#( something something what an honor. what an injustice something something )

[the-force-awakens]

Still not used to this life or death situation stuff. That's good, 'cause I'm not either. You never get used to it.

[howlerbat]

Patroculus this, Achilles that, what about Hector? What about the plight of being a hero and the sacrificial lamb of your people? what about having your corpse desecrated after your death, your homeland destroyed, your infant son killed and your wife enslaved? All because you couldn’t defeat a demigod in a war that you didn’t want? What about making all the right choices and still losing? What then??

[endawn]

gnawing at my arm on how pax constantly saved and saved and saved but the one time he truly needed saving nobody came

[tarysande]

The best part about coming back to the source material after a looooong time is you sorta get a fresh look at canon in comparison to whatever the dominant strains of fanon have become. Or, in fact, whatever your own dominant strains of headcanon have become.

I mean, yes, Garrus “I’m not a good turian” Vakarian gets infinitely cooler (and more competent!) by pretty much every metric as the storyline progresses. He does. But fresh out of ME1 and into ME2 through his recruitment, I find myself genuinely amused by how thin the veneer of badass is over a pretty dominant core of straight-up nerd sprinkled with idealism mixed with self-doubt.

When you have Garrus in the squad all the time (and thus get all his ambient dialogue and remarks), you really pick up on the number of times he calls out bad behavior, unethical actions, cruelty, and rule-breaking, especially in ME1.

He’s not actually a hothead who can’t abide rules of any kind. In fact, most of the time he’s pretty pro-law-and-order, and he gets amusingly hall-monitorish when people are breaking rules he considers important and worth following.

Fundamentally, Garrus chafes when his sense of what is just is at odds with what the authorities do about that injustice (or what they stop him from doing). And I would hazard a guess that the reason his actions seem so intense or harsh or "of course we should have shot down that ship in the middle of the Citadel" is indicative not of his impatience but of the degree to which he thinks the authorities have failed to uphold that justice. We know he can be patient. He's a sniper. His whole modus operandi on Omega is precision kills without civilian casualty. But when that long fuse finally burns down, he goes from zero to shooting down ships in the middle of the Citadel in what looks (from the outside) like a heartbeat.

And yes, injured pride hastens the burning of that fuse; he doesn’t like losing. Or admitting defeat. Or failing.

Having just replayed his recruitment mission, a few things really stood out to me this time.

The merc bands really hate him--and they also reluctantly admire him (he's described as smart, resourceful, dangerous, idealistic, brave, slippery; they all agree they only way they managed to get this far is by isolating him and employing dirty tactics). I mean, there's literally a station-wide announcement that Omega can return to "business as usual" once Archangel is out of the picture because he was disrupting things so completely.

The way Garrus blames himself for the deaths of his squad is so freaking turian. Failure reflects on the leader who places his people in danger they can't handle, not the individual who fails. Heavy is the head that wears the crown. Yes, Sidonis betrayed him, but the person Garrus blames the most? Is himself. For trusting Sidonis in the first place. For raising Sidonis to a position where he had the means and opportunity to harm others--and the weakness of character to turn coat, to save his own hide, instead of dying to protect the others.

Garrus mentions more than once that he was trying to emulate Shepard. And his tone always implies that he knows he failed because Shepard would never have let a Sidonis into the fold. Again, he's blaming himself. Like a good turian. Yes, he wanted to avoid the red tape and bureaucracy of C-Sec, but his code--Archangel's code--certainly aligns with Paragon Shepard's morality (with a Garrus Vakarian twist).

And since it wouldn't be meta without adding a Tara's Headcanon Twist ... I've always wondered why "Archangel" when it's such a ... human concept. But this time, when I noticed how he spoke about Shepard's influence, and how quickly he brushes aside the name when she asks him about it, I wondered if it wasn't actually his way of honoring the mythology of the dead woman whose example he was trying to follow. Not that Shepard is a God he's worshiping, but ... there is something about the way he talks about her. Garrus doesn't make himself over in the image of a God, though; he's the soldier, the right hand, the avenging angel responsible for carrying out divine punishments suited and proportional to the crimes committed, the rules broken, the selfishness or cruelty of the perpetrator.

[wooahaeproductions]

Forging the Threads of Time

Professor/Greek God Hephaestus Wonwoo x Reincarnated Female Reader

Genre: smut, fluff, angst, college au, reincarnation au, fantasy au

Word Count: 4.3k

Warnings: mentions of Greek myths, mentions of death and sickness, kissing, smut (grinding, unprotected sex, sort of sub!Wonwoo, classroom sex, penetrative sex)

Rating: 18+

Summary: Wonwoo never expected to meet the mortal love of his life ever again and you never thought you’d feel so drawn to your welding professor.

Taglist: @black-swan-blog27 @fullmindlady @bbybnnuy

A/N: Well, this certainly was a labor of love and I really wish I'd had the time to expand on this world further but I really hope you enjoy reading this. I was honored to be a co-host of The 13 Gods of Olympus collab with Aeris @beomcoups and write this piece for it.

A big thank you to my beta readers for making sense of this: Jupiter @cheolism, Tara @diamonddaze01, and Haneul @chanranghaeys 💕

Lastly, thank you Sevn @aaagustd for the most beautiful banner. ~Maren

Wonwoo hadn’t been banished to earth for long, a bitter taste left in his mouth after what his mother and supposed wife had done to him. He had taken to frequenting speakeasies, some fancy, some considered a bit dodgy. That didn’t matter when all he was seeking was alcohol to ease the injustice he felt. And that’s when he met you, a bartender at one of the fancier places he had gone to. The first time he sat at your bar, you took one look at him and said, “You look like you could use a strong drink,” and proceeded to pour him a whisky.  He couldn’t explain it, but he felt drawn to you, and when you looked at him, he could tell you felt it too.

From then on, he only frequented your speakeasy. Then he got the courage to ask you on a date. He began to court you. Frequent dates turned into a committed relationship, which turned into the two of you living together, and eventually marrying each other. That day of your marriage was the happiest out of all his lives. He didn’t know how, but being with you healed wounds that Aphrodite, his first wife in Olympus, had left him with. 

For the first and only time, Wonwoo had fallen in love with a mortal. 

And then, you became ill and his new world collapsed.

In the present, Wonwoo tossed and turned under the covers as images playing in his head invaded his sleep, images of you. Images of the first time he met you at the speakeasy, of him seeing you walking down the aisle when you got married, and unfortunately of your last moments in the hospital when your mortality proved itself to be all too real.

He awoke with a start, feeling unsettled. He hadn’t dreamt of you in decades, or at least it felt like decades. He couldn’t be sure since time passed differently for him. You had been mortal but Wonwoo was not. He was immortal; a god. The god Hephaestus to be exact, but he hadn’t gone by that name since the moment his mother banished him.

Wonwoo sighed, flinging an arm over to cover his eyes for a few seconds. He waited in early morning silence before turning over to see the time on his bedside clock. He groaned, realizing it was twenty minutes before his alarm for work sounded. There was no way he was going back to sleep at this point. Pushing the dreams to the back of his mind, he flipped off the covers and begrudgingly rolled out of bed. 

Wonwoo taught welding and metalworking at the local art college, and today was the beginning of the new semester. He had planned to be there early to make sure everything in his classroom was in order, but now he was kind of regretting that decision thanks to his disrupted sleep. 

He got dressed in a nice button-up and some slacks he had set out the night before. If he was a teacher for a more fancy subject like literature or history, he might have worn a suit. That didn’t fit his personality though. Before his banishment, working with metal and fire had been his whole life; it was part of his identity and something he found he didn’t want to change.

He paused in his bathroom long enough to brush his teeth and glance at his reflection in the mirror. He ran a hand through his hair to make sure it wasn’t too messy before going down the hall to the living room. He grabbed his briefcase of class materials that were left on his desk when he finished planning the semester out last week and grabbed his phone from the charger that was there as well.

Finally, he made his way to the entry of his apartment and grabbed his welding helmet, gloves, and heavy-duty apron from the console table along with his keys before heading out the door. He took a quick glance at the time on his phone before pocketing it. He had plenty of time to grab coffee at the little shop near campus. 

Wonwoo had never been a breakfast person, so it was always a cup of coffee, usually an Americano in the morning. The only exception was the very rare occasion when his friend Mingyu, who happened to be the god Hestia and the owner of a nightclub on Earth, would make him breakfast.

Reaching his truck in the parking lot, Wonwoo unlocked the doors and put all his teaching items in the passenger seat. He then got in the driver’s seat and when he put the key in the ignition, he was met with the classical music he had on when he was last in the car, specifically Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons”. He wasn’t much of a music person because it changed so much; He’d rather listen to things that hadn’t changed in the hundreds of years he had been earthbound. 

He pulled out of his parking spot and started to drive toward the coffee shop. Autumn was beginning to edge out the summer, the leaves on trees and bushes near the sidewalks were slowly turning orange and red.  Wonwoo had noticed there was a slight chill in the air that hadn’t been there a few weeks ago. 

It was also Fall when he met you for the first time. Another thing that he chose to try to ignore and force to the depths of his brain, but a clenching in his heart and the feeling of helplessness happened anyway. He continued to stifle it down as he drove.

A quick few minutes later, he was pulling into a parking spot at the cafe. It was a little busier than usual, most likely due to it being the start of the new semester and more students were stopping by to get their caffeinated pick-me-ups. He got out of his truck and walked inside the shop, the door making a ringing sound to indicate a person had come in. 

Wonwoo was very much a regular at the shop and before he could even think about getting in line, one of the baristas held up a to-go cup to indicate his drink was ready for him and set it by the register for when he got to the front of the line. They were moving quickly and it didn’t take long for him to get there. 

“Good Morning, Wonwoo. Here is your Americano,” the girl at the register said as she handed him the drink and punched the correct codes into the register. 

He stuffed a hand in his pocket, producing a five-dollar bill, and handed it to her. He still hadn’t gotten used to the idea of using a plastic card to pay for things. She handed him back his change, which was only a few cents, and he immediately stuck it in the tip jar in front. Despite always using cash, he didn’t like his pockets to jingle. He gave a small wave of thanks and then left the cafe. 

He got back into his truck, setting his coffee down in the cup holder. He glanced at the truck’s console, checking the clock for a third time. By now, it was 7:30 AM and class started in an hour. He had plenty of time to get ready for class. He pulled out of the cafe’s parking lot and drove only a few streets over to where the college campus was located. The welding department was toward the back of campus and had its own little lot for parking with only a short walk to all the classrooms.

Getting out of the car, Wonwoo grabbed his coffee from the cup holder and set it on the roof of his truck. He reached back through the car, putting all the things he sat in the passenger seat earlier this morning in his arms before shutting the car door with his hip and grabbing his coffee cup once more. 

Wonwoo walked to his classroom door and realized he didn’t have enough hands to pull the door key out of his pocket. He gave an exasperated sigh, setting the coffee cup on the ground just enough out of the way of the door so that he could get the keys out to unlock it. He unlocked the door and flung it open, his leg keeping it open long enough for him to slip the keys back into his pocket and get his abandoned coffee before it slammed shut behind him.

It was dark, the only light coming from the two windows in the front. Since he had no available hands to turn on the light switch, Wonwoo slowly made his way to his desk in the half-light and unloaded everything he had in his arms. He walked back over near the door and flipped the lights on, making himself squint slightly from the sudden light. Back at his desk, he finished off what was left of his coffee and went to work getting his classroom ready for the students who would arrive shortly. 

Eventually, all the student desks had been set up with the supplies the school provided for each student, although today was mostly going to just be for talking about the class expectations. Wonwoo had planned to give them a small demonstration of what they would end up learning and had his own welding desk set up with a few metal sheets that he would weld together. They would use that process to make whatever project they picked out to make during the semester.

Wonwoo stood up from his desk and students started to trickle in, a stack of paper syllabi in his hands. He was old school in that way and he had printed them the night before and put them in his briefcase. As each student sat down, he set a syllabus on the desk in front of them. He had developed a bit of rhythm, that is until he saw you walk in the classroom and he came to a dead stop. There was no doubt in his mind who you were, you even looked identical despite wearing modern clothing. First, the dreams from this morning and now this. What sort of sick plan did fate have?

You walked into the welding classroom, your first class of the day. You weren’t even sure why you signed up for the class but it was a good elective to take, and maybe it might even turn out to be a fun one. As you made your way to a desk, you felt as if there were eyes on you. It didn’t feel uncomfortable though, like when you could tell a man was ogling you. You sat down at a desk and looked up to the front, finding who you assumed to be the teacher, frozen with papers in his hands and staring. His were the eyes that were staring at you, almost like they were trying to burn a hole through your body. Your eyes eventually met with his and unexpectedly, you couldn’t look away either. What was this sudden warm and magnetic feeling?  

Finally, he looked away and it felt like someone had snapped a chord. It felt like you had been in a trance of sorts, and you hoped only a few minutes had passed. You put your school bag and materials for the class on the floor next to you and turned your focus on the syllabus that had been sitting on your desk while the rest of the students filled the classroom. Once the teacher, Mr. Jeon or Wonwoo, as he introduced himself as later, felt everyone had shown up for class, he started explaining the syllabus and demonstrating some of the things you would learn with him that semester including stick welding, which was the main type you’d be using for the project listed in the syllabus. 

You kept stealing glances at the man, noticing how handsome he was. He was built, not in a bodybuilder way, but in a way you could tell had honed over time due to his metal working. Yet at the same time, he gave off a bookish aura when he occasionally slipped the pair of glasses he had sitting at his desk on. All the while you could not shake the feeling that he was familiar to you, that he was someone to you. You weren’t sure what it was, but you didn’t think it was necessarily a bad thing.

You left the class an hour later, still feeling bewildered. For the rest of the day, your thoughts were filled with him and who he could be. Did you know him as a child? Was this a deja vu situation? Or was this even deeper, like knowing him from a past life or something like that? You didn’t like this not knowing, so you decided there was really only one way to figure out what this was. You needed to get to know him. More precisely, you needed to ask him on a date. Sure, he was a teacher and that was generally taboo territory even if you were both adults but you needed to know what this feeling was, who he was.

Meanwhile, Wonwoo was apprehensive and questioned lots of things after class had ended. Was it actually you? It certainly felt like you. Just like the dream he had early that morning, he found himself wary of the timing. Why was the universe putting you here and now after all that time? Wonwoo knew what happened before. He didn’t think he could take it if he lost you the same way again. He nearly lost himself before and he couldn’t even fathom what it would be like if the same thing were to happen for a second time. So just like that, Wonwoo made up his mind. No matter how strong the connection felt between you two, he was determined to keep you at arm’s length.

A week or so had passed and to Wonwoo’s annoyance, the feeling had not gone away at all. In fact, he felt it was stronger. The more he tried to resist your stares and signs of flirting, the stronger the pull felt. He felt surges of electricity when your hands brushed against each other when he gave you handouts. He knew you purposely would ask for help when you were practicing welding techniques, just so that the two of you could have the slightest contact even though he knew darn well you didn’t need help at all. Wonwoo hated it. He wanted you so bad but at the same time, he didn’t. He couldn’t.

You didn’t understand. 

You were pulling all the subtle advances you could think of without blatant flirting and your teacher would not budge. You could tell he felt the same things you did, the same charge when you touched. There was a familiar warmth and comfort when you felt his arms against your back while helping you weld, something that felt like love but there was no way you could feel that way this soon, right?  

You had already decided to ask him out eventually, but you were hoping you could get him to warm up to you first so that it would be simple for him to say “yes” or perhaps even to ask you out instead. It seemed he wasn’t going to make it easy on you, hesitating for whatever reason unknown to you. You made the official decision, you would ask him out. Today.

You purposely waited until all the other students had left the classroom, putting your materials away slowly at your desk and in your book bag. Wonwoo had returned to sit at his desk, also cleaning up materials from today’s class. Once all the others were gone, you made your way to the front and stood in front of his desk. He didn’t look up for what felt like ten minutes but it was probably only a few. He was ignoring you, whether it was on purpose or not you didn’t know. 

When Wonwoo finally did look up he asked, “Is there something else I can help you with Y/N?”

“Yeah, you can help me by going on a date with me,” you said boldly and matter-of-factly. 

Wonwoo let out an audible sigh and rubbed at his face in unease. “Y/N, I’m your teacher,” he responded, using a more valid reason to refuse you instead of just his feelings. 

“I know. It’s frowned upon, sure, but it’s not against the rules. I’ve never been one to shy away from taking risks. So let’s go on a date,” you persuaded. 

“No.” Wonwoo definitely was not going to make this simple. 

You scoffed. “Fine, but I’ll just ask you again until you agree to it.” Then you walked out of the classroom, leaving Wonwoo with a slight scowl on his face. There was no way you were going to give up that quickly. You needed to know what this was.

Over the next three days, you asked him out after class again and again, his answer always being a firm “no”. Wonwoo was determined not to let heartbreak and the complete destruction of his supposedly safer world happen again, even if that meant a mild version of it now from rejecting you so many times. To him, that would be a gentle pain compared to being together and losing you for a second time. And that was much more acceptable in his eyes.

On day four, Wonwoo was prepared with his repeated answer. Except you had a different question this time.

“Can I just ask why?” you asked, standing up at your desk before leaving class. “We both know the fact that you are my teacher isn’t the real reason.” You sounded a bit exasperated now, you had never been rejected this many times.

Wonwoo contemplated, coming to stand closer to you, almost nose to nose before he said, ”I’m not sure you would believe my real reason.”

“Try me,” you challenged, the now normal charge pulsing between you two.

Wonwoo gave you a hard stare. Maybe if he did tell you, you’d think he was insane and you would finally give up. “I’m not human,” he said simply.

You squinted at him. “What’s that even supposed to mean?”

“I’m not a human. I’m a God. They called me Hephaestus,” Wonwoo said, wincing a bit as he spoke his previous name. To his surprise, you didn’t call him crazy. He watched as the wheels in your mind turned.

You didn’t know if you believed him, but you didn’t exactly think he was lying either. You gave a small laugh thinking of how ironic it was for him to be a welding teacher. 

“See. You think I’m nuts,” he said, misunderstanding your giggle.

“No, no, actually I’m pretty sure I believe you. But you being a god doesn’t deter me. In fact, it makes me more interested. There’s no way you just being a god or whatever is what is making me feel like I belong with you, like I need to be with you,” you clarified.

Wonwoo’s eyes widened a bit. He knew what he felt with you and he knew it was possible that you had too, but maybe not the magnitude of it. “You’re her reincarnation. She’s you. You’re her,” he said, softly. A note of sadness seeped through his words now. 

“Who?” you asked, needing to know more. 

“The only true love I ever had. After I was kicked out of Olympus and sent to Earth by my mother.” 

Now you thought you got it. The reason you had all these unexplainable feelings, why you felt like you knew Wonwoo already, why you felt so connected to him. It was because you did know him, albeit in a different lifetime. You had been with him, you had loved him and he had definitely loved you. But there was still something you didn’t get. Why wouldn’t he want to be with you again then?

“There’s still something you aren’t telling me, isn’t there?” you questioned.

Wonwoo looked down at his feet and you barely made out the words that he responded with. “You were sick. You died.” 

Your heart dropped and you felt a piece was broken, for him and for your previous self. But you were a new person now, it might not end that way with you. Next thing you knew, you were closing the space between the two of you and pressing your lips against his. He backed up, trying not to give in to you but all that resulted in was you pinning him against the classroom wall. 

At first, he just stood there, frozen. However, he could no longer deny his body’s chemistry with yours and in a split second decided he no longer wanted to fight it. He kissed you back and somehow the entire universe felt like it had been righted after so long. Suddenly, he didn’t care that his heart could break again and never be repaired. Kissing you, touching you made it feel like that could never happen to him again.

Since he seemed to reciprocate your advances now, you moved your arms from caging him against the wall and instead ran your fingertips underneath his shirt, just at the edge of his slacks. Even touching his skin felt right and familiar to you. There really was this unparalleled feeling that was felt with nobody else but him. Despite being annoyed with him previously, you felt his devotion to the you from before and wanted to take your time with him.

You slowly pulled his shirt over his head, taking it off and revealing the abs you knew were under it. You knew they were there, yet you still gasped at how lovely they looked. Wonwoo reached forward and pulled your shirt off as well, leaving you in your bra. Soon both of your pants and undergarments had been taken off, the two of you completely exposed in the classroom. 

Wonwoo ran his hands along various parts of your skin, igniting that ever-present electricity. He pushed you against the edge of his desk as his exposed length rubbed against you, making you wetter by the second. 

You took back control, pulling his arm to make him sit in the chair behind the desk. He looked up at you, his face full of adoration as you moved to straddle him. You started slowly, gradually grinding against him, wanting to show him a more gentle side. 

“Fuck.” He let out the word in a deep breath as you continued to grind your slit against him. The word seared straight to your core and you needed him in you now. 

“Wonwoo, I need to ride you,” you whined, calling him by his first name. He nodded and let you gradually sink onto him, taking your hips into his warm, large hands once you bottomed out. A moment later, you had adjusted to his size and you began moving your hips which elicited a hiss from Wonwoo. 

You glanced at him, making sure this was okay. “It’s okay, it feels really good,” He confirmed, encouraging you to keep moving. 

You picked up the rhythm, creating a steady pace as you rode him in the chair. Both of your voices echoed in the classroom, moans confirming your pleasure and you were so glad he didn’t have any classes after yours.

Wonwoo’s hips began to stutter and the moans he was letting out before were turning into whimpers. You were sure he was getting close to a release. Then you shifted in his lap just slightly so that he was hitting that particular spot within you. “Y/N, I’m gonna…” He whispered.

“Me too,” you responded. As soon as you spoke those words, his hips stilled and ropes of his cum painted your insides. He leaned forward to kiss you while his length continued to jerk. The force of his orgasm led you to your own, one so intense it left you weak in the knees and lightheaded. You ended up slightly limp in his lap, resting your head on his broad shoulder. 

You didn’t remember him pulling out or moving you to sit in his lap like a little kid. A minute or two later, the post-orgasm haze had worn off and you felt like you needed to say something. “I know we are connected and I kind of pushed you into kissing me first. I know I’m supposed to be a reincarnation of your true love but I didn’t mean for that to happen,” you said, rambling in a little embarrassment and a small bit of guilt for pulling Wonwoo further into this whole thing. 

“So you regret it?” Wonwoo asked, a strange deadpan tone to his voice and he moved his hands that were just cradling the small of your back. He just made the choice to move ahead with you and now you were already regretting it?

“No, No. I didn’t mean that. I regret nothing. Do you?” You asked with a raised eyebrow at his reaction. It sounded like he was finally letting himself be free from what was holding him back from you. You didn’t mean for it to sound like you didn’t want everything you just did.

Eventually, he answered. “No, I don’t,” he said with a bit of a chuckle and kissed you on the forehead before you got up from his lap. 

You smiled at him cheekily then. “Good.”

What’s the worst that could happen? Well, Wonwoo already knew the worst thing that could but maybe, just maybe fate wouldn’t be cruel and this time might end differently. He decided he would take that chance with you.

©️wooahaeproductions

All works on this blog are protected under copyright. Do not repost, continue, or translate my works.

[littlebearwithlittlebrain]

“A bunch of cowards and the bravest little girl in the world.” - Neverafter, Ep. 3, about Ylfa Snorgelsson

“The world should have protected you, but you have been asked to protect it. What an honor. What an injustice." - NADDPOD, Ep, 97, about Beverley Toegold V

Something something about children being forced to grow up faster than they deserved because the powerful people around them aren’t doing enough. Gonna go cry thanks.

[fandom]

Things We Care About

Well, Tumblr, 2022 was another big year for speaking up and supporting each other. In the past year, you took action, turned art into activism, and made your voices heard, often in support of others. We’ve analyzed your top tags and posts to determine what mattered to you in the last year.

When Ukraine was invaded, you showed your support. You continue to #stand with Ukraine, create for Ukraine, and honor Ukrainian artists caught in the crossfires.

Throughout the year, you shared many messages of body positivity and encouragement, held 5,879,971 private exchanges with @kokobot (yes, you and kokobot rlly r bestiez), and sent an inconceivable amount of anonymous, personalized messages of reassurance to each other.

You celebrated Pride with plenty of wholesome artistic offerings and showed solidarity with your peers all over the world. You stood up against the Don’t Say Gay bill in Florida and informed each other on how to vote against trans-exclusionary policies across America. When Rebel Wilson and Kit Conner were both pressured into coming out, you supported them, commiserated with them, and came to the defense of anyone who's ever been pressured to do so.

When Mahsa Amini was killed, you spoke out and posted in support of protests in Iran, learning about and spreading awareness of what women, girls, and protestors endure in the name of tradition in Iran. 

When Roe v. Wade was overturned, you shared countless resources for those affected by reproductive rights infringement in the US, again turning to art as a means to share stories and ignite action. You commemorated the victims of the Uvalde shooting, saying enough is enough when it comes to gun-related violence in America. You turned your rage into art that inspires and nudged others to make their voices heard at the US polls. 

You reminded users that the “civil rights movement isn’t as “ancient” as we’re taught in class,” that Black lives still matter, and always will matter. You celebrated Black Joy and Black Excellence, illuminating stories of resilience in the face of racial injustice. 

You celebrated your Indigenous culture and took a stand for the preservation of Indigenous lands.

You continued to be planet-conscious by sharing ideas, resources, and knowledge of mending and making, and celebrated conservation efforts along the way. 

And finally, under the continued stresses of COVID, you looked to the future with resilience, turning pain and uncertainty into hope and connection.

And that’s definitely something to be proud of. What will you stand for in 2023?

[lo1k-diamonds]

💎Masterlist💎

All my writing can be found on ao3 and there’s no way I’m putting my gigantic stories here 🙈😅

That said, I’ll still put here the list with all my stories and links to find them!

[All my stories have angst - from just a misunderstanding to full-blown out-of-proportion fights 😋]

🔥 » SMUT | 📚 » multichapter | 🎀 » fluff [G- general/T- teen/M-mature/E-explicit]

Series

Soul Palette (Soulmate AU) >> [Masterpost] >> In this soulmate alternative universe, there are no marks, no strings, and no traces to guide them to their other half. But if they listen carefully, destiny is just around the corner patiently waiting to mix them in the soul palette and create universes - together.

SX Seoul >> [Masterpost] >> SX Seoul is a new club in Itaewon. Decorated with neon lights, its cozy and enveloping ambiance will have you living your wildest dreams. Each story is standalone - one per member!

RM 

Unique (E) 🔥📚 - OC x idol!NJ

Part 1: After overhearing something he shouldn’t have, Namjoon promises to make it up to the bride by keeping her maid of honor company during the rehearsal dinner party. What was supposed to be an unremarkable night became something so much more. [Tumblr]

Part 2: It’s a year later when Angie decides to visit Hyejin, both women looking to get away from their problems. But a certain group is just pausing their tour, and old feelings are rekindled when their paths cross.

Klartraum (E) 🔥📚 - OC x idol!NJ - AU » A story that follows Namjoon as he takes notes of his dreams of you in a dream journal.

Smoke Sprite (M) 🔥 - idol!Namjoon x So!YoON! - A short drabble about the song [Tumblr]

Closer (E) 🔥 - SX Seoul Series » NJ x Reader » Namjoon and you were friends for years — he was your confidant, protector, and haven. You didn’t want to risk it, no matter what, but some things can’t be kept in the dark. [Tumblr]

Jin

Carnation (T)📚 - Soul Palette (Soulmate AU) (1st entry)» OC x idol!SJ » In early 2018, BTS were at a crossroads: after working so hard to set foot in the music industry of South Korea, their sudden jump into stardom became something they never anticipated. Jin believed in his dongsaengs but was just as lost as them when his soulmate entered the picture. [1st chapter - Tumblr]

Break-line (E) 🔥 - SX Seoul Series » Jin x Reader » You’ve been chasing dreams and medals ever since you can remember, with your best friend Seokjin by your side. You thought you had everything you could possibly want — until you find out Jin is keeping a secret from you. [Tumblr]

Suga

Call you mine (E) 🔥📚 - Soul Palette (Soulmate AU) (3rd entry)» OC x idol!YG » A slowburn rejection soulmate story about falling in love with Min Yoongi. [1st chapter - Tumblr]

Sugar Rush Ride (E) 🔥 - SX Seoul Series » YG x Reader » You produced a song based on your hidden desires for your fellow producer and promised yourself that tonight, things would change. You were done pining after him, but then he arrived at the listening party. [Tumblr]

Too Sweet (E) 🔥📚 » You x Demon!YG » Coming from unabashed wealth has its perks — like never having to lift a finger in your life. When that suddenly changes, you end up at a crossroads: how far will you go to have everything you want? [Masterpost]

Stellar Behavior (E) 🔥📚 » Officer!Yoongi x Mafia (f)reader »  Yoongi has been in the police force for long enough to know that the system isn’t perfect, so when an injustice is about to put his protégé in jail, he has no other choice but to go to you. You’re the devil, but you’re hard to resist, and he needs to decide between falling into temptation or showing you that two can play the game.[Masterpost]

J-hope

Seeking the sunrise (E) 🔥📚 - Soul Palette (Soulmate AU) (2nd entry)» OC x idol!HS » No one needs a soulmate to have love, right? [1st Chapter - Tumblr]

Jimin

Dress (E) 🔥 - OC x idol!JM » After pining for years, she has reached her breaking point — and it started with a dress. [Reader version - Tumblr]

Like Crazy (E) 🔥 - SX Seoul Series » JM x Reader » You let your desires run wild and things got too far while figuring out the choreography for Jimin’s next single. You thought it was best to pretend it never happened, but he decided to chase you, hoping to set things right. [Tumblr]

V

Love Crumbs (M) 📚 - OC x Office!Tae - Office AU » Quinn’s plans were simple: win that promotion and maybe have a little fun on the side. Taehyung was in love with someone else, but that wasn’t an issue. It’s a shame things are never really that simple.

A woman's best friend (E) 🔥 - Tae x (f) reader » When you met, you and Taehyung hit it off instantly, becoming the closest of friends. You thought he was off limits, meanwhile, he’s been begging for a chance to put an end to your friendship. [Tumblr]

Paramour (E) 🔥 - SX Seoul Series » Tae x (f) reader » You were born for the quick and glamorous life surrounding celebrities — they had their little dramas and breakdowns, and you were there to clean up the mess. But you have your own secret, and doing your job might get you in trouble with your paramour. [Tumblr]

Jungkook

Far Cry (E)🔥📚 - OC x idol!JK - Lost AU » After barely escaping captivity, Jungkook is lost in a jungle on an unknown island with an injured Namjoon and an amnesiac girl. {ongoing 💜} [1st Chapter - Tumblr] ➡ snippets

Standing Next to You (M) 🔥 - You x Demon!JK - MV based » JK is a lust demon — a powerful being that inflames desires at the simplest glance. That is his nature and all there is to his existence. Until there was you.

Bubbles (E) 🔥📚 - SX Seoul Series » JK x Reader » You’re back in town and your first stop in a night out with friends is a new club: SX Seoul. You had no plans, but when you see your ex, everything changes. - [Part 1] [Part 2]

How to Choose a Valentine (T) 🎀 - reader x idol!JK » Who knew the best company for Valentine’s Day would be a lovely Doberman? And who knew he’d get you a Valentine? Well, sort of. [Tumblr]

Be as it must (E) 🔥📚 » Alpha!Jungkook x Omega(f)reader »  It’s hard being an omega in a world where they've all but disappeared, but you're safe as long as you stay under the radar. What happens when you're found and taken to your boss, CEO Jeon Jungkook?[Masterpost]

[mrsfrecklesmarauders]

I like when James is morally gray. I like that he was a dumb kid that had been spoiled by his parents and had everything he wanted. I like that what he wanted most of the time was have fun and be liked by other kids. He desperately wanted friends (grew up lonely most of his childhood).

So he did pranks, and sometimes those pranks got a bit too far. So he joked around and sometimes he didn't realize those jokes might hurt others.

And he bothered Snape, because he was annoying, a teacher's pet and non attractive. Easy to make fun of. Yes, Snape fought back most of the time. But sometimes James just bothered him and pranked him because it was fun and he was a kid.

James asked Lily out at first because of a matter of honor. Because she was a pretty girl and she was friends with Snape and "What does Snivellus have that I don't?" Partly to get "Snape's girl", but also to show off in front of his mates, to raise his ego.

But James was not only that. He was good and wonderful with the people he liked. He was excepcional with his friends. He did everything for them, to see them happy.

And he was also nice with his parents, showing them respect. Helping them with what they needed. And yes, he was a troublemaker but he was sorry when his mischief overstepped a little.

James tried to fight the injustice and help people who needed. He defended the defenseless and gave hope to the hopeless.

Those two James were one, creating a very profound and complicated human being. With good parts and bad parts.

And as everyone, James stopped being a little kid. He grew up into a man. He matured. And he stopped doing stupid pranks. He stopped mocking people. He stopped bothering Snape, because it was not worth it. Snape hated him and continued hurting him. But James didn't fight back anymore.

And what he felt for Lily, it developed into something more profound. He didn't see her as a game and a pretty girl to conquer anymore, she was a beautiful woman that he thought he didn't deserve. And he stopped asking her out. Because he preferred her happiness before his. It became love what he felt for her, as soon as knew her better.

James tried to make up for all the damage he had done in the past. He grew up into a wonderful man that helped others when they needed. A selfless person. Someone with full of love to give.

I just think this makes James more interesting and more human. I am not saying he isn't a good person. But he was a dumb kid once who made mistakes and grew out of it.

[luneengene2]

The Emperor's Choice

• Pairings : emperor!leehan x fem!reader

• Synopsis : (Empire AU) Your father intends to matchmake your sister with the young Emperor who was just crowned a few months ago. Oh of course your father chose your older sister, because your older sister is his legitimate daughter, while you? You are just the Illegitimate child of his deceased former concubine, aka your mother. After all, there was no way an Emperor would choose an illegitimate daughter? He would want the best Empress Consort for his empire. But, what would happen if the young emperor chose you to be his future empress? Something you never expected.

• Words Count : 4000+

• Warnings : Ft IVE Wonyoung, ZEROBASEONE Gunwook, The practice of concubinage, Violence of a father, injustice in the family, status insults, SHORT SMUT CONTENT (ass slapping, creampie, make-out), grammar errors. Tell me if I missed anything.

• Notes : Hard & Soft Thought (For all idols, soloists, actresses & actors, Fictional characters whether in Korean dramas, western films or novels or anything), and requests (Only for the groups I listed in the masterlist) ARE OPEN!

"I don't want to marry Emperor Donghyun, father! I already have a lover!" Your older sister, Wonyoung, stared at your father in frustration. She had been crying for days because of your father's ego. Even though this family has a high status, Wonyoung never wanted to marry a fellow noble, let alone the Emperor. She wanted to live a 'normal life' after getting married. Her lover is a commoner who doesn't even have aristocratic status in society. However, because of your father's ambition, he would never let Wonyoung marry a commoner. Moreover, Wonyoung is his legitimate daughter who is quite 'sought' after by high-class nobles. He used the opportunity to further enter the circles of government and power of the Empire.

Because of his crazy ambition in government, Wonyoung was also successful in being included in the list of prospective daughter-in-law by the queen mother, aka the mother of Emperor Donghyun. The queen mother is also the most insistent on meeting Wonyoung in person in the near future. She also seems to have made Wonyoung her top choice. Mr. Jang, aka your father, was so sure that Wonyoung would be the one chosen for her son.

Your father made Wonyoung a 'tool' so that he could become the prime minister of this empire easily without any obstacles whatsoever. This very unhealthy desire and ambition is also fully supported by Mrs. Jang, aka Wonyoung's mother. He wanted to see his daughter become an empress and become the center of attention of the empire. She also wanted to be labeled as the empress's mother and see her blood become an Emperor. It was the highest honor, any noble would want it.

"Stop being rebellious, Wonyoung! I only want the best for you! Leave your low-class lover and try to get Emperor Donghyun's attention!" Mr Jang glared at his daughter. And of course, Wonyoung was never afraid of that, since she was little she was not an obedient daughter. Even so, but she is the one whose future is most cared for, because she is a legitimate child. Even though you are an obedient child, your father will never treat you and Wonyoung the same. Because the status of your mother and her mother is clearly very different. Your mother was just your father's concubine who was taken to produce a baby boy. But, your mother died after giving birth to you. And not long after, Mrs. Jang successfully became pregnant again and gave birth to a son, who is now the main heir to the Jang family, Gunwook. Making your status even more forgotten, and you are not blind and deaf to know that your father and also Mrs Jang never liked your presence. Especially Mrs Jang, she hates you because you are the daughter of the woman who was your father's concubine. However, you are also lucky to have half-siblings like Wonyoung and Gunwook. They love you very much and treat you very well.

"You never wanted the best for me! You only want your stupid ambition to get the most elite position in this government and empire!" Mrs. Jang pulled her daughter's shoulder to face her. Glaring at her and squeezing her shoulders, he seemed to want to threaten his daughter.

"Follow our orders, Wonyoung. If you don't, we can do the worst to your stupid boyfriend," Wonyoung was weak when her mother used her lover for this threat. Wonyoung had always been weak when it came to her lover.

Behind the door, you only look at Wonyoung's pity which ends up being threatened by her own mother. Even though Wonyoung seemed strict, you knew very well how your older sister was. She is weak in her love for her lover. Of course, she would rather sacrifice than see something bad happen to her lover.

___

You stare in awe from your balcony as you see a line of luxury cars driving into the front yard of your family's manor. The entourage of the Emperor and his mother. Today, your father 'accepted' them to be introduced directly to Wonyoung.

But, you couldn't see that 'great' moment directly, your father forbade you from meeting the Emperor directly. He was afraid that it would worsen the situation, especially since there were many rumors and news that this new young Emperor upheld monogamy. So, you are only allowed to stay in your room until the Emperor returns to the government palace.

A man with long black hair got out of the car in the fourth row. He was the young emperor. You can clearly see how handsome the young emperor is. It makes you very fascinated. You can only see his face on television, magazines, or articles in online media. And he is exactly the same as the one you often see in those three news media. Even more handsome. She looks so dignified. Wonyoung is so lucky if she is directly chosen by the Emperor as his future wife.

Suddenly, Emperor Donghyun's gaze was directed at you who was on the balcony. That was because he was busy looking up at the magnificent building of Jang's manor. As a result, he saw you standing on the balcony. You froze when you realized Emperor Donghyun's gaze was on you, he didn't even take his eyes off you.

Emperor Donghyun, who had been staring blankly without taking his eyes off you, snapped out of his reverie when his mother patted his shoulder to enter the Manor. Mr. and Mrs. Jang gave a warm and respectful welcome to the Empress Mother and the Emperor.

You also snapped out of your frozen position as Emperor Donghyun walked over to your father and Mrs Jang. Before he finally disappeared behind the manor entrance. Sure enough, he was going to start this serious conversation.

You have many mixed thoughts about Wonyoung's arranged marriage. On one hand, you are very happy that she can get the best husband and is being fought for by her father. But on the other hand, you also think about his lover who comes from an ordinary background. If Wonyoung can't go against her parents' wishes, she will experience a tragic love story because she is hindered by her parents' blessing.

___

Knock! Knock! Knock!

"Miss Y/N, I came to bring you some afternoon snacks," It was your maid's voice. Normally, you would have gotten your own lunch snack, but since you weren't allowed to leave the room, she was the one who brought it to you.

You, who were busy with your laptop, immediately got out of bed to open the door. The door is open. "Thank-"

"WOOF WOOF!" You glared when your beloved poodle, Bowie, suddenly barked and ran out of your room as you opened the door for your maid. He ran out of the room, making you panic.

"Oh no! Bowie!" You also immediately dashed out of the room, forgetting your father's order that you should not leave the room. And this was all because of Bowie who suddenly came out of your room.

Bowie ran fast down the second floor hallway and would soon reach the stairwell. You even took off your flat shoes to run faster, so you ended up running barefoot.

___

"So how is it? Wonyoung looks perfect when she's with Empe-"

"Bowie stop!" Mr Jang stopped his words when he heard a girl's scream from upstairs, and it made him stare in shock. All eyes, Including the empress, mother were of course immediately directed towards the second floor. Everyone could clearly see you running down the stairs to chase your dog.

Donghyun, the young emperor's gaze was very different when he saw a girl he had seen on the balcony earlier. The gaze was like worship (?). And that gaze was noticed by Wonyoung, which actually made Wonyoung grin widely. She seemed to have a big plan.

"Bo-AAA!" You let out a loud scream as your foot suddenly slipped from the fifth stair from the bottom. And you could tell that your body would be on the ground in a matter of seconds.

"Y/N!" Wonyoung screamed hysterically when she saw that her sister would be in trouble in less than ten seconds.

And before your body hit the floor, someone swiftly caught your body and hugged you tightly. Donghyun. Making everyone there hold their breath heavily, including your father and Mrs. Jang. Gunwook was even slower than Donghyun when he tried to catch you too.

You widened your eyes when you realized whose arms you had fallen into. The arms of a young emperor who might soon become your brother-in-law.

You hurriedly let go of his hug, bowing repeatedly and apologizing. "Forgive me, Majesty! I am truly sorry for being rude to you! Forgive me! Please forgive me!" You said in a voice that was shaking with fear, because you were afraid that this would offend Donghyun.

"Stop that!" Donghyun held your shoulders tightly as you continued to hunch over, even though your leg must be in extreme pain from the sprain. "Are you okay?" Donghyun asked with concern, as did his gaze. You didn't answer his question, making him take action again. He slowly made you sit on the stairs, taking your feet to put on his lap. And of course that made you pull your feet off his lap. "M-Majesty, what are you doing?" You asked in a horrified tone.

"Be quiet, I'm trying to make your leg better. Get me some olive oil!" He ordered the people around him, but no one would move, including Wonyoung and Gunwook. "Do you hear me? I need olive oil! Get it now!" Wonyoung immediately responded to the firm tone. She hurriedly took out the olive oil and gave it to him.

Donghyun slowly massaged your leg and 'fixed' the position of your veins. He understood this technique, because it was one of the survival methods he learned in the military. You winced and squealed a few times because of it, but the results were actually very good.

"Are you better?" Donghyun looked up and looked at you softly, you nodded. You were sure, if only you and him were in this room, he could hear clearly how your heart was beating faster. Wonyoung and Gunwook who were standing next to each other immediately exchanged glances and grinned. Especially Wonyoung, she was sure that Donghyun seemed more interested in his sister than her.

"Majesty-"

"What's your name?" Donghyun cut you off, he immediately asked about your name. So curious about the name of the beautiful girl in front of him.

"Y/N," You answered immediately, Donghyun smiled sweetly when he heard your name. If you are sensitive, he is very interested in you.

"Are you the daughter of the Jang family?”

"No, Majesty. She is just our family maid and-"

"Yes, she is the daughter of the Jang family. She is my sister and Gunwook's sister, but we have different mothers," Wonyoung cut off her father's words sharply when he admitted that you were a maid, not his daughter. Mr. and Mrs. Jang immediately stared sharply at their first child. Mr Jang also immediately became tense when he received unpleasant looks from the Empress Dowager and Emperor Donghyun.

"Why do you say your own daughter is a maid? This is a despicable act, Mr. Jang," Donghyun stared blankly at Mr. Jang, completely disliking what he said. From the way he spoke and what he said, Donghyun could immediately tell that Mr Jang was not a good person and father.

"Ah, that's not it, Majesty. Her late mother was just my concubine, so she's not really my daughter." You let out a harsh breath as your father said that reason. You were used to being treated unfairly like this. It was like your daily food.

"Are you insane? In the Imperial environment, my grandfather's grandchildren who are direct descendants of his concubines are legally recognized by the Empire. They can even get treatment like the grandchildren of an Emperor. They are still respected even though my grandfather has passed away. Their grandmother, who was my grandfather's concubine, was still respected by the Empire and the people. And you? You are a noble, but you are not responsible for what you take. If you choose to have a concubine, then you must be responsible for the child of your concubine. There is no need to have a concubine if you are not capable of carrying out the responsibilities you want, like my late father. My father was faithful to my mother, he practiced monogamy because he was not strong enough to 'take care of' a concubine. I should punish you for your irresponsible attitude towards your own child," Emperor Donghyun's words successfully made Mr and Mrs Jang stare in shock. Emperor Donghyun openly wanted to punish them for what they did. Their actions are like abandoning the children in their own family.

"But because you are the father of my future wife, so I forgive what you did. I don't want my future wife to walk down the aisle without her father," Donghyun's words immediately made Mr. Jang smile again after being tense for a few seconds.

"Majesty, so you want my Wonyoung to be your-"

"Not Wonyoung, but Y/N,"

Silence. Everyone was silent after what the young emperor said. Including you. Your face was shocked, pale, and made your tongue numb to speak. He chose you. You heard that right.

"Majesty, we are presenting Wonyoung, not the daughter of my husband's concubine. An illegitimate child has no right to the position of empress," Mrs Jang felt that she could not accept it. She wanted the label of being the Empress' mother for her, not for her late husband's concubine. She wanted her daughter to sit on the throne as the consort of an emperor, not the child of a concubine.

"Who said that, ma'am?” Donghyun asked coldly, he stood up from his squatting position to face the Jang husband and wife directly. "There is nothing wrong with her being my empress. It is not her fault that she was born from a concubine. If the people can love me, they will be able to love my empress regardless of whose daughter she is,"

Wonyoung felt like screaming with joy at that moment. Her beloved sister could now get a happiness that she never got. Wonyoung, she doesn't need to leave her love.

"Majesty, no,” you slowly stood up from your sitting position slowly. Making Donghyun look back at you. "I don't want to take away what my sister deserves. Wonyoung's mother was right, an illegitimate child had no right to the position of empress," Donghyun smiled, he walked closer to you. His hand reached out to stroke your hair, he looked like he was really in love with you.

"You deserve what your sister gets. You and her are the same, both of you are your father's daughters even though you were born from different mothers. I chose you because I know you deserve the position, I know you can be a good mother for my children in the future. The most important thing is that my heart's choice is definitely the best. I choose you with my heart and feelings," Donghyun said softly. You shook your head, wanting to say something, but Donghyun immediately cut you off (again).

"Look at Wonyoung, she looks happy with what you're going to get," You turned to Wonyoung, and sure enough. She was smiling brightly and looked very happy, the look in her eyes couldn't lie. She is genuinely happy with what you get, not jealous. Not only Wonyoung, Gunwook also couldn't help but look happy. Maybe they felt, soon you will be out of hell. Aka from the clutches of their parents.

"Majesty, give Emperor Donghyun an understanding. You know this is wrong,” Mrs Jang approached the Empress Mother who looked calm even though she had initially looked shocked. The Empress Mother Kim turned to Madam Jang, smiling faintly. "What do you mean by 'wrong'? There is nothing wrong with my son choosing what he wants. Why should I give him an understanding? I always support what he chooses, I know. What my son chooses must be the best. I trust in his choice," Mrs. Jang felt like going berserk right then and there, her gaze was so full of hatred towards you.

"Refusing what the Emperor wants is an insult to him, Sissy. His wishes are good, he wants to give you happiness," Wonyoung gives you words of encouragement so that you don't back down. You were silent, confused about what to say. All the different gazes were directed at you. And what you fear most is the hateful gazes of your father and Mrs Jang.

"Guards!" Donghyun signaled his bodyguard. A bodyguard in formal attire approached Donghyun with a medium-sized and wide box. Donghyun opened the box, holding up a tiara that was so beautiful and so pretty. The tiara must have looked very expensive. And you know what tiara it is. The Heart's Desire Tiara. The tiara was used by male heirs to the throne or emperors almost hundreds of years ago to propose to their future wives. One of the most historic collections of jewelry in the Empire. This is a unique tradition, because usually the proposal is done by exchanging rings or giving rings only. But this gives a tiara to the future Empress of the Emperor.

Slowly, the beautiful tiara landed on your head. You were even more shocked when your head was wearing such a beautiful Tiara. This was the first time you had worn a tiara. And it was also a historic tiara. Donghyun took your hand too, he put a diamond ring on your ring finger, and kissed it.

"My future empress, welcome to the empty space of my heart," Donghyun whispered softly in your ear, then gave a quick kiss on your cheek.

___

"You! You damn bitch!"

"MOTHER!" Wonyoung immediately blocked you from her mother's anger, she glared at her own mother. "Don't be crazy, Y/N is now under the protection of the empire. If she gets even the slightest scratch, Emperor Donghyun could kill us right now," You shed your tears in Wonyoung's arms, your older sister held you tightly so that you would not be reached by her mother's anger.

"Emperor Donghyun wouldn't know if she didn't tell him! Besides, aren't you mad, Wonyoung?! This girl took away your golden opportunity!" Wonyoung smiled bitterly, she was so sick of this damn poisonous ambition. "I'll tell him if you dare to hurt her, mother!"

"Jang Wonyoung! How dare you threaten your mother?!"

"Shut up you old man! This time I won't let you ruin my sister's golden opportunity! I won't keep quiet any longer if you keep forcing me to follow your bastard ambitions! I will not stand by any longer as you try to destroy what my sister has achieved. Remember your status here, in a matter of months you will be the ones bowing down to her," Mr. Jang couldn't believe it, his eldest daughter, whom he had prepared for this position, actually didn't want to and chose to support you, who he felt had no right to a high position.

___

Emperor Donghyun stared in horror at a news article online in the morning. He had just woken up and was already presented with news like this, news that made his blood boil at six in the morning.

Head of Jang Family Beats His Youngest Daughter in Public

Just reading the news headline was enough to make Donghyun furious. He immediately read the contents of the article which had just been published less than five minutes ago.

Paparazzi cameras caught Mr. Jang hitting his daughter after they both just came out of the supermarket. The witness said the reason Mr. Jang hit his daughter was because they had had a sharp and fierce argument.

Miss Jang Y/N is the future wife of Emperor Donghyun, they will be married in a few months. The government and Imperial Security have not commented on this matter. The Empire's legal team has also not commented on this matter. The violence that the future Empress received should not be tolerated. Moreover, Miss Jang Y/N is already under the Imperial security, and the Empire has full responsibility for her security.

Mr Jang could be in trouble because he not only hit his daughter, but hit a future Empress who is fully protected by the Empire.

Donghyun squeezed the iPad in his hand tightly, he clicked on a video showing his future father-in-law's antics. In the video, he could clearly see, Mr. Jang hit you and pushed you down onto the asphalt. He also saw clearly how your body was forced to get up and then roughly pulled to get into the car.

Donghyun got up from his sitting position and opened his room door roughly. Never mind that he would make a mess in the morning. The crazy news was enough to make him furious, he might as well make a mess now.

"Mr. Hwangbo! Mr. Hwangbo! come before me right now!" Donghyun's thunderous scream could wake anyone up from their sleep. Just imagine, the condition of the palace which was still quiet because it was still morning suddenly became noisy because of the young Emperor's scream.

Mr Hwangbo, the head of the Imperial Family's Security, came before Donghyun in a hurry. He wasn't even wearing his full attire yet. The Empress Mother also came with a shocked face, she was still wearing her nightgown.

"Donghyun, what's wrong, son? Why are you screaming so early in the morning?" Empress Mother asked worriedly about her son. Moreover, seeing his face flushed red with anger, Empress Mother knew that her son was furious.

The young emperor raised his iPad screen to his mother. Playing the video he had just watched. "Look at this jerk's behavior," Empress Mother frowned, she moved her face closer to the video.

Her eyes widened in shock when he saw who was hurt in the video. His future daughter-in-law. Empress Mother stared at her son in horror. "M-Mr. Jang? Did I just see him hit his daughter?"

"Yes, you saw right, Mother," Donghyun said then put his iPad on a nearby bedside table, now it was his turn to look at Mr. Hwangbo. "Bring Mr. Jang before me, bring him to my office in less than half an hour," Donghyun immediately left the people gathered in the hall, and his orders were of course immediately carried out by Mr. Hwangbo.

___

Wonyoung stared anxiously at the door of Donghyun's office. It was clear that her father had been taken somewhat forcibly to the Government Palace because of his actions last night. His action of hitting his own daughter.

If Donghyun's work room wasn't soundproof, it was certain that his shouts and harsh shouts could be heard from his mouth. Wonyoung knew very well, Donghyun and your relationship was slowly starting to get very close, and you were also slowly starting to have feelings of love for him. Donghyun is so protective of you from any harm or pain. His protection for you is quite tight even though you are still his fiancée.

But how could you go out with him last night without any protection. And that also triggered Donghyun's anger when he found out that you went out without the standard protection of the Empire that night.And rest assured, it must be because of your father.

The door swung open, revealing Donghyun with a messed up appearance, his face still as angry. He looked at Wonyoung and his mother alternately. Behind him, Mr. Jang seemed to be experiencing severe trauma. His face was shocked, probably after being shouted at harshly and repeatedly by Donghyun.

"Bring my Y/N here! I want my girl in this palace right now!"

___

The door to the throne room opened as the butler opened the large door. You can clearly see your future husband sitting on the throne with a somewhat chaotic appearance. He hadn't even changed out of his pajamas into his regular clothes.

Donghyun signaled his palace butler to leave you and him alone without being disturbed. The door closed behind you. And now you and he were alone in the magnificent throne room.

"Majesty," You curtsey respectfully to him, the usual thing you do when you meet him. You understand very well, you are still his fiancée, not his wife. So, your status is still in a different position.

"Come here," You approached him, walking up the stairs which led directly to the throne chair where he was sitting. When you were in front of him, he kissed your hand softly. Looking at you with worried eyes. "Why didn't you tell me last night?" He asked, his eyes looking a little tired. It was understandable, his morning had been a mess and quite draining.

"I just don't want to make things worse. I'm fine anyway," You said in a calm tone. He slowly pulled you to sit on his lap, he shook his head. "But it's all gone bad. Your father broke the 'rules' by being rude to my future wife. You know, even though you are his daughter, he should be aware that soon you will not only be his daughter, but his empress as well. He should respect that important position, not hurt you," You cupped his face, placing soothing strokes on his jaw and cheeks.

"Don't worry too much, the most important thing is that I'm fine now. I know, you won't silent if I'm oppressed by someone," You kissed his lips briefly, intending to give him deeper peace.

But instead, he pulled your head and immediately captured your lips with his. His right hand gently pressed the back of your head to deepen the kiss. Your tongues clashed, he was so good at making out and clashing tongues like this. Your fingers roamed his neck. You also pressed the back of his neck to deepen your kiss, occasionally squeezing his long hair gently.

Starting to be enveloped in burning lust, your hands unbutton the top three buttons of his pajamas to touch and feel his chest. Donghyun felt himself getting aroused and felt a heat spreading throughout his body.

You feel that there is a bulge rubbing against your pussy which is still covered by panties. You broke the kiss and immediately attacked the young emperor's neck with your wet lips that were still covered in thick lipstick. You're both horny and both want more.

Donghyun growled as your lips and tongue played hotly around his neck area. Not only that, your hands also played on his chest. And that made him even more insane. You went back up to his lips, giving him a kiss that this time was not full of love, but of passionate lust.

"Damn, I want you, your pussy, everything about you but we're not married yet," Donghyun gasped as you broke the kiss again. You were burning with lust, but instead you said something that instantly made Donghyun forget his status. "To hell with not being married, we're getting married soon. It doesn't matter if you use me now," Hearing that, of course Donghyun was shocked. He didn't seem to see you who were always calm and looked dignified. But, because of this crazy lust, anyone will forget what their real status is.

"Take off your clothes," Donghyun said in a trembling voice. And without hesitation, you immediately did what he wanted. In less than a minute you were completely naked in front of him.

Donghyun was like seeing an angel in typical European paintings. And now, he was like seeing someone coming out of a painting.

___

"G-Gonna cum," You whimpered as you felt your orgasm, who knows how many, about to hit you. You and Donghyun had been making love in the throne room for almost an hour in different positions. Your pussy is already filled with his cum which he has spurted several times. He never let his cum out from your pussy

And this time, you and him are on the sofa in his throne room, doing doggy style. The most enjoyable position you have experienced with him. "Yeah, cum. Do it one more time for me," His long fingers reached your clit and made circular movements, making you cum so hard that it wet your thighs and the sofa where you were making love.

Not long after, Donghyun also cums again and spurts his fluids very much. Making your fluids mix together again. You both gasped, he slowly pulled out his cock. You clenched around nothing and made his cum drip from your pussy. Making Donghyun smile in satisfaction, he slapped your ass.

"You turned out to be a great stress reliever for me. I love you so much and I was not wrong to choose you," The young emperor slapped your ass again and then gave a quick kiss on the red mark from his 'sexy' slap.

After this, he would move the wedding date forward. He couldn't stand it any longer, the girl he had chosen was so perfect.

[yanhoe]

𝐉𝐔𝐋𝐈𝐔𝐒 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐋𝐎𝐆𝐔𝐄… 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙡𝙮 𝙖𝙨𝙠 𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙮 𝙮𝙤𝙪? 𝙄 𝙨𝙖𝙮 𝙬𝙝𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙚𝙡𝙨𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙚𝙭𝙞𝙨𝙩?

𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩; 𝙮𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙮𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙘 𝙭 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧, 𝙘𝙞𝙨𝙜𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙛𝙚𝙢𝙖𝙡𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮/𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙨, 𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙤𝙛 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙨, 𝙙𝙚𝙡𝙪𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨, 𝙘𝙤𝙧𝙥𝙨𝙚𝙨, 𝙖𝙢𝙥𝙪𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣, 𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚, 𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙪𝙢𝙖, 𝙛𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙪𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨, 𝙨𝙠𝙪𝙡𝙡 𝙘𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜

𝙩𝙩𝙢; 𝙣𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙜𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 (𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙣𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣, 𝙧𝙪𝙡𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙩)

He was more than a man; a creature ripped from the smothering hell he vacationed in. Agony and anguish reeked through his pores, blending into the crimson ichor that he doused himself in. Like a person madly driven off the edge, he’s done something that would put his name down in history for all to remember.

They made him do it. It wasn’t his fault. He repeats this inside his head, over and over—clinging to it with desperation. What he’s done is justifying. There was no other way. He was right… and they were wrong. All of them were wrong for him. All of them but… one.

Like a statue that will one day be built in his honor, Julius stands immobile in a one man blood bath. The smell of copper lingers in the air, the iron sword in his hand never felt so light since the day he learned to wield it.

If they had just stopped mettleing with his life for once, then maybe they would still be here and he didn’t have to kill them. But within the royal walls, everyone was cold and guarded, lacking warmth and affection.

His parents ruled with an iron fist, their words were absolute. Money and power were the primary aim. Why were they so surprised when their own son gave them exactly what he was taught? They should..would be proud.

It was their strictness and high expectations that kept him away from society if not business related—he didn’t even have a single friend. He can’t complain for the most part. His upbringing brought him to you, albeit a little too late.

His angel, the only light to his hellish world, was betrothed to another. Imagine his devastation when he came to find out it was his cousin, the son of a Duke. That could have been him. It should have been him. It will be him.

The injustice of it all ignited a simmering resentment within him. Blame fell squarely on his parents for shaping a life that kept you apart from him. They were asking for death the second they denied his request to break off the engagement. A viscount child has no business with a future king, they said. Who are they to tell him who he can and cannot want?

They’re just lucky their deaths were quick. He can’t say the same for all the other women they pushed on him over the years. He didn't mean to do it the first time. It was entirely an accident. She just wouldn’t shut up. Everything that came out her mouth was horse shit. One fork in the neck, blood spat in his face and on the tea table, there she laid lifeless.

How many people did he have to kill to get it through their thick skulls that he only wanted you? Too many, he’s lost count and they still didn’t care. They brushed all of them off as collateral damage… oh how pathetic they must have felt in their last moments realizing that’s exactly how Julius saw them.

Unnecessary baggage in the way of something greater. Something he’s spent many nights awake, contemplating how to get to you and finally make you officially his. Don’t be confused; you were already his the second he laid eyes on you, but it felt like forever you’ve been out of reach.

Footsteps thud against the marble flooring before coming to a stop behind him. He doesn’t need to turn around to know reinforcements have come, but they weren't fast enough. “Do you think it wise to make an enemy of me?” Julius mocks them, waiting for them to rush him. But they never do. He humors them by peeking over his shoulder, smirking at finding them all kneeling before him.

That’s more like it.

He turns back forward, stepping over the remains of his deceased parents, may they rest in hell where they belong and ascend the many steps to his rightful place: the throne. It sits atop in pure gold, decorated with patterns that go back centuries.

Now for first order of business… he sits on the throne, glaring down at the solders who shake in their armor up at him. Perhaps it was the slow drying blood on his face that got them spooked? His lips twitch, finding this way more amusing than he anticipated.

“Bring them to me.”

That was all the information needed. They knew exactly who he was referring to. Over the last few years, the ex prince has been very foolhardy about his attraction to an already spoken for woman. It’s almost like his mannerisms flew out a window in a blink of an eye.

One man hesitates to leave with the others to receive the person of interest, causing Julius lips to twist into a scowl at the disobedience. “…?” he silently question the man with his steely purple eyes, tilting his head and resting it on his hand in a sense of boredom.

The man swallows thickly, raising a shaking finger to his parent’s corpses, “The bodies, sir?” Well good on him for managing not to stutter at least.

Julius waves him off, “Leave it. A gift for my beloved.” The man flinch at his curt dismissal of his parents, whom he doesn’t refer to as actual beings at this point. He opens his mouth to reply, but Julius cuts him off, now sitting forward on the throne, “Perhaps you’d like to join them since you seem so concerned?”

That’s shut him right up. He bows in respect for the throne before shuffling out of the gigantic room with his tail between his legs. Julius hums in contentment, sitting back against the throne. Now alls that left to do is wait for you and start a life together, as it should’ve been.

He taps and taps and taps his fingers on the gold arm rest of the throne as seconds turn into merely minutes. But it was minutes far too long for him as he grows impatient waiting. It was quiet, he was alone; that was never a good thing. His mind starts to question your hold up.

Did you get hurt? He will murder all of them if even a single hair on you was harmed. What if they decided to use you as a bargaining chip for him to step down from the throne? It’s be a cold day in hell before he allows either two to play out. From where he’s sitting, he figures he has to go find you himself before he drives himself mad with what ifs.

When he finds you because he will find you—he always does somehow. Sometimes you’re not even aware he has…. You’re in the middle of being tugged by the forearm back in the direction of the palace entrance by none other than your fiancé.

The guards are trying to stop him, which is ridiculous to Julius. The man was half his size. A puny little punk. All he would need to do is—one little push—and he’ll fall like a domino overtaking. But this kind of scene needs a different set of actions.

“Have you all lost it? They’re my fiancée!” he shouts repeatedly, face pink in anger as his chest heaves up and down when he pushes a soldier back enough to continue dragging you.

A tantrum that falls on death ears because all Julius can focus on and care about was you. His sight goes fuzzy, black dots dancing behind his vision as his skin grows impossibly hot. How dare… How dare he continue to touch you like you were his? How fucking dare he continue to challenge him, even now?

“Brandon, Let me g—“ your cut off by some liquid splashing specs on your face. The scream came immediately but you were still registering what just had happened with rapid blinking. Everything from there was moving at a speed of a snail.

The soldiers who once tried to stop Brandon before, step back in fear. This is exactly what they were trying to avoid, but he persisted in taking you back home where you belong. The King made it abundantly clear you belonged to him.

Brandon kneels on the ground, wailing uncomfortably in agony as he holds his gushing arm. The bleeding flowed with urgency, the liquid was everywhere! The pink in his skin was losing color quick, you’d think he saw his worst nightmare if you didn’t know any better. It was just Julius, but then again it’s not too far off.

He raises his sword just as Brandon looks up in terror, swinging it down so vigorously, it matches the same fire found within Julius eyes. It strikes Brandon across the chest, deep enough for him to cough up blood but still be conscious…if you can call him that after he falls to the floor, shaking like a newborn cub first time in snow.

“You’re being a bit dramatic, cousin.” he taunts, pointing the end of his sword on his cheek, pressing into it to draw beads of blood, “Truly pathetic considering you bold attempts to go against me.”

Brandon’s lip tremble like he wanted to say something in protest but it couldn’t open wide enough to say even a syllable. Igor stains the corner of his lips and chin as his mind struggles to decide on which wound to aid to first with a single good hand left.

His current state…it pleases Julius so much. Slowly a twisted grin surfaces on his face, making him look even more demented than his actions already have. He’s grown to like crushing those that didn’t understand their place. It’s unfortunate that it’s been mainly family who never heed to warnings.

It finally registers what you’re witnessing, an ear bleeding scream rips from your throat as you fly your hands to your mouth to muffle it. It only aid to hyperventilate you when Julius turns to you, face devoid of the blood thirst from earlier, now evidence of concern.

“What? What’s happening?!” he asks, dropping his sword in favor of seeing about your wellbeing. He was standing in front of you with three long strides. He reaches for your hands, pulling them from your face, gripping them tightly to still your trembling.

When that didn’t work, he places them on your face, forcing you to look at his, which is still soiled in the blood of his opponents. “Tell me what troubles you, my love?” You claw at his hands in a desperate attempt to separate, but he doesn’t even flinch.

Words can’t even describe the fear rattling your very being. He wasn’t even human—a monster—that’s the only explanation for the lack of empathy and ability to harm others without a second thought. Were you next? The thought made you sob harder.

He didn’t like that. Not even a little… Maybe it’s because he’s foolishly in love with you but your scared expression wasn’t one that sit well with him. It both worried and irritated him the longer it went on. “Stop it now.” he demands, holding your face tighter, eyebrows furrowed as he focused solely on you, “I didn’t give you a reason to cry.”

He meant that in a reassuring way—that’s how he tried to come across but you interpreted it differently. With his appearance and actions, it was terrifying to say the least. You’re shaking your head in protest, “Please don’t hurt me. I’m sorry,” you apologize for no reason.

Hurting YOU was the farthest thing from his mind now that you’re within arms reach. He wants nothing more than to keep you close, where you can suffocate him with your unconditional love that he craved since laying eyes on you. So don’t you look at him like that and don’t you speak to him like he didn’t jump through hoops to get this far.

Before Julius can try to soothe your woes, a tug on his trousers leg caught his attention. He tsk looking down, seeing Brandon, who somehow pulled himself together and crawled over to him. From where Julius was standing, he really did look like a pest—he just keeps pestering and meddling in his affairs.

It really pissed him off that he didn’t just die already. Can’t he see he’s in the middle of something? Well… since he wants to be a pest so badly, he might as well be treated as one. The corner of his lips twitch, rising into an unsettling grin as he still holds your face firmly.

He doesn’t even consider how he might look in your eyes as he lifts his leg up, slamming his foot down on Brandon’s face, barely making a dent in his skull. To your horror, he repeats it over and over again, each stomp more aggressive and purposeful than the next until his brains were peeking outside his head and his eyes popped out of its sockets.

“Hey—“ Julius calls out to you after a while. He noticed your lack of attention on him. You were too busy gawking at what remains of your ex-fiancé. “Look only at me. Are you trying to upset me?…”

He wasn’t already???

“As my lover, you’re not allowed to look at any other man… unless you want me to gift you their head as consequences.”

𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙄 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡 𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙙𝙪𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣

[felassan]

WBUR article: ''Dragon Age: The Veilguard' creators on their new vision for the fantasy series'

Rest of post under cut due to length and possible spoilers.

“Expectations are so high — whether from the fans of the franchise or the perspective of the company — there’s tremendous pressure.” says game director Corinne Busche. “One thing I’ll say about this team: They really rise to the occasion.” [...] “We sort of lost our way in a couple of previous titles, moving away from that character-focused storytelling that made ‘Mass Effect’ and ‘Dragon Age’ a success,” says John Epler, “Dragon Age” series creative director. “This project really coalesced when we consciously identified that central aspect of the experience: the characters.” “Veilguard” puts players in the shoes of an unlikely leader to a small band of rebels — think “Oceans 11” meets “The Fellowship of the Ring.” “It’s a deeply personal experience,” says Busche. “You’re creating your own character and that might be a representation of you, that might be reflective of the kinds of choices you'd like to make.” For the first time in BioWare history, that customizability allows player avatars to be transgender and access unique dialogue options around that identity. There’s also a prominent storyline about a party member coming out as nonbinary. “I'm an openly queer trans woman — I really believe that representation matters,” says Busche. “Everyone is welcome in ‘Dragon Age,’ and we want people to see themselves and feel like they can have a heroic place here.” [...]"

"4 questions for Corinne Busche and John Epler What makes “Dragon Age” stand apart from other fantasy games? Corinne Busche: “‘Dragon Age’ is a franchise that’s fundamentally always been about this really authentic team of companions that come together to take on insurmountable challenges. It's about people. It touches on some pretty deep themes as well. Injustices. The burdens of leadership. It really is about establishing this sense of found family to take on these challenges that lay ahead.” What feels different from previous iterations? John Epler: “I'd say this version of the game is much bigger in its storytelling, in its scope. We really wanted to put you in every one of the big story moments. So as an example, it's the difference between watching the Battle of Minis Tirith versus being someone who's fighting in the middle of it. You're much more participatory in it. We wanted you to feel like you were part of these big world-changing events. You were right in the thick of it and really focusing on making the story that is so big and epic feel personal just by how you interact with it.” What sort of hero is the player character, Rook?  Epler: “One thing we wanted to steer away from very consciously was the sense of them being a chosen one because that's something we've done previously. They are the right person in the right place at the right time. But there is always a core personality to them. They are always going to be someone who needs to pull together this small but somewhat dysfunctional group and really lead them in a way that makes sense for that team.” Busche: “And it's one of the interesting aspects of each new game having a different protagonist. We do have a true blank slate, some say in ‘Dragon Age: Origins.’ I would put the Inquisitor in that category. Whereas Hawke in ‘Dragon Age 2’ has a very bespoke identity. So we kind of strike a balance between that. One of the defining properties of Rook, who they are as a character, is this idea of someone who's very competent, but as a leader, they're learning how to shoulder this responsibility.” You’ve put a lot of blood and sweat into this game. It’s nearly out. Have people already been telling you stories about how they connect with it? Busche: “Absolutely. One of the reasons that I felt so honored, so privileged to be able to join this team and work on this franchise is so rarely have I seen a game or a piece of media, for that matter, that connects with people so deeply. There's a real sense of ownership and an affinity for the franchise. It's a rare thing.” Epler: “I'll share a very personal anecdote about this game and people connecting. So I wrote the follower Bellara. Early on while we were making this game, I got a diagnosis of ADHD. So I'm writing this character who has a lot of the same mannerisms, a lot of the same views of the world, in a very specific way. And hearing people online, connecting to this character in the way she speaks and the way she interacts, they were able to point to and say, ‘That's me, that's how I deal with the world.’ And it's just such a cool feeling to have someone connect with a character you create and be able to say, ‘I felt seen in a way that I've never felt seen in a game before.’”"

[source]

[yall-got-me-fucked-up]

Words cannot describe the love I hold for freshmen dorm swaps. Namely, Pomefiore Sebek and Octinavelle Jack. But mostly Sebek.

BECAUSE… THE BEAUTIFUL QUEEN'S SPIRIT OF TENACITY BURNS EVER BRIGHTER IN THE HEARTS OF POMEFIORE STUDENTS… AND WHO'S MORE TENACIOUS THAN THE ONE AND ONLY SEBEK ZIGVOLT?

Sebek's never given up on anything a day in his life. He powers through even when the deck is stacked against him.

Even when LIFE is stacked against him.

And Jack, in a way, is one of the most benevolent students in Night Raven, even if he doesn't come across that way.

He aids his friends even when he insists he doesn't care about them that much. He rebels against Leona's tarnishing of Savanaclaw's honor and standing.

He's kind in a way that most of the people around him aren't.

And as such, I present to you, Pom!Sebek and Oct!Jack bfs.

Pomefiore Sebek is something very close to my heart. As is Jackbek.

Sebek would flourish under Vil's leadership?

Sebek adheres to regimen like the plague.

He likes rules. Order. Routine.

Vil values that in an underclassman.

Vil values the capturing of one's own unique beauty, both inside and out.

Sebek isn't lacking in style *or* personality.

Everything about him is perfectly curated to help him be perceived as he wishes.

Everything he does is for a reason.

He's unyielding in the face of insurmountable odds.

A force to be reckoned with, the pinnacle of the tenacious spirit Pomefiore embodies.

And with Jack, where do I even start?

He's a wolf in the middle of the ocean. A dogfish out of water, if you will.

He directly rebels against injustice, yet his housewarden, a man burdened by the weight of his sins penned in ink, is arguably the sleaziest of the lot and Jack hates it, but he respects Azul.

He respects him for the thing he's created, for the power he welds

But in a way, he's freer in Octinavelle.

Azul sees a piece of himself in Jack. He sees the potential. He wants to encourage it. He wants to see Jack flourish in a new environment because he knows what Jack's capable of.

He's respected in Octinavelle.

UGH I just fucking love them so much ignore my rambling. (Ask me about them.)

[cyborg-squid]

I was idly thinking about which Sinners (both before and after reveal) are the closest to Don Quixote, and that then got me thinking about Heathcliff and Don, and how in that Canto III scene, Dante speculates that, if it hadn't been Don Quixote who acted first, it probably would have been Heathcliff next.

And you have in Canto VII, Heathcliff praises Don's ideals of "justice, honor... and loyalty". And it defintely feels to me like he shares at least some of those ideas, he too hates it when the oppressed are mistreated and abused (like he was).

But I feel like one of the things that seperated him from Don was that same thing that prevented him from opening the door and speaking to Cathy, what Canto VI calls the [Courage to Approach], he lacks that when it comes to these scenes of injustice, but that's something he admires about Don Quixote, that she doesn't have that lack of courage and has the conviction to act where he and others maybe wouldn't.

I dunno, I just think that's neat!

[evilbihan]

Bi-Han x former!Umgadi reader

Here are some headcanons for Bi-Han with a former!Umgadi reader because I thought it would be an interesting dynamic and because I'm sick and tired of how reader always has this "I can fix him" attitude towards Bi-Han in most headcanons/fics. He doesn't need fixing, he deserves a supportive partner.

(Be warned, I've never written reader insert headcanons before and English is not my first language. I'm new to this, so feedback is appreciated.)

ALL YOUR LIFE YOU HAVE LOYALLY SERVED Outworld's royal family as part of the UMGADI, the royal guard made up of warrior priestesses. You live for DUTY, it's the only life you know, the purpose Delia and Argus have bestowed upon you, and you never dared to question it. To be chosen to protect Outworld's Emperor and Empress is an honor. Your Umgadi sisters are your family. You don't know your parents, your grandparents or siblings. You've never met them. As the eldest daughter, you were separated from them the day you were born. No Umgadi ever speaks of her family, you're well aware that it's forbidden and yet there's nothing you want more than to one day be reunited with your birth family.

AS THE TARKAT OUTREAK starts claiming the lives of many Outworld citizens, your unwavering faith in the gods and the royal family slowly begins to crumble. You helplessly stand by and watch as more and more infected people are banished from Sun Do each day. Infuriated by the INJUSTICE you witness, you start to wonder if the royal family really deserves your loyatly.

AT THE RISK OF BEING CAST OUT of the order, you begin to secretly search for your family, despite knowing that it goes against everything the Umgadi believe in. It means betraying your order and the royal family. More than that, it means going against the will of the gods. Nonetheless, you're determined. With no cure for the desease in sight, you fear for the worst: that your search for your family will be cut short, should they be among those who have contracted the illness.

ONE DAY YOU DECIDE TO secretly follow Tanya, the head of your order, after noticing that she often disappears with no explanation. You find out about Mileena's infection with Tarkat and that a cure exists, but is only made available to the royal family. Although you keep what you've seen to yourself, your faith is shaken and you wish more than ever that you could leave your life as Umgadi behind. You continue your duties, but deep inside your frustrations grow more and more each day.

YOU MEET BI-HAN IN LEI CHEN, during his attempt to free Shao from captivity. At first, you try to stop him and the two of you fight. You're evenly matched in strength and skill and the fight ends without a winner. You don't know why, but as Bi-Han tries to reason with you, you decide to hear him out. You don't know who this mysterious man is, but there's something about him that intrigues you and you can tell he's equally impressed by you and your fighting skills.

AS YOU LEARN MORE ABOUT HIM, you begin to realize that you and Bi-Han are KINDRED SPIRITS. Looking at him is like looking at a reflection of yourself. Both of you are driven by the same FRUSTRATION, the same DESIRE for freedom and the wish to be the architect of your own destiny. Both of you were forced to sacrifice so much of yourselves to serve a bigger purpose, only to be disappointed by those you had put your faith into. Bi-Han shares his visions for the Lin Kuei's future with you and you admire his AMBITION, his COURAGE, the courage to stand up to a GOD and shape his own destiny, something you'd always dreamed of doing, but were too afraid to do. You admire Bi-Han's LOYALTY and DEVOTION to his clan, that he's not afraid to risk his own life to give the Lin Kuei a better future and you realize that he's nothing like the royal family of Outworld. He's a leader you would happily die for.

YOU HELP BI-HAN to free Shao. It's your own little act of vengeance against the royal family for all that was stolen from you and in return, Bi-Han offers you a place with the Lin Kuei. Finally, after all those years of wishing you could be free, you leave the Umgadi behind and follow Bi-Han to your new home, Arktica.

HAVING SPENT YOUR WHOLE LIFE in Outworld, you know very little about Earthrealm, but to your surprise, Bi-Han doesn't seem to mind answering your questions, nor does he mind bringing you fur coats to protect you from the harsh cold that your body isn't used to. When you somehow end up falling ill with a cold regardless, you stubbornly ignore it at first. You're a warrior and warriors don't get sick. However, Bi-Han insists that you're put on bedrest. He brings you medicine and makes you tea and you can't help but wonder why he, the grandmaster, is personally looking after you, instead of tasking some servant with it. Though he came off as cold and ruthless when you first met him, you're starting to see that there's a CARING, AFFECTIONATE side to Bi-Han, one that he rarely shows around anyone else but you.

THE MORE TIME YOU TWO SPEND TOGETHER, the more you feel drawn to each other. Your respect and admiration for Bi-Han grows into something much stronger. LOVE. In you, Bi-Han has finally found someone who understands him, and supports him, a SOULMATE to confide in. You two have made many enemies and you know that every day you spend together could be your last, so you make your time together count. Despite the constant danger, being a wanted woman in Outworld and being at war with the Shirai Ryu, you have never been HAPPIER, you have never felt more ALIVE and FREE. Bi-Han encourages you to be yourself, he supports you in every way he can, he aids you in your search for your family and he's doing everything he can to make Arktica feel like home for you.

AMIDST THE CHAOS, you and Bi-Han have found SAFETY and COMFORT in each other. He is your home and you are his family. He understands you like no one else ever did. You would follow him to the ends of the earth and he would do the same for you.

YOU'RE THE ONLY ONE who knows how much Bi-Han truly misses his brothers and how much their betrayal pains him. You wish that you could help them reconcil somehow, but you've met Kuai Liang on a few occasions and you know he can't be reasoned with. However, a part of you is still holding on to hope that at least Tomas will come around one day. All your life, you have missed the family you never had the chance to meet and you understand how much it hurt Bi-Han to lose his brothers. It makes you all the more determined to help the Lin Kuei in their fight against the Shirai Ryu.

DESPITE BOTH YOUR PAST and the lives of violence you both live, the moments you share with Bi-Han are peaceful, tender and sweet. An unbreakable bond has formed between the two of you and although you had to cut ties with former allies and friends, you never once regret your choice to join the Lin Kuei. Few can understand why you turned your back on the Umgadi and your old life, some call you a traitor, but their opinions matter little to you. It is you and Bi-Han against the world, against realms and gods and you don't mind that at all.

[ashenquill]

It's time to info dump about my character headcanons some moreeeee I love spreading my agenda on the internet hehe

Mumbo Killsalot Jumbo is one of those ambiguous types where you can't tell if he's actually a hybrid or not? Like, there's something a little bit... off about him. Something distinctly non-human. Also he's a really weird guy, which makes even less sense, because at this point hybrids are like 60% of the population, and nobody bats(ha) an eye at them anymore, so it's not like he needs to hide it. But he is, in fact, secretly a vampire. Or at least, he's 1/16th vampire or something like that. He just remembers this one guy named Vlad who he refused to believe was actually his great-grandpa because he's literally, like thirty? How on Earth would he have been old enough to father children with children with children? Mumbo started believing it when he saw him again ten years later and he hadn't changed in the slightest. Suddenly, the strict nobody open the curtains rule made a lot more sense.

Now, even though Mumbo is technically a vampire, his family is primarily human. The only reason they even have vampiric origins is because Great-grandpa Vlad got turned at the ripe age of 27, and wasn't about to abandon his wife over his new and very serious garlic allergy. She thought it was all one big prank he was pulling to get out of working on the farm, but after twenty years and seven kids, she realized that being a stay-at-home dad was definitely not taking the toll it should.

Mumbo and his immediate family have retained a few of the traits they inherited from Vlad, but it manifests in very mild coincidences. His mom is allergic to garlic and his dad has a strange Scarland-Princess-like affiliation with bats. Mumbo, meanwhile, really got the short end of the stick, as he can't expose his shoulders to sunlight without them miraculously burning (he's gone through more bottles of M-77 brand sunscreen than he'd care to quantify). Not to mention the insomnia! He'd be lucky to get two hours of sleep on an average night, and the fact that the only affect it really has on him is making his eyes look baggy is truly an injustice. Wasn't insomnia supposed to cause other serious health problems? How could he even complain about it if he wasn't constantly overtired? Rather inconvenient, that.

Don't ask my why I have so much lore for this guy when I don't even write him that often. It's just the Mumbo Jumbo allure, I guess

Here's some other fun facts:

Smells like iron/copper (metallic)

Book smart - special knowledge of redstone

Likes: cloud gazing, embroidery, old westerns/duels/guns, rubix cubes (only to look at though, bro can’t solve them for shit)

Dislikes: designing floor plans, social interaction, eye contact

Passions: philanthropy, travel

Habits/other details: Super fidgety like holy shit he never stops moving, picks at his nails and has lots of scabs & hangnails bc of it, he is littered with cuts and bruises of unknown origin, also usually covered in redstone & he mistakes his blood for it half the time, can’t tell if he’s ADHD, ASD, or both (deffo both)

Reactive to their environment - does not like to be around danger most of the time, would rather watch from afar, would rather not even watch tyvm, too bad he’s always a victim, #easytarget, your honor he’s just a wet cat

Special, plot-relevant skills: good w/ redstone, rich asf

Insomniac, also has RLS, always tired but it’s not very obvious, mostly just has dumb blonde moments, his intelligence would be 10% more if he actually slept, what the heck Vlad why'd you have to get bit by a vampire