. they’re (i think?) still partially owned by the french government. both of their drivers are french. (their drivers also hate eachother but we’ll get to that. just know they’re in the middle of a modern french civil war). they had the opportunity to have a good rookie driver (oscar piastri) this past year but in a thrilling twitter battle, he publically flamed the shit out of them and went to mclaren instead (and slayed). they're usually solidly middle of the pack. they ended sixth in the championship.

williams. williams has been one of the back of the grid teams for the last many years but they have finally started to get their shit together and don’t quite suck as much as they used to. all of the points this year were scored by only one driver though (except one but we’ll get there). they came in seventh.

alpha tauri. they are the sister team of red bull. so technically redbull owns both teams (meaning they can swap drivers between teams. they like doing this.) they’ve just kind of been There for awhile but they did slay towards the end of the season when one of their drivers led the race for several laps. basically tho, this team is the gateway to redbull. they came in eighth.

alpha romeo. recently renamed to stake f1 team (but sometimes they are going to be called kick sauber. this is a whole other drama post and i’m not getting into it). they’re also just kind of there. generally unproblematic. seems that really great drivers who get ixed out of a contract for a younger driver end up here or young drivers who are in their early years are here before they go to a better team. they ended ninth this year.

haas. oh haas. goofy team. they suck. point blank they suck. they keep loosing sponsors because they suck, they don’t win ever (one time they came first in qualifying last year). they cursed themselves in australia in 2018 by not tightening their tires and its been downhill ever since. they came 10th. their team principle got let go (fired?) who’s to say today.

so those are the teams. it is important to note that:

-there is a cost cap. each team is allowed to spend no more than 135m per year.

-not all cars are equal. some things are standard. they all undergo the same testing. but the cars are all very different. so you can be a good driver but stuck in a shitty car. which makes it impressive if you are doing well in a shitty car.

let’s meet our drivers!!!

starting with the guys who’s contract is not ending in 2024:

max verstappen. 3 time world champion. 26 years old. general beast on the track. he dominated the whole season. he’s currently racing for red bull and has a contract with them through 2028.

lewis hamilton. 7 time world champion. 39 years old. he drives for mercedes. he will not leave mercedes until he retires. he really really wants to win an 8th world championship and is willing to stick it out a few more years as long as merc still believes in him. his contract expires in 2025.

george russell. the other merc driver. 26 years old. hes aggressively british and says thinks like blimey unironically. walking meme. got his merc seat in 2022 right when they entered their flop arc by getting his tractor of a williams to finish second in qualifying in the middle of a rainstorm. his contract expires in 2025.

lando norris. mclaren driver. 24 years old. he has notably never won a race in his five years of formula one (mostly because right when his car finally was good enough max verstappen was 20 seconds ahead of anyone) but he is regarded as Very Good. he has only ever driven for mclaren. and even though there is another year left on his contract there is mass speculation that he will not renew his contract with mclaren after it expires and he may move up to one of the top teams (red bull, merc, ferrari) (tho i think he doesnt hate himself quite enough to go to ferrari). his contract expires in 2025.

oscar piastri. the other mclaren driver. 22 years old. this was his rookie season and he positively slayed. like people compared his rookie season to lewis hamiltons rookie season. he also had the positively funniest start to his rookie year because alpine announced that he would be driving for them (he had been their reserve driver and in the alpine academy) and he posted a tweet that basically said yeah thats false i never singed anything with you and im going to race with mclaren instead (he dodged a bullet) and then alpine tried and failed to sue him for $4m USD. he signed a contract extension with mclaren this year and his contract expires in 2026.

lance stroll. aston martin driver and son of the aston martin owner. hes doing ok, tho there was conspiracy that he wanted to quit and have a tennis career awhile ago. but basically since his dad owns the team it seems that hes guaranteed a seat for as long as he wants one.

so now. moving onto the good shit. the people who have contracts expiring in 2024. hold onto your hats people.

charles leclerc. (everyones favorite slutty little soup can). 26 years old. he is currently at ferrari and he has been since 2019. notably, he was given the longest contract in the history of ferrari after a stellar rookie season at sauber (renamed to alpha romeo, renamed to stake f1) where he got the tractor of a car consistently into the points. having the longest contract in the history of ferrari was a flex at the time, but now its likely how he will introduce himself at therapy sessions. ferrari have fucked this man left right and center up the ass with a plastic lunchroom spork. hes talented, he can drive, and he can drive well. but the strategy that ferrari has absolutely sucks. either something is wrong with the car (see him blowing out his gear box on the formation lap in monaco, his car completely crapping out and spinning into the barrier in brazil before the race even started) or they fuck up his pit stops or put him on the wrong tires and honestly its just frustrating. but will he leave??? likely not. you'd have to pry ferrari out of his cold dead hands and at this rate that might be where this is headed though there has been some minor speculation of him going to another team like merc or red bull, but merc doesnt have any open seats and red bull is a whole other dumpster fire of drama. ferrari are going to have to pay him a boatload of money to make him stay.

carlos sainz. the smooth operator. 29 years old. ferrari driver. previously carlos was at toro rosso (renamed to alpha tauri), renault (renamed to alpine), and mclaren before signing with ferrari. he has been at ferrari since 2021 and has voiced that he would like to stay with them for however long he can. there is speculation that lando might replace him at ferrari (but landos contract is not up until 2025) and there is also some speculation that alex albon might replace him. while charles is clearly the golden boy at ferrari, carlos is slightly slower but also definitely consistent. he was THE ONLY non red bull driver to win a race this past year, in Singapore after max verstappedn was knocked out of qualifying by alpha tauri reserve driver liam lawson (more on him later) and because he basically came up with his own strategy in the car while he was driving.

sergio perez. aka checo. red bull driver. 33 years old. and oh boy here's where we open the can of worms. checo was previously at racing point (renamed aston martin) and it was very near the end of the 2020 (?) season and he was out of a contract. he had a bonkers race where he was knocked to the back of the grid and then overtook everyone and somehow ended up winning (there is more to that story but just trust me) and christian horner, red bull team principle, mr ginger spice and definite disney villain called him and said congrats sir you have a seat at red bull! well. fast forward. hes been causing problems. problems as in crashing a lot, generally not doing great and pissing the crap out of red bull. it is basically guaranteed at this point that he will not be getting a contract extension. there was actually talk this year of him losing his seat mid season to one of the alpha tauri drivers, because remember, red bull owns both teams and they can switch them whenever they want to (and they have!) but ultimately this did not happen. even though checo has a seat at red bull until the end of 2024, its mass speculated that he is going to get switched with an alpha tauri driver, probably daniel ricciardo (more on him shortly) mid season because there is a speculated clause in daniels contract that says that if checo isn't performing well in the first few races daniel is getting his seat.

daniel ricciardo. 34 years old. alpha tauri driver. man oh man what a guy. outside of being the prankster of the paddock, he has one of the most batshit careers of anyone currently on the grid. he started out at red bull and was showing real talent and skill and was on track to win things (and was!) and was there until the end of 2018 when max verstappen (his teammate) started getting preferential treatment and also red bull started having a lot of problems with their engines (which were being outsourced from Renault (now alpine) and another team on the grid) and well very very long story short he made the surprise move of the century and decided to sign with Renault (which makes no sense they're the one with the engine problems) and was there for 2 years before moving again to mclaren where he was reportedly not treated very well and had a hard time driving the car so they mutually ended his contract with them early and he basically retired at the end of the 2022 season and became a red bull reserve driver. then halfway through the 2023 season alpha tauri ixed one of their drivers, nyck de vries, because he wasnt doing well and promoted daniel back up to a full time driver at alpha tauri (which we know is only a step down from red bull) but then he broke his hand in a crash in zanvort (?) and then he was replaced for a few races by formula 2 driver liam lawson (who we will also talk about) and then he came back to finish out the season in alpha tauri after he was cleared. daniel has admitted openly that he never should have left red bull and he was given bad advice to do so. hes towards the end of his career at this point and its well known that he Really Really wants to finish out his career at red bull again. he and max have already been teammates before and they do work well together and daniel is great driver (see his comeback in texas (or maybe it was brazil?) this year). so. Pretty Sure that daniels going to get either an extension at alpha tauri or go up to red bull. thats what we all want. get this man in a red bull we need him there biblically.

liam lawson. now technically liam is not actually a formula 1 driver. hes a formula 2 driver, but he was daniels replacement for five races and there has been some speculation and some confirmed news about him so hes getting included. when he was racing for f1 he was at alpha tauri. hes 21 and looks like he belongs in the movie grease. no one was expecting him to slay in formula 1 and he positively knocked everyones socks off. the scene: Singapore. which, if you'll recall, is the one race that a not red bull driver won. this was largely because liam lawson slayed the absolute game in qualifying. the qualifying part of racing determines what order the cars start in on the grid for the race and theres three parts, the first two parts the bottom 5 drivers each time get knocked out and then the top 10 complete for the last 10 spots. liam lawson knocked BOTH max verstappen and checo perez out of qualifying in the second round by going very slightly faster than them, effectively fucking up red bulls race and allowing carlos to win. and he also scored points in that race, which no one was expecting. now thats all fine and dandy, but here's the speculation: hemlut marko (im pretty sure) (who is somehow decently involved in the decision making at red bull though i couldn't tell you how) said that he thinks that liam lawson will be in an f1 seat no later than 2025. meaning that he will probably get offered a contract this year. and hes already raced for alpha tauri. red bull have sunk a good amount of money into him. they clearly want him. so if he gets offered an alpha tauri seat in 2025, that means theres a good chance danny rics is going to red bull. do you SEE how the plot here is THICKENED

yuki tsunoda. age 23. currently at alpha tauri. and fun fact, the only alpha tauri driver to race there the whole year. he had three separate team mates. he is slaying and hes often slept on. he has a bit of a temper and likes to shout on the radio and also hates working out (they had to force him to move to italy or something to work out, long story) but hes been kinda killing it. he led several laps in the abu dhabi race this year and hes decently consistent. people think theres possibility that he could get moved up to red bull on account of the fact that he is younger than daniel and clearly has more years in him,, but there is also possibility that he might not because red bull like to make stupid decisions. and if he doesnt get moved up to rebel, will he stay with alpha tauri? we don't know.

alex albon. age 27. currently a williams driver. alex albon is another one with a batshit career. he started out his rookie year in 2019 at alpha tauri then got moved up to red bull halfway through the year when red bull decided that pierre gasley wasnt doing a good enough job (more on him later) and stayed with red bull for a solid year and a half until he lost his seat in 2021 to checo. he has been with williams for the last two years and is basically carrying the team. like. williams as a team scored 28 points this year. and alex albon scored 27 of those 28 points. and as we know, williams is still kind of in their shit arc (though they are doing much better. they didnt score any points for a solid 2 (?) years. so this is an improvement.) and if you can get a shit car to perform you catch the eye of bigger teams. now, alex has already been a red bull driver. and he was on the cusp of podiuming two separate times when lewis hamilton ran into him. this (among a few other things) basically killed his chances at getting resigned at red bull because he wasnt ""performing"" and red bull are bitches who love to win. but some people think that red bull should give him another shot. like daniel, hes already been max's teammate and he can definitely drive. but theres also talk he might go to ferrari because ferrari think that he might compliment charles's driving style (or something). but going to ferrari at this point is kind of suicide. so.

logan sergeant. age 23. the only american on the grid. the other williams driver. he just finished his rookie year. he scored a grand total of one single point this season, in texas, and it was because charles leclerc and lewis hamilton both got disqualified because the floor of their car had more wear (by literally less than millimeters) than it was allowed to, bumping him up from 12th to 10th. he has never done better than alex albon. he was also the very last driver to get a contract for 2024, with williams waiting until i think december of 2023 to announce his contract extension. clearly, hes on thin ice. but people have also said that he needs time to get used to formula 1 (other people have pointed out that oscar piastri slayed his rookie season this year and this statement about needing time is largely false). where logan ends up next year though will largely depend on how well the 2024 season goes for him.

fernando alonso. 42 years old. many people like to point out that oscar piastri is actually younger than fernando's racing career. he won tiktok creator of the year (somehow) and is also a 2 time world champion. he retired a few years ago, just to show back up again and slay. during the first half of the season when aston martin had a zoom zoom car he killed it, and then they had problems on top of problems and he didnt do well. except for that one race in brazil where he came in third, beating checo by literally .05 seconds. he hasn't really made any hints about retiring a second time and he is kind of carrying aston Martin right now (he scored 205 points this season, coming in 4th and tying in points with charles leclerc, lance stroll only scored 74 points this year.) and they did have their best year yet this year. (though they are relatively new).

pierre gasley. 27 years old. french. drives for alpine. the french team. previously he raced with toro rosso (now alpha tauri), then got promoted to a red bull driver in 2019, then halfway through the season they decided he wasnt doing a good enough job and he got demoted back down to alpha tauri. then he won a race with alpha tauri just to stick it to red bull. after the great oscar piastri contract twitter war, he was signed as alpines second driver, with Esteban ocon being the other driver (more on him soon). estie bestie and pierre (both french) were childhood friends and now hate each other for unknown reasons and basically feuded on the track for most of the season. french civil war at alpine. he scored 62 points in 2023 and came in 11th. not really sure where he will end up, it is possible that he will stick it out at alpine.

esteban ocon. 27 years old. also french. currently driving for alpine. another one with a silly bonkers career. he started out at force india and had a baller few seasons there but his teammate at the time was checo, and checo didnt really cooperate with him too much and caused some drama that cost estie bestie some places and some points. max verstappen also beat him up in the garage once. thats not really relevant but it did happen. anyway, after the owner of force india was arrested for .... i don't remember what maybe it was embezzlement or bankruptcy or something money related, the team was backed by lawrence stroll and became racing point. but all of that happened mid season and lawrence was basically like look ill back you guys for now but next year my son gets a seat (lance) so one of you two (checo and estie bestie) have to go. and ultimately they let estie bestie go even though he was more consistent because checo had more sponsors and they needed money. so he was out of formula 1 for a few years (but was a merc reserve driver) and then went to Renault, which then became alpine. he did come in 12th though overall this season, just behind pierre. so. will alpine keep both him and pierre and keep the civil war going? whos to say.

nico hulkenberg. 36 years old. haas driver. in his 200+ f1 races he has never been on the podium and he really really wants to be on the podium. unfortunately this will never happen in a haas because haas fucking sucks. and everyone knows it. he is getting towards the end of his career though. though! stake f1 will become the mario Andretti and audi team in 2026 (don't question it) and they have supposedly voiced interest in nico. so we will see if he hangs on that long to end up at audi. for now tough, hes definitely hating it at haas. though, haas are going to have a different team principle next year so maybe that will change things. i have a sneaky feeling through that haas will probably end up with another 2 rookie drivers because everyone else is smart enough to not race for them.

kevin magnussen. 31 years old. haas driver. hes another deeply interesting character. he has had one podium. in his rookie season. in his first race. and none since. kevin started at haas in 2017 and then left at then end of 2020 when he basically got kicked off because the team needed money and they wanted to bring in drivers with more sponsorships. these drivers were mick schumacher and nikita mazepin. so kevin basically was forced to retire after the 2020 season. this went decently well for haas. until russia invaded ukraine right before the start of the 2022 season and, well, nikita was Russian and it was never distinctly proven that his dads company (who was sponsoring the team) wasnt also funding the invasion. so nikita got fired and they were literally like 2 weeks out from the start of the season, down a driver. who are you gonna call? kevin magnussen! and hes been back ever since. but hes clearly getting annoyed with haas. there was one great clip from this year where his car caught on fire and he kind of just stared into to, clearly hoping it would burn for a long time. so the likelihood of him extending his contract is looking slim.

valtteri bottas. 34 years old. currently a driver for stake f1 (alpha romeo, kick sauber, whatever you wanna call it). previously, he was a mercedes driver and notoriously helped lewis hamilton win a great many championships, until he lost his seat to george russell in 2022. there was a rather awkward part of the 2021 season where valtteri knew that he was out of a merc seat the following year and kind of just chose violence. he slayed. then he went to alpha romeo, grew a mullet and made a calendar of his ass. quite the glow up if you ask me. hes also very interested in cycling. honestly though, i have my own personal speculation that hes going to retire at the end of this year.

zhou guanyu. 24 years old. driver for stake f1 (alpha romeo/kick sauber, etc etc). hes doing alright. he just finished his second season, in his first season he was majorly out qualified by valtteri but this past season he managed to out qualify him a good 6 times. which is decently good for the tractor of a car hes driving. its possible that he could get a contract extension, but like logan, its probably going to depend on how the 2024 season goes for him.

and thats all the drivers. theres also a few others i didnt talk about, like some other f2 drivers who want seats and mick schumacher, who is currently a merc reserve driver, all of which could be contenders for f1 seats. but one things for sure. this is going to be the silliest fucking silly season.

feel free to add on and peer review me

[tlbodine]

So, Things Are Terrible and You Want to DO SOMETHING

The election is over and, ah...did not go well. While a lot of folks are doing a post mortem of the campaigns and trying to understand what happened with the vote and fighting over who shoulders the blame, we've gotta turn an eye toward the future and figure out, okay fam, where the fuck do we go from here.

I don't have all the answers on this, and I'm not an authority by any means, I'm just a horror author with a blog. But I've been thinking a lot about it and I wanted to share my thought process with others who might want to DO SOMETHING but feel they're spinning their wheels.

Buckle in. This will be a long one.

Step One: Understand the actual risks and stakes.

I think it is very easy to start panicking now about the worst possible case scenario -- jackbooted military busting into the door to disappear everyone who ever said something mean about Trump or bought a banned book or something -- and let fear turn into inaction.

I'm not saying things can't get that bad, and I'm not saying that it won't be absolutely terrifying right out the gate for some particularly at-risk groups -- but the distance between "now" and "V for Vendetta" is long and filled with a lot of intermediary steps. There will be so many opportunities to prevent the worst case scenario.

I say this because, if your mental image of "Bad Things Happening" is The Purge, it will be easy to wake up on inauguration day, look outside to see that the world is not on fire, think, hey, maybe things will be okay after all, and then completely disengage. Alternatively, you might feel so frozen with terror at the possibility of persecution that you do nothing. This is why people are saying: don't obey in advance.

It is essential for those of us with more privilege to use it to take care of those who are more vulnerable.

So. Who is most vulnerable? What does that vulnerability actually mean? What are the most likely risks of Trump's presidency? Here's a Guardian article that I think does a good job of summarizing some of the main issues. Go read that, then come back here.

Step Two: Take steps to protect yourself

You've gotta put your oxygen mask on first, right? So before you start getting involved in other causes, figure out what risks YOU are at, immediately, and do as much as you can to secure yourself. Some potential action steps depending on your circumstance may include:

Renewing your passport (helpful for leaving the country, but also for gender/name change purposes)

Getting vaccines / boosters

Securing birth control

Ensuring your necessary papers (birth certificates etc.) are where you have access to them.

Drawing up legal paperwork for spouses/partners (always a good idea, a helpful safety measure in case you lose marriage rights)

Bolstering your data privacy and online security. Here's a step-by-step guide I found that could help with that.

The specific steps you need to take here depend on what risks you, personally, face. You'll want to do some more research into this for your particular scenario.

No matter who you are, though, it's probably a good idea to start saving money and being a little more conservative with your spending and/or pay down debts to free up some cash. You don't know what kind of emergency may befall you, and having spare money for an emergency is never a bad idea.

There is a possibility that the cost of many things you rely on might go up, if Trump goes through with his tariffs plan. You will want to plan for that.

Food costs may also rise due to tariffs (we import a lot of food from Mexico and Latin America for example) as well as a loss of immigrant labor. There is also a possibility that food safety standards could fall due to overturning regulations. Now would be a good time to look into local food resources like farm share/CSA, community farms, etc., and to stock up on a few key staples like rice and beans.

Okay. Now that YOU are reasonably safe...what can you do to protect your community?

Step Three: Get Involved

Here is your mission: You need to stay engaged enough to know what's going on, without burning yourself out or exhausting yourself, and to take actual decisive actions instead of wasting your energy arguing on the internet.

Got that? Okay. Good. Here are some action steps:

Support independent journalism. Subscribe to local papers, donate to and watch public broadcast programming. I signed up for news from ProPublica, for example, as well as the news-roundup service What The Fuck Just Happened Today. The goal is to stay informed without falling down an endless rabbit hole of upsetting information.

Share news and resources with others in your circle. This can be a good use of social media. It's what I am doing right now!

If it is safe for you to do so, challenge and educate your friends/family members/neighbors/coworkers. Only if it is safe for you to do so. Do not put yourself at risk doing this. And do not waste your time arguing with people who are unlikely to change. But if you have well-meaning people in your life who you think could be won over, look for opportunities to do this - the right way. I've had some success with this, I will probably write a guide about it in the future. In the meantime, here's a good article that can help.

Join local grassroots activism groups. You'll have to do some work to decide what groups to join and which causes you want to support, because you cannot do everything. But there are tons of organizations taking direct action in all kinds of causes. Search "grassroots [cause] activists in [where you live]" to start finding things. Once you get involved in one group, you might meet people who can introduce you to other groups and causes. Yes, this means you will have to go outside and meet people. I'm sorry.

Join direct action groups. Same concept as above. You'll have to search in your area but once you know people it'll be easier to find more opportunities. Some of these groups may overlap. You might find direct action opportunities by engaging politically and vice versa. GO OUTSIDE AND TALK TO PEOPLE WHO ARE DOING THINGS TO HELP.

Get involved in local politics. Here are some quick tips. A lot of things are affected at the city level - stuff like book bans and bathroom bills are often battled first at local libraries and schools, and you can be part of those conversations! Sheriffs are elected and can have a big influence on local policing. Local elections affect how tax dollars are spent, how homeless populations are treated, and lots more. Don't snooze on local elections. Get involved and stay involved.

Look up your representatives. Get in the habit of calling, emailing, and writing letters. Figure out what legislature is being passed and then call your reps and harangue them about it - both to support bills you approve of and shoot down ones you don't. Sign petitions. Join email campaigns. Here's one you can go sign right now from the ACLU. See? Not that scary.

I think a lot of people figure that getting involved in politics doesn't matter or that it's all small potatoes but...man. The president is not god, no matter what he thinks. The sitting administration is not the sole power in the universe. There is an entire machine of government we can lean upon and act upon.

Finally, some general safety notes:

Some forms of direct action are not legal. Take steps to be safe if you choose to partake. Follow the lead of more seasoned activists for what forms of communication to use and so forth.

If you're not willing or able to put yourself at legal risk to act, you can help others by donating to bail funds and legal defense funds.

We've already seen this in some areas, and it will only get uglier - some bad actors are feeling emboldened by the change in regime and will misbehave. It's a good idea to learn some self-defense skills, in whatever way is comfortable to you, and brush up on some tenets of victimology that can help you stay safe. I'll write more about that in the future.

All right. That's all for now. It's by no means comprehensive...but should hopefully help you get started taking the next step. Stay safe out there.

[stayinlimbo]

We Become We

pairing: husband!lee minho x reader genre/warnings: friends to lovers, marriage of convenience, fluff, poor attempts at me trying to be funny, mc's gender is not specified word count: 1.02k note:  i am not dead yay. i tried my best since i haven't had time to write for almost a month so please take this as a peace offering ♡

Marriage. It’s an interesting concept, isn’t it? 

You’ve always thought so, at least. Two people agreeing to sign a legal document and tethering their lives to each other for whatever reason, be it love, societal expectations, familial pressure, financial security, etc. 

Yours happens to be a man named Lee Minho. The same man you’ve been friends with for as long as you can remember. The same man who asked you to marry him for a reason you didn’t get to learn until he was already down on one knee. 

(“I’m sorry, you want me to WHAT?” “Marry me. Please, I need health insurance.”

“Okay, yes, sure, whatever; now please get off the floor. People are staring.”)

Lee Minho, who, after dragging you to the courthouse and legally becoming your husband, finally elaborated on how his job would pay him more and cover both of your health insurances if he was married. So really, in his words, he was “doing you a huge favor” by marrying you. 

And, in all honesty, he really was. No, you didn’t have a ring to show off your new husband’s weird skill at finding loopholes in company policy, and you’re like thirty-five percent sure the two of you are committing some kind of marriage fraud, but does it really matter when you can finally start using the hot water in your dingy apartment without worrying if you’ll have enough money to fund your crippling caffeine addiction? The government will have to drag you kicking and screaming before you resort back to mankind’s cruelest form of torture: cold showers. 

Not to mention that marriage didn’t even change your relationship with Minho. And why would it? You’re still you, and he’s still him. He gets on your nerves just the same, maybe even a little bit more after he decided to frame your marriage certificate in his living room and send a photo to all your mutual friends. You’ll never forgive Minho for laughing at your helplessly panicked state when the group chat wouldn’t stop exploding with messages and incessant calls. 

You’re still his best friend that resides in his apartment four out of seven days of the week while he inhabits yours for the other three. Maybe that’s why, two weeks after your “wedding,” when it was time to renew your lease, Minho suggested with a simple shrug of his shoulders that you move in with him since “you’re here all the time anyway.” 

You’ve really got to learn how to say no to him because now you wake up next to your best friend/roommate/husband in his one bedroom, one bathroom apartment at the crack of dawn with a light pressure on your chest and fur in your face when his cats decide you need to wake up right now to feed them. 

Not to say you don’t like the new arrangement! No, that would be the furthest from the truth. 

Sure, you didn’t appreciate your skin care routine being interrupted by the unexpectedly high-pitched scream Minho let out when he saw you in a face mask for the first time, and what kind of person still has their phone’s brightness turned up all the way before bed? But who else would willingly tolerate your deliriousness before your morning coffee or indulge in your pleas to cook your favorite food three days in a row? 

Living with Minho has only made the purely platonic feelings you harbor for him grow stronger.

That’s what the fluttering in your chest means every time you see him, right? The reason for the smile that grows on your face when you hear the distinct jingling of keys at the front door?

Yeah, that must be why heat spread across your cheeks when he handed you his phone to text one of his friends back, because since when did the heart emoji make an appearance next to your pinned contact name?

You just care about each other, that’s all. It’s normal to want to make sure he arrived at work safely and ask how his day is going during your lunch breaks. It’s normal to start receiving back hugs before bed—a comforting weight as Minho’s chin rests on your shoulder while you apply the rest of the products to your face. 

It’s natural to have doubts about the nature of your relationship during an evening walk, acutely aware of his fingers lightly brushing against yours as you silently study his features illuminated by the soft glow of the scattered streetlights. What if he meets someone else and falls in love with them and wants a divorce and– oh. 

Has he always looked at you like that? With his gaze softening as it locks with yours? With the corners of lips lifting into the gentlest smile you’ve ever seen? With all the stars shining above you finding a second home in his eyes? A look so loving that it takes your breath away and you can’t tell if you’re about to laugh or cry in relief. 

And when you return home to get ready for bed, the familiar feeling of hands wrapping around your waist and a careful pressure resting by the crook of your neck quells the remnants of your worries.

It’s you and Minho. Minho and you, just as it always has been. Just as it’s always meant to be.

The distance between your bodies on the bed becomes nonexistent when you curl yourself into his side, laying your head on his shoulder and intertwining your legs with his as he immediately, unhesitantly, adjusts his arm, his fingertips finding purchase on exposed skin and roaming across the span of your back. A kiss to the top of your head is the last thing you feel before the gentle lull of breathing and the rise and fall of his chest begin to soothe you to sleep. 

…

Ah, marriage—what an interesting concept. Two people agreeing to sign a legal document and tethering their lives to each other for whatever reason, be it love, societal expectations, familial pressure, financial security, etc. 

You love your husband, and you’re beginning to think he loves you too. 

liked this work? want to let me know how i did? please like, comment, and/or reblog; they are greatly appreciated my asks are always open ♡

taglist: @linospuddin @linocz @spicyhyunn

[remcycl333]

STEP 1 - CHANGE WHAT YOU’RE AWARE OF

notes from “the creative use of imagination” by neville goddard 🤍

step 0 is to decide what you want. maybe you want money, or a new place to live, or an sp, or physical appearance changes.

step 1: begin to observe those thoughts and reactions towards the thing you want to manifest.

“to arrive at a certain definition of self, you must begin by uncritically observing your automatic reaction to an event, for your reaction defines your state” -NG

throughout this post, I will use the example of physical appearance change.

maybe throughout your day, you see pictures of other people on social media that you view as more attractive as you, and your reaction to that is “I wish I looked like them, this isn’t fair why am i not as attractive as them, what do I need to do to look like them” etc.

or maybe you see yourself in the mirror and you think “god why do i look like that, why am i not attractive? why hasn’t my face changed yet?” Etc

if you were in the state of having your desired physical appearance, would you be reacting that way to your 3D?

the first step to changing our state is to first learn the way our old state behaves and reacts to things. it is our current dwelling state that is reflecting in our 3d right now, and when you stop and observe your reactions to things, it becomes glaringly obvious how they’re creating your 3d. if you’re ruminating on how ugly you think you are all day long, you cannot be surprised when you look in the mirror and are dissatisfied with what you see.

“If you react to that which is being objectified, you bind yourself to a certain level of awareness, but if you refuse to react, the thread is broken.” -NG

“Only by observing your reactions to life can you find yourself.” -NG

how are you supposed to know what state you are in if you don’t observe your reactions? And once you begin to observe your reactions, Neville says you will be shocked by how deceitful you truly are. but he always urges the importance of uncritical observation. you should not shame yourself for what you find, or even feel bad. these observations are simply meant to show you your current state, and the ins and outs of it so you are able to change it more easily.

“always examine yourself uncritically, for the moment you become critical, you automatically justify your reactions and associate yourself with the thing observed.” -NG

once you begin to observe your reactions, you will become more aware of them when they happen. they’ll grow to become uncomfortable and glaring. they will feel like they don’t fit you anymore. maybe before they were just knee-jerk, unconscious reactions, but now you will feel them take up the space in your head whenever they arrive. and because of this, you will be able to shift your awareness to what you really want your 3d to reflect. you will be able to let go of the parts of yourself you no longer wish to identify with.

“be transformed by the renewing of your mind by changing the ideas planted there, for you cannot change your thinking until you change the ideas from which your thoughts flow.” -NG

your state creates your thoughts, not the other way around. it is critical to understand this if you wish to change your dwelling state. your thoughts are not your enemies. if you constantly battle against your thoughts, without ever paying mine to your state, you will not have much success.

“accept an idea as true. identify yourself with it and it will out-picture itself in your world. but if you do not accept the thought and identify yourself with it through feeling, you are free from its results. you must become very selective and learn not to associate yourself with unlovely thoughts.” -NG

this is not to confused with the term “mental diet.” when you react negatively to something, you have two options. 1) beat the thought down and panic and tell yourself the opposite without believing it to be true, or 2) choosing not to identify with it. remind yourself that this thought is just a thought. it has no power over you, and if you don’t want it to be manifested into your reality, it will not. Neville says if you do not consent to a thought as true, it will not manifest into your world. if you don’t associate your inner being with that thought, it will not come to pass in your 3D.

“start now to consent only to lovely thoughts of fulfilled desires prior to their confirmation by your senses, and give up the animal instinct of suffering and bathing yourself in the feelings of hurt and self-pity.” -NG

ruminating in unpleasant thoughts where your desire remain unfulfilled can be comfortable, and even habitual, but at the end of the day it is a choice. a choice that you have to stop making if you truly want better for yourself. this is something I struggled with a lot at the beginning of my manifestation journey. there was some twisted pleasure and comfort found in picking at scabs in my mind, and feeling sorry for myself, and imagining what would happen if my desire was never realized in my 3d. but eventually I had to choose better for myself, and I had to choose to stop giving so much attention to mental conversations like that.

“control your imagination with steady attention and dare to stand and be heard.” -NG

YOU create the happenings of your imagination, and your imagination creates your reality. do not feel silly or foolish deciding better for yourself in your own imagination. and do not let the logical restrictions of the 3d to tell you what you can and can not give yourself in imagination. give yourself what you want in imagination and stand firm in that, even if your 3d shows the opposite. stop silencing yourself in your own imagination!

this is my thoughts and notes only on the first two chapters of “the creative use of imagination” so more may come as I continue my re-read! 🤍 just wanted to share this :)

[lunar-bat]

- A guide to lunar magick -

Today's topic is moon magick and how you can harness the moon's power to enhance your spiritual journey.

As I delve into the various phases of the moon, we'll go over the symbolism, spells, and rituals associated with each, and hopefully offer a deeper understanding of how to align your craft with the moon's cycles. It's important to note that these symbolisms may vary among different crafts, so you might find it doesn't align with your personal practice, so work with it however it feels right for you.

New Moon The new moon marks the beginning of the lunar cycle, positioned between the Earth and the Sun, appearing completely dark. It symbolizes rebirth and new beginnings and makes for a perfect time for personal growth and reflection. This phase is ideal for magical practices focused on personal transformation, intention-setting, releasing, healing, and anything to do with something new. Waxing Crescent Moon The waxing moon is associated with the growth and amplification of energy. It corresponds to the strengthening of intentions set during the New Moon, as desires begin to gather momentum. This time of the moon is also good for setting intentions, as well as harnessing the energy of growth, abundance, and positive change. First Quarter Moon Appears approximately 7 days after the new moon. During this phase, the moon is half-illuminated and marks a period characterized by facing obstacles, decision-making, and creating forward momentum. It's a good time for taking action on your intentions and moving forward with your plans, as well as building courage and drawing things in. Waxing Gibbous Moon During this phase, the moon's luminance gradually increases and marks a time for attraction and drawing things in, but more often for inner strength and motivation. It's a good time to work on refining your goals and strengthen your focus in various aspects of your life apart from the spiritual. Full Moon The full moon is regarded as a time of heightened energy and magic. It occurs about 15 days after the New Moon when it's centered between the Earth and the Sun. This phase is often said to bring in the strongest energies and is often associated with prosperity and fulfillment of intentions. Due to its heightened power during this phase, it's a good time for practicing any spell you have in mind, such as romantic rituals, abundance and prosperity spells, divination, protection and banishing, healing, etc. Waning Gibbous Moon The waning gibbous occurs after the full moon, and during this time, the moon's illumination gradually decreases. This phase is good for releasing negative energies and anything that no longer serves you as well as cleansing, divination, reflection, and breaking bad habits. Third Quarter Moon The third quarter moon appears in the lunar cycle between the full moon and the new moon. During this phase, the moon is illuminated to roughly half its capacity, presenting as a distinct half-moon shape. This moon's energy is associated with letting go of the past and focusing on reflection and renewal. It's a good time for banishing, protection and warding, and inner exploration including shadow work. It's also a good time to reconnect with spirit. Waning Crescent Moon This phase represents the final stages of release and introspection. It calls for the preparation of new beginnings and is a good time for intuitive work and shedding old skin before transitioning into the dark moon. The Dark Moon The dark moon occurs when the moon is completely concealed from sight for a few days before the first slight glimpse of the waxing phase and is not actually associated with the new moon. This is a good time to do banishings, hexes, cleansings, bindings, and any magical workings that are considered to be on the negative aspects.

[mysticheathenn]

What are you being Protected From?

Hi there! Remember to take what resonates and leave what does not. This reading does not supplement your need to go seek professional help.

Take your time when choosing your pile. Ask yourself the question and choose the picture that you can’t stop looking at. Listen to your intuition. This is a Free Tumblr Reading. I only put Patreon just in case anyone wants to join for more pick-a-cards and other content soon to come to that channel. I'll make a post about it sometime this week about the different tiers etc.

Patreon Link (Monthly Subscription)

Ko-Fi Donations (One-time Donations)

Pile l:

*What are you being protected from? (Tarot: 9 of Pentacles, 10 of Cups, The Fool, and 7 of Cups (Reversed))

Dreams! You’re dreams and goals that you envisioned for yourself are being protected at this time. Some of you may have decided to take the leap of faith and go after what you want for yourself and out of life and you’re wondering if you are also on the right or wrong path and your spirit guides want you to know to keep going, you’re on the right path and that you are protected. This isn’t to say that you won’t deal with hardship when pursuing your dreams especially if you are in a competitive field. This is more so of spirit saying that no one can take away what is yours, your goals and dreams are for the taking and in reach and they are here to help you along the journey if you just ask them. Remember closed mouths do not get fed and we all have free will so your guides will not just jump in your life and change things without your consent. When things get hard on this new path of yours remember to ask your guides for help. If you work with deities ask them for help as well but remember it is a give-and-take relationship when working with deities and you shouldn’t expect things from them because they are who they are. Keep going on whatever path you are going on, you are protected.

*Messages, Synchronicities, and Signs from your Oracle Cards: (Moonology Manifestation Oracle Deck: Go Deeper, Step into your Power, & Relax)

“Go Deeper” Passage from the book: “You’ve moved through your fears and can see now where this issue has come from. It’s time for you to face your darkest concerns…go deeper. Your situation may need to crumble before it can be renewed. Magic is called for. It’s crucial to stay strong.”

“Step into your Power” Passage from the book: “Achieving anything is always part inspiration and part hard work. Be You! Take action, be bold, but be smart. Be systematic but also allow yourself to be excited about what you want.”

*What good things are coming from this protection: (Oracle Cards from Spellcasting Oracle Deck)

Passion Inspiration Boundaries Finding (This could be becoming more of your authentic self, developing your intuition more, or finding the answers you seek)

Pile ll:

*What are you being protected from? (Tarot: 2 of Swords (reversed), 4 of Cups, 6 of Pentacles (reversed), The Moon (reversed), Death (reversed), and The Devil (bottom of deck))

“It’s not time yet.” This is what I am hearing from your guides. Some of you are getting impatient waiting for something you’ve been putting in a lot of work towards, or if not a lot of work towards maybe you are waiting for a scholarship, a gift or money from someone, whatever it is you are waiting for it’s not time yet. There are still some missing pieces that need to come together, some pieces that aren’t being shown to you at this time that accepting or doing whatever it is you want isn’t happening right now.  But you can’t help but feel stuck and questioning if you made the right or wrong decision. Some of you may have been drawn to pile 1 as well. For movement to happen pile 2 change needs to happen for some of you this isn’t on your end, and you just need to wait whatever it is that you are waiting for out, and for others, some of you need to change something. I don’t know what that may be because your guides are telling me that you know. You know what needs to change whether self-doubt, breaking up with your partner, moving from your toxic environment, quitting your job, or what. When you do that, you will receive what you are looking for. You can’t want great things while holding on to the same toxic and harmful people or environments, it will only taint your blessings.

*Messages, Synchronicities, and Signs from your Oracle Cards: (Moonology Manifestation Oracle Deck: Open Up to Change, Attune to the Divine, & Talk Less, Feel More)

“Talk Less, Feel More” Passage from the book: The danger of your current situation is that you’re going to be really good at starting things and less good at finishing them. This card suggests that you talk less and feel more. What you want wants you too. Do you believe in yourself or not.?” (Paraphrased from the book, passage was too long lol)

“Open Up to Change”: “Big changes are on the horizon, but you need to let events unfold with as little steering as possible from you. A rational even slightest aloof assessment for your current situation is being called for.”

*What good things are coming from this protection: (Oracle Cards from Spellcasting Oracle Deck)

New Beginnings Answers Protection

Pile lll:

*What are you being protected from? (Tarot: 6 of Swords, Justice (reversed), 10 of Pentacles clarified by the Knight of Cups (reversed), The Lovers (Reversed), 8 of Swords (reversed), 4 of Cups (reversed)

This could be a relationship/Friendship for a lot of you this is romantic but for some of you, this could be platonic. This reading kind of is going both ways some of you you’re going through a breakup up and others, you are thinking about going through a breakup because you are the only one in the relationship who is putting in all the effort. It reminds me of the Simpson meme where Lis is placing a band-aid on Bart and the caption says my toxic trait is and basically doing things for others they wouldn’t do for you and some of you are seeing that this person is selfish, narcissistic, and maybe even just downright hates you. Reminds me of the thread on Twitter where guys openly discuss the moment, they start randomly hating their girlfriends and start treating them horribly so they would break up with them. Very few of you don’t want to see this out of your relationship (platonic or romantic) so you keep making excuses and giving people the benefit of the doubt. Spirit is saying no more, the blindfolds are coming off and you’re going to see a spade for a spade and move away from this situation. There is better on the horizons. Some of you don’t want to leave this person because you have low self-esteem and feel no one else will love you and others of you are afraid of being alone or fear the dating scene because of what is out there but ask yourself is it really any worse than what you are constantly putting yourself through. Love yourself and have respect for yourself enough to leave, boo.

*Messages, Synchronicities, and Signs from your Oracle Cards: (Moonology Manifestation Oracle Deck: Know Your Worth, Trust all is well, & Keep Your Heart Open, Know You are Loved)

Unlike the other two piles who received messages from the passage from the book of the oracle cards, your cards are quite self-explanatory.

Know Your Worth (Do I need to say more)

Trust all will be well (trust you will be okay when this end. Trust there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Your life will not end because you ended or are going to end your relationship/friendship)

Keep Your Heart Open (I know this isn’t fair the feeling you are feeling and all you have been through. But keep your heart open for others to see the beautiful light you shine.)

Know You are Loved (Again do I need to say more)

What good things are coming from this protection: (Oracle Cards from Spellcasting Oracle Deck)

Lighten your Load Forgiveness (This could be forgiving the person or yourself for not seeing things clearly or even for not taking action sooner.) Friendship Reconciliation (This is more about self-love. If I had to put it in further words it’s that Twitter post where it says after a breakup women go back to school, work on their bodies, buy a house, etc. It’s more of focusing on the self than getting back together with someone.)

Thanks for checking out my reading. I appreciate all of you, until the next reading.

Stay Safe and Be Blessed.

[fernlessbastard]

ok hot take. we all hate capitalists. I know. I do too. I really, REALLY hate capitalists.

that being said C!Quackity is the definition of a capitalist. like in a fully "I made the money, I deserve it because I took the risks." "its not my fault that some people dont work as hard as I do." "las nevadas is a company, the only government is the corporation which Quackity owns." way.

he is sat RIGHT at the bottom right corner on the political compass, and he is not budging. obviously, thats not to say hes a homophobe or a racist or generally a bigot, but hes very much a land hoarding, greedy, individualistic, profiteer type guy.

him and wilbur have gotten into several arguments about this, as with pretty much all of the ways Quackity runs his goverment, and shots have been FIRED.

I think the main argument from wilbur would be: "was it your fault that you were homeless after you ran from schlatt? do you really belive that youre the only person who has ever needed to run from financial abuse?" and "if it hadn't been for my policies about taking in all we can feed, then you would have starved to death in the woods. according to your philosophy I should have told you to piss off because you wernt profitable."

and then quackity responding with: "you change your ideology like youre a kid playing dressup, dont act like youre better than me because you woke up and decided that being a marxist suited your situation best, you just want something to argue about." and "you only took me in BECAUSE I was profitable. maybe not through labour but you would have used me as a bargaining chip any day of the week."

anyways, they've both been heads of state and both of them are well versed in political science and economics, which leads to both some very fun conversations and some less fun arguments. (wilbur might enjoy it a little)

ok so yes I agree with that take in the context of the smp, but it's also important to point out that minecraft "capitalism" is what those capitalists who want to convince you it's good claim capitalism to be. Food is abundant, shelter has little requirements to be functional, you can literally just dig a little into a hill and you're set, and then make a farm from things you can find anywhere. Anyone can mine, anyone has access to anywhere that isn't already someone's exact base, food is easily accessible and renewable, etc etc.

What Quackity's doing is he's actually providing a luxury service which isn't at all necessary. And Las Nevadas deserves to earn a profit from people using its facilities, cause they've been carefully and deliberately made to provide entertainment. Quackity doesn't have monopoly on food, shelter, land, resources, etc. Anyone could make their own small version of LN if they had the want and time to. So it isn't fair putting cQuackity in the same box as idfk bezos or musk, cause in cQ's case it's deserved, earned, and not a monopoly that causes everyone but him to suffer. Translating that into real life is just simply much more difficult than taking it at face value

As a sidenote I think that while Quackity is like that on the outside, he still wouldn't ignore someone needing help. Like, he's definitely got that built up resentment of "I had to work for all of this so hard, I've gotten through so many hardships. Why should someone else have it easier??" but then when the push comes to shove he's still end up helping, even if just a little bit.

[yanaleese]

Hi! :D, i have 2 questions for karma, 1. Karma is tradicional vampire or is he like the Twilight vampires?. 2 He is willing to let me give him some kisses on his face and leave marks on him?. ;) PD(Sorry if i sound a bit rude, i am learning english and Google a helped me a litte haha)

Ooh! This was a question I've been waiting for!

Also your English is understandable relax bestie <3333

But first - let's get your smooching session out of the way ;)

Now, to answer your first question - Karma falls under the Twilight vampires; however he is not entirely a full vampire. In fact, his family and him fall under half-vampires.

Here is a basic (but LONG) comparison between half-breeds and pure-breeds!

Note that this is still in the works, so some information may be changed to fully tie in Karma's story and lineage!

(1) Yup! You read that right - pure-bloods are born with extra mouths, or none at all. They can be randomly placed anywhere on the body e.g. their backs, their hands, etc. However over time, pure-bloods have been able to move their mouths towards different areas thanks to genetics!

(2) Measured Enhancement is a state that allows pure-bloods to renew their strength and abilities. The blood acts like a charger to your phone battery, similar to how we need food and water to survive. It poses little to no risks due to a chemical called vialene, which helps them to resist losing control of themselves.

(3) No Sun Tolerance - Just like traditional vampires, they cannot go in sunlight, as it can lead to their bodies to burn, decay or even explode. Although these effects are dependent on the pure-blood's age, genetics and their decomposition process.

(4) Due to most mouths being permanent from birth, they cannot camouflage their mouths nor make it disappear. As a result, it causes pure-bloods to be susceptible to their environment, leading to these extra mouths being infected. It also does not help the fact that these pure-bloods are decomposing bodies, since decomposed areas can leave the mouths no longer usable. Thus, many vampires wear long-sleeved clothing to hide these mouths - and over time - learn how to gain blood without being detected!

(5) 99% of the time pure-bloods have pale, veiny skin since they lack blood; but that doesn't mean they don't have any. In fact, the chemical that makes up their blood is called Pyrotoxinum (fire + poison). Pyrotoxinum is a black, poisonous chemical that is highly reactive with sunlight and human blood. It's composition is similar to blood, and it tastes like oil and grease. It is corrosive to skin after being exposed in sunlight, can be colorless in sunlight, and is odorless. Lastly, Pyrotoxinum is also poisonous when being ingested, making it a useful tool for humans and vampires to kill people in their sleep, and cause explosions to occur. So be extremely careful when coming across pure-bloods!

(6) With so many mouths, extremely pale skin, and no sun tolerance - pure-bloods are super easy to detect. Hence, many pure-bloods do not openly integrate themselves within human society. This means they use their environment particularly well, making them incredible predators.

(7) Unfortunately, pure-bloods can only drink blood. Eating meats, grains, and dairy is out of the question, since all human food comes from the sun. Besides, pure-bloods are not a fan of organ failure and dying an explosive death lol

(8) Ductility - Pure-bloods are able to stretch their body parts whenever their please, and return to their normal size. This ability works well for middle-aged vampires, since in their younger years - their body goes through puberty and other hormonal changes. Although, it appears in teens, it is recommended by older vampires to not dabble in this ability until they're older. They can receive training for it though!

Bonus: Short comparison between PURE-bloods and TRADITIONAL vampires

(B - Both , P - Purebloods , T - Traditional , TBD - To Be Decided)

Undead? - B

Fangs? - B

No reflection? - T

Superhuman Strength, Speed, Senses and Healing? - B

Hypnotic Eyes? - B

Shapeshifting? - B

Aversion to Holy Symbols? - T

Stake Thru the Heart? - B

Fire? - B

Invitation Needed to Enter? - TBD

Running Water? - If you mean washing your hands and rubbing your face, then T. But if it's exposed to sunlight e.g. rivers, pools? Then B.

(1) Hemomancy is the ability to control your blood in the form of weaponry, shielding, etc. This is because the human blood in their body serves as fuel for their vampiric blood. The vampire blood acts a conductor, allowing them to channel the life energy within themselves! It is by far the easiest, and notable ability that most half-vampires have.

(2) Frenzied Enhancement is an uncontrolled, bloodthirsty state that occurs immediately when drinking blood or seconds after drinking. Although it's risky, it helps half-breeds activate their strength and abilities (huge difference!!!). In simpler terms, drinking blood acts like a key to a closed treasure chest. Drinking blood is purely optional, and simply an additional tool for half-breeds to survive. However, due to vialene being reduced, half-bloods are unable to lower their adrenaline - causing a lack of self-control.

(3) Sun Tolerance - Compared to pure-bloods, most half-bloods are able to go in the sunlight without problems. Their human halves need sunlight, so having sun tolerance is a major plus!

(4) Stemming from genetics and adaptation, half-bloods have the ability to camouflage their mouths. They are able to move these mouths around, assimilate it into their skin, and in rare cases remove it from their skin completely! This process is similar to blood clotting, which is why their body is compatible with such major changes. This ability is by far one of the most envied by pure-bloods!

(5) Another trait that half-bloods can have are patchy, mosaic skin. This skin condition can come in the form of stitches, spots and spirals. Most of the vampiric race believes that this patchy skin substitutes extra body parts, e.g. the mouth. However, the reasoning behind it remains a mystery to most, since this condition has become rarer in the current generation of half-breeds (which Karma falls into).

(6) Since half-bloods are practically human, they are hard to detect appearance-wise. This doesn't stop modern methods from finding them through vialene tests, sensory overload, starvation, etc. Hence, many half-bloods try to build their endurance and stamina to remain undetected. Sometimes half-bloods even try to live off without vialene, which normally goes to shit if you're not careful. But it is possible - there's even a myth about it!

(7) Another ability that pure-bloods envy are half-bloods being able to eat human food and drink blood! Usually, many half-bloods have a strong preference of one over the other. Either way, half-bloods can live on a blood-only diet or a human-based diet. But it is strongly recommended by older generations to ingest both, since it can cause hormonal and emotional imbalances. So it's best to be on the safe side!

(8) Fixed shape - Fortunately, half-bloods are unable to twist and stretch their body parts. This is thanks to their human side kicking in, and hemoglobin being pumped around the body. Pyrotoxinum in most cases, is quite dormant. It is only activated when half-bloods use hemomancy, in fight/flight/freeze mode and possibly more!

Bonus: Short comparison between HALF-bloods and TWILIGHT vampires

(B - Both , H - Halfbloods , T - Twilight , TBD - To Be Decided)

Do they have sparkling skin in sunlight? - T

Superhuman Beauty - B, but it is not as potent as the Twilight vampires in my honest opinion.

Superhuman Strength, Speed, Senses, and Stamina? - B

Invulnerable? - T

Diamond-Hard Skin? - T. But I'd argue that falls under pure-bloods lol

Thirst for Blood? - T

Superficial Sleep? - T

No Religious Restrictions? - B

Enhanced Emotions? - TBD

Vulnerable to Fire? - T

Decapitation? - B

Bloodlust? - DEF B

Covens? - T. I wouldn't describe their family-like groups as covens, but as cliques? I don't have a full on name for it as yet...

Mate Bonds? - T

Transformation? - TBD, but I think transformation would be more suited to pure-bloods.

<>

If you're curious about anything stated here, feel free to blast my inbox (lol)!

Once again thank you for the amazing ask @mylovelyhorror ! I hope you all continue sending your asks - thirsty, unthirsty, romantic, or just pure fluff! MWAH 💋💋💋 trust me guys i'm not dead i swear

[starrylevi]

a scenario of levi's s/o asking what hairstyle he likes the best on them while they're just chilling? (like braid, low/high ponytail, bun, hair down, etc?)

i just think it would be really cute but i totally understand if you don't want to do it 😅 i really love your writing!! <3

This is such a cute idea!!!!! It's short but I hope you like it :)

---

“What do you think?” You ask nervously as you walk in front of Levi.

Levi puts down the newspaper he’s reading, the middle of his forehead wrinkling as he tries to figure out what you’re talking about. He comes to the conclusion quickly. “What, your hair?” He raises an eyebrow at you.

You nod quickly. You tried a new hairstyle and wanted to see if Levi would have any comments.

“I really like it. It looks good.”

You sigh exasperatedly. “You say that every time, Levi.”

“Perhaps because it’s true every time?” He says, eyes narrowing, confusion present in them. Yes, he may say the same thing every time but it doesn’t mean he’s lying. Levi’s very observant so he notices any changes, especially when it comes to you. He knows when you switch up your breakfast order, wear a new perfume, and more.

You let out another sigh before taking a seat next to him, turning slightly so you’re facing him. “Don’t you have, like, a preference or something?” You ask him as you bite down on your lower lip, waiting for his answer.

Another raise of his eyebrows. "For your hair?"

You nod.

“As in….” His expression tells you he’s waiting for you to explain.

“Like, do you like my hair best when it’s up, down, in a braid or something?” You ask with a shrug.

“I don’t have one.” He states simply.

“Come on, that’s such a cop out!” You lightly push him on his shoulder.

Levi seems unfazed by your touch and gives you a small shrug. “I don’t.” He repeats, nonchalantly, his eyes briefly taking another look at the new hairstyle.

You cross your arms, pouting, and it makes him chuckle. “What, you don’t like my answer?”

“Nope.”

“I like it the way you like it.”

You roll your eyes at his answer.

He rolls his eyes in turn. “It doesn’t matter how you style your hair, brat. You can be bald for all I care. It doesn’t make a difference to me.” He sees the disappointment in your eyes. You don’t like that answer either. Now it’s his turn to sigh. “But…if it really matters to you, I like it best when your hair is _____ (you can fill in the blank! :)”

“Yeah?” You sit up with renewed energy.

“Mhm.” He nods in response as he gently squeezes your shoulder. “You look great, sweetheart.”

[fan-girls-r-us]

Y’all, it’s that time again…

… Time to discuss the latest chapter of Spy x Family!

Obviously, there will be spoilers.

So a lot happened this chapter, but what I’m intent on unpacking is Anya’s botched fortune-telling session.

So while I’m not that proficient in tarot card reading, my sister and SO are far more knowledgeable. So I asked them.

Forgive me if I make any mistakes, I’m still learning this and am by no means an authority.

Breaking it down very broadly:

There are two kinds of tarot cards, ones of the major arcana, and ones of the minor arcana. Minor arcana represent every day life events/experiences; so for example, minor arcana could tell a person who’s being read about things such as how interpersonal relationships (romantic and non-romantic) may turn out. Each suit and number in the minor arcana mean something specific; each suit, for example, represents the four elements. Wands are fire, cups are water, swords are air, and pentacles are earth. The numbers basically represent how you’re looking at the subject of the card. Major arcana represent complex subjects, meant to divine major life events— cruxes in one’s destiny.

Further, the orientation of the cards matter a lot. If the cards face the tarot reader, then the card is read as is— that is to say, the card’s meaning is unchanged. However, if the card is facing the individual being read, then the card’s meaning is reversed. The Fool no longer means opportunity/potential, but now represents lost opportunities or squandered potential, for example.

On the table above, Anya has two major arcana cards and five minor arcana cards. Three of the cards are upside down. Her cards are:

Three of Wands (the card covered by Melinda’s hand): Minor arcana. Upside down. Typically represents momentum/confidence/growth/expansion. Wands also represent fire/passion. The number three also means that you are looking to something or anticipating something optimistically. However, as the card is upside down, it is read as the opposite of what it means; so where Anya may have had momentum, this means she’ll stall and likely lose momentum/confidence.

Three of Swords: Minor arcana. Typically represents a sorrowful experience/tragedy/loss. It could be a lost relationship, it could be the death of a loved one. It could just be something sad. Swords represent air/intellect, mental processes, struggles challenges, etc.

Four of Cups: Minor arcana. Typically represents the need to re-evaluate your current perspective and state of mind. Cups represent water/emotions or emotional state. The number four represents things becoming less abstract and more productive/stable/purposeful; the number four basically means order. THIS IS THE CARD MELINDA CHOSE TO REPRESENT ANYA’S PRESENT.

The Star: Major arcana. Upside down. Typically represents hope/renewal/healing/optimism. However, as the card is upside down, its meaning is reversed. So it instead represents despair/self-doubt and being stuck. From what I understand, the numbers are of less consequence with the major arcana, and we never see the number on The Star anyway. THIS IS THE CARD MELINDA CHOSE TO REPRESENT ANYA’S FUTURE.

Death: Major arcana. Typically represents major change, the end of one thing and the beginning of another. Again, I don’t know of what consequence (if any) the numbers have on major arcana, but as we can see here, the number is 13. THIS IS THE ONLY CARD LEFT FOR THE PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE, SO PRESUMABLY MELINDA CHOSE THIS TO REPRESENT ANYA’S PAST.

Ace of Cups: Minor arcana. Upside down. Typically represents joy/inner peace, but also the start of love or a new relationship. The Ace is the trump card and typically represents total success/luck/hard work. As it is upside down, it means that Anya won’t find success in forging a relationship, and that there will be contention/acrimony.

Ten of Pentacles: Minor arcana. Typically represents wealth/security, family/legacy. The ten represents the conclusion of a cycle/event.

There are several ways in which these cards can be interpreted.

While Anya asked Melinda to give her a reading in the context of connecting with Damian better, we can also interpret her cards through the lens of theories regarding her experiences/background and that the cards may be indicative of either parallels between the two of them, or means by which Anya can leverage said experiences to get closer to Damian. Furthermore, we have to take into account that, not only are the reading of tarot cards a matter of interpretation, but also not definitive (if you believe in tarot cards/divination).

I have my own personal theories about what some of these cards mean to Anya, (side-eyeing that Three of Swords so. hard.) but only time will tell how relevant they are, and if they even mean anything to the story’s progression.

Happy holidays, all!

[sanniesluvs]

The haze of you

Chapter 1 : The garden 

Story Genres  / Warnings :

Yandere themes , Jealousy , gorey scenes (later in story ) Character death ,Triggering content (blood , violence etc ) 

Persephone!reader (“y/n “ used ), Hades!san , Garden , fountain of youth , Adam and Eve inspo (snake) readers body type isn't set / heavily described but i imagine her to be curvier ,  Lmk if i have missed any!

Warnings for this chapter  : neglectful/scary mother , yandere themes , y/n cant stand up to her mom 

Wordcount : 1.5kish 

enjoy~

Lilies : often associated with purity, renewal ,and innocence.

 The sun was gleaming down, rays hitting my bare skin like a hug . As the morning dew dampened the flowers that bloomed around me .

My eyes peeled open as I was greeted with a kiss by a monarch fluttering its wings as a gentle wake up call . 

I rose up from my bed adorned with lilies , dandelions and an assortment of other  flowers.

Stretching my stiff arms, as I shake my hair out with a yawn I take time to admire my surroundings , the glass windows on all sides of me wrapped with vines and flowers, and the sun gleaming above , I reach up to rub my eyes with a groan . 

“Persephanie!” a voice from the entrance called out to me 

“Persephanie! It's time to wake up dear ” the feminine voice continued 

“ I told you , call me y/n when my mother isn't around .” I practically groan out in annoyance . 

“ Sorry dear , Y/n it’s time to wake up , lessons begin soon “ She chuckled out as she corrected herself .

A small smile appeared on my face , I can't be too upset by the slip ups by my caretakers having a soft spot for them  . As they raised me and provided me companionship when I felt lonely in this seemingly endless garden.

I finally remove my hands from my eyes as I softly look up at Iris . One of the caretakers my mom created out of clay to look after me. Her tender brown eyes gazed at me.

I wrap my arms around my knees as I pull them to my chest and bury my face in between them.

“5 more minutes “ i plead softy  

“ Sorry Y/n but this lesson is important! Your mother will be returning soon with news and I must prepare you !” Iris practically beams as she tugs me out of bed 

“ Straight to the bath young lady! Cora is awaiting your arrival , Time is of the essence!” she exclaimed her voice getting farther away as i rushed to the bath.

Oh? Mother is coming ? how unusual… Does she bear bad news? 

I ponder as I swiftly make my way to the bath . This can't be good … can it? 

I hastily make my way through the garden , the fields of flowers in full bloom as i pass , the bees and insects hard at work pollinating the plants I spend all my free time planting .

 What else am I to do here besides read, sleep, attend lessons? Everyday is the same here in the garden . I yearn for something new. I try not to get caught up in pointless wishful thinking. 

Nevertheless I can't help but wish for change on every shooting star that passes by in the sky . 

wishing i could jump on one and ride it far, far away from this tedious place . 

It's not the worst place to be , At least i'm not in tartarus or being forced to work against my will as a slave in the human realm .

I try to be as grateful as possible. A lot of people have it worse. I should be thankful to my mother for keeping me safe here! 

But my heart … it wants more, it wants to experience love to get to feel something other than dull unfulfilled emptiness .ahh …wishful thinking indeed 

The warm water rolled down my body as Cora attempted to rinse the soap off me 

“Cora,i can wash myself, I appreciate the help but it is not necessary “

Frustration evident in my voice as I move to grab the water pail myself. 

“ Yes honey , I understand but your mother made us so that you didn’t have too. I am only doing what I was created to , I apologize if you are upset by it .”

Her monotone voice repeating the same speech she always has. Unlike Iris, Cora takes her role very seriously . 

If it wasn’t for Iris she wouldn't allow me to do anything , not even brush my own teeth !

But she takes a step back and allows me to finish bathing on my own.

“Cora…” My voice quivered as i slowly brought my gaze to hers 

“ Yes my dear ?” she softly replied as she attempted to reach for my hair 

“ Why is mother coming?” i turn to face her , reaching up to do my own hair 

“  I'm unsure … hopefully she brings good news!” her eyes shifted away from mine, shoulders tensing up she rushed the words out I let out a small hum of acknowledgement , even they are afraid of mother .

They might be made from clay but they comprehend emotions just like the rest of us . Their features are as human as possible .I often forget they aren’t real people .

“ Ahh, I see … Yes, hopefully it is good!” this cant be good…

A knock from the door ripped me away from the anxious thoughts festering in my mind 

“Y/n!” iris called out 

“Dear, you must hurry! Your mother will be here any minute ! We must start todays lesson!“ ughhh i mentally groan as I pick up my body from the tub. Today is gonna be a long day.

I hate lessons… the way they drag on seemingly endless . Table etiquette i eat alone! ,Math lessons , History lessons ,  how zeus's father ate him and his siblings , i don't care! the same stories about people i’ve never met and probably never will!  

I can't leave the garden now matter how hard I try so what's the point! These lessons are useless . I'm a smart girl. I may be “ naïve” but only because I have no experience with the world ! if I got the chance I could be on my own! 

Mother would never allow that though . how can someone who is never there, someone i feel like i barely even know be so … overbearing i feel the weight of her around me even when she's not present

“Y/N! , you’ve zoned out again, must I start from the beginning “ Irises voice pierced my thoughts 

oh no i groaned internally this is gonna drag on forever-

“Persephone.” The chilling voice called out, shivers rolling down my body as I straightened my posture  

“Mother, welcome back .” I move to kneel into a curtsy, my gaze going straight to her feet , Afraid to make eye contact . 

“My child , come I have an important matter to discuss with you. “ She is already walking towards the green house I call a bedroom. By the time I look up, she's half way there. I quickly move, catching up to but remaining behind my mother .

The silence is suffocating . Mother's intense gaze analyzing every inch of me, as almost unnoticeable shudders roll down my body. I take slow, breaths to calm my erratic heart beat.

I’m sat at mother's feet in the living area of my room. The small loveseat being taken up by her flowy dress . She begins to gently combs through my hair , coiling my curls with her fingers 

“Mother , it's a pleasure to have you back , to what do I owe this visit?” I tensely voiced with a small gracious smile to break this terrible silence ,Finally looking up to meet her gaze  .

“ My lily “ she began, using the nickname she gave me when i was as small as the seeds i plant everyday 

“Zeus has decided to throw another one of his …extravagant  galas” the mock happy tone would have fooled anyone else but i noticed the slight twitch of her eye  

As i attempt to respond her cold voice cuts in 

“ He has decided that every god and goddess must be in attendance “

 Her already firm grip on my hair tightened causing a small look of discomfort to cross my face , quickly being replaced with a smile .

Why is she telling me this? Did she really come to rub the fact that I can't go in my face? A tight smile gracing my face 

“ Ahh , that’s nice i hope you enjoy it mother “ the words were rushed , trying to end this conversation quickly as possible , then she will leave and i won't have to see her again anytime soon 

“ Persephone.”  she calls my name  in a softer tone than i've ever heard from her 

“Yes?”

“ Zeus.. he has decided you must be in attendance as well”  she tensed , her movements through my hair ceasing .

Oh? 

This is … unexpected 

I’ll be in attendance ? I’ll be leaving the garden ?? 

“Persephanie ..”

What will I wear? 

“Persephanie ..”

How do I act around other people? 

“Persephanine “ Mother's irritated loud voice cuts through the air 

“I understand this is a lot to take in but do not ignore me” her voice booms loud enough to shake the glass windows surrounding me

“Sorry mothe-” 

“Now . you will have a strict set of rules to follow for your BRIEF time outside the garden “

I lay awake staring at the stars above recounting today's odd events 

Mother coming to visit … finding out I get to leave the garden tomorrow !!!  I'm so excited. The dress mother left for me to wear is absolutely stunning. 

I never thought I would get to wear something so extravagant ! The thought had me kicking my feet with a squeal of excitement.

Mother instructed Iris and Cora to have me ready by 6 pm sharp, not a moment later !

I’ll see Olympus , meet other gods!! All i have to do is follow 3 rules and i'm golden 

Even if the rules are… stupid. 

Stay by mothers side at all times

Don’t eat any pomegranate offered to me ? 

Stay away from Hades and Aries 

Simple enough ? 1 and 3 seem reasonable , i wouldn't want to accidentally piss off ares or hades anyway . but the second rule is just … odd why pomegranate specifically ? 

I guess we will see what tomorrow brings . the final thought as my eyes drift shut.

Short 1st chapter but dw chapter 2 will be longer! He will be making his first appearance 👀

feel free to give feedback! only my first story so its not perfect <3

[1218-814]

Twisted Wonderland Analysis (Tarot Card Offical Countdown Art)

Ace (23) and Duce (22)- No cards (in Major Arcana), The fool(s). Meaning new beginnings, having faith in the future, being inexperienced, not knowing what to expect, having beginner's luck, improvisation, and believing in the universe.

Normal:  Beginnings, Innocence, Leap of faith, Originality, Spontaneity

Upside down/reversed: Chaos, Folly, Lack of direction, Naivety, Poor judgment, Stupidity

I’m going to think Ace and Deuce are both the fool. I’m sure that they will the strongest card (the ace of spades). So the card confirms that they will be. In central Europe, the fool is the 22nd and the strongest card, which confirms this theory more.

They are both the first students MC interacts with (without Grimm), which is the “new beginnings” 

In the commercial of the Heartslabyul arc, you can see Cater and Trey on the edge of the screen showing most of their faces. But Ace and Duce show only show half of their Faces. This isn’t really about the card “The Fool” but it could mean they will be an odd card up the sleeve 

My card is in black, white, and red as well, so I think I used the right version, just because the cards’ color and the color of the Heartslabyul dorm are alike if not similar. (Ace=red and Deuce=black in my opinion)

In my version “the fool” has a crown in their hand. So I can conclude that the crown symbolizes “power”, I think he’s trying to communicate with someone who is higher than him (gods, rulers, etc.) using it. And the stick he’s holding represents fertility, which has a strong correlation to “trickster”, and the ends of the stick can also correlate to having two opposite ends (figuratively). Thus, it means that the person symbolizes being a fool, but they still have a side that calculates a plan. So it can also mean that the person, while not having a plan, still has a plan (Wikipedia, and yes, it's confusing sorry.)

Rook calls MC “Trickster Yuu-Kun”. The name does confirm this theory (fool=trickster). (”Trickster”- one who has two sides, the one who will change the story) And it is MC, Duce, and Ace that make a huge impact on the story. 

Cater Diamond (21)-  The World Za Warudo; represents an ending to a cycle of life, a pause in life before the next big cycle beginning with the fool. It is an indicator of a major and inexorable change, of tectonic breadth.

Normal: Achievement, Perfection, Fulfillment, Possibilities, Successful conclusions

Upside down/reversed: Delayed success, Failed plans, Lack of completion, Stagnation

Cater's last name is “Diamond”. Diamonds are the hardest jewel and are called the “king of all gemstones”, but they are also very brittle.

Cater is a very optimistic character, but he is also secretly very insecure about himself, so he hides his true self and acting the “perfect and strong diamond” to public

Trey Clover (20)-  Judgement; time of resurrection and awakening, a time when a period of our life comes to an absolute end making way for dynamic new beginnings.

Normal:  Awakening, Decision making, Redemption, Reincarnation, Renewal, Transition

Upside down/reversed: Poor logic, Poor or hasty judgment, Self-doubt, Stagnation

Trey didn’t stop Riddle when he was making unreasonable rules (poor judgment), which caused riddle to overblot, and this makes him have stagnation with his judgment.

But, the card means “renewal” which could represent his unique magic (Doodle Suit overwrites with what one imagines)

Riddle Rosehearts(19): The Sun; The card portends good fortune, happiness, joy and harmony. It represents the universe coming together and agreeing with your path and aiding forward movement into something greater.

Normal: Enlightenment, Joy, Marriage, Material happiness, Success, Vitality

Upside down/reversed:  False impressions, Lack of clarity, Low Vitality, Sadness

When people first think of the sun, they tend to think of Kalim. But in this case with the Marseille cards, Riddle is the perfect fit for it. 

In the Marseille card of the tower, it looks like the “sun” is spewing out what looks like flames to the tower removing the crown-like top, which may be a reference for Riddle’s unique magic, “Off with your head.”

 In the Savannaclaw arc, Riddle managed to stop Leona from overblotting too soon. Also, Leona’s overblot form uses nature, While 2 of the dorm SSR cards are fire-based, which makes him have an advantage over Leona

In his past, he was raised very strictly, which may also make him symbolize “sadness”

Jack Howl(18): The Moon; the card of illusion and deception, and therefore often suggests a time when something is not as it appears to be. Perhaps a misunderstanding on your part, or a truth you cannot admit to yourself.

Normal: Deception, Difficult period, Fear, Hidden things, Insecurity, Mental confusion

Upside down/reversed: Insomnia, Mysteries unveiled, Release of fear, Unhappiness, Unusual

In the Savannaclaw arc, he was disappointed in Leona, whom he thought he was above doing those things (difficult period and hidden things).

After he and Ruggie were able to respect Leona again after the overblot and Leona can try his best. (Release of Fear)

His unique magic and hair do have some elements of “The Moon (a transformation like a werewolf (unusual) 

At night, he (the moon) and “the stars” are the only ones near the height of “The Tower”

Ruggie Bucchi(17): The Star; you are likely to find yourself feeling inspired. It brings renewed hope and faith and a sense that you are truly blessed by the universe at this time.

Normal: Astronomy, Good health, Hope, Inspiration, Opportunities, Spirituality

Upside down/reversed: Despair, Disappointments, Illness, Missed opportunities

In the Savanna Claw arc, said something about opposing people's thoughts but he was disappointed when Leona said they could never be first.

After the overblot he has hope that he and Leona, the king he chose, can win the Magical shift tournament next year

Ruggie is the star, so he will not leave “The Tower’s” side (Leona)

Leona Kingscholar(16): The Tower; commonly interpreted as meaning danger, crisis, destruction, and liberation. It is associated with sudden unforeseen change.

Normal:  Accident or damage, Catastrophe, Destruction, Renovation, Unexpected

Upside down/reversed: Illness, Losses, Obstacles, Volatile situation

I don’t know if you’ve heard about this theory, but there is a theory that Leona is an important person in the ‘infinite loop theory’, and that's why he is repeating the grade, to break the loop.

In the opening, you see him standing in a very high place, which could represent the tower. 

Floyd Leech(15)- The Devil;  being seduced by the material world and physical pleasures. Also living in fear, domination and bondage, being caged by an overabundance of luxury, discretion should be used in personal and business matters.

Normal: Bondage, Enslavement, Fear, Feeling trapped, Materialism, Temptation, Unhealthy relationships

Upside down/reversed: Breaking from addictions, Divorce, Freedom from restraints

Bondage, enslavement, feeling trapped... Floyd hates shackles, which I assume is “bondage”

Floyd is usually hard to read like the card, as well as being a free-minded character.

Jade Leech (14)- Temperance; indicates that you should learn to bring about balance, patience, and moderation in your life. You should take the middle road, avoid extremes and maintain a sense of calm.

Normal:  Alchemy, Balance, Connecting with your guides, Harmony, Looking for divine intervention, Moderation

Upside down/reversed: Disharmony, Imbalance, Lack of patience, Onset of illness

Jade seems like a patient man, but the card says differently. If we see the ceremonial robes SSR cards, you can see that Riddle would agree that Jade is not what meets the eye. Yeah, Trey you need new glasses

Jade is probably holding back his true self; In the card, there’s an angel-like figure who has wings. Maybe, it’s suggesting the idea that Jade seems like an angel, but he’s just a demon in disguise. 

Azul Ashengrotto (13)-Death; Unlikely that this card actually represents a physical death. Typically it implies an end, possibly of a relationship or interest, and therefore implies an increased sense of self-awareness.

Normal: Endings, Failure, Letting go of attachments, Mortality, Profound change, Severe illness

Upside down/reversed: Delayed endings, Depression, Living unaware, Long terminal illness, Resistance to change

In the Octavinelle arc it goes: Letting of his past (attachments and depression)> Taking away other’s power because of his unfair deals (endings)> his contracts become sand> Overblot. Then after the overblot he has restarted his career  (Profound change)

In a wider sense, he literally symbolizes death. In the Scarabia arc, because he came, Jamil overblotted (Ending, Bad in this case).

Jamil Viper (12)-  The Hanged Man; the card that suggests ultimate surrender, sacrifice, or being suspended in time.

Normal:  Breaking old patterns, Circumspection, Letting go, Metamorphosis, Suspension

Upside down/reversed: Egotism, Inability to change, Missing an opportunity

Jamil sacrificed so much. He killed his own feelings and was suspended in time (in some sense), incapable to change, and wanted to be king, but in the end it all went to waste (missed an opportunity)

Kalim Al-Asim (11): Strength; predicts the triumphant conclusion to a major life problem, situation or temptation through the strength of character. It is a very happy card if you are fighting illness or recovering from injury.

Normal: Confidence, Enjoying power, Inner strength, Potency, Self-belief, Virility, Vitality

Upside down/reversed: Hedonism, Lack of self-control, Lacking courage, Self-doubt, Vanity

In this case, I would say that this is most likely, represented by, Kalim’s unique magic. Oasis maker requires him little effort while being very powerful. Depending on how he uses it, it could end up even killing people.

His personality says most of the reversed card, he holds many parties (hendonism) and he get’s Jamil to do most of his dorm leader work.

Epel Felmier (10)- Wheel of Fortune; common aspect to most interpretations of this card within a reading is to introduce an element of change in the querent's life, such change being in station, position or fortune: such as the rich becoming poor, or the poor becoming rich.

Normal: Chance, Changes, Destiny, Luck, Opportunity, Winning 

Upside down/reversed: Bad luck, Disappointment, Misfortune, Mishap, Unforeseen setback

In the game he has an achievement (?) called “the pretty boy with thin luck”, I think fate will work for him this time, and he gets to challenge Vil (Change and chance)

His fate with MC and the others will change in the future is what I also think.

Rook Hunt (9)- The Hermit; suggests that you are in a phase of introspection where you are drawing your attention inwards and looking for answers within. You are in need of a period of inner reflection, away from the current demands of your position.

Normal: Introspection, Meditation, Self-reflection, Solitude, Soul-searching, Withdrawal from society, Helper

  Upside down/reversed: Exile, Loneliness, Misfit, Sadness, Withdrawing from loved ones

The normal ones are basically his personality

Rook is a character to help understand Vil, such as in the Lab Coat story.

Literally, his unique magic is called "I see you"

He did not help Vil, being the one who was always loyal to him in the Pomfiore arc.

Vil Schoenheit (8)- Justice; indicates that the fairest decision will be made. Justice is the sword that cuts through a situation, and will not be swayed by outer beauty when deciding what is fair and just.

Normal: Balance and equilibrium, Cause and effect, Fairness, Justice, Responsibilty

Upside down/reversed: Dishonesty, Imbalance, Lack of accountability, Legal flaws, Unfair treatment

Vil is very unfair to people, such as Epel,

He also does acept other’s opinion if they are actually trying, such as Jack in his Gym Uniform story.

He does judge people all the same (but he doesn’t like people that don’t put effort)

Other than the “fair” in the card it can also mean “fair” as in beauty; His counterpart is known for using the word in that meaning

“Mirror, mirror, on the wall who is the fairest of them all?”

Ortho Shroud (7)- The Chariot; card about overcoming conflicts and moving forward in a positive direction. One needs to keep going on and through sheer hard work and commitment he will be victorious.

Normal: A journey, Ambition, Confidence, Drive, Overcoming obstacles, Will power

  Upside down/reversed: Lack of direction, Scattered energy, Self-doubt, Going out of control, Selfish

Othro is the only one in the whole countdown who is upside down, hence making all the meanings reversed.

If you pay close attention to his personality he is some what selfish, such as him unleashing his beam.

Idia Should (6)- The Lovers; represent relationships and choices. Its appearance in a spread indicates some decision about an existing relationship, a temptation of the heart, or a choice of potential partners. Often an aspect of the querent's life will have to be sacrificed; a bachelor(ette)'s lifestyle may be sacrificed and a relationship gained (or vice versa), or one potential partner may be chosen while another is turned down. Whatever the choice, it should not be made lightly, as the ramifications will be lasting.

Normal: Being at a crossroads, Choices, Commitment, Falling in love, Partnerships

Upside down/reversed: A broken relationship, Infidelity, Relationship issues, Separation

The relationship is his relationship with Ortho.

He made a choice in the past that he should have not made lightly. aka the one that lead to his brother's death

Sebek Zigvolt (5)- The Hierophant/Pope; seen seated on a throne between two pillars symbolizing law and liberty or obedience and disobedience. He wears a triple crown, and the keys to Heaven are at his feet. 

Normal: Education, Learning, Marriage, Religion, Seeking counsel or advice, Spiritual guidance, Tradition, Trust

Upside down/reversed: Abuse of position, Breakdown, Poor counsel, Rejection of family values

He may as well breakdown because of his loyalty to Malleus

He holds the stick like the card in the left hand.

He worships Malleus (religion) and he trusts him too much

Silver (4)- The Emperor;suggestive of stability and security in life. You are on top of things and everything in under your control. It is your hard work, discipline and self control that have bought you this far. It means that you are in charge of your life now setting up your own rules and boundaries.

Normal: Authority, Father figure, Law and order, Leadership, Power, Promotion

Upside down/reversed: Control freak, Immaturity, Lack of discipline, Loss of authority, Manipulative friends

Silver is based on a non-villan character and protects Malleus. His non-elemental magic is light

He is going to be the axis of the story; he said “I think I have met you before”

The card resembles the picture very much

In his lab coat story, he holds a book that is the exact opposite color of what others have.

He does bring order within the Diasomnia arc

Lilia Vanrouge (3)- The Empress; traditionally associated with maternal influence, is the card if you are hoping to start a family. She can represent the creation of life, romance, art, or new business.

Normal: A new opportunity, Abundance, Maternal care, Nurturing, Pregnancy, Stability, futility 

Upside down/reversed: Domestic problems, Financial issues, Stagnation, Unwanted pregnancy

Lilia is the father figure of Malleus and Silver

His talent is lullabies (nurturing)

It also can mean fertility, unknown, and time (apparently idk)> symbolizing his long life. Unknown> What we see is an altered appearance? fertility> He literally hatched Malleus

Malleus Draconia (2)- The High Priestess; a card of mystery, stillness, and passivity. This card suggests that it is time to retreat and reflect upon the situation and trust your inner instincts to guide you through it. Things around you are not what they appear to be right now.

Normal: Hidden talents, Intuition, Mystery, Spiritual insight, Things yet to be revealed

Upside down/reversed:  information withheld, Lack of personal harmony, Secrets

Literally Maleficent. nothing else 

Might hold some of the keys?

What I can say now is that he needs to retreat and reflect because what he did in chapter 7 is not nice.

Dire Crowley (1)- The Magician; it points to the talents, capabilities and resources at the querent's disposal to succeed. The message is to tap into one's full potential rather than holding back, especially when there is a need to transform something.

Normal: Determined, Dexterity, Resourceful, Skilled, Strong powerful man

Upside down/reversed: Communication blocks, Confusion, Deceit, Ill intentions, Lack of energy

By looking at the card and characters, then the most reasonable to think that will betray us is him

He may be the person who made the world of Twisted Wonderland. (There was a black magician named Crowley in Britain)

~~~

These are from their respective sources, mainly for personal reference

Also, I wrote this like 2 years ago and touched up. So Im sorry if I'm wrong

Likes, reblogs, and follows are always appreciated :)

[cupiddivinearrow]

PAST LIFE CONNECTIONS PICK-A-CARD READING

Please join my discord server:

💔 PILE 1 💔

🕊️ Key Indicators 🕊️

- Feminine Energy

- Wears jewelry/ Necklaces

- Might have short hair

- Likes dresses

- Brown eyes

- Suspicious of love

- May be healing from a heartbreak

- Involved with someone that you have a intense connection to and had it since Day 1

- Controlling

- Nostalgic, Reminiscing

- Person may be of foreign blood

- In separation

- Confused

- Clarity

- Ego death, change in perspective

- 9th House

#️⃣ Numbers of Significance #️⃣

- 1s (111)

- 9s (999)

- 10s (1010)

☄️ Astrological Signs ☄️

- ♓️ Pisces

- ♌️ Leo

- ♍️ Virgo

- ♐️ Sagittarius

- ♎️ Libra

💫 Animal Spirit Energies 💫

- Butterfly 🦋

- Jaguar 🐆

Both of these animals represent rebirth. Just something to be mindful off.

Pile 1, the saying, “Unrequited love does not die; it's only beaten down to a secret place where it hides, curled and wounded” comes to mind.

P1, I just want to give y’all a hug. A big one! I’m so sorry you’re having a rough time of it. It can be scary to love, especially when you’ve been hurt, even more so when it’s a love from the past that follows you into this lifetime…

P1, you may be in a relationship or have someone in your energy that you feel a strong connection or pull towards that could’ve been from your past life. This person could’ve caused you immense pain by betraying you with another or choosing someone over you, or etc. This pain, unfortunately, carried over into this lifetime and may be playing a role in how you react in your relationships.

P1, it’s time to let go of that pain. It’s time to open your heart once more and allow yourself to enjoy the process of falling in love and just going with the flow. I know it’s not easy to let down your defenses, but you must. Keeping this pain within can cause a blockage and/ or delays. It’s okay to have boundaries, but you must learn yourself enough to know when your Ego is trying to protect you, and when it’s doing too much.

Some of this pile is insecure and controlling. Some of you can be a bit clingy. Some of you self sabotage connections out of fear that you’ll be hurt. It’s time to stop. You’re blocking your blessings and causing a renewal in your karmic contract. Destined to repeat another cycle on Earth with the same energy that hurt you because you can’t let go.

💔 CLOSING COMMENTS 💔

It’s time to go inside and heal P1. Ask yourself why it’s hard for you to let go. Also, ask what you need or want that can help you to heal? Try doing things that helps you to see your worth. And that you’re enough. Love hurts, but it can save us from more pain if we let it. Someone’s rejection is the Universe’s/ Divine’s protection! And sometimes, an unfair decision or event occurs because there’s more to learn. What would you do for your happiness? Deal with your insecurities or toxic ways (such as being too clingy or controlling) so you don’t pull the behavior into a relationship that could’ve worked otherwise.

Be like the butterfly, who faces many challenges to change into who they want to be. But they don’t give up. They keep eating and struggling along until they change into a Chrysalis, then a Butterfly. Butterflies represent change. Allow yourself to go within.

I hope you find your peace Pile 1.

🕊️🕊️🕊️ Blessings 🕊️🕊️🕊️

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

🙀 PILE 2 🙀

🕊️ Key Indicators 🕊️

- Protection

- Royalty

- Feminine energy

- Witch, Spiritualist, Healer, Energy Worker, etc

- Clairvoyant

- Hiding your gifts

- Black sheep

- Scapegoat

- Wears scarves, hats, etc

- You stand out, Belle of the Ball

- Egyptian ties

#️⃣ Numbers of Significance #️⃣

- 7s (777)

- 8s (888)

- 13s (1313)

💫 Animal Spirit Energies 💫

- Scarab

- Butterfly

- Peacock

- Cat

☄️ Astrological Energies ☄️

- ♏️ Heavy Scorpio

- ♊️ Heavy Gemini

- ♓️ Pisces

- ♑️ Capricorn

Pile 2, the saying “No Good Deed Goes Unpunished”… or Joan of Arc — who was burned at the stake in 1431 in France for heresy after she announced that she was being guided by voices that she heard and believed was from the Divine — comes to mind…

Pile 2, have you always felt like the blacksheep within your family, friends, the community, etc.? Have you always felt like you were blamed for what others did or judged because you were different? And although you have either been treated or felt different, you still get a-lot of attention? Probably catch others looking at you often? You’ve probably have had to deal with a lot of rumors being started or gossip being had about you, or have a fear of this. Pile 2, I want to let you know that everything is all right. It’s okay. You’re okay.

I know it hurts to be judged, especially by those that you feel should’ve protected you. And you try to get through it by focusing on your faith, even though you may hold a fear of being judged for your beliefs. If people can’t accept you for you, forget them. They’re not meant to go along with you on this journey. And that’s okay. You’re not for everyone, and that’s beautiful! Who wants someone that everybody wants? Like a doorknob that everyone has access to. Embrace your uniqueness. Which is your true purpose. To be you. Unapologetically. There is beauty in being free. Free to truly be you, which is what most of society is too afraid to be.

In a past life, you were persecuted and faced a trial for being a healer or something of that nature. You were probably blamed for the crimes and misfortunes of others due to the community believing that you were a witch. This was a capital offense and most likely, caused you a very painful death. This has left you fearful in this current lifetime. A fear that causes you to hide showing others who you really are due to not wanting to be judged.

You may have the gift of clairvoyance, or may be a healer or energy worker. You were a sweet person then and still remains to be so in this current life. You may fear telling or showing people your gifts or talents, of who you really are.

Chances are, you were accused of witchcraft in a precious lifetime and you’re currently learning in this now, that it’s okay to be who you are. To show that you can do. Yes, you can be judged. However, whether you be you or live your life how others want you to, people are still going to talk. People are still going to judge. People are still going to try to make you feel that you’re doing wrong, so you might as well be you, unapologetically. You’ve come back to Earth to learn to free yourself of this fear. Times are different and healers are often admired then hunted.

🙀 CLOSING COMMENTS 🙀

It’s okay to be different. Different is beautiful. Different is authentic and real. Be real. Don’t fall for the matrix. Don’t let society block your growth and keep your from shining. And more important, don’t block yourself. You were meant to ✨SHINE✨baby! Put forth the effort to change your perspective so that you can move yourself out of this stagnant energy I see. You are being guided by the Universe. Trust in your intuition. You are destined to shine, don’t let your fear stop you.

Thank you Pile 2!

🕊️🕊️🕊️ Blessings 🕊️🕊️🕊️

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

💤 PILE 3 💤

🕊️ Key Indicators 🕊️

- Native American

- Natural Healer, Shaman, Medicine Man

- Good at astral projection

- Repeating or Have Dreams; Gift of Premonition through dreams

- Overthinks

- Healing abilities

- Protection

- Unbalance

- Confusion

- Spiritual download

- Egyptian ties

- Codependency

#️⃣ Numbers of Significance #️⃣

- 3s (333)

- 6s (666)

- 7s (777)

💫 Animal Spirit Energies 💫

- Scarab

- Heron

- Lion

- Eagle

- Orcas

☄️ Astrological Energies ☄️

- ♌️ Leo

- ♏️ Heavy Scorpio

- ♎️ Libra

- ♋️ Cancer

Pile 3, have you ever heard the saying:

“Miracles start to happen when you give as much energy to your dreams as you do to your fears” by Richard Wilkins?

Pile 3, How do you say you’ve been sleeping on yourself without saying you’ve been sleeping? I think some of y’all have been wanting to turn dreams into reality lately but you’re holding yourself back with doubts. Overthinking things. Bullying / Gaslighting oneself. Some of you may want to open a business that allows you to use your gifts, but are unsure if that’s the path to take.

In a previous life, you were a healer, with very strong healing abilities. You may be having dreams where you remember this life but shrug it off, gaslighting yourself into believing that you’re not ready or not good enough, etc. It’s time to stop that.

Also, some of you may be in a codependent relationship that could be leaving you stagnant as well. Your denial is causing you to stay in a karmic connection that could cause further delay. Believe in yourself P3. You don’t need anyone and have the power/ strength to stand on your own. Find that inner strength P3.

You will never know what you can do until you try. And if you’re waiting for the perfect opportunity to give it a chance, then you’ll never be ready. It’s okay to be scared. But don’t let your fear stop you from trying. Let your work speak for itself. You just have to take the first step. You’re in competition with no one but yourself, so move as slow as you would like. I love the saying, “Slow and steady wins the race.” Success will come, just stay in your lane and keep persevering.

Also, just a side note. The fact that some, if not all, of you picked this pile shows that you’re meant to have a successful business doing this. You have a passion and a calling for this. Don’t let anything stand in your way and go for it! Success is technically guaranteed. Also, the more you work on yourself, and tackle your dreams, the more you’re likely to meet up with people that are part of your soul family, people meant to help you along your journey. As you work on yourself, remember to be patient and enjoy the process.

💤 CLOSING COMMENTS 💤

P3, you’re being advised to go out and explore! It’s time to explore who you are and become confident in yourself and your abilities. You have the power P3. And only you can do it. Make the decision to only focus your energy on things that allow you to focus on yourself and who you want to be in addition to, the future you would like to create for yourself. Maybe try journaling down what’s going on in your head. It could help clear up some of the confusion and insecurities. Take the steps to improve how you see yourself and your abilities. It’s time to step it up. Trust in yourself. And it’s okay to ask questions. Question everything. Anything unaligned with you must go. Success is only possible if you’re willing to work for it. Are you up for the challenge? Don’t let your denial block you from your success. You’re moving towards bigger and better things, including those in or getting out of a karmic relationship. Love yourself enough to believe in yourself. If no one cheers for you, cheer yourself on. Be your own biggest cheerleader and watch what happens. Blessings! 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

This concludes this reading loves!

Thank you so much in advance!

🕊️🕊️🕊️ Joy & Blessings to you all 🕊️🕊️🕊️

Below, my discord is attached above the title of the post.

There, I do these Pick A Card readings, as well as, give you a chance to request what kind of PAC readings you would love to see.

I will start releasing astrological weekly update readings in a few weeks, in addition to reiki healing sessions starting December.

🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽 Blessings to you all! 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

🕊️🕊️🕊️ Blessings 🕊️🕊️🕊️

[andydrysdalerogers]

To The Limit ~ Prologue

F1 Racer Johnny Storm x OFC Maya Levinson

Summary: He's been away from the sport for 2 years. He has 24 races to prove he belongs here. There are two things that could derail this: his family and her.

She's the one thing he is willing to push to the limit for.

This a sequel to my original story, "Following Team Orders" If you want to get caught up in my Formula One world, you can find it HERE

Future Warnings: references to a partner's death, cheating (but not by the MCs,) alcohol consumption, SMUT!, angst, racing incidents, language, grief, etc.

Dividers by @firefly-graphics

Banners by me!

Previous Chapter: None!

Story Master List // Main Master List

I do NOT give permission for my work to be translated or reposted on here or any other site, even if you give me credit. DO NOT REPOST MY FICS. Reblogs, comments, likes, and feedback ALWAYS appreciated

End of Season Debrief 

Johnny 

Second.  

Second place again.  

Whose cock do I need to suck just to get to first? 

Not that I think the new champion did that. I would never say anything like that about her. Steve Rogers earned that second championship. He and I had fought hard this year for it and he just edged me out.  Considering his fiancé gave everything and almost stole this championship away. But its frustrating to be right there and miss it. He earned it, this championship. But I can’t help but think: when will it be mine? 

One would think that driving for Ferrari would me I would have the best car in the world. That I could win every race. I used to think that too.  But driving in Formula One is not just having the right equipment. You must have the right team with you as well.  

In the pit, they are top notch. No complaints.  

My team principal and my engineer, well, that’s a different story.  

I’ve been with Ferrari for the last five years. I’m supposed to be winning championships. This year is the closest I have been to the top. Next year, I can feel it.  I’ll get my chance.  

“Alright, everyone settle, down” the team Principal, Nick Fowler. “Let’s review the last race and then talk about what we could have changed.” 

“A lot,” I muttered under my breath. It was still caught by my best friend and fellow driver, Charles LeClerc. He sniggers under his breath before clearing his throat and starts to pay attention. Unfortunately, my mind wanders to the night before. Sitting at that bar with Luna (the name I’ve decided to call her because the moon gave her a halo effect. That and she never gave me her name) just talking and drinking. It had to have been one of the best nights of my life.  But she disappeared in the morning after we fell asleep in my room.  

“Storm!” My head snaps back up to see Nick glaring at me. Fuck how long was I zoned out. “I need to meet with you after this.”  

“Yes, sir.” His face looks pissed. Then again, Nick always looked pissed.   

The meeting dragged on and on. Finally, Nick wished everyone a “happy holidays” and then waved me forward. “Charles, I’ll see you in France, right?” 

“Bit of skiing should be fun.  See you after the new year, my friend.”  We hugged and then I made my way to my team principal’s office.  

“You wanted to speak with me, boss?” 

“Yeah, come on in.” Nick shuffled some paperwork on his desk as I sat in front of him. “I know you’ve been waiting to hear about a contract extension. And while we haven’t picked anyone else up, we have decided not to renew your contract.”  

I must be hearing things. Nick didn’t just say that. “What? What do you mean?” 

“I mean, we decided to go in a different direction. You’ve had five years at Ferrari to make something happen. Second place isn’t enough.” He looked at me with bored eyes.  

“What do you mean second isn’t enough?  That’s the best Ferrari has been in the last ten. I’ve been getting this team further and further ahead.” 

“And yet, you can’t get the prize.” Nick stood up. “I’m sorry but you’re out, Johnny.”  

I was fuming. “You’ll regret this, Nick. I will win a championship and it’ll be under someone else’s flag. “ 

“I seriously doubt that.”  

“Fuck you!”  I stormed out of his office and went to my driver room. I’ve been in this spot for seven years and I just wasted five with the biggest asshole since Lloyd Hansen.  At least at Mercedes, with Hansen, they won championships. I started to pack up my stuff. I left most of my Ferrari gear. Just taking the things Charles had signed for me and some mementos from races I had one. My mind was swirling, I have no ride. I have no job for the next year. I sent a text to my agent to let him know what happened.  

I looked around the room one last time. As I stood there, a knock came to the door. I went to open it and was shocked to see Molly standing in front of me. “Molly?” I hadn’t seen her since our tryst a couple of months ago. She worked for Red Bull with Olivia, which was how I met her. After our night together, she told me she couldn’t do anything serious now, with the championship race being very tight.  I lost to Olivia’s fiancé but had beaten Olivia by only five points. She was good for a first time driver with Mercedes.  

“Hi Johnny, can we talk?” 

“Sure.” I let her into the room. “Sorry it's a mess but I .. was packing up for the end of the season.” I couldn’t tell her I just lost my ride. At least not yet.  

“Oh.” She looked around, stalling from the look of it.  

“Everything ok?” She looked pale and nervous.  

“No,” she shook her head. “I need to tell you something.” 

NEXT

Taglist:

@patzammit

@texmexdarling

@slutforchrisjamalevans

@firephotogrl74

@tinkerbelle67

@before-we-get-started

@bunnyforhim

@alexakeyloveloki

@sunnyhummingbee

@whiskeytangofoxtrot555

@peaceinourtime82

@saucy-sassy-sparkly

@kmc1989

@kandis-mom

@lokislady82

@raven-blue3000

[littlemissmanga]

One Last Order, Part 2

A/N: I finally finished! I started this in March and brought it kicking and screaming over the finish line. And I decided to make it my entry for the "Rex" square on my Clone x Reader Bingo Card, so bonus. @clonexreaderbingo

Pairing: CT-7567/Rebels!Rex x Fem!Reader (no physical descriptions beyond age markers - gray hair/wrinkles/etc.)

Rating: E, 18+, Minors DNI

W/C: 6,402 (this got away from me I'm so sorry. I did edit, this is with about 1,000 words cut)

Warnings: Explicit intimacy, oral sex (f receiving), fingering, descriptions of depression (past if you squint) Please Read Responsibly.

Summary: The years piled on and dragged you down after your love left you. Eventually, you found renewed purpose in helping the Rebellion. When you finally have to hide away or risk being caught by the Empire, you're forced to confront your past. The question remains what will become of your future.

One Last Order, Part 1

This is right.

You kept repeating that to yourself. Over and over in your mind until you thought you could believe it.

This wasn’t the first time your arms dealing had gotten on the imperial radar. “Subversive trading” was you had called it when you first established contact with a local cell.

But it was the first time that Erie, your main point of contact, pulled you out and didn’t relocate you.

That’s what felt so wrong — the fact that you were here, in the base that acted as headquarters for the Rebel Alliance,and not still out there. You could still be out there. Stealing from the Empire right under its nose, redistributing resources and passing along the best findings to various rebel efforts. Even helping the occasional force sensitive pass unseen along your stop on the Path.

“Scowl any harder and you’ll scare everyone away.”

Erie had a brow raised, her teasing tone managing to still keep its edge as she turned to give you her full attention now that you were safely inside. Your sigh did little to relieve your worries, but you used the exhale to release some of the tension in your stance.

“I just don’t-”

“No, you don’t. That’s the point,” she was firm without being harsh as she cut off your well-worn argument. “No one in the field ever has the full picture for everyone’s safety. You’re just going to have to trust me when I say this was our only option. Otherwise, you’d be staring at the inside of an imperial cell sooner rather than later. And you’ve grown on me too much to be left out there on your own.”

A not so small seed of affection squeezed at your scarred heart and you let the corner of your mouth tilt in the smallest smile.

“Fine. Just … Just put me to work soon, okay? I want to be useful.”

“Oh, honey!” Erie barked, her sharp laugh tinged with just enough steel to make you almost regret your request. “Don’t you worry. We’ll run you ragged soon enough. For now, though, there’s not much that needs doing that isn’t already getting done. You’re allowed to take a night to adjust.”

She passed you a slip of flimsy with a rough map of the base on it. Several of the rooms were circled with descriptions.

“If I knew you were short on datapads, I’d have lifted a few before leaving. Kriff, the Rebellion must be struggling more than I realized.” You teased, bringing the page closer to your face to make out the poor writing.

“Har har. You’re a riot. That’s for safety too, smartass. Datapads can be sliced.”

Erie took your wrist in her hand to bring the page between you and pointed to a circled room on the left. Your bunk. Private for now, but she warned that would likely change soon. Your eyes tracked the path on the page as you gave a nod. “Got it. I’m going to start unpacking. Wanna help?”

“I would, but I’m needed at a mission debrief in a few.”

“Oh, okay. I’ll see you later, then.”

“Definitely. I’ll grab you before dinner and introduce you to everyone.” She answered with a brilliant smile. “Ya know, there are a couple of real cuties here you should get to know.”

Your laugh came out easy enough — as easy as it should in a lighthearted conversation with a friend. But it was a little thing, all breath and tinged with bitterness. “Oh no, I’m far too old for that nonsense.”

“You’re not. And they’re going to come sniffing even without my interference.” Erie’s eyes swept down your figure pointedly.

You know she means well, but you can’t help that the thought of anyone looking at you that way again — the way he had — makes your breath catch in your throat. It threatened to choke you.

“I’m right and I’m not arguing this.” You force a lightness into your tone you don’t feel and grab for your bags before she can respond. “Have fun at your debrief!” You call over your shoulder, heading down the hall to your quarters.

Squeezing the strap in your hand, you took a deep breath, allowing the feel of the leather against your palm and the air expanding your lungs to ground you. It stopped you from spiraling, but it didn’t stop the heat from spreading across your cheeks.

It was embarrassing, after all. You could admit that objectively. It’s been years since he left. You understood his decision then, and you understood it now. You never actually agreed with him. But you remember his eyes when he gave you that last order, begging you to listen. And you couldn’t bear to tell him no.

And so he left. Left to go do whatever it was he felt he needed.

And left you alone.

Back then, you wanted to hate him, to burn away the phantom touch of his hands on your skin, to gnash your teeth at the whisper of his name and to curse the day he came into your life.

But even as the grief permeated your every cell, moving from your mind to morph into a physical shroud that mutated your body in its image, you couldn’t find the strength to hate him.

It wouldn’t have helped anyway. It would have only calcified your pain into a tool to hurt others.

So you let the years slip by, shrinking your world into something that you could manage — your apartment, the odd jobs you took to keep yourself fed — all the while shrinking your heart and closing it off. The numbness prickled at your consciousness, but you found it more bearable than the pain of loneliness.

Of wanting him and no one and nothing else.

That is, until you got a job stocking shelves at a mechanic’s shop. A boy came in one day looking for a new filter for his air circulation system. While your boss grumbled about the difficulty of procuring pre-imperial parts, you caught sight of the insignia on the inside of the boy’s jacket as he moved to grab a handful of credits.

For the first time in longer than you’d care to say, determination had flooded your veins. You couldn’t change the past. You couldn’t walk by his side.But you could help this boy, this new movement in their fight for their better tomorrow.

And maybe, even distantly, it would help him, too.

You still didn’t let too many people get close. It’s easier this way, you had rationalized. Easier to lie. To steal. To disappear in the dead of night and start your operations over on a new planet whenever Erie tipped you off to an upcoming raid.

Now, though, as part of the Rebellion proper, you’d likely find safe distance harder to maintain.

It hadn’t been too hard to relearn the rhythm of banter between friends when you opened up to Erie. Hopefully, that will be true for the others you meet. And it won’t be too hard to scoff off attempts by any young guns set on impressing you … if Erie was to be believed about their intentions, anyway. You had serious doubts considering you were at least a decade older than most of the contacts you’ve met.

What would be hard is if you saw any of them. You knew a few had joined the ranks, offering their expertise and lifetime of training to the cause. Of course some would. It’s in their DNA. It’s all they’ve known.

It isn’t fair to them, but you weren’t sure you could handle seeing their face. His face.

You still loved him. No matter how small you made your world, made yourself, you couldn’t change just how thoroughly he claimed your heart. Even now, with Erie’s comment rattling in your brain, you could feel your stomach gurgling, pushing you to pause as you come to the next turn.

Another deep breath. In. Out.

Pulling your shoulders back, you start again … only to run into what feels like a wall when you face makes contact with hard duraplast.

Oh, kriff.

“Dank ferrik! Watch where yer going!”

The growl was unfamiliar, the tone harsher than anything he ever directed at you. But your body reacted to that voice before you could gather a rational thought. Heat surged through your blood even as cold fear sent your stomach into a freefall.

“S-sorry.” Your eyes focused on his jaw, unwilling to look higher until you caught a glimpse of a small scar on his neck.

He didn’t have that.

Tilting your head back, you finally met the man’s gaze. Luck was on your side as your eyes traced over the raised scar bisecting one eye, the cybernetic beneath analyzing you.

He didn’t have that, either.

Wolffe. You had met, briefly, when you joined the boys at 79’s a lifetime ago. But it was just the once, and if luck continued smiling on you, he wouldn’t remember a thing.

“I’m, uh, new. I was just focusing on finding my way and wasn’t paying attention to much else. Sorry about that,” you said, forcing a small smile to ease the tension. From what you remember hearing among the guys, there wasn’t much that could ease the overwhelming aura of Commander Wolffe. But hey, it couldn’t hurt to try.

“Better learn to multitask, then.”

You tried to ignore the way his eyes narrowed at you. “Sure thing. Sorry again. See you around.” The words tripped off your tongue with less grace than your feet as you clumsily slipped past the clone commander to continue down the hall.

You could feel his intense glare burning your back all the way to your room.

*****************

Callused fingers slid back and forth across his forehead in a vain attempt to alleviate his headache. The mission had been a success, technically. It still took all his self control not to drill the crew of the Ghost for their sloppiness.

They were a solid bunch, but by the Maker they made things needlessly difficult. The debrief took far longer than necessary just cataloging all the supplies that didn’t make it home. It almost — almost — made him nostalgic for his more regimented days in the GAR.

He did miss assigning latrine duty to mouthy troopers. Too bad he enjoyed the freedom of the rebellion a little more.

Leaving the briefing room, Rex strode down the hall toward the mess, heavy footsteps rebounding down the durasteel as he checked his comm. Curiously, it had gone off during his meeting. Everyone who had his frequency was either in the room with him or had just returned and was settling in for their respective post-mission routines.

His curiosity only grew upon seeing the culprit was Wolffe. His brother never interrupted a meeting, the GAR indoctrination still proving pervasive in his mind. Slightly worried and even more curious, Rex hit the redial button.

“Finally,” Wolffe grumbled through the comm as his likeness was projected above Rex’s wrist.

“Remind me never to rely on you for patience, vod,” he teased, unable to resist riling up his brother even more. “What’s up?”

“New meat on base. I bumped into her earlier.”

“Knock it off,” Rex snapped. His small frustration from earlier immediately flared into pissed off. Wolffe knew better. “My answer is still no.”

“I have a feeling that’s gonna change this time.”

Rex’s nostrils flared and he could feel his anger spreading, tensing his muscles as if he were in the heat of battle. “Never.”

And he meant it. It didn’t help and never would.

He couldn’t regret the path he took. He had been the difference between life and death for so many brothers … and so many others since then. But with every breath he regretted what he had done to you. That last look you had given him still cut deep. Too deep to ever heal.

“When are you gonna learn that your ori’vod is always right?” The grin that curled over Wolffe’s face gave new meaning to the term wolfish.

Rex was about to tell him to shove it, but Wolffe beat him to it, silencing him with just two words.

“It’s her.”

*****************

Releasing one last breath, you sunk into the mattress beneath you, finally feeling the tension leech from your limbs.

Seeing Wolffe had shaken you, and you allowed yourself a few minutes to fall apart in the privacy of your room. You let the sting of what was lost crest over you. It passed through at a steady pace, neither rushing nor lingering, giving you time to refocus and recenter. Each inhale pushing it to the edges of your body, each exhale banishing it to the fringes of your mind. For now.

Roughly passing your palms over your eyes to dry them, you shifted your focus to your bags. The task at hand should distract you. Moving through the motions always helped you put the past back where it belonged. Besides, Erie would be done with her debrief soon and the Force alone knew how long she planned on dragging you around the base tonight.

A small smile unfurled on your lips a while later as a light knock reverberated through the door. You tossed the rest of your yet-to-be-folded clothes into the chest that lay at the food of the bed and began speaking as you walked over to the control panel, projecting so Erie could hear you on the other side.

“And here I was thinking you forgot about—”

But when the door slid open, your friend wasn’t on the other side. Where her eyes should have been stood a wall of muscle, evident even behind the chest plate. It was dingy, scuffed armor that had seen better days after too much fighting, flecks of blue paint hanging on for dear life as if determined not to fade into obscurity.

“Me.” The last word came out a whisper without your consent, your bold tease fizzling into insecurity.

If you had been hesitant to meet Wolffe’s eyes, you were obstinate in your determination to keep your gaze straight on that armor. You had never been strong, never claimed to be. But this was a new type of weakness, foreign as it flooded your bones. Your jaw trembled as all your effort was focused on holding back the surge you could feel coming.

“Oh, mesh’la.”

His sigh nearly undid you, and you could feel yourself blinking rapidly, your body fighting just to hold steady. You could. You just needed a moment.

But it seemed he had other plans. It was gentle; of course it was. He was always so kriffing gentle with you. Even when you had taunted him, teased him into being rough, it never lasted. He had spoken to you gently, guided you gently, held you gently, loved you gently.

He had broken you gently.

And now, as those damned fingers pressed under your chin to force your gaze upward, they were so heart-achingly gentle, opening the old wounds anew. He was a man built for battle. And yet you found his most brutal side in his gentleness.

Unable to resist — you never were good at denying him — you finally met his gaze.

“I could never forget you.”

Your heart squeezed painfully hearing the words you’d longed for as his rich brown eyes swept over you, taking you in. It stuttered at the thought of what he must be seeing. Mussed hair with so many more grays than before. Crow’s feet that spread from the corners of your eyes to your temples with various other lines crossing your face, interrupted only by the freckles and sunspots you’ve collected over the years.

You weren’t usually vain. But you wore the years plainly on your face … and on your body. At least if I’d been able to put on a clean shirt, you lamented.

The self-deprecation was like a jolt to your brain, bringing you back to yourself, to the present. Rex was here, in your doorway, fighting for the rebellion. It makes sense. That’s what he set off to do all those years ago. But you never let yourself wonder what he was actually doing for fear your wonderings would lead to knowledge you couldn’t survive: Him not being with you was painful; him not being was unimaginable.

But before you stood confirmation that he was alive and well.

And not once did he try to contact you.

Clearing your throat quietly, you plastered a smile on your face, the one you reserved for difficult customers and nosey neighbors, and prayed it didn’t look at stiff as it felt.

“Well, you’re not Erie.” Your tone was light and sounded artificial even to you.

Rex’s responding laugh was just as fake. “No, I’m definitely not.”

His hand dropped back to his side, but his eyes remained locked on yours, searching. For what, you couldn’t guess, and even if you could, you weren’t sure if it still existed. But you are sure that whatever is going to happen next won’t happen in the public hallway.

“Do you want to come in?” You asked, pulling back, pulling away, pivoting to let him pass to enter your room.

“Thank you.” He paused once he took a few steps in. No longer restricted to the GAR meal plan, he had filled out. His broad shoulders almost grazed the sides of the doorway as he passed through, and while his muscles were still evident, they were covered pleasantly by a layer of healthy fat that made him seem even larger than how he loomed in your memory.

As you glanced down, you caught sight of his hands, curling into fists only to unfurl and curl again. The thought that he could be just as unsettled in that moment as you felt was jarring … but welcome.

You moved to sit on your bed, gesturing to the other end for him lacking another option.

“Looks like you’re already settled in,” he noted, shifting to bend one leg to turn to face you. He wore his years, too. But they looked much better on him. His blonde hair was gone, shaved down to the skin. The full white beard was new, too, and rather impressive.

It helped that he looked different. Helped you feel like you could get through this without embarrassing yourself. And you wanted to. You wanted at least to be able to talk to him as a friend again. He may not want you the way he used to, but you could be cordial to a fellow rebel.

“Yeah, didn’t have much to unpack. I guess that’s the bright side of a last-minute extraction.” The tint of humor colored your voice a little more naturally. Confidence trickled slowly, but it was there. You clung to it like a lifeline.

“Extraction? What the kark were you up to that needed an extraction?”

Your eyes cut to his, challenging his sharp tone with your own. “What I could. What, did you think I’d be a good little citizen of the Empire?”

The hit landed better than any punch you could throw. He recoiled, if only slightly.

Guilt curdled your stomach. You didn’t want it to go this way, for the accusation to fill your voice even though you left it out of your words. But you couldn’t help that small, dark, nasty piece of who you used to be that wanted him to feel a fraction of what he put you through.

“I’m sorry. That wasn’t fair. I didn’t … I didn’t want to be angry if we ever met again,” you confessed, catching the corner of your lip between your teeth. “And besides, I likely would have ended up here anyway.”

You moved to pick at your already threadbare sheet as the silence coagulated around you, thick and heavy.

“No, it was fair. More than.”

You found yourself mirroring his deep breath as he continued.

“You never were one to rest on your laurels. I just … I always liked imagining you on your home planet or somewhere in the Outer Rim, curating your library or working on your crafts. Something peaceful, on a peaceful planet far away from the mess of the Empire.”

The hint of a smile touched the corners of his mouth as the weight of his admission settled around you. You didn’t want it to comfort you.

And yet …

When Rex left, he said it was his duty to find and save his brothers. To do that, he needed to leave you behind. You always understood that to mean you couldn’t keep up. You would be a liability to his mission, one he couldn’t risk.

And yet …

“You thought about me?”

Rex’s eyes hardened, singularly focused on you as he reached out to grab your hand. Even now, as a fire you refused to name burned clearly in his eyes, he was still achingly gentle in his touch.

“I thought about you every day.” He spoke almost insultingly slowly, every word bursting with intention. “You were the thought that kept me going.”

“Then why-” You swallowed down the crack in your voice, hating how it revealed just how tenuous your control was. Rex moved closer to you, bringing his hand up to your cheek, but you leaned away and pushed it down. Gently.

“Why didn’t you come back? You never even commed.”

“I had to keep you safe-”

The speed with which he was ready to spit out the answer, like he had rehearsed it, fanned the flames licking up your spine, forging it to steel.

“That’s osik and you know it. No one is safe from the Empire, and-”

“And I realized that. Took longer than it should have to get through my thick skull, but it did. Wolffe and Gregor helped get that lesson in. So I went back to Coruscant. And you were gone.”

The shock from his admission kept you frozen so that when Rex reached for you again, you let his palm curve around your cheek. You had left Coruscant a few years after the fall of the Republic, unable to stay in the shadow of your lost life.

If you hadn’t ...

“When I couldn’t find you on planet, I convinced myself it was for the best. I had been a coward when I left. I hurt you. I thought it was to protect you, but I think even then I knew I was keeping myself safe more. Me leaving meant I would never have to see you in danger. So when I saw you also left, it meant you moved on. You weren’t hurting anymore. You were starting a new life … just like I told you to.”

His thumb moved back and forth across the dry skin of your cheek as he pulled you forward. You fell into him, your hands braced on his knees as he pressed his forehead against yours.

“But that was an excuse. I was still just a coward. I didn’t know what I could say to you that would do any good and … I didn’t want to see someone else next to you, living the life I wanted.” His eyes closed before he continued. “You deserve the galaxy, and I didn’t know how to give it to you. I still don’t.”

It was a confession saturated with guilt and shame. It crawled over you as your tears finally slipped past your control to pool against his thumb.

Safe from the weight of his gaze, you gave a confession of your own. “I never wanted the galaxy. I only ever wanted you.”

Rex’s eyes snapped open, and you could feel his heavy breaths matching yours. Before he had the chance to say anything, you pushed the words out of your mouth, letting the purest truth you knew pour out of you.

“I didn’t leave to start over. I left to escape. The opportunity to help the rebellion came to me, so I took it. It was my way of fighting against the thing that stole you from me. And … And if I did my job right, if I smuggled enough blasters, and med packs, and rations, then I wasn’t just helping the rebellion. I was keeping you safe, too.”

It wasn’t everything. It was barely enough. But you needed him to know, beyond a doubt, that your heart always had been and always will be only his.

“The thought that I could be helping you was what kept me going.”

His grip on you tightened, pulling you impossibly closer. “Can-” Now it was his voice that broke. “Can I kiss you? Please, sweetheart, can I-”

Maybe at one point, a younger you would have kept your composure, would have remained determined not to let Rex see just how desperate he could still make you.

But time had taught you well just how fleeting it could be. And you knew pride was nothing compared to the feeling of your love on your lips.

So, there was no hesitation as you closed the distance, answering the ache in his voice with the frantic press of your lips to his. The brush of his beard was foreign, the hair scraping and chafing your skin. But you couldn’t care when the familiar touch of his kiss grounded you, made you feel whole and alive in a way you forgot possible.

It hurt, feeling the small, shriveled thing you had allowed your heart to become taking up room in your chest once again, filling up with nothing but him — the feel of his skin on yours, the smell of his soap tickling your nose, the sound of the small noises that escaped his lips as he devoured yours in turn.

But it was a pain you’d welcome a thousand times over if it meant Rex’s mouth stayed on yours. This wasn’t just a kiss. It was a rebirth, the two of you breathing new life into one another.

You shivered as his tongue slid along your bottom lip. A whimper betrayed your need and you opened for him, letting him explore what has always been his. Blood roared in your ears, and you cursed it for drowning out the sound of his groan as his tongue danced along yours.

Pressing yourself ever closer, your hands slid up his impossibly thick thighs for balance as you leaned into him, needing to feel him everywhere. Thank the Force Rex understood. He always did, after all. He lifted you with ease to pull you into his lap, his arms wrapping securely around you to keep you in place as your legs slid around his waist.

But then he pulled his face away, holding you firm as your hands curled around his shoulders and your lips tried to chase him.

“I’m sorry, sweet girl.” His eyes pierced into you, and you could see how determined he was for his apology to reach you. “So, so sorry.”

“It’s-”

“Don’t say it’s okay. It’s not.” There was the captain you remembered, his tone curtailing any argument before you could even raise one. “But if you’ll let me, I plan on spending every spare moment I have making things right.”

He softened, but his eyes were just as intense. “You don’t have to answer right away. I want you to be sure; no regrets. Because if you say yes, mesh’la …” His arms tighten around you, the pressure of his strength sparking delightfully across your torso as every ounce of insecurity melted from your body and his lips moved to graze your ear. “I’m never letting you go again.”

“Please don’t,” You beg, barely letting him finish. “Please don’t ever let me go. Hold me, claim me, make me yours. Build a future with me so I never have to live without you again. Choose me ... the way I never stopped choosing you.”

The silence in the wake of your plea lasted only as long as a single heartbeat. Then, something in Rex shattered.

He may have broken you gently, but he was going to rebuild you roughly.

Coarse hands lifted you again as if you weighed nothing, throwing you onto your bed and knocking the breath from your lungs. Before you could even think, Rex was on you, his hips pressing you into the mattress as his hands slid up and down your sides.

“I do choose you.” You shiver at the growl in his throat as the words slide down your spine to pool deep in your belly. His hands slide under the thin fabric of your tunic, and you preen as his fingertips dance along your skin. “And I’ll keep choosing you. Let me prove it. Can I show you, pretty girl? Show you how I can take care of you?” 

Your eyes slipped closed as his indulgent tone; your core fluttered at the dark promises dripping from his lips. But a quick, sharp sting on your neck pulls you back.

“Eyes on me,” he reprimanded, though his smirk as he licked the skin red from his nip betrayed his amusement. “I need an answer, mesh’la.”

“Yes! Yes, please. Stars, Rex, show me!”

You should be embarrassed by how quickly you cave for him. But how can you be when Rex wasted even less time in claiming your mouth again, all tongue and teeth as he left no part untouched. You reveled in the attention, undulating hips demanding even more as your hands trailed along the broad curve of his shoulders. You followed the line of muscle down his arms, feeling as they shifted with the movements of his own hands.

Hands that locked around your hips and forced them to still. “Not yet.”

His admonishment wasn’t quite enough to dissuade you from challenging him. You pushed your core against his length, leaving you breathless at how perfectly it pressed against where you needed most.

Rex’s responding moan reverberated through you pleasantly. His dark chuckle, however, gave you pause. You’d heard it maybe once or twice, and you knew it meant trouble.

“I said …” He moved so his legs straddled yours, his full weight holding you still as he held both your wrists in one hand above your head. “Not. Yet.”

You pushed against his grip, needing to put your hands on him again, to feel him. Every inch of you needed to be touching every inch of him now.

“Please, Rex. Please, I need …” Your desperation stole your words and turned them to whines. This wasn’t the first time you felt carnal desire since he left. But you had always just taken care of yourself, quick and efficient, turning pleasure into a task like any other.

Now, you were consumed by your need.

A sweet kiss graced your lips lightly before Rex hushed you.

“I know, sweetheart. I know. But I’m going to take my time with you. It’s been so long, and I wanna take care of you right. You’re going to come undone on my tongue …” At this, his tongue made itself known as he licked a steady stripe up the side of your next, pouring fuel on the inferno raging just under your skin.

“On my fingers …” His free hand trailed over the wet skin, continuing past your neck, over your collarbone to tease mercilessly at the top of your breast.

“And once I feel you’re ready, you’ll come all over my cock.” Rex brought one of your hands down to the front of his pants, letting you feel his hardness through his trousers. “But you’ll need to be good and listen. Can you do that?”

You nod, whipping your head up and down, willing him to give you exactly what he promised now but groaning when he moves your hand away from him.

“Wound up this bad already? I believe that’s a new record. You need to use your words, pretty girl.”

You wanted to slap him for his teasing, but your pointed glare would have to suffice. “No shit it’s a record. I’ve been waiting,” you huffed.

Rex stilled. “Have…Have you not …?”

You could feel the heat returning to your cheeks so you answered before he could find his words if only to cut your own embarrassment short.

“No. I mean I took care of myself, but…”

Unbridled lust was the only thing you saw when you met Rex’s eyes again. “Then I won’t make you wait any longer.”

Using his grip on your wrists, he pulled you up and with a speed you didn’t realize he had, he stripped your tunic from your body. Before you could even register the cold pebbling your nipples, he moved to your waistband, peeling your underwear and leggings down in one move, pausing only to pull your shoes off before you’re completely bare before him.

“Kriff, Rex,” you huffed, impressed as Rex cast off his chest piece with as little regard as possible.

But the man above you focused only on your newly revealed form. You moved to touch him in return, hoping to hide a few of the new rolls of your abdomen against his.

You should have realized by now tonight was going his way.

“Let me see you, ner mesh’la karta,” he commanded. You didn’t want to, but since you never thought you’d ever get to hear another order from your captain, you obeyed, laying back and following his eyes with yours as they took you in.

He leaned down, dragging his lips over your stomach to graze the bottom of your breast with his teeth. Gently, but with the threat of rough just under the surface.

You wanted both … everything … anything he would give you.

“Perfect.” You keened at the praise, lifting and offering yourself to his mouth and earning a smile in return. “Oh yes, I remember …”

His tongue ran across your nipple before he blew softly, sending a shudder through you. You didn’t suffer long before he wrapped his lips around your peak and sucked hard. Nothing could have stopped the cry that spilled out of you as your back arched, your body mindlessly giving him even more access.

And he took every inch you gave. Releasing you with a satisfying pop, Rex reached up to turn you to face him with one hand as the other moved down your body to rest just at your mound.

“Spread your legs for me. Be a good girl and show me that pretty little pussy of yours.”

You pulled your knees up and wrapped your hands around them to pull them apart and hide how he made you tremble. The cool air, made colder from your slick, tickled your sensitive skin. But it was the reverent hunger on Rex’s face that made your cunt clench around nothing.

“Please, Rex. I—”

He didn’t let you finish your pathetic plea, instead diving forward, his movements just as desperate as you felt. His hands encircled your thighs, pushing them even further apart as he buried his face into your core and let his tongue sink into your wet hole with a satisfied moan.

His tongue laved against you, determined to touch every inch of you before gliding up to circle your clit. As your breathy whimpers turned into full-fledged cries, you absentmindedly hoped that the walls around you were thicker than they looked before Rex wrapped his lips around your nub and sucked.

A moan erupted from deep within you as your muscles contracted and sent a gush of arousal spilling out of you, leaving you unable to care who heard.

“Stars, already so wet for me. You taste like a dream.” His eyes pierced you from where he lay between your legs. “Keep your hands where they are and hold yourself open for me.”

You mewled in response as he returned to his task with his fingers now aiding in the effort, finding your clit with ease as his tongue entered you once again. His free hand slides up to rest on your tummy, pressing down but not enough to keep you still. But just enough so you can feel him as your hips kept their frantic undulation going, your body demanding the release he promised.

“That’s it,” he groaned to himself more than to you. “Good girl, taking what you need.”

Picking up the pace, Rex kept his fingers moving in tighter and tighter circles, keeping pace with your frenzied keening as he fucked you with his tongue.

“Kriff, Rex … so close … so … S-shit shit shit shit-”

He pushed down harder on your pelvis, amplifying every spark he ignited at your core as his fingers moved ever faster. “Let go, mesh’la. Let go and don’t you dare fucking hold back. Give it to me!”

Your captain gave an order. What else could you do but obey?

You shattered around him, your scream echoing against his satisfied groan as he drank from your cunt with a fierce intensity. His fingers and tongue never stopped as he forced your orgasm out of you, working you well past overstimulation into boneless compliance as you gave everything he demanded.

Eventually, the aftershocks faded. Rex’s ministrations eased, though he never took his hands off you, letting his fingers trail gently along your lips and restoking the fire in you that burned only for him.

“I love you, Rex,” you sighed, relief flooding you as the words finally escaped you after years locked away.

Rex smiled with only a tinge of sadness in his eyes speaking to lost time before he rest his head against the softness of your thigh, pressing a kiss to your skin.

“I love you, too, sweetheart.”

“Don’t leave me again?” You meant it as a command, but you had none of Rex’s natural authority. Well, that and your post-orgasmic state hindered what strength your voice could have had, leaving the order sounding more like a needy whine.

“Never.” Rex slid his hand back down, gathering your slick to sink two thick fingers deep into you. “Now, I believe I said something about you coming on my fingers next.”

Thankfully for you, Rex was a man of his word. He never left your side again. He kept the rest of his promises, too.

Taglist (for those you commented on pt. 1): @mzfandom @wings-and-beskar