#'can we have raven?' 'we have raven at home' the raven at home: [hawks]

[wingherc]

｢𓆄｣ "Hey, any way I can help! What kind of hero would I be if I didn't help out someone who needed it?" Ignoring that initially he was only watching and observing the new visitors that poured into the populace, he was going to help, Malchior just beat him to the punchline was all.

"Oh, yeah, it was pretty nasty. Came back with a broken arm too, it was reaaaaal bad. Def if you can help it don't make a habit of it. The place you get thrown afterwards is a real creepypasta of a labyrinth." But that was enough of elaborating on something Hawks didn't want to recount, "Mages, though? Sounds cool! Like a fantasy tabletop rpg or something!...Though, that's just reality for you, ain't it. No rpg about it, that's for sure."

"Mmmmm!!! It's kinda random who shows up here!" The avian explained with a satisfying stretch as they walked along the sidewalk, bustling with new residents, "But yeah, my pupil was here for awhile. So, def not out of the question: but don't get your hopes up about it, you'll get stuck in your head if you do that I think!"

"And uh. I don't think so: to the dream thing. It's like this is it's own reality separate from the one's we hail from! Pretty neat, right?"

Lips drew in a content 'v' as he peered up at the other, holding his phone up to Malchior, implying he should take it. His phone had maps pulled up, pins littered the map, notably in clusters. It seemed like they were restaurants and businesses for him to visit, meticulously organized by color too. But, that's not why he passed his phone up to the other. "Here, can you place a pin on the ward they've got you staying? It should be on that brochure they gave you in the cab ride."

You'll get used to this place in due time says the winged man- Hawks ⎛ another bird, and there's something bittersweet about that, isn't there? ⎠ and Malchior gives a small nod. At the very least, it seems he'd found someone willing to help. Hawks had that sort of aura about him, not unlike Raven's friends. Weren't they all young heroes? Too young to be fighting like that, although he'd met knights younger- and Rorek had been young ...

He follows Hawks closely, observing the other using the phone- Malchior had been given one of those when he'd arrived, but he hadn't taken time to figure it out yet. Maybe it would be helpful considering- people probably weren't going to send messages to others by using familiars.

As they continued to walk, Malchior took time to really try to process what he was being told. People were taken from their home dimensions- if he had to guess, Herald had sent him here with that trumpet of his- but wasn't that his own fault for working with the Brotherhood? They'd offered him a form of freedom ... he should've simply left. And despite everyone being displaced from their homes, it seemed they carried on. Getting jobs, having relationships, a fresh start, perhaps.

❝ That is still quite a bit to take in, but thank you Hawks. ❞

The part about dying, though- that one hits hard. ❝ I take it you speak from experience on that one? Of coming back to life? ❞

❝ Many mages have tried to master death, but I know of none who have succeeded, at least not from where I am from. Temporary existences are possible, but they are far from the same thing as that which they were when they lived. ❞ Still, it's somewhat comforting to know ... this life that he has been given is truly something new.

❝ If we are all from different worlds, it would still be possible to run into others from the same world, right? There is someone who I would like to meet again ... although with how disorienting this entire thing is, perhaps it would be better to know if there's a way to reach those who are not here- perhaps through dreams or the like? ❞

[dionysianivy]

𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 🍂🦇

⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠄⠄⠂⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁

November is a time for reflection, gratitude, and honoring both past and present as we move further into the year’s quiet. The energy this month feels grounded and calm, with the thin veil still offering a chance to connect with spirits and ancestors. November invites us to slow down, find stillness, and prepare ourselves for winter. It’s a perfect time for inner healing, letting go of old habits, and setting intentions for the colder months. The magic of November is gentle but strong, reminding us to appreciate what has come before, give thanks for what we have, and find peace in winter’s approach.

⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠄⠄⠂⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁

Celebrations:

Samhain/Halloween: October 31 - November 1

All Souls Day: November 1

Witches' New Year: November 1

Thanksgiving: November 27

Planet:

Pluto

Flowers:

Peony, Chrysanthemum, Dahlia, White Lily, Marigold

Herbs/Plants:

Belladonna, Nutmeg, Star Anise, Wormwood, Mugwort, Coriander, Nettle, Patchouli, Hops, Allspice, Ginger, Rosemary, Fennel 

Tarot Cards:

The Death, Eight of Cups, Four of Swords

Fruits:

Apple, Pear, Cranberry, Pomegranate, Lemon 

Vegetables:

Cabbage, Squash, Pumpkin, Potatoes, Onions 

Deities:

Cerridwen, Astarte, Circe, Cernunnos, Bastet, The Morrigan, Sekhmet, Freyja, Hel, Maman, Holda, Osiris, Nephthys, Hecate, Hathor, Nicnevin

Colors:

Gold, Black, White, Purple, Dark Orange, Brown, Sage Green 

Runes:

Eihwaz, Algiz, Hagalaz, Ansuz 

Crystals:

Topaz, Citrine, Obsidian, Lapis Lazuli, Onyx, Tiger’s Eye, Amethyst, Cat’s Eye

Animals:

Bats, Owls, Sparrows, Ravens, Beavers, Deer, Hawks, Cats, Falcons, Dogs, Snakes, Crows 

Trees:

Pine, Yew, Cypress, Alder 

Symbols:

Bats, Turkey, Raven, Candles, Mushrooms, Fog, Pine Cones 

Magical Powers:

Transformation, Letting Go of the Past, Deity Work, Releasing, Cleansing, Protection, Winter Preparation, Gratitude, Health, Healing, Breaking Bad Habits, Spirit Communication, Prosperity 

ACTIVITIES TO DO

🦇 Reflect on and give thanks for all your achievements

🦇 Spend time with your loved ones ♡

🦇 Take time for deity work, now is a great time for connecting deeply

🦇 As the weather cools, embrace the coziness of your home and appreciate its comfort

🦇 Do protection and health spells

🦇 Light candles to honor and remember souls who have passed

🦇 Try shadow work

🦇 Find comfort in your own space and create a cozy atmosphere

🦇 Rest, recharge, and prepare for the colder months

🦇 Bake Pie

🦇 Express gratitude for all the blessings in your life

🦇 Collect acorns you find on walks and protect them through the cold months. You can either keep them as a charm come spring or return them to the earth

🦇 Complete any unfinished projects

🦇 Take time to develop and refine your magical skills

🦇 Honor Goddess Hecate on November 16th

🦇 Harvest the last of your garden’s bounty and preserve it for winter

🦇 Drink Wine

🦇 Make a scarecrow

⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠄⠄⠂⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁

tip jar 🕸🧙‍♀️

[mayajadewrites]

could've been you - aizawa, hawks

✦ synopsis: You're the new teacher at UA with a rocky past with one of their beloved teachers, Shouta Aizawa aka Eraserhead. You'd rather never see him again but alas, such is life. You also meet Keigo, aka Hawks, who is the opposite of Aizawa. Smiley, golden retriever energy.

✦ chapter content warnings: none

✦ relationships: aizawa x fem!reader, hawks x fem!reader

chapter ten

ao3

TAG LIST:

@come-away-with-me87, @kxshdoll, @evilsanzu, @friendly-neighborhood-turtle, @lili-pond,

@the-unhinged-raccoon @falling4fandoms @cherry-cosmoz @kkgraham @big-denki-energy @aphrodite-xoxo @keiweeny @minminroie @skazewrld

You spent the rest of your Saturday with Shouta - planning out your collaborating class next week and what you want to test the kids on.

It's nice hanging out with Shouta. Even just as friends. It reminded you of high school, how you would hide behind the bleachers during class while the rest of the class ran laps. How Shouta would cover his ears if it was too loud around him, so you bought him ear plugs to help ease the pain he would get in his head.

Your legs laid along his couch, your ankles sitting on top of his lap as he traces shapes on your skin gently. You were both reading, so the room is silent. But you have never felt more comfortable.

"Shouta?" You look up from your book, watching the raven haired man with the tired eyes meet your gaze.

"Yes?"

"This is nice." You smiled, setting your book on your thighs.

"I agree." Shouta looked back at his book as he began to rub your foot gently with his large, callused hand.

"Have you ever wanted to, maybe, go out somewhere?"

He looked at you as if you were stupid. "You know I hate going out."

"You don't like dates?"

"I don't remember the last time I went on one. I usually just-" He stopped speaking to look at you. "I would just bring women home, but I haven't in a couple of years."

"You haven't had sex in years?"

"Shut up." Shouta squeezed your foot with his hand. "It's not as hard as it looks. Plus, I don't like using women for sex. It's much better when there's feeling behind it."

You could feel your cheeks flush red as you think about having sex with Aizawa. His strong arms locked around you, his cock pounding into you like he has all the time in the world to fuck you.

"Is sex meaningful to you? Or would you just fuck anyone?"

"I like it more when there's feelings, definitely."

"Well you fucked that bird, so I'm gonna go with the latter."

"Shouta!" You shoved him gently with your hand. "I did like him."

"Did? Feelings gone already?" His voice was smooth, pushing his fringe behind his ear.

"Once you've fucked me over, my feelings are gone. Usually."

"Usually, hm?" Shouta leaned in towards your face, his body invading your immediate space. "Someone's gotten a second chance?"

"Well he hasn't asked yet. So I guess not." You shrugged and brought your book closer to your face. Shouta pressed his index finger to the top of your book, pushing it down so he can see your face.

"This is me asking for a second chance, princess." Shouta almost whispered.

"You're usually mocking me when you call me princess. Do you really want a second chance?"

"You've always reminded me of a princess." He brought his index finger to the side of your face, caressing the outline of your cheeks and jaw. "Your big eyes, the way your hair is always so shiny." He hand ran through your hair. "Even when we were younger, I wasn't mocking you. I was just saying that so you wouldn't think I liked you."

"Sounds like you really liked me." You leaned into his touch, pressing your forehead onto his.

"Look in my head." Shouta looked at you.

"I don't want to use my quirk on you."

"I want you to look at the memory I'm thinking about. Please."

You sighed, focusing your energy on Shouta. You closed your eyes and moved your hands slowly, like you were reaching for his memory.

Soon enough you were inside his memory. You were both sat on the couch as you watched your surroundings.

"This is that coffee shop we went to when we first started as pro heroes." Your eyes were fixed on the Aizawa in your memory. He looked so much younger - the bags under his eyes not as deep as they are now.

"Look to your right." Shouta said to you, leaning back on the couch as he extends his arm behind you.

There you were.

You were ordering your coffee for you, Shouta, Enji, and Yamada. You looked so... happy.

You turn your attention back to the Aizawa in the memory, who was also staring at you.

You watched as Enji's mouth moved, but you couldn't quite hear him.

"You need to tell her how you feel." You finally heard Enji.

Your eyes went wide.

"She doesn't feel the same way, there's no point." Shouta turned away from you as you turned on your heel with the tray of coffees.

"You're such an idiot." Enji rolled his eyes.

"Our first coffees as pro heroes!" You smiled from ear to ear.

"Hell yeah!!" Yamada grabbed his coffee, pushing his cup in the air to meet yours. "Cheers to us!"

"Shouta, take your coffee and cheers with us. You too, Enji."

Enji had a sympathetic look on his face as he looked at Shouta. Like he knew how deep of feelings Shouta had for you.

Shouta watched every move you made, how your hips swayed as you sipped your coffee, something you often did when you had a sweet treat. How your hair fell beautifully on your shoulders, down your back almost to your ass.

You blinked, moving your hand in between the memory and reality, letting go of Aizawa's mind.

"Shouta. Why didn't you tell me?"

"I didn't want to embarrass myself. I was sure you didn't like me, like that anyways."

You bring your knees to your chest, using your chin to lean on your kneecaps. "Funny, I thought the same about you up until you put me in a coma."

Aizawa turned his head down, almost like you cut him with a sharp knife.

You stared at him for a moment, hoping he would say something.

Anything.

"Will you go to dinner with me?" He finally spoke.

"You just said-"

"Do I need to repeat myself?"

You ponder the question for a moment. You've wanted to see Shouta in a romantic setting for a long time. Where you both dress up, you put on your best makeup, and you could end the night in Shouta's arms.

"Tonight."

"It's 5PM."

"So you have 3 hours to get ready." You get up from the couch to slip your shoes on. "Pick me up at 8."

NEXT CHAPTER IS THE DATEEEEE HEHE

[devotedfem]

→ Mean

Synopsis: You weren't innocent at all, yoongi can see right throughout your act and fake tears. It was almost like you were challenging him, but he didn't have enough proves. The only thing he can do is tame a liar brat like you.

Yoongi x f.reader

Genre: detective au | yander-ish

Tags: mean min yoongi, crude language, sassy reader, possesive behavior, yander-ish, a bit of stalking, Jungkook and reader's situationship, detectives, dealers.

From the series masterlist; The chasing.

A.N: hello there, this is my first time writting on tumblr. I've always been obsessed with crime tv shows and Yoongi's mv where he wears that police outfit. Anyway i hope you enjoy!

Yoongi watched every expression of your face like a hawk through the glass separating him from the interrogation room, where you were trembling with teary eyes.

You were pretty, and the way you talked with such fear and vulnerability made you look innocent, but yoongi didn't believe your act, his guts telling him you weren't that innocent, you just were playing with them.

"I didn't knew Jungkook was a dealer, i swear to god. I-i am in love with him," your lips wobble with fat tears staining your redding cheeks.

Your hurt expression was a pitiful sight.

Yoongi narrowed his eyes and clenched his jaw, you were starting to piss him off. Really.

"Fucking liar," he huffs under his breath, crossing his arms with an angry grimace.

"Do you think she's lying?" Asked Namjoon next to him.

"I don't need to think it, because the evidence proves she's guilty like her boyfriend. We found her right where Jeon sells his shit," said matter of fact yoongi, making Namjoon chuckle.

"Well yoongi-ssi, that evidence isn't enough to arrest her. There's the possibility that it's a coincidence, we need more proves."

Yoongi rolled his eyes with frustation.

"My guts are never wrong and you know that."

Namjoon says nothing, just watching the girl at the other side of the room sobbing and looking heart broken.

"I'm going in, tell Mingyu to go the fuck out, he isn't doing anything useful."

Yoongi's coworker only sighs deeply, knowing how stubborn the other was.

You were alone in the room for a couple of minutes, sniffling. You felt their eyes on you, so you didn't stopped your tears.

The door of the room opened, showing a pale man with raven locks slicked back. His dark coat and the scar across his eye made him look intimidating, but not for you.

You felt a spark of curiosity at his angry scowl that was directed towards you.

Interesting.

"I- can i go home now?" You asked with a thin voice, looking at him with wide eyes.

" 'Don't think so, not until you confess." He said sharply, with narrow eyes watching every expression of your face.

You try to hide your smirk with a pout, loving the attention.

"I have nothing more to say, please let me go," you almost beg, wobbling your lips again, not breaking your blurry eyes from him.

But his face was stoic, unfazed by your tactics.

"We asked the people who worked in the bar your boyfriend sells drugs, and they all said you were a frequent client." He said with an unreadable face.

"I am! But-but i didn't knew he was a dealer, he said to me that he met his friends there, and i wanted to accompany him." Your eyes were closed with exasperation.

The raven haired man only hummed, getting up from his chair to walk forwards you, towering your body with piercing eyes.

It was an intimidation tactic, but you were kind of turn on by his closeness.

"I don't believe you," he almost spat, not breaking his dark gaze.

You made a crestfallen face, looking right back at him with vulnerable eyes.

"I wouldn't lie about something like that officer," you whispered not swallowing the fake tears.

The corner of his lips twitch a little.

"Detective," he corrected you rather harshly.

"Sorry, detective..." You paused, looking at his police badge, "yoongi."

His breath hitch for a second, but he immediately masked it with an indifferent face, but you caught it nevertheless.

Your teeth bit the bottom of your lips trying to hide your smirk again.

"What kind of girlfriend doesn't know her boyfriend sells drugs just right under her nose," he said with a straight face, but his tone was mockery.

That was a low blow, he wanted to make you look stupid.

Fine then, you'll play dumb.

"That's... so mean detective, how could i thought so low of Jungkook. He never gave me a reason to doubt," your voice broke again, diverting your eyes to look at your lap.

You felt a warm breath next to your ear, making your belly twist by his closeness.

"You're good at this, but you won't fool me. I'll be watching you, liar." He said lowly, with a very threatening voice that didn't scared you at all, it just aroused you.

"I hope you do detective, who else will protect me from Jungkookie," the whisper you let out shattered your act, making Yoongi's eyes widen just a bit.

"You can go now," he said expressionless, separating himself from your body.

You leaved feeling his piercing eyes on your back.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Yoongi accomplish his promise, he followed you everywhere. Although not enough to make himself look like a stalker but a detective.

And you never stopped going to the bar, almost like you were challenging him, letting him know that not matter what he says, you can do whatever you want.

"Brat," he said under his breath, watching you from afar dancing in the bar.

You knew he was there, his long black coat and raven locks were difficult to go unnoticed, so you throw some mischievous glances at him from the other side of the place, almost like inviting him to come closer. But Yoongi never did, he just stay sat in his chair, watching you.

You were getting bored, so you dance with a stranger.

Yoongi's eyes immediately sharpens and darkens at you, his beer left untouched. All his focus on you, just like you wanted.

You came closer to the stranger's body, ignoring his nasty and boring remarks, and brushed your lips against his jaw, not breaking your gaze from Yoongi's face.

You looked the exact moment where he clenched his jaw and narrow even more his eyes. Getting up from his chair.

A pang of disappointment took over your chest, maybe he was tired of the teasing.

You pouted pettily at the thought, now losing all your interest in the man you were dancing with.

"Get away from her," a harsh voice made you and the stranger startled.

You turn around to look at a pissed off Yoongi who has his eyes fixed on the stranger.

This time you couldn't hide your smirk.

"What? No, what the fuck is wrong with you dude," the man said back, and you watched how Yoongi smirked cynically, making a shiver run down your spine.

The raven haired detective said nothing, his eyes never broke away from the stranger. He moved away his coat a little, so the strange could look at the gun in Yoongi's hips.

You felt the way the man freeze, getting the fuck away without saying another word, making you huff. He was so easy to scare, what a coward.

Yoongi's hand on your shoulder took your attention back to him.

"Abusing your power, aren't you detective?" You teased with mirth.

"Didn't you have a boyfriend? Where did all those shed tears go? Hmm?" He asked instead, checking you out from head to toe.

And you were basking in the attention.

"Jungkookie will forgive me," you said innocently, biting your lip to stop your smirk. Yoongi watch the movement before looking at your eyes again.

"Really? He looked like the possessive type," that made you laugh hard, like if he just said the most funny joke.

Yoongi looked puzzled.

"Not at all, he fuck around with men and women, we aren't exclusive." You said, not caring if you admited that you lied to the police.

Yoongi only hummed.

"But..." You said getting closer to him, feeling his warm, "i would say you're the possessive type, aren't you? Scaring that man away so no one touch your target." The teased went straight to Yoongi's ego, making him anger a bit.

"Watch your mouth," he warns, but you didn't listen.

"Or what?"

Something dark flash in Yoongi's eyes.

"Are you challenging me?" He asked, like he didn't believe someone has the guts to do that.

"Why can i? It's fun," you said light heartedly, and half joking. But Yoongi saw right throughout you.

"Unless you don't want to regret your life choices and rot in jail, i recommend you to shut up," his words were harsh but his tone was rather calm.

You only pouted at the threat.

"But i'm too pretty and nice to go to a place like that," You whined.

Yoongi's lips twitch with a smirk, getting closer to your body.

"You're right on that. That's why i'll be kind and give you another chance," his low voice was near your ear.

His words took all of your interest immediately. You watched him with suspicion though.

"At what cost?"

Yoongi smirked.

"You'll come with me, and tell me every little secret of your so-called boyfriend," he mocked.

"And what if i don't?" You said not wanting to give in.

He grabbed your waist tightly.

"I'll find ways to take that information out of you."

Let me know if u want to be tagged to my next oneshots.

[glassessence]

(ΦωΦ) PGR requests! PGR requests! Can I please have some cute dating headcanons with Lee? Or even like, just a cute and soft oneshot with Lee?

It's completely 100% up to you what scenario they're in if you go with the oneshot~. (*´∀｀*)

Hello! I'm alive (and back). Life has been insane and no, it's not under control but I'm back nonetheless (to fulfil ancient fic requests that people have probably forgotten about and no longer care for but no matter; we persevere.)

I'm an angst writer through and through, but I tried my best to do cute and soft. I'm sorry if it's not what you were looking for, but I hope you can derive some enjoyment from it regardless.

Also, I really am sorry that it's literally a hundred years too late. I just suck LOL

a moment of peace   |   lee 

"One day the war will end. I want people to remember that there was more."

In the wake of a catastrophic injury, Lee helps the Commandant remember what they're fighting for: a life, a dream. A hope for the future that once was.

You grunted with effort, levering yourself awkwardly from the comforts of your bed. It had been six weeks since the accident. Lucia and Liv continued to refer to it as ‘The Incident’ and adamantly dodged questions from other teams. Anyone talking to them would think you’d died. In fact, you were pretty sure Kamui thought you had.

Three weeks ago, it’d been amusing. You’d even encouraged it. But now, as the second month of your handicap loomed on the horizon, all you felt was angry. You were sick of being sick, tired of being tired. Those who had seen the planet, who’d borne witness to the ruinous beauty of a broken earth, could never be contented to stay. And while you were idling away in the sterile comforts of Babylonia, the Punishing advanced below. 

Frustrated, you shifted in the wheelchair, punching the cushion behind you into submission. The contraption was uncomfortable, no matter how many curses or how much violence you inflicted upon it. Liv liked to say that it was as stubborn as you, but even her gentility couldn’t ease your latest black mood. It was hard to sit still while your comrades fought and bled; hard to watch progress find Constructs in leaps and bounds while it found you in stumbling steps. There was no doubt that you were recovering, but it was slow. Every day a step farther. Every night a little easier. Now, more than ever, you were reminded of your mortal fragility. A brave heart did not equate to a strong mind. And a strong mind did not mean a strong body. 

It’s bad, Asimov had said. A wheelchair for now and well, maybe forever. You’ll have some time. Use it to come to terms.

Somehow, perhaps through sheer stubbornness, you’d managed to avoid that dire fate. You would walk again and one day return to the maws of the Punishing. To be crunched up and spat out again? Such dark thoughts permeated your mind often. You couldn’t help it. You were as much a soldier as anyone, but these last weeks had reminded you of just how hard it was. The hurt and aches, the tears and fractures that had never been given the chance to heal. And in the dead of night, away from prying eyes, the terrible, consuming pain. It was hard to forget the wreck of your body in the aftermath: the limp dangle of your legs in Lee’s arms, the blood that poured out of you like a swollen river, bones and flesh unmade into fragments of dust and meat.

But harder still was watching your Ravens grounded and flightless, as trapped on Babylonia as you. Harder still was noting the prolonged absence of Strike Hawk and the rising tensions between Vera and Lee. Every sympathetic eye in the hallways made you sick. 

That was what had driven you to explore Babylonia. For all that it wasn’t earth, it was something. A home for some, even if it would never be for you. Sighing, you swiped away the holographic puzzle you’d been working on. These wheels aren’t going to turn themselves…

“Maybe I can threaten Asimov again,” you muttered under your breath, hands already reaching for the spokes of your wheels. “Maybe if I commit to being a nuisance…”

“If that’s your plan, you’ll have to do better than pouting over puzzles.”

Lee stepped around the corner, pristine in his palette of black and blue. Your breath caught. He was vivid against the stark corridors, a bold stroke in the emptiness, so painfully beautiful that it hurt not to stare. Every line of him was sharp and calculated, placed just so by an artist’s loving hand. But there was no talent in the world that could capture the pale fire of his eyes. Those haunting, expressive eyes that bared his soul when words could not. 

A blond brow arched. “Is there something on my face?”

“No,” you muttered grumpily, feeling your mood lift despite yourself. “Go away. I’m contemplating going legless.”

“Then you’d better get to it. Once Asimov hears, you’ll lose more than just your legs.”

You shot him an unholy glare. “Are you here for a reason?”

“Yes,” Lee said, apparently content to leave it at that. He studied your furrowed brow and the purple shadows beneath your eyes. “Have you been sleeping?”

“No. I do nothing but sit around all day. It’s terribly restful.”

“I think that’s the point.”

“No need to rub it in.”

He sighed, “Only you would miss going to war. No wonder Vera likes you.”

“She likes me the way a cat likes a rat,” you countered. “I’m only interesting until she gets hungry. Or bored.” Lee was silent, but you could hear his reproach all the same. “What? Cynicism is healthy, you know.”

“And when did you become a pessimist, Commandant?”

“Since I started throwing a tantrum,” you said primly, meeting his unflinching gaze with solemnity. As you’d hoped, Lee’s lips quirked. It was only the slightest twitch, hardly more than a trick of the light, but your heart fluttered all the same. He was perfect as a Construct, the very pinnacle of human beauty, but when he smiled — when his cheeks dimpled on the left — you could see beyond that inhuman magnificence to the soul beneath: Morian. The boy you’d never truly known, but somehow always had. 

Buoyed by your success, you added, “Though I prefer the term venting.”

Lee was unconvinced. “You mean being unreasonable?”

“That’s never stopped you before.”

A soft exhale stirred the air above your head. You imagined the phantom brush of it against your skin. “You’re impossible,” Lee said, moving behind you to grab the handles of your wheelchair. “Watch your hands.” 

Without another word, he slid you forward, gliding through halls of recreational rooms. You craned your neck to peer into one. Swaths of blue light danced on the walls, pierced irregularly by spears of gold and white. Somewhere in the distance, close enough to be a dream, rumbled the soft, lonely call of whale song. 

Aching, you looked away. Babylonia may pretend at heaven, but there was some things that could never be captured. The thunder of waves breaking against your feet. The tug of wind against the anchors of your being. And the clouds, tender and bruised in a sky that stretched forever.

Still, you’d seen more in the past month than you had in all your years of service. Human kindnesses and human virtues; small hopes and big dreams. Love, that singular bastion of hope at the end of the world, gathered so strongly in a single place that you could feel it in the air. Against all odds, humanity had taken this empty husk and given it a soul, one filled with the very best of man. Was it the body or the soul that made a home? Every day you spent here had watered the seeds of doubt: that life could go on, and neither humans nor the Earth truly needed each other. So then what were you fighting for?

Perhaps, you thought as Lee wheeled you around an unfamiliar corner, it’s time to let go.

A frosted glass door appeared before you. Beyond lay a blurry landscape of greens and browns, like those abstract paintings Ayla had once shown you. Babylonia had gardens of course, but they were mostly fake — structures of steel and plastic that imitated life. Waging war left little time for tending plants. It was sensible, economical even, but part of you had always mourned the loss. 

But now... Your breaths were short as Lee swiped his access card.

The red eye blinked blue.

Bright notes of birdsong greeted you, carried on the wings of a warm summer wind. Jasmine and lavender perfumed the air. Above you was the percussive rustle of leaves, thin branches dancing in their places; beneath, vibrant and alive, was a verdant green sea, stretching as far as the eye could see. Pathways meandered into the sunscape like great snakes, arching gracefully through copses of bushes laden with berries like glistening jewels. Trees towered overhead. You recognised the statuesque trunks of oaks and redwood, but also the elegant silhouettes of aspens and birch, and far in the distance, the bowed boughs of weeping willow. “This is…”

Lee wheeled you forward. The door clicked shut, locking you in, away from the aseptic and cold, away from the hungry maw of space into a remembered world. He was quiet as gravel crunched underfoot. For a while, there was only the sound of wonder. Your silent breaths and roaming eyes. The thundering beat of your heart and the awakening song in your soul. Then came the comfort of companionship. His staccato steps and your legato tread. The murmur of young leaves. Birds, singing unseen in notes that dipped and weaved.

You basked in the sensations. Never had you experienced anything like this. Not even on Earth — a tranquility so complete it seemed a dream. Gravel gave way to the hush of soil. Somewhere in the distance, you heard the gurgle of water, falling and falling, splashing into a pool that would not dry. Sunlight kissed your skin and you were surprised at the sting. Ultraviolet light, you realised with a jolt. How much energy does that cost?

“What is this?” you asked quietly, tilting your head to find Lee looking at you. There was an unreadable expression in his eyes. “Is this… is this real?”

For a moment, he said nothing, his lambent gaze full of feelings you couldn’t follow. You watched him as you always did. You had always been able to parse him, to lean on a connection you shared not even with Liv or Lucia, but he had retreated from you. What was it about this garden that pained him so?

“Lee?”

You reached out, fingers soft against his mechanical palm. Though he didn’t look at you, his fingers found their way into the gaps between your own. Hands braided, threaded together as if it was always meant to be. He had never touched you so intimately before, but it didn’t feel strange.

“It’s real,” he said at last, blue eyes fixed on the spread of green before you. “All of this is real. In a few months, it’ll finally be ready.”

You gave his hand a squeeze. “Ready for what?”

His eyes cleared like the sky after rain. In them, you recognised what you’d always known: love. So much love carried by those tired blue eyes. Wherever he had gone, Lee had come back, and he’d come bearing a hidden part of his soul, ready to be shared with you at last. “For humans,” he said. “For the children who have never known this.” He gestured around, encompassing the world with a wave of his hand. “This will remind them. Connect them with their history. They should feel things, while they still can.”

His hands closed around yours. The tips of his fingers dug into your skin, but you didn’t move. His pain was your own; you would bear it with pride.

“How long has this been happening?” you asked. “How long... I mean, how did you even grow these trees?”

“I brought seeds from Earth. Whenever we were sent on a mission, I’d retrieve some. It took years, and it was started way before me, but Hassan wanted—”

“Yeah,” you said gently, turning from him to face the garden once more. “Something for us to leave behind.”

Lee said nothing, but you could feel his conviction in the press of his palm against yours. “I believe in us. In you. One day the war will end. When that time comes, a decade or a thousand years from now, I want people to remember that there was more. That living once meant tranquility and beauty, not just blood. Not just violence.”

You nodded. His words struck a chord within you, his ideas a skeletal echo of your own secret thoughts. Alone in the dark, you had wondered of your legacy. When the fight was won and fabled peace found at last, what would the people think? Would you be a hero who reclaimed the Earth or a villain who had destroyed the very thing it sought to possess? 

“Not just violence,” you echoed. Sometimes it feels like that’s all we are.

Lee knelt by your side. His eyes met your own. “Commandant, I—” 

Something wet plinked against your forehead. You glanced up. The light receded with alarming speed, leaving a trail of pregnant clouds in its wake. Wind whipped through the branches, threatening to rip the very leaves from their homes. Birds scattered to unseen havens. Within moments, the garden was a roiling landscape of adverse weather. Rain poured down in an endless torrent, stirred by vicious gales to tempestuous rage. 

“What’s happening?” You had to yell to be heard above the howling storm. Lee had risen and was moving for the handles of your wheelchair.

“It’s the weather program!” he explained. “It’s supposed to emulate real-world meteorological conditions. Probably needs a little work!” 

You laughed, a full-bellied thing—the first in a long, long time. “You think?”

“I told them to keep it on spring. This… isn’t quite what I had in mind.” Your wheels churned in the soil that had become mud. Lee grunted behind you, but the chair stubbornly refused to move. With a huff of frustration, he gave up and circled around to face you. “Let’s get out of here.”

Leaning in, he dipped one arm beneath your legs and wrapped the other around your back. Your cheeks warmed despite the lashing wind. “Wait, what—”

“Hold on, Commandant.” His breath was warm, his lips so close that they brushed against the shell of your ear. Lee lifted you from the chair like a treasure. You could feel the steady beat of his heart as he cradled you against his chest. Somehow, your arms had found their way around his neck. Water plastered his hair to his forehead and dripped into his eyes, but he didn’t let go. His eyes, when they met yours, were as clear as a summer sky. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah. Are you?”

“I will be,” he said grumpily. “Once we get out of this tempest.”

You chuckled; something about his aggrieved tone was just so Lee that you couldn’t help it. “I like this!” you said above the storm. The rising wind and rain, the biting cold against the warm press of Lee, the hint of him in every blade of grass and velvet petal—you loved all of it. This place was a wild heart in the carefully planned rhythm of Babylonia. A sliver of the Earth captured in a truer way than you had ever known possible. “I love this!”

You whooped like a child, laughing as you opened your mouth to the taste of fresh water on your tongue. Your joy was infectious and soon Lee was laughing too, his soft giggles calling to more of your own. With water sluicing down your faces, with wind-chilled skin and soft-centred hearts, Lee carried you across the mud and slick, his steps confident and sure. You held on as tightly as you could, your fingers making divots into the smooth skin of his neck, his arms. There was a feeling between you with no name. An understanding so deep that it needed no voice. 

You gazed out at the wonder before you. It truly was a miracle. Real trees and real grass. Real flowers that would wither and die and live again. Life and hope, you thought as the doors hissed open. A moment of peace.

They slid shut, sealing the wild beauty of the garden from you once more. You could still feel the rain slicking your skin, running down your face to pool like crystals on the pristine ground.  You looked up at Lee with liquid eyes. “Why didn’t you tell me?” you asked breathlessly. “Why did you labour alone?”

“Because,” he said. “It’s a gift.”

A gift. But you knew Lee, knew him like you knew your own soul, and you heard all the things he did not say. It was a gift, but it was also a dream. A promise, and a hope. It was all the things that existed in the quiet spaces between heartbeats, unseen and unheard, but known all the same.

And shared, sometimes, in the tender feelings between two soldiers wondering, and silently wishing for more.

“Come on,” Lee said after a moment. “You’ll catch a cold. I’ll come back for the chair later.”

You smiled as his footsteps rang out in the empty corridor. Swaying in his arms with the smell of petrichor still in your veins, you felt something ignite in your chest. It was small and fragile, easily buried amid the chaos of war, but you knew where to find it again. Tucked away behind a frosted glass door, there was a piece of Lee that would always be ready to remind you of what you were fighting for.

Not just violence.

For life. And for hope.

—

“Thanks for that. I owe you one.”

Murray watched happily as Morian cradled his Commandant close. He’d asked the technician to cut the audio, but there was no mistaking the depth of feeling between them. His brother was far too awkward for any declarations of love, but he hoped he’d at least given him a chance, an opportunity to express those feelings he so obviously harboured for his leader. Knowing Morian though, he’d probably squandered it, but well, a man could dream. 

The tech shot Murray a disgruntled glare. “Anything else? I have better things to do than meddle in Construct affairs.”

He sighed in mock sympathy. “More’s the pity. I love meddling in people’s lives.”

“This is why nobody likes you, Murray. Lee’s going to scold me enough as it is.” 

“I had enough of that as a kid. I’ve done my time.” With a casual wave of his hand, he left the scowling technician to his muttered insults and his bribe. Murray walked down the corridors feeling lighter than he had in weeks. Morian—Lee now—had sacrificed his life for Murray. Though he couldn’t quite do the same, he wasn’t helpless. He wasn’t the weak, younger brother that needed protecting anymore. 

It’s my turn now, brother. I may not be able to return your heart, but I hope I can give it back to you all the same.

[eldritchdiplomacy]

Bottom Table OT3: The Playlist

We, like Jinnah, will mourn our lads forever

(click for song explanations!)

Take Me Out To The Ball Game - Ed Meeker

"Eldritch Harrahs," He says, fingering the bright red laces on a baseball like a rosary

Team - Lorde

Classic poly theme, living in ruins.

"And everyone's competing For a love they won't receive 'Cause what this palace wants is release."

Ravenous - Autumn Orange

Impeccible vibes.

Eat Your Young - Hozier

Post-war heroes left in slums with their ghosts

"Come and get some Skinnin' the children for a war drum Puttin' food on the table, sellin' bombs and guns It's quicker and easier to eat your young"

Rhiannon - Fleetwood Mac

A shiny jade jewel in said slums

"She rings like a bell through the night And wouldn't you love to love her? She rules her life like a bird in flight And who will be her lover?"

Boats & Birds - Gregory & The Hawk

Children without souls

"If you'll be my boat, I'll be your sea A depth of pure blue just to probe curiosity Ebbing and flowing and pushed by a breeze I live to make you free, I live to make you free…"

Hearts a Mess - Gotye

Sean Fucking Finnerty

"You have lost too much love To fear, doubt and distrust, it's not enough You just threw away the key to your heart Don't get burned 'cause nothing gets through It makes it easier, easier on you That much more difficult for me To make you see."

Love In The Time Of Socialism - Yellow House

Teenagers all in love with each other

"But I am home wherever you are near There's no life in anything When you're not here."

Whatever Fits Together - Skullcrusher

I mean…

"Do you ever look back? Does it all fit together? If we're here, does it matter? (If we're here, does it matter?)"

Marked For Death - Emma Ruth Rundle

Marion & Jean

"Who else is going to love someone like me that’s marked for death? Who else is going to be with me when I breathe it all?"

Here I Dreamt I Was An Architect - The Decemberists

Marion & Sean

"And here I dreamt I was a soldier And I marched the streets of Birkenau And I recall in spring The perfume that the air would bring To the indolent town Where the barkers call the moon down The carnival was ringing loudly now And just to lay with you There's nothing that I wouldn't do Save lay my rifle down"

Hard Times - Ethel Cain

The Exorcists' Daughter

"Tell me a story About how it ends Where you're still the good guy I'll make pretend 'Cause I hate this story Where happiness ends And dies with you."

Edith's Theme - Crimson Peak

The Lighthouse

Say Yes To Heaven - Lana Del Rey

Sean & Jean

"If you go, I'll stay You come back, I'll be right here Like a barge at sea In the storm, I stay clear 'Cause I've got my mind on you I've got my mind on you…"

Sunlight - Hozier

Sean & Jean & Marion

"All the tales the same Told before and told again A soul that’s born in cold and rain Knows sunlight, sunlight, sunlight And, at last, can grant a name To a buried and a burning flame As love and its decisive pain Oh, my sunlight, sunlight, sunlight."

Your Protector - Fleet Foxes

The Circle of Needle & Thread

"As you lay to die beside me, baby On the morning that you came Would you wait for me? The other one would wait for me."

The Mother Road - Chelsea Wolfe

The doc who knows she'll never lead a normal life, have a normal love.

"I do not have a child But I'm old enough to know some pain And I'm hell-bent on loving you Women know what it is to endure."

Running Up That Hill - Placebo

All too stubborn to let each other die.

"Oh, come on, baby Oh, come on, darlin' Let me steal this moment from you now Oh, come on, angel Come on, come on, darlin' Let's exchange the experience…"

A Vampire's Heart - Peter Gundry

Doplegangers

Cosmic Love - Florence + The Machine

Jean, Sean, & Marion

"I took the stars from our eyes, and then I made a map And knew that somehow I could find my way back Then I heard your heart beating, you were in the darkness too So I stayed in the darkness with you…"

Oh, To Dream Of Such Eldritch Things - Autumn Orange

The Compromised Lightkeeper

A Shot Rang Out - Emily Jane White

Sean FUCKING Finnerty, Marion, Jean

"Dreamers we aren't few But I don’t want to bury my dreams with you."

The Ghost On The Shore - Lord Huron

Man down

"Die if I must, let my bones turn to dust I'm the lord of the lake and I don't want to leave it…"

Call Your Mom - Noah Kahan

You can't do this to Peggy, bud.

"Medicate, meditate, save your soul for Jesus Throw a punch, fall in love, give yourself a reason Don't wanna drive another mile without knowin' you're breathin' So won't you stay, won't you stay, won't you stay with me?"

Funeral - Phoebe Bridgers

War boys wearing the same face, so many hearts.

"And last night, I blacked out in my car And I woke up in my childhood bed Wishing I was someone else, feeling sorry for myself When I remembered someone's kid is dead…"

Francesca - Hozier

Jean & Marion re: Sean

"Now that it's done There's not one thing that I would change My life was a storm since I was born How could I fear any hurricane?"

Is Your Love Strong Enough? - GWTDT

"Just one beat of your heart And stranger than fantasy I knew from the start It had to be the place for me Someone that I would die for There's no way I could ever leave."

Death With Dignity - Sufjan Stevens

The Survivor

"Spirit of my silence I can hear you, but I'm afraid to be near you And I don't know where to begin And I don't know where to begin…"

My Love - Florence + The Machine

The Next Step

"My arms emptied, the skies emptied The buildings emptied…"

[aftgficrec]

This is the first time I’ve ever caught you open! Can you send fics of just neil being put through absolute hell. I only need it to be finished and to have a not totally sad ending. Im good with canon post canon and aus so really whatever. Thank you so much I find literally all my fics on your page <3

This kid just can’t catch a break, can he?

There’s plenty of fics we can offer you where Neil doesn’t have a great time (physically or emotionally), just see our list of recs from previous posts.  You’ll find more under our raven!neil, dark and angst w/happy ending tags (not all fics in those tags are complete).  

Please be aware of the trigger warnings though, due to their nature some of these fics deal with some heavy material.

Hope you’ll find what you’re looking for here! - S

A selection from previous posts:

‘Black As Is The Raven, He’ll Get A Partner’ and ‘Timeless’ here

‘hawk in the raven nest’  here

‘Take to the Wing’  here

‘Oh Raven’  here

‘Die Free or Die a Failure’ and ‘Night is the Raven, Day is the Fox’ (both completed) here

‘Scared to Live (But I'm Scared to Die)’ (completed) here

‘Not Damsels, Not Knights’ here

‘what it takes to survive’ (completed) here

‘Heartlines’ and ‘This Is What Hollows’ (completed) here

‘If Only I Were Enough’ (completed) and ‘don't break the glass’ (completed) here (part 1 of the glass series) 

‘Double Trouble’ series here

‘Out of the Ashes’ series here (Part 1 and 2 completed)

‘Make A Believer Out Of Me’ here

‘what if the butcher hurt neil permanently in baltimore’ here

 ‘here and where you are’ here

‘Pause and Restart My Heart’ series here

‘The Bones of You’ here

‘and in a flash, it’s gone’ and ‘(don’t fear) the reaper’ here

‘Creatures We Find in the Forest’ here

‘There Now, Steady Love’ and ‘Except When It's No’ here

‘I Hope You Lie To Me’ here

‘The Story After You’ here

‘and you thought i hated you’ here

‘The Morning AUs, Chapter 14: The Bodyguard AU’ here

‘If all else perished, and he remained’ here

‘stifle my choice and the air in my lungs’ here

‘Purple Skies’ here

‘Monsters on the Top Floor’ here

‘The Reaper’ and ‘TALE OF A MARTYR IN XII PARTS’ (both completed) here

‘The Nameless Monster’ here

‘Through our memories, we live’ (completed) and ‘Hold Each Other, Chapter 24-31: Go or Go Ahead’ here

‘Hold Each Other: Chapter 5: The Gun Still Rattles’ here, ‘Chapter 7: Nothing Always Means Something’ here

‘Calling Me Back Once Again’ here

‘Amor Vincit Omnia’ (completed)  here 

‘Run to You’ here

‘Ghost of You’ here

You may also find something in these posts:

Neil with depression/mental health issues here

Neil attempts suicide here

Christmas at Evermore here

What Lies in Wait by starwarned [Rated M, 23419 words, complete, 2023]

Neil is being haunted — or else he’s losing his mind. All he can hear are the screams echoing in his head. But he and Andrew have made it this far, haven’t they? Can’t they survive a little more? Based on What Lies Beneath.

tw: violence, tw: psychological torture, tw: kidnapping 

Pull Up The Ladder When The Flood Comes by WinterFrost250 [Rated M, 3248 words, complete, 2023]

“Neil-” Kevin paused and looked around the room. As if only just realizing they were surrounded by people, he began speaking in vehement French. “I’m sorry Neil I didn’t mean to look, I just-” Kevin glanced down at his phone, “It was just there when I opened it. I’m sorry.” OR Kevin gets sent pictures from an unknown number of Neils's time in Evermore and shit hits the fan.

tw: implied/referenced rape/noncon, tw: implied/referenced torture, tw: implied/referenced abuse, tw: panic attacks

the boy in the basement by iriswords [Rated M, 3376 words, complete, 2023]

Part 21 of Febuwhump 2023 The Wesninskis are a well-known family in town. A macabre one, with only one survivor: Nathan Wesninski. Every day, Andrew likes to pass in front of the house on his way back home. He observes it distantly, taken over by morbid curiosity. It's how he notices the eyes watching him through the windows of the basement.

tw: violence, tw: torture, tw: blood, tw: major character injury, tw: implied/referenced abuse

next best thing by iriswords [Rated M, 1546 words, complete, 2023]

Part 13 of Febuwhump 2023 Mary and Nathaniel are caught by one of Nathan's enemies while they're on the run. Said enemy doesn't have anything against the two of them, but he deeply desires revenge on Nathan. And in the absence of Nathan, he chooses the next best thing.

tw: violence, tw: blood, tw: major character injury

keep telling me that it gets better (does it ever?) by phan_taloon [Rated M, 15415 words, complete, 2022, locked]

Except the cool steel felt too much like the cool cement of a dirty basement, it burned and numbed his back too much like- He wasn’t fine. But his meds could fix it. He scrambled to his feet, stumbling down the hall to the bathroom and yanking the cabinet open and grabbing the pill bottle in a fist tight enough to hurt. He shook one of the pretty little pills into his palm and he swallowed it dry. But one wasn’t enough. Or, AU where Neil never met the Foxes, with a little less mafia and a little more pain for Neil when he ends up captured by Nathan for months, and has to deal with the consequences by himself. He ends up in treatment for chronic pain with opioids, and let's just say opioid use is tricky when you're alone and in pain; one thing can lead to another more easily than it seems.

tw: drug addiction, tw: drug overdose, tw: withdrawal, tw: suicidal thoughts, tw: implied/referenced self harm, tw: implied/referenced abuse, tw: implied/referenced torture, tw: vomit

no matter when and where, we'll be alright by jingerhead [Rated M, 11611 words, complete, 2022]

Of all the night’s events, there were only three things that Nathaniel really remembered clearly: the moments before the riots, being questioned by Lola in the car, and watching his father walk down the stairs to the basement. The last thing Nathaniel could remember was the way the light caught the blade of his father’s axe, blinding and terrifying as it was raised towards the ceiling. He couldn’t remember it coming down but it had to one way or another, right?

tw: amputation, tw: nightmares, tw: panic attacks

are we whole or just two halves/reaching out to the unknown? by Raphael_Stantiago [Not Rated, 18881 words, complete, Aftg Big Bang 2022]

An informant/defence attorney au, where Neil never left his father and was sucked into the family business, and gave them all up as soon as possible. However, when Neil meets his attorney Andrew, it gets a little more complicated. Cue them falling in love across various court cases, arrests and one on one meetings, all with the threat of witness protection hanging over their heads. NB: fic art by @oliviaillustrations here

tw: implied/referenced abuse, tw: implied/referenced torture, tw: implied/referenced violence, tw: dissociation 

All Alone, I've Lost the Hope by phan_taloon [Rated T, 6873 words, complete, 2021, locked]

Even now, lying in the cold concrete floor of wherever he is, surrounded by armed men and women, drowsy from a concussion and drugs, and body pulsating in pain from several places, he still doesn’t believe in regret. Even at the face of the bastard in front of him, the cruel smile and the hungry glint of his eyes, he’d always choose to stay. Even if the FBI may have been right to say the Witness Protection Program was the only logical path to choose with so many of his father’s men and allies still out there.

also available on tumblr here and here 

tw: violence, tw: implied/referenced torture, tw: kidnapping, tw: nonconsensual drug use, tw: blood, tw: suicidal thoughts, tw: depression

It never comes from your enemies by spectaclesandbooks [Rated T, 19408 words, complete, 2021]

"Name?" "Andrew Minyard," he pushes out through gritted teeth. “Well well well,” the man on the other end sounds amused, smug. Andrew waits for him to continue, his feet pounding against the pavement. “If you’re the one coming to meet me, I have to assume you’ve finally found a way to keep Josten on a leash?” The clink of metal, rough breathing, unseeing blue eyes, panicked pleading. When Andrew doesn’t answer, the Raven presses further. “Either you’ve found a way to keep him subdued or you’re not coming alone like you were told. Which is it, Minyard? I told you what would happen if you didn’t do as you were asked.” “Neil won’t be bothering us,” Andrew spits out, “he’s staying at home for this one.” There’s movement on the other end of the phone, presumably the Raven preparing to leave and come meet him. “Excellent,” he says easily. “That means you and I can conduct our business in peace and no-one gets hurt."

tw: violence, tw: blood, tw: panic attacks, tw: implied/referenced self harm

That one party series by Thegaydepression [Rated T, 13872 words, 2 complete works, 2021]

Part 1: Orange (T (we say M), 9237 words)

"Orange is for someone who doesn’t suffocate. But Neil does. He suffocates and he feels it clawing at his throat and beating in his ears and pounding on his chest" ----------------------- Neil thought he was fine, but then he goes to a stupid, loud, bright party. Neil thought he was fine, but he isn't. Not at all.

tw: rape/noncon, tw: violence, tw: panic attacks, tw: depression, tw: anxiety, tw: nightmares, tw: implied/referenced self harm

Part 2: Maybe Orange isn't Suffocating (Not Rated, 4635 words)

A second part to "Orange" ---------------------------------- Andrew is (not) coping Aaron is a surprisingly good brother Neil is not fine

tw: rape/noncon, tw: violence, tw: kidnapping, tw: dissociation, tw: panic attacks, 

hold me close (don't let go) by cake_lovin_ace [Rated G, 4123 words, complete, 2021]

Part 2 of weight of a martyr night by night memories of his childhood flooded his mind’s eye, all the things neil had tried his hardest to suppress. all the times he had been hurt; gotten the scars that littered his torso; been betrayed by the very people meant to protect him. it was like reliving everything all over again in vivid technicolor, and when he managed to claw his way out of the maze his mind trapped him in it was all he could do to remain upright and not crumpled on the floor; on the bed instead of hidden below it; dry-cheeked instead of sobbing hysterically. or neil struggles with memories of the past. andrew helps.

tw: implied/referenced abuse, tw: panic attacks, tw: dissociation

what comes after nightmares by moth_writes [Rated T, 10146 words, complete, Aftg Big Bang 2020]

Father won't accept anything less than the best. Nathaniel shuts his eyes and wills himself to a dreamless sleep. Or at least one without knives and blood and pain. He's not successful, but the next time he wakes it is to an alarm and the sun in his window. It's the best he can hope for. ... Neil falls asleep easily, and he knows he has someone with him to battle the darkness back where it belongs now. Neil is thirty, and he is wrapped in his husband’s arms with two cats purring next to them. He fights his own nightmares, and he has his family at his side to help. He’s home. (Neil's nightmares and what happens after, ages 5-30.)

NB: find art for this fic by @i-did here

tw: graphic descriptions of violence, tw: nightmares, tw: child abuse, tw: implied/referenced torture

👑 ROYAL AU WRITING MASTERPOST 👑 by @emry-stars-art [tumblr, 2023]

(especially the posts concerning Neil’s (Abram’s) treatment at Evermore)  e.g. Abram’s return from Evermore, Pieces of his recovery, Andrew taking over Abram’s care

👑 ROYAL AU TUMBLR LORE MASTERPOST 👑 by @emry-stars-art [tumblr, 2023] (comprises both text and art posts)

e.g. Abram's brands pt1 / pt2

tw: violence, tw: injuries, tw: scars, tw: panic attacks, tw: dissociation 

“Perhaps you’ll take me out one day — or do I have to make an appointment?” prompt fill by @ravenvsfox [tumblr, 2017]

His morning is a string of disasters that begins with covering the ER in the Sunday rush of hypochondriac elderly and fussy children. It’s one long stretch of kicked over paint buckets, a mess you can’t ignore, splattering the walls and getting on his shoes.

Art

andreil post-baltimore by @intradaya

It’s over. You’re going to be okay. We’ve got you. by @rainbowd00dles

"All that time fighting and you never learned how to duck?" by @rainbowd00dles

Sunrise, Abram, death: these are truths. by @boydsjosten

Neil Josten art by @runningwithhellhounds

Neil & Wymack after Evermore comic by @rijirain

Neil in the Wymack’s bathroom after winter holidays art by @eggpy

“Help me,” “Let me” by @rainbowd00dles

And if you make it out alive, hold that bloody head up high art by @pearsfears

I’m fine art by @laurafromnowhere

Nathaniel/Neil gif by @queen-of-perplexity

hurt Neil by @rhyva

[starscatteredsky]

Can I get an inbox check pls? If not all good :)

hey! sure! its long so ill put it under a cut!

we're doing our best to get them done for everyone as fast as we can, but this sure is a lot! -mono

queued and ready to post (in order! unlikely to have any changes made!)

Moodboard for Shidaraki

Playlist for the Tenth Doctor

Fashion kit for a fallen angel and space

Pronouns and activities for a barnowl

Fashion for a fox

Tips and fashion for a shapeshifter

Tips for draculara

Fashion for a satyr

Darkcore fashion for a feral black german shepherd

Tips for paldean woopers

Tips/gear for a neanderthal 

Tips for the untitled goose

Tips for tsunami (wof)

Tips for an aibo

Tips for a disabled vampire

Fashion for a weather angel

Tips for a dragon and shark

Carekit for a god/void

Neos and fashion for N (murder drones)

Tips for a raccoon

Tips for zim/an irken

Tips for an eldritch horror

Tips for questioning fictionkin

tips /fashion for a sheep

Tips and fashion for a robotic wolf

Tips for a wallace hawk eagle

Tips for an aussie shepard

Tips for dwebble and crustle

Tips for an EPCOT placekin

Tips for an albino leopard

Tips for bowerbirds

Tips for Ermac

Tips for poodles/chinese crested dogs

Tips for buckets

Denboard for a ferret

Tips for a robot/eldritch being

Tips for a dog/fae and mimic

Fashionboard for oscar pine

Tips for a tv

Tips for ball jointed dolls

Tips for a questioning voidkin

Tips for raven from the raven poem

Tips for a black cat

Tips for dave miller

Tips for scp-049

Tips for connecting to mermaid kintype away from the sea

Tips for jasper

Tips for cerberus

Tips for an albino american cockroach

Fashion for cerberus

Tips for frost

Tips for crows and cockatoos

Tips for sunbears

Fashion for a burmese mountain dog

Tips for eevee

in drafts/wip! (this is in no particular order! some requests that arent started yet may be queued before some of these as they are put into proper order!

Tips and playlist for a warden

Tips for bill cypher

Tips and fashion for a great horned owl

Fashion for an african wild dog

Fashion for an orange persian cat

Denboard and fashionboard for a vancouver island coastal wolf

Black cat and shark tips (done, not queued)

Punk fashion kit and tips for a pine marten

Tips  and den inspo for a wood mouse

Moodboard and tips for shadow demon

Tips and fashion for fern the human (adventuretime)

Fashion and home decor for the old web

Fashionboard for an angel

Sweater fashion kit

Tips and fashion for lilac (Orin Ayo)

70s/80s fashion for an incubus

Home inspo for yeerks

Tips fashion and recipes for a zim

tips for a corvid (done, not queued)

tips for a nightfury (done, not queued)

Tips and neos for quetzalcoatlus

tips and fashion for shadow the hedgehog (done, not queued)

Tips for space divines

Tips for c!tubbo without explosions

Tips for a tiger with connection to space

tips for a border collie (done, not queued)

Tips for sparrows

Tips for lions

tips for an angel (done, not queued)

Tips for zekrom (done, not queued)

Dysphoria relieving tips for a general nonhuman (done, not queued)

tips for princess (done, not queued)

tips for qsmp philza (done, not queued)

vibes for a hobbit and vampire, moodboard for a hobbit and vampire

tips for an evil ocean deity (done, not queued)

tips for a cheagle (done, not queued)

tips for huldra (done, not queued)

tips for zelda (done, not queued)

tips for guiding lights (done, not queued)

tips for glimmer (done, not queued)

tips for kyouka izumi (done, not queued)

selfcare for a hobbit and room cleaning tips for a hobbit/vampire

tips for hell hounds, ghosts, and cyn (done, not queued)

tips/denboard for a gryphon

questions for connecting to hobbit kintype (done, not queued)

tips for connecting to clownpierce (done, not queued)

vampire and gothic fashion for scourge (done, not queued)

goth and alt fashion for an enderman (done, not queued)

colourful fashion for a moth 

fashion for a coyote (done, not queued)

Tips for C1tubbo

tips and outfit ideas for c!technoblade

tips for a purple blooded troll (done, not queued)

Tips for a halforc/elf humankin

names and tips for a femme scott summers (done, not queued)

Tips for an otter

Tips for a natural history museum and school lab

Tips for eleven

Tips for a shark kemonomimi

Tips for mothman

fashion board for cole (done, not queued)

Grounding tips for fnaf sourced alters

Tips for raoul (done, not queued)

Tips for connecting to feeling catlike (done, not queued)

not yet started/inbox (in no particular order! some of these may be queued before current drafts to maintain proper order)!

Tips for a space-man (KISS)

Tips for mark heathcliff (mandela catalouge)

Tips for scarlet (pearlecentmoon) and nihachu (genloss)

Tips for aven (worldless)

Tips for flippy (htf)

Tips for persecutor unicorns

Tips for micheal afton

Tips for dib membrane (invader zim)

Tips fpr a nextbot

Tips for a centipede

Tips for ronja (robbers daughter)

Tips for deimos from madness combat

Tips for barney calhoun from half life 2

Thin man vibes

Tips for fan (inanimate insanity)

Tips for tardis

Tips for jordie holmes

Tips for jane doe

Fashion for a coastal wolf

tips/fashion for the companion bots from stray

Tips for v1 (ultrakill)

Carekit for an alien

Carekit for venus (solarballs)

fashion for a scene cougar

fem fashion for a crow

names for a hobbit and recipes for a hobbit

fashion for the heart 

neos and xenos for even hansen

fashion for red heeler dog (REDO)

stimboard and masc fashion for a saarloos wolfdog 

fashion and moodboard for a harpy

Tips for Vee

Carekit for will graham

Tips and fashion for a robot

Tips for a fae and doormouse

Masc and neutral genders for foxes/canines

Tips for cats and batearred foxes

Tips for dating retro/vintage graphic cards

Tips for P03

Tips for Link

Fashion for Draven Kondraki 

Tips for Sherlock Holmes

Angel and void tips 

Tips for beetlejuice

Tips for a doglink with POTs

Tips for harry dubois

Tips and fashion for a horned black kite

Fashion for reginald copperbottom

Fashion for black wolves

Tips for zim and 2D

Fashion for a remnant

Tips for red foxes and housecats 

Pronouns for a calico cat

Tips for an enderman

Fashion and info for raccoons

Tips and fashion for saihara

Tips for vampires

Tips for sebastian solace

den board, tips and/gender ideas for German Malinois

Tips for a wolfthing

Colour neopronouns and tips for dressing masc and grunge

More tips for enderman

Tips for domestic dogs

Tips for donnie

Tips for husk

Tips for general service synth

Tips and carekit for N

Moodboard and stimboard for infected

Tips and fashion for harrison and preston

Marble hornets tips!

Tips for a service dog

Golden retriever service dog moodboard 

Pink computer and candy moodboard

Fashion for a mimic

[noirbriar]

The Star, the Sky & the Sea

Feeding myself in this fandom be hard. So just a implusively written self-indulgent post-canon mu / murrue family ficlet for myself. Timeline be years after SEED Freedom. OOC and everything is all on me as always.Tread lightly please.

---

For a soldier who has survived so many wars, Senior Colonel Mu La Flaga has lived a rather long life. Hawk of Endymion, Shield of Orb, a retired Commander and MS pilot with a long combat record. Though now a just normal Instructor, the man thinks he has pretty much seen it all. Yet nothing can prepare himself for this scenario.

"I-Instructor Flaga?"

"Private Vesle?" One of his trainees is on his door step. After an extended work trip, his household was expecting a guest this evening, but certainly not his student.

Unless- Said trainee is also staring back at him blankly, but not before he catches the raven haired kid darting a quick glance at the family name plate beside the gate. Flaga.

His intuition sinks in just as he see the hamster's little wheel stops spinning in the boy's head as Private Vesle's realisation hits as well. ---

The sudden yell shatters the peace as Murrue gets startled out of her thoughts. Before she goes on auto-pilot, grabbing the brunette girl beside her protectively behind, pulling out her gun from the holster under her skirt. The ex-captain thankful that she had little time to get changed after returning from a project under Morgenrote.

An enemy? Although this was a gated compound for designated officials and staff of Orb?

No matter. Murrue charges out towards her main door, battle ready and only to find a furious husband and a bewildered stranger in casual wear outside their house. Who pales even further looking at the gun pointed at his way.

Eh?

Just what is this situation?

"Mu? What's going on here?" Murrue starts, lowering her gun a little after deducing its not an attack on her home. Now just utterly confused by this bizarre posturing by these two males.

"That's what I want to know!" Mu shoots back, keeping a narrowed eye on the one before him. The glare causing the younger man to take a weary breath, but he does not step further back. Which is impressive, considering the situation which is not in his favour. "M-mama? Papa??"

Their eldest daughter, Astella, peeks over from behind, blinking at the incredulous scene before her. Until sounds of steps thunder down the stairs and join in their weird gathering out by their front yard.

"What's going on?"

"Are we under attack!?" "Papa? Mama? Oh! Yo! Hello there, Ken!"

Mu snaps his head around to face his sons, a brunette with glasses and set of little blonds. One armed with his kendo blade, two with their archery bow. Their second and their youngest, twins. These are their four children, Mu and Murrue's pride and joy.

Said father however, is currently less than pleased, and now jabbing a finger, pointing incredulously at the raven haired kid before him.

"Astella Flaga, do you mean to tell me Kenichi Vesle is that Ken? Your boyfriend?!"

The question seem in trigger their usually sweet daughter, who is offended by the unusually rude question. "Eh?? What are you on about, papa? Yes! What are you both on about? Ken?"

"Hah??"

"A-Astella...I...didn't know... Instructor Flaga is, your father?" The kid, Kenichi Vesle, finally speaks up.

Astelle looks as if she cannot decide if she wants to laugh or cry.

"...There aren't many Flaga's in the Orb military, Ken."

"Ah. You, actually have a point."

Oh. Oh dear. This is a mess.

Murrue sighs with a soft shake of her head. She finally puts back the safety lock on her gun and buries her face into her hand. She was simply expecting a nice, peaceful family dinner. Now Murrue just prays the entire neighbourhood has not heard their epic misunderstanding. She steps up and gives her unhappy husband a gentle pat on his back.

Time for damage control.

"In any case, I think we should all head inside and discuss this instead." Murrue smiles sweetly, the young man afterall, is their guest.

Mu grumbles, but slowly, he relents albeit very reluctantly. Which causes Murrue to tug the muscular arm, pulling her husband back and allowing Ken to move inside their home. The cautious young man following behind their girl quietly as if he is about to march to his doom.

Target secured. At least, that is one down.

"Caelus Flaga, Kai Flaga, Sui Flaga. Go set the table for dinner."

"Roger."

"Alright, mama.

"Okay."

Ground crew deployed. Her boys obediently obeys without a problem. Now all that is left is the tricky one-

"Hello, yeah- no,stop greeting your elders as an old man! I-"

"Mu La Flaga, disconnect that line now, and get inside."

"...Yes, Captain."

---

AN: Mu was actually on the phone with Shinn there at the end because he wants Meyrin to run a background check and he wants his daughter's godfather to be on his side too

[violettadecalda]

Elements: Air Edition

About the air element: The air element is linked to things such as divination, concentration, visualization, and prophecy. Air teaches us how to hone our scattered energy and focus it toward what we want. It teaches us to use our intention. Air can be a big cleanser and also a big charger. Just stand outside for a few momenrs on a windy day, letting it blow around you and play through your hair, and you will feel renewed.

Air in magic: The air element is often used in combination with smoke, feathers, trees, flowers, and plants. It is common to use the air element in both spells that require letting go, and in spells that bring you new information. After all, rumors can travel on the wind. Aromatherapy, hanging objects up, playing the flute or other woodwind instruments, and tossing things to the wind are all examples of using the air element in magic.

Forms of air include: wind, still air, breath, vibrations

Some air spirits include: Sylphs, zephyrs, faeries

Color: Yellow

Direction: East

Tools: Censer, athame, sword, wand

Tarot suit: Swords

Zodiac signs: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius

Symbol:

Air in daily life: The most obvious form of air in our daily lives is the air that we breathe. Everyone does it, everyone needs it. Speaking requires the element of air as well, as it carries the vibrations of our voices. We use air to cool off, and every time we look up at the clouds in the sky, we are interacting with the air element.

Air in the home: Similarly to how fire is used to keep our homes warm, air is used to keep them cool. Whether you are opening a window, turning on a fan, using an air conditioner, or fanning yourself with the playbill for your little brother's school performance of Legally Blonde in the stuffy auditorium, you are using air to cool yourself down. Air can also be very healing. How many times have you stepped outside to get some fresh air and take in the breeze while you were feeling sick?

Air in the kitchen: Though it may not be obvious at first, there are some cooking methods that utilize the air element. Perhaps the most common is drying, whether you are drying meat for jerkey or herbs for tea. Then there is cooking with convection heat, which is growing more popular, or cooking with microwaves. Also popular, as seen by the amount of fizzy beverages and whipped toppings available, is carbonation and aeration. There are several foods and ingredients associated with the air element, including~

Almond, anise, bamboo, brazil nut, caraway, chicory, dandelion, endive, hazel, hops, lavender, lime, mace, maple, marjoram, mint, mulberry, parsley, pecan, sage, acorn squash, artichoke, bitter melon, broccoli, cauliflower, eggplant, fennel, okra, rhubarb, spaghetti squash, alfalfa, cannelini beans, lima beans, mung beans, celery seed, chamomile, rosemary, scallions, amaranth, puffed rice, rye, apple, apricot, blackberry, currants, lingonberry, pear, pineapple, tamarind, pomegranate, black tea, chocolate, coffee, white vinegar, cabbage, celery, grape leaves, mustard greens, daikon, sunchoke, parsnip, hibiscus, macadamia nuts, walnuts, stevia

Herbs associated with air: Frankincense*, myrrh*, pansy, primrose, vervain, violet, yarrow, dill, clove, acacia, aspen, beech, benzoin*, bodhi, bracken, bromeliad, clover, fern, goldenrod, horehound, houseleek, mistletoe*, papyrus, pine, slippery elm, tobacco, rose petals

Stones associated with air: Fluorite, moonstone, turquoise, amethyst, rhodochrosite, topaz, pumice, alexandrite

Animals associated with air: Doves, hawks, eagles, foxes, turtles, ravens, spiders

Incense: Lavender, lemon balm, linden, frankincense, myrrh, violet, anise, chicory, mace, pine

Air on the altar ideas: yellow feathers, feathers in general, bird imagery, incense, censer, bells, flute, objects hanging above the altar

Divination with the air element: Nephomancy, austromancy, alveromancy, feather divination

Air work for spoonies:

Open up the window to watch the sky

Collect feathers or scatter them to the breeze

Keep a handheld fan nearby for when you need to create a breeze of your own

If you dont have your own windchimes, ring bells or listen to recordings of chimes on your phone

Use yellow pillowcases, blankets, sheets, curtains, or wall decorations

Hang beads or ribbons in your window

*Some herbs are unsafe or even deadly to ingest and can be dangerous to use. ALWAYS do research.

Sources:

[teatimecontea]

ROSA TRYST: 2023 White Valentine's

MALE CONSTRUCTS

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You run into Camu as he is escorted out by a teary-eyed restaurant owner after Camu ate all the food there in a food challenge and won a free meal. Camu (Crocotta): I hate these boring festivals, and I hate that boring park. I especially hate going to that park on one of those festivals. What? Do you take me for a child? Why did I stay if I found them boring? What a stupid question! I was there to keep an eye on you! You were so excited that I thought you'd have jumped off the Ferris wheel if I weren't paying attention. Besides, if it weren't for the fact that you were kind of interesting among all this boring nonsense, I would've been gone already. Don't deal with me the way you deal with Kamui. I'm not that idiot. I always know what I want, Y/N. Commandant: And what would that be?

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You run into Changyu, who is holding a handful of game coins at the Game Center. He proceeds to drag you to the gift counter and clear it out. Changyu (Quilin): Hehe, Y/N, look... That's right. These are the coins I won at Game Center! It's the first time I see so many coins in one bucket. I bet I'm a billionaire now... What? I can't use these coins outside the Game Center? How can this be... I was going to use them to buy a gift for you in return... Forget it. At least I'm still the richest one in the Game Center. So, when are you going to the park with me again? I'll give you half of my coins! Commandant: Your happiness is the best gift I can ask for.

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While visiting the aquarium, Chrome explains to you the differences between the fishes in different biospheres with more in-depth knowledge than a tour guide. ***Incoming communication from Strike Hawk-Chrome's dedicated channel.*** Chrome (Archlight): You must be back by now, Gray Raven Commandant-I mean, Y/N. I'm sorry to bother you at this hour. It's just that some feelings can only be shared after I carefully choose my words. I don't think I've misinterpreted why you invited me to Venus Splash Park today. It was my honor to spend the day with you. But next time, allow me to take the initiative. Commandant: You better be quick then.

▷ ▄█▀ ▀█▀ ▅▀▅ ◤▄ ▀█▀

Fully engrossed in the book in his hand, Chrome seems out of place when you are hanging out among the sunbathers down at the beach. Chrome (Glory): On desperate seas long wont to roam... Thy Naiad airs have brought me home, and the grandeur of old Rome. We've trudged through seas and their savage waves, Commandant, and here we are now enjoying ourselves in the sun by the sea. I'm glad we get to spend such a peaceful time together. I hope I will one day be able to give this peaceful sea back to you. Commandant: So will I.

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Having witnessed Kamui's failed attempts to surf with Big Kamui several times, you finally stop him and takes him to rent a surfboard. Kamui (Bastion): Commandant! Happy White Day! Heh… Of course I know it is White Day today! I knew I had triggered... Something important when you came to me! So you took me to Venus Splash Park because you selected my route? Regardless, my route for you has never changed! Did you enjoy today, Commandant? Have I picked the best options to increase my Affection? Commandant: You always have, Kamui.

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Kamui tries to act cool while playing the dance machine at the Game Center, and you witness the moment he falls flat on his face. Kamui (Tenebrion): You seem happy today, Commandant. You haven't stopped laughing… Because of me? I told you I'd keep smiling for you as long as you like. Did you take me to Venus Splash Park today to cheer me up? Here I thought it was because it's White Day today… Ah! You must know what it is, Commandant! See, you know it… So can I call it a date? It was a date! Crap-now I have to play a few rounds of fighting games to calm down! Yep! Sounds good! Good night, Commandant! I'm not inviting you to my room to play with me. You are not staying overnight! Why? Because I want to wake up early and see you well-rested and energized! Commandant: I'll see you tomorrow, Kamui.

▷ ▄█▀ ▀█▀ ▅▀▅ ◤▄ ▀█▀

While competing with you at the shooting gallery in the park, Lee manages to shoot down over two bags full of plushies, which the two of you carry back to the rendezvous point. Lee (Entropy): Are you going to bed already? That's fair. You've been out having fun the whole day, after all. It's about time you get some rest. I've just performed maintenance on my frame and cleaned out the salt and sand in my joints. I told you not to run around on the beach. Had you not dived into the waves, I wouldn't have needed to get you back and… Your behaviors are giving me a headache... I looked happy? I wasn't... I only went in because I didn't want my commandant washed away by the waves. That's all. Forget it. You won't listen no matter what I say. It's a special day today, after all, so I'm glad you had fun. Good night, and.. Happy White Day, Commandant. Commandant: Never change, Lee.

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Lee (Palefire): The report on Venus Splash Park's restoration was uploaded to the Science Council. It seems that the Engineering Force hasn't been slacking. Construction on the essential conservation area settlement is 72.5% complete. Apart from that, repairs on recreational facilities are 45% complete, somehow. I can't say if the Engineering Force is efficient or if there is just a high demand for that kind of facility. Why are you looking at me like that... Let's be clear-I'm here at the Venus Splash Park with you to collect data. That's all. Fine... Of course I know what day it is today. As I told you before, festivals are humanity's shared memories. I wouldn't want to miss any of them, essential or not. Including today. Understand? Commandant: Of course I do!

▷ ▄█▀ ▀█▀ ▅▀▅ ◤▄ ▀█▀

So the haunted house is back in business again, with a clown robot by the entrance wearing a creepy smile on its face. Did Roland make this? Roland (Flambeau): Hey, how did you like the haunted house, Commandant? That was our first time working together during an escape, wasn't it? We worked so well together, though. It was like... Huh? Did I say something wrong? Hey, I don't know anything. Well, how about let's do it again? Commandant: I was about to say the same.

▷ ▄█▀ ▀█▀ ▅▀▅ ◤▄ ▀█▀

You find Wanshi napping on a beach chair. Looking closely, you find the book he used to shield his face from the sun is Chrome's "The Merchant of Venice". Wanshi (Hypnos): Hello? Are you back yet? Are you going to bed? Um... I've lain down in the maintenance room already. I'm getting ready to enter the sleeping pod. I'm just checking in with you before I go to sleep... Somehow, I can't sleep well without giving you a call. The things we did today took so much energy... How strange it is that I feel like I'm in a weightless dream when I'm with you, but exhaustion surges up once were apart, as if I'm waking up. Yawn... Boggles my mind. I'm going to have a nice, long sleep now. Perhaps in my dream, I can still... hmm... Never mind. Well, then... Happy White Day. Good night, Y/N. Commandant: Sweet dreams, Wanshi.

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Taking a stroll on the beach, you cannot resist digging up some of the clams and mussels, and you run into Watanabe, who is also squatting on the beach. Watanabe (Nightblade): Thank you for today, Gray Raven Commandant. Venus Splash Park is indeed a nice place. Babylonia has done a respectable job turning it into a settlement. If it is possible... I wish those abandoned and forgotten could visit this place. Sorry for thinking out loud. I know you didn't invite me today for boring and serious discussions. I just never could stop thinking about them. ...Anyway, thank you very much for inviting me on a day like this. Little as it may be... It has changed how I see Babylonia. Commandant: Things will get better, Watanabe.

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Coming upon a flea market, you witness Watanabe's exceptional bargaining skills as he purchases two large cases of gifts for the Forsaken children. Watanabe (Astral): Buzz- It's finally stable now. Can you hear me? It's me, I'm back at the Forsaken camp. My hair is messy? Oh, the children here "robbed" me when I got back. They're feasting on all the candies you gave me now. Ha... I'm kidding. I knew you prepared the candies for them. My apologies- I know I don't act like this very often around you... I had a really good time today. I still looked weighted down sometimes? I... I suppose I can't help worrying about my comrades even on a day like this. However, when the children asked me about the date... I couldn't help remembering it fondly. Perhaps contradiction is part of our nature. Anyway... Thank you for today. I look forward to... the next. Commandant: I look forward to spending more time with you.

-- - ▅▀▅ -- -

FEMALE CONTRUCTS | RII: 13260710 |

[queercodedvillains]

tobi, externally: oooooOOooOooooOOo the hidden leaf team are getting into formation better get warmed up teehee *aerobic stretching exercises a la 90s vhs casette home workouts*

Obito, internally: Sasuke, have you evolved from a snake into a hawk, or has Itachi carried you away in the clutches of his ravens? Tell me, Sasuke, have you grown enough to face your brother? Can you prove yourself capable of enacting the vague plot we have woven around you

tobi, externally: Heeheeheee you missed!! *jazz hands*

[pureangels22]

Fanfic Rewrite - Kairi (WIP)

a/n: This is a rewritten snippet of the first fanfiction I ever wrote. I am currently trying to rewrite my old stories, but it is a slow process. Hope you enjoy 🤍

~*~

The night was quiet in the Land of Departure. No person made a sound as they slept peacefully in their homes; the idea of being disturbed never crossing their minds. On the outskirts of the land, Castle Oblivion stood at attention. Soldiers were taking turns as they patrolled the castle in case of any enemies trying to lurk inside. One soldier, a dark brown brunette, walked as he scanned the area. Terra wasn't one for fooling around unlike his other companions. When nights this quiet took place, it only meant that something was about to take root, and Terra was not going to let anything get past him.

Suddenly, the back of his head was hit. Gasping, he looked up to only see a golden hawk flying in the sky. Touching the back of his head, an uneasy feeling stirred inside him. He glanced over at the edge of the wall and walked slowly towards it. Hooks flung high in the air and latched themselves onto the wall. Realizing that they were under attack, Terra ran down the side of the wall.

"We're under attack! Light the signal!" He yelled, trying to get the other soldiers' attention. Unversed appeared as they blocked his path to the fire pit. Summoning his keyblade, Earthbound, he slashed his way through the creatures. He grabbed the torch on the wall and made his way over to the pit.

Before he could light it, a figure appeared on the other side. Terra's eyes widened as he stared at the person. The teen's helmet faded away and golden eyes stared directly back at the brunette.

"Vanitas...?"

From the light of the torch, Terra could see the man grin when called by his name. "Miss me?" His raven spiked hair and dark colored armor made his appearance look like a shadow in the night.

Terra narrowed his eyes at him. "What are you doing here?"

"Now, is that any way to treat an old friend?" Vanitas touched a hand over his heart. "I'm hurt, Terra."

"You lost that title when you betrayed us!" Terra glared as he stared Vanitas down.

"Betrayal? That's not how I remember it." Vanitas glared back before grinning again. "Ah, but that's beside the point. Why am I here, you ask? Well, that's simple. I want what's rightfully mine."

Terra tightened his grip on the torch. "You have nothing to gain here!" He glanced down at the fire pit and threw down the torch in his hands. Once the pit lit, more and more fires started to appear. "And now everyone will know you're here."

With a lift of his hand, Vanitas summoned his keyblade, Void Gear, as he stared at Terra. "Perfect~"

~*~

The doors to Master Eraqus's chambers flew open as three people walked through. The one in the middle was a dirty blond and he was escorted by two other soldiers. Eraqus was seated in his chair when he heard the doors open and didn't hesitate to speak. "Ventus, what is for this sudden audience?"

Ventus knelt when in front of Eraqus as followed by the other two men. "Master, excuse this interruption but I bring urgent news from Castle Oblivion." Hearing this, Eraqus nodded his head in a sign for Ventus to continue. "It would appear the Unversed have taken over our northern border and plan to cross even further into our land."

"Impossible! No one can get through Castle Oblivion!" A voice exclaimed from beside Eraqus, but was silenced with the raise of the man's hand.

Ventus looked up from the ground as he continued, "It would appear Vanitas is leading them."

Eraqus's eyes narrowed at the familiar name. Vanitas was once one of his pupils here along with his brother Ventus. The two were inseparable when they arrived, but that all changed when jealousy appeared and the betrayal occurred.

Ventus stood from his spot. "With your permission, we will start setting up defenses around the palace immediately."

"No," Eraqus stated as he stood. "Send you troops to protect my people! Zack!"

"Yes, sir," the voice from before bowed his head. Zack, Eraqus's adviser, quickly went over to his station and started to write everything down.

"Deliver conscription notices throughout all the provinces. Call up reserves, and as many new recruits as possible." Eraqus continued as he walked towards Ventus.

The young man looked skeptical over his Master's decision. "Forgive me, Master, but I believe my troops can stop him," he said. The idea of risking more men their lives didn't set well with Ventus's conscious. Not to mention training the new men would take months and they didn't have time to waste.

"I won't take any chances, General." Eraqus stated as he called Ventus by his title. "A single grain of rice can tip the scale; one man may be the difference between victory and defeat."

[shivunin]

WIP Wednesday

Thank you for the tags @greypetrel @daggerbean @ndostairlyrium @layalu!! In turn, tagging (no pressure, always): @heniareth @zenstrike @dreadfutures @pinayelf @vakarians-babe @jtownnn and you, if you have something you'd like to share! It has been a Week and my brain is soup, but here is something I wrote in companion to the piece about Hawke lost in the Fade. I got to thinking about what might lead my Inquisitor to the role she plays in that fic, and it has been eons since I've written Emma (my darling!), so:

It was always cold at night in Skyhold, even if the magic of the fortress itself held the worst of the frosts at bay. 

Emmaera stood on the balcony, looking out at the moon over the snow, and tried to decide if she was ready to cry yet. It seemed like this ought to be the right time; she was finally home, such as it was, and she’d been thinking for ages how nice it would be to get home and finally, finally cry. 

Why couldn’t she do it?

“You’re still awake?” 

She didn’t turn when the door creaked the rest of the way open, but she leaned back when Cullen wrapped his arms around her. 

“I can’t sleep. Well—that’s an understatement, I suppose.”

“Hmm,” he said, and she could feel the tension in him before he spoke again. “Adamant?” 

“What else?” 

If she strained, she could see the ravens as they flew from Leliana’s tower. Not unusual, really. The spymaster and her folk sent letters at all hours of the night. But…well. Lavellan knew exactly who’d sent the ones winging from the rookery now. 

“I should’ve—” she began, but gritted her teeth against it. 

How self-serving to pity herself over the choice now; she, who’d sent Varric’s dearest friend to her death. How could she even pretend she had the right?

“You did the best you could,” Cullen told her quietly, squeezing tighter. Emma shook her head silently and gripped the cold stone of the balustrade. 

“There had to have been another way. I could have—I could have held it back. I could have—If I’d just had time to think—”

“We have discussed what happened a dozen times,” Cullen told her quietly. “I know it doesn’t help. I know; believe me, I know. But—”

“The eluvians,” she interrupted. “There’s got to be something there.”

“Emmaera—”

“I know it,” she said, for she had spent the last week thinking of little else. She had lost her father to an eluvian most of her lifetime ago. Maybe—maybe another could unmake this wrong. Maybe Hawke was still out there to bring back. 

“If I could just go for—for a week—”

“There is no time,” he let go of her, stepping to the side so they could look at each other. “If there was some way—if anyone deserves saving, it’s her, but there is no time. We march for the Arbor Wilds in under a month and you’ve excursions planned from tomorrow to then.”

“I owe her,” she told him, her voice ragged. She pressed one fisted hand—the one marked with the Anchor—to her chest. “I owe her everything. She gave up her life for me. She was supposed to be retired; Varric told Cassandra—oh, nevermind that. I can’t just leave her there, Cullen. What if it’s me someday? What if I never get to leave this, either, and someday someone will come out of the woodwork to ask me if I might help them with one last mission? What if you were the one who had to hear that I’d been lost somewhere, that they were very sorry but I was an acceptable casualty and—”

She couldn’t go on. Lavellan pressed a hand to her mouth and turned away, willing her eyes to stop stinging. Behind her, she could hear Cullen shift and sigh. 

“I know,” he said. “I know the guilt you feel and—I wish I knew what to say.”

“Say I should go,” the Inquisitor said, back straight as an arrow, and turned to her Commander. “Say that I can leave and bring her back.” 

Emmaera sighed, slumping slightly, and reached for his hand. 

“Say that you would want someone to do the same if it were me,” she told her lover, and Cullen searched her face. 

“I wouldn’t let someone else do it if you were lost,” he told her quietly. “But—very well. I will go write a message for the others now. See what we can rearrange.”

“Thank you,” she told him, heartfelt. “Thank you.”

Cullen reached for her and folded her close, leaning his cheek against her hair. 

“Don’t thank me,” he said, and closed his eyes tightly.

[toomanyopinionss]

Ok, it’s bout time to talk about

Titans

disclaimer- i’ll only be talking about seasons 1 and 2 of the show

…

Has a show ever made you feel so conflicted, you can’t even tell if you actually like it or not? This is that show for me. There’s so much I really like about this show, but also so much that irks me.

Let’s start with the good :)

- i LOVE a found family show. There’s something so comforting abt finding a home in people who are so different from you.

- I realllly like how not all of them are teenagers, but not all of them are adults. It makes for a nice balance and blends in nice with the more adult themes the show has. I love watching the older titans (ALL of them with their trauma, rough childhoods, and mommy and/or daddy issues) try and take care of the younger ones, giving them the good role models they didn’t have.

- The backstories are done so well. I’m a girl who likes context, and when I tell you some of my favorite episodes are the ones where we get to see how the hero’s ended up where they are. It’s just so good.

- All of them have done awful things. Not one titan has a clear conscience. but instead they’re all trying to navigate this fvcked up world like the rest of us. it humanizes them a bit, which i like.

also not all of them have super powers. I like how hawk and dove are not super powered in the least. they saw a need to become the superhero’s they never got when they were younger, and then they did that shit. we LOVEEEE.

Now, for the bad :/

-This show suffers immensely from the current trend of short seasons. it’s biggest enemy is time. this type of show require 20 episodes per season, at LEAST. i guess i should count it as a blesssing that they got more than 10 episodes for the first two seasons, which is more than i can say for every other show i’ve watched this year. Because of this, though, Titans has had to balance introducing the characters and exploring their relationships, while also trying to progress the story along. The fact that they manage to fit at least a couple backstory episodes in there is a miracle. but it leads to my next point

-The villains suck ass. When i watched Teen Titans as a kid, Trigon gave me nightmares. but the trigon here was giving antagonist in one of those rated R blockbuster summer vacation movies. and he was defeated in like 15 minutes by season two episode 1

Back in my Arrow days, I remember Slade being scary af. my man made every aspect of Oliver Queen’s life hell on earth for like 30 episodes. we as an audience had to watch as he slowly took apart his life piece by piece. but here? the only reason i gave a shit abt slade was because of Jericho, my beloved. Yeah the titans fell apart, but that was more attributed to Dick failing as a leader. it probably would have happened sooner or later even without slade there. also, conner and garfield with cadmus posed more of a threat than he did by the finale, which is saying something .

i will say that jericho twist got me though, that stuff was good.

-Jason. this team FAILED jason. I will never get over how spectacularly every single person either couldn’t see, or refused to see how this boy was struggling. Whenever I think abt it, it angers me. even BEFORE he fell off the damn building. I mean, the adults pour all this time and love into raven and… raven, but when it comes down to it, there was no support for him. HOW COULD JASON BE STANDING ON THE ROOF OF THE TITANS TOWER THINKING OF ENDING IT ALL, AND DICK MAKES IT ALL ABOUT HIMSELF? I saw a bit of the first episode of season 3, and i couldn’t go on until i poured out my thoughts somewhere. I don’t know if he’s actually dead, cause u really never know with these types of shows. if he is though? his blood is on the hands of every single adult figure in his life. fvck them ALL.

Quite frankly, there’s so many more

things that I’ve yet to touch

stupid story decisions, some bad acting, a gaping lack of lgbtq+ characters, at least in the 2 seasons i’ve watched

but i’m getting upset so let me just end it with this:

The show is farrrr from perfect. but it’s got a good heart, i think. and i can just tell when a network is getting ready to cancel something. so if anyone comes across this post who hasn’t watched the show, give it a shot

6.5/10 stars. maybe 7 if dick gets his act together for season 3

[letters-from-the-gaps]

Home and Hearth and Hunger

A lyrical essay on growing up in the suburbs of Southern Orange County, California, and the piece that I think really solidified my love for coyotes in my writing.

I think I was off the mark when I tried to describe home. I was right in places, of course, because home wouldn’t be home without the smell of smoke, but I can’t help but feel like I missed the bullseye, like I danced around the truth of it all. Home is fire, and home is hot, and home is the choked I-5, and home is hungry. Even for all the suburban trappings, even with the over-manicured muzzle we tried to put on her, home is hungry. 

Built right against the dead and dying foothills of southern California, my town has played stomping ground to coyotes my whole life. Bane of the small dog, scourge of the outdoor cat owner, I only ever saw one in my whole seventeen years there: standing in the middle of the canyon road, eyeshine brighter than any star, staring back at me. We held like that for a few seconds, its eyes finding mine even through the glass and steel of my dad’s car, before it limped back off into the brush. I didn’t get a sense for just how hungry home was until I got older, until I could take out my wanderlust on the well-paved asphalt that connected town to town to suburb. Some streets just end, I found out. 

They don’t loop around, they don’t somehow go further than the map says. They just end. For any number of reasons, of course, but for us it was because there was nowhere else for road to go. Antonio ran right up to the hills, spat you out at the foot of a neighborhood built at the edge of home’s bound jaws. The 241 North cut through a long stretch of wild, rolling hills covered in the golden dead of spring, eager kindling swaying in the wind. I wonder, often, if that’s where I got it from. Mom and Dad moved there, transplanted themselves in favor of an understandably desirable stillness, but home was in the delivery room with me, was on the drive home, was running alongside the car when I was little, bounding from streetlight to streetlight. I wonder if my teeth aren’t hers, if that pit in my stomach that I just can’t quite fill isn’t hers. I’ve always been hungry. 

Even as a kid, I had a bottomless stomach. An unending appetite for more than just food, I came to realize: I tore my way through school libraries in my youth, ripped through tomes several magnitudes above my “expected reading level.” I rent them apart time after time and still found myself desperate for more. 

Is that home? Even when reading was hard, when the words were slippery and hard to pin down and my mind whirled and spun and thrashed in my skull, I turned my ravenous gaze to television, to animation, to movies and short films and videos about who even cares. I devoured it all. 

That must be home, right? As time wore on and my teeth began to ache with a need for new things to sharpen themselves against I started to come up short. I started to drink from wells marked “poison,” “radiation,” “anguish.” I drank greedily of my friendships and when they started to dry I drank of my own self-loathing. 

This, I am sure, is home, because I am sure that home does not love me. Why would she? Home is wild, home is hills scorched by flame, home is coyotes cackling in the canyon, home is roadkill and circling hawks and snow far, far off on the saddlebacks. 

Far away from the streets I would roam there dreamt snow on the mountainsides. 

Home has been muzzled, her rolling jaws have been bound by toll road and service street, parkway and avenue. Even in the shadows of her teeth there lie houses built in the shape of each other, cookie cutter shades of beige and brown spiraling in their gated labyrinths. Why would she love me? Maybe she cares- I can almost believe that, almost did believe it as I growled through the canyon in the still early morning- but I doubt that she loves me. It's looking out at the Sound, here in this place so vibrant and green and lush that I am affirmed in my stance: wherever home feels for me is not love because love feels like this. And home has never felt like this. 

I still see coyotes, sometimes. They seem out of place, even if this is part of their habitat, so far flung from the broiling gold of home. Why are you here, I ask one as it scampers out of the road. It asks me if I’m not hungry as it bounds away, small and thin and with eyes like molten stars, and I don’t let me foot off the gas for the rest of my drive that night. Aren’t I? Aren’t I hungry? Is that a bad thing?