#(also i am typing late into the night sorry for any mistakes)

[the-kingshound]

Sorry if this is a weird question to ask, but do you have any tips for getting into creating interactive fiction games? I’ve poked around with twine and things, but I’d love to hear your insights about creating a story/characters and making a narrative that supports player choices (if that makes sense :))

Ohh, I am so honored you came to me! I can give you the key points of what I learned in my time writing IFs, but I am in no way an expert so keep it in mind.

1) I think the very first thing you want to do is decide what type of choices will define the interactive aspect of your game. Basically, if you want the plot to be interactive, or if you want a linear plot with an interactive personality of the player character.

I tend to prefer the latter, but it all depends on what kind of variations you enjoy writing and planning most. Keep this choice always in mind when planning the choices in the story.

2) I think that, especially in IFs, it's important to plan ahead. I learned the hard way that, personally, without having a solid plan I get stuck while writing and cannot continue the story.

I have a general plan for the whole game, so that I can design the character development, what kind of stats will be important, and the general focus of the story in terms of themes. Then, I individually plan each chapter, and in my opinion this step cannot be skipped. You need the whole chapter already outlined before you start writing it, or, again, you'll get stuck midway.

3) what I find particularly tricky, and time consuming, is the process of trying to decide, through trials and errors, just how you want your scenes to be structured. This means which choices will be made available, and I often scrap or add things as I write, which POV is a scene going to be from (if you have multiple POVs) and when and how to cut a scene off.

This will probably involve rewriting scenes or options over and over. It's ok. Just keep working on it until you have a version that satisfies you and flows better than the others.

4) once you have done a bit of work on your game, you start to see which stats you want to focus on. An important thing for me to enjoy this part: I like to have MCs that have defining characters, that are semi-set. It makes it easier to write certain scenes.

But you also need to cut the stats down to the bare minimum. Players generally don't enjoy choices that have no consequences, or lead nowhere. Instead, focus on a hanful of variations (of personality, in this case) that can change the gameplay. For TKH, there are four variables that make up four archetypes for MC. And that's it. The other choices only involve interactions with the characters, in a platonic or romantic way. Or are things I can track easily (ex: sleeping on the floor/bed, cold/warm showers...)

5) one thing I think some games lack, is the focus on your MC. This makes for a more enjoyable experience for most players. You need to make your MC central to the story (while of course maintaining the other characters as separate entities with their own motives), to let them have an impact on story events, or other characters arcs.

[angelfrombeneth]

MAGICAL DRYING DISASTER - T . NOTT

Mature Content Ahead

Theodore Nott x Fem!Reader

Summary: After waking up late and discovering you left your washing in the machine over night. You had no other choice to use magic to dry it - except it did dry but also shrunk, massively, in the process. Once Theo finds you let's just say he manages to keep it kept in till the common room. Then it's all fair game from there.

Warnings: SMUT, No Protection - PIV, Theodore is a munch - Fem Oral, Body Worship, Smidge of SubWhiney!Theo, Cursing

A/N: This is my first one-shot fic I've posted in a long time but also my first one EVER on tumblr. I used to write on wattpad and ao3 but took a very long hiatus. So excuse if my smut writing is a bit off or any spelling mistakes I currently have acrylics on - its quite hard to type.

Click Clack.. Click Clack...

You ran towards your class quickly, pulling town the absolute belt of a skirt you wore today before entering into your potions class. Late.

"Miss Neveah.. Thank you for finally joining us" Snape panned. His face expressionless as he stared at you. A slight hint of disapproval in his face.

"I'm sorry sir, it won't happen again!" You scurried to your seat beside Pansy.

"It most definitely will not" He groaned before turning back to the chalk board to continue his explanation.

You shimmied on your seat, pulling as much skirt down as you could. Practically flashing those behind you of your bright red thong and gorgeously placed star tramp stamp.

Nice touch is what you thought when you got it a few months ago after a night out in the muggle clubs with Pansy. She persuaded you and said Theo would love it. Or which he did.

"Y/N.. your skirt is practically a belt. Trying to flash us all?" She whispered, giggling as he peered down as your legs, absent of any tights aswell.

"Girl.. It shrunk when I tried to use magic to dry it. All my other skirts are dirty" You pouted. "I also couldn't find a pair of fucking tights, I was running so late"

"Its not that bad, just don't bend over if you can" She smiled as she reached to your ponytail tieing in a little green piece of ribbon into a bow. "And don't let Mr Lover boy see you" She snickered.

You sighed, focusing in the rest of your class. Praying not many people noticed. You were pretty daft thinking that. You were already the hot goss. It was only so long till Theo found out.

Though alot of boys in Hogwarts fancied you, they all knew about Theodore Nott swooping in, in 4th year the year before you 'blossomed' as they said. They say he saw the potential and snatched it up while they could.

You walked down the hall, pulling your books to your chest as your red bottoms clipped the wooden floor that spanned the whole school. Many turned your way gawking as you, mostly more than normal due to tour skirt size today.

You weren't a bad girl. You has good grades, you were overly nice to everyone just the people you hung round with were opposite. Many saying you were too nice.

After a quick detour to pick up an extra book from the library you shuffled down the corridor, your heels clicking their signature click against the oak as you walked towards your friends who stood beside your regular post class meeting pillar.

"Sorry I'm late!" You skipped towards them hurriedly. You watched as Theo whipped his head around, his jaw practically dislodging from his face as he stared at you.

Mattheo wolf whistled as he looked you up and down. Smirking as he pushed himself off the wall - "Damn Y/N, I didn't know you had this hiding somewhere"

"Neither did I" Theo's gaze burned through you as he bent his neck to get look at you from behind. Definitely a sight for sore eyes.

"I'm sorry- I fucked up a spell and I was running late I didn't mean to- OUCH! THEO!" you got cut off as he slapped his hand harshly against your ass before gripping a handful as he smirked down at you. The boys laughing at the pair of you.

"As much as I am thoroughly enjoying the sight Bella" He looked down at you, his gaze growing darker by each word that fell from his lips. He leaned in, practically growling in your ear."I don't like to share amore mio"

You gulped at his words as he pulled his jumper off, wrapping it around your waist. Slightly tugging on the fabric jerking you forward into his chest as he smiled down at you before kissing your forehead softly.

"As cute as you two are, everyone's looking. Can we clear out" Pansy groaned.

You snapped back into reality, quietly ushering an apology to the group as Pansy pulled your hand as you both walked hand in hand ahead of the boys.

You heard a smack and an 'ow' turning around quickly as you turned the corner seeing Theo slapping Mattheo across the head. "Flirt with someone else" He groaned. You giggled slightly at his protectiveness.

Once you arrived to the common room everyone scattered to do their own thing. Theo once more approaching you.

"Now..." a cheeky smile appeared on his lips as his hands held your hips softly as he peered down at you. The height difference really getting to you. "I can't stop thinking about that little skirt on you.." His hands slowly moving down and around to the curve of your ass as he nibbled at his lip. "..and how much I want to fuck you in it" He whispered the last part lowly as his tongue poked out and slid across his bottom lip as he squeezed your ass through his jumper.

"Then do it" You caught his gaze, already out of breath from his minimal touch.

It's like that's all he needed to hear. Like without warning and no regards for the fact your friends were just a few steps away bundled in the corner on the coaches - he pulled you tightly, hand on your ass against him as his lips crushed into yours. Needy kisses as if he hasn't kissed you in months.

The sudden rip of his jumper loosening the knot as it dropped to the floor. His hands sliding under the little fabric the skirt had as his nails gripped into the flesh on your ass cheeks. You yelped slightly and he took that as permission to shove his whole tongue down your throat. The kisses grew messier and messier as you both backed up towards the stairs, bumping into everything possible as you both chuckled.

Breaking the kiss as you both removed various pieces of clothing as you scrambled up the stairs. By the time you got to yours and Pansys' room you both had disregarded of practically everything. Theo quickly finishing unzipping his trousers before pushing you into the room, kicking the leg off quickly, flinging his trousers into the centre of the hallway as he shut the door behind him.

You stood infront of him in just your skirt, bra and panties as he ruffled his hair, staring at you like a kid in a candy shop, pondering what you try next.

"DONT WORRY WE'LL CLEAN UP AFTER YOU TWO!" Draco yelled, annoyance plastered in his voice.

That broke Theo out of the trance he was in as he lunged at you, unclipping your bra swiftly as he threw it across the room before pushing you against the bed.

"Fuck, I'm so hard. I can't- I just need to fuck you now" He groaned, biting at his lip anxiously as he stared down at you. "Get on all fours". You obliged and quickly.

You felt the sudden cold breeze against your clit as he tightly yanked on your thong, splitting it apart at he threw it on the floor aswell as he kicked off his boxers.

"Fuck your so hot" He groaned, dropping to his knees as he gripped your ass, spreading your cheeks wide as he licked a nice wet strip up your pussy.

A moan lodged itself in your neck as you bundled up the sheets in your hands as he let out a shaky breath.

"Wanna eat you out so bad, but my cock is throbbing.. Need to treat you well tho" He whined as he spat into his hand as he began to fuck it. His free hand gripping your ass as he dove his tounge deep into you.

You hung your head forward as you let out an exasperated sigh as your toes curled. Theo's tongue worked wonders inside of you. He ate you out like it was dire need. The roughness of his mouth sopping against your pussy as his tongue drilled into your hole. The wetness of both his mouth and your pussy mixing as he moaned against you as he continued to fuck the shit out of his hand. Loud moans rumbled against you as he sucked and twirled like no tomorrow.

You were drawing to your high as you noticed he stopped, pulling away for a moment as he let out a deep growl before a light whimper escaped his lips as he came up the bottom of your bed frame and on the floor. He panted for a moment, light whimpers leaving gis mouth as he toyed with his sensitive dick.

"Fuck- Sorry Principessa. I came, naughty of me to do so before I helped you. I'll make sure you feel extra good" His other hand colliding with your ass again as he dove back in. His nose rubbing harshly against your slit as he flicked his tongue continously against your clit. Sucking and nibbling at it from time to time as he continued to grip and massage at your ass.

The sudden overwhelming feeling drove you over the age as you screeched, yelping as you squirted all over his face. You gasped loudly, crashing to the bed as your legs shook slightly as you panted.

"Mhmm.. Love it when you squirt" You looked at Theo as he wiped the cum from his face, sucking his fingers like a dessert he's got to finish.

"You're so gorgeous, so fucking beautiful.. Beautiful body" He groaned as he slid his hands up your curves, moaning softly as the scene infront of him. "S'lucky.. So fucking lucky.."

He tapped your thigh, as you led on your stomach on the bed, your legs hanging off the end slightly as your tippy toes held against the floor.

"Gunna make you feel so good, amore" he cooed as he lied up his tip with your slit before thrashing it in harshly. You yelped once again at you looked back at him.

"Going to teach you not. to wear. a slut. short. skirt. again. fuck!" He growled with each thrust as your body jerked against his movements. Your body slid up and down the bed as your feet struggled to stay on the floor much longer as he pushed you up the bed.

It wasn't before long till Theo climbed ontop of you, straddling you as he drilled into you. Loud whimpers left you as you clawed at the sheets as you screamed into his duvet.

"FUCK!! ARGH- TEDDY!" you pleaded as your back arched, shoving your ass harder into him as his hands gripped your hips tightly, his nails scatting cresent moons to your flesh as your bodies recoiled against one another.

"Yes! Like that.. fuckkk Teddy more..  please!" You babbled. He reached over grabbing your neck as he pulled your body up against his chest. Your legs trapped between his as he squeezed them shut. His arm tightly against your stomach as he continued to drill up into your pussy. You gasped and whined continously as he groaned and growled into your ear. His grip growing tighter around your neck as he flexed his biceps, his tongue sliding up your jawline to your ear.

"Teddy- I'm gunna cum! Please please please PLEASE! Cum with me!" you whined as your eyes rolled back. The growing feeling in your stomach as his cock continued to thrash into you. You were drunk on the feeling of him buried into you. You tightly shut your thighs together for any ounce more of pressure you could grasp.

"Good girl- M'close" He panted.

Your eyes began to roll back as you gasped for air at the tightening of his arm around your neck. The bursting feeling in your stomach as your whole body recoiled and shook as you screamed like bloody murder with all the air you has left in your lungs as you came.

At that moment Theo threw you down, as your body twitched conthously. He gripped your ass as he thrusted deep before cumming in you. Groaning deeply as he threw his head back. Sweat trickling down his forehead and chest as he panted heavily.

Neither of you moved for a moment to compose yourself. You occasionally twitched at your body recoiled against his dick.

"Fuck me.. So good" Theo pulled out, sighing as he watched cum pool at your slit and began to slide down. You felt his tip against you again as he collected the escaping cum and slightly fucked it back into you. His dick entering you once more as you gasped at the feeling.

"Good girl.. such a good girl.." His light thrusts as he peppered you with kisses all over your back and shoulders.

He gasped slightly as he froze above you. You were about to question him till you felt a slightly release.

"Did you just cum again Teddy?" You giggled as he thrusted once more before pulling out and collapsing next to you.

"Its hard to last with you. You make me so addicted" He smirked, his head turned to look at you. He rested his hand on your ass, squeezing it lightly from time to time.

"I'm glad this skirt shrunk" He chuckled, his smile wide.

You shook your head as you laughed at him. "You're a fool" You shimmied towards him, flicking your leg over his chest as you cuddled into him. His body warm.

He kissed your shoulder softly before softly kissing your cheek, nibbling at your ear before whispering;

"Ti amo amore mio".

If you enjoyed this fic and want to buy me a coffee, you can do so here!

[pixiesfz]

we need a dad Jessie fic please 🫶🏼

I am a D.I.L.F

Dangerously In Love with Fleming

father to be j.f

plot: You and Jessie are preparing for your baby but Jessie is somehow picking up dad traits?

warnings: fluff, prime Chelsea team, little blurb

“It’s a girl”

The words were magic to your ears as you laid down on the chair, Jessie’s hand entertained with yours as she took a great look at the monitor.

You would love your baby if it was a boy or a girl but you secretly hoped it would be a girl, especially if you planned to have another kid, an older sister would be great for them.

The doctor excused herself from the room before Jessie lowered her body to hug you from behind “we’re having a baby girl” she hummed and you nodded “we’re having a baby girl”.

It was at your private home when you started decorating your daughter’s bedrooms that you noticed the signs of Jessie’s new persona.

“If anyone touches her before she’s eighteen” she grumbled, folding clothes “you touched me before I was eighteen” you smirked and the Canadian glared at you

“That’s different”

You laughed at her expression “what?” She asks “I’m just very impressed at your protectiveness over our unborn child”

The next time was when she came home from training late with target bags.

“Could you not have called to say you went shopping” you stated from the kitchen where you were cooking “sorry baby” Jessie quickly said before kissing your cheek, walking to the table before laying the bags down.

“But there was this sale on kids stuff and-“

“You went shopping for our child without me?”

Jessie’s eyes widened under her cap as she realised her small mistake “the sale was ending tonight, Pernille came as well of that helps”

You cocked your head over “that helps”.

“Okay so I got her some clothes and then I thought cause she’ll be my little princess I got her these”

You tried to ignore the horrendous Elsa dress, not bothering to tell her that Elsa was actually a queen and instead focused on her words “your little princess?”

Jessie ignored you “and then I got books aswelll, some for education and some for entertainment and then I also got little footy boots”

You stared at your wife “This baby will be waiting a couple of years before going on the field Jess” you told her sternly and she slowly nodded.

“I just got excited” she admitted and you smiled, walking towards her “I know, and I love it” you said, wrapping your arms around her “I love you”.

Then came the building of the crib, your belly had grown a lot more and Jessie refused to let you help in the build, claiming that she didn’t want any chance of harm.

“Jessie my father taught me how to use a drill” you told her from the door but she had her fists on her hips and crossed her head “no you’re not doing it” she said before grabbing the drill again.

“You’re so stubborn” you grumbled from you space “Give me twenty minutes, then I’ll start the pram”

You watched her for the next fourty minutes as she completed the crib, many YouTube videos and calls to her family helped her along the way.

But you smiled in awe at your proud girlfriend who stared at her creation, hands on her hips with her training gear still on, she was so excited to start making it as soon as she got home.

In all honesty early she reminded you of your own father and the pictures you had of him when waiting for your little siblings.

“Onto the pram” she said walking out of the room, only to see that you had already assembled it.

You had finally realised what part of the parenting trope Jessie had picked about a month before you were due when she kept checking her phone.

Jessie was not a social person, let alone a social media type person but she never told you what she was looking at.

Until she started using them on you.

them as in dad jokes…

“Hey babe, did you hear about that Actor who broke his leg, turns out he’s still in the cast”

You rolled your head back with a groan as you had heard the eighth joke that night “How many times have you told that one?” You ask, sitting down next to her.

“Erin and Adam loved it when I told it at training”

“Of course they did.”

Though throughout the traits that Jessie had picked up you still loved her more than anything in the world, you would even go out to say you learned to love her even more but you didn’t want to enlarge her ego any more.

Instead you cuddled up into her side “You’re going to be such a good mum” you told her and you felt her relax “yeah?” She asked and you nodded.

“I can’t wait.”

[kmazine]

[ 02:41 AM ]

You open your eyes when you felt Seungcheol jolted awake beside you with a low panicked yelp. Despite the dim light in your bedroom, you can see he broke in a cold sweat.

"Bad dream?" You sit up, slowly rubbing your hand up and down, hoping that will help him calm. Another hand wiping the cold sweat on his forehead. He rubs his face with his palm roughly before taking a deep breath. You start to glide your fingers up and down the back on his neck.

"Yeah..." He give you a weak nod. He's not the type to have nightmare, but when he does, it can be pretty intense. You want to ask him but you know that can wait. He'll share with you in the morning anyway. Your priority right now is to soothe him, to calm him.

You decided to get off the bed but Seungcheol was faster, he grabs you by your waist and pulls you into the embrace.

"Don't go. Stay"

"I'll just go get you a glass of water okay?" You gently rub his arms, trying to pull his arms away but he didn't budge.

"Stay" He whispers.

So you decided to stay still and hug him back as tight as you can. You smile when you can feel his body loosened after a while as he rest his head on your shoulder.

"I don't want water. Let's just get back to sleep." He say when you try to move again, as if he can read your mind, and pulls away from the hug, gap enough for him to look at your face. You nod after he give you the reassurance smile before stamped his lips on your forehead.

"Okay. let's get back to sleep then" You ran your hand through his ruffled hair, glad to see the frown on his face gone.

Both of you snuggles, with his arm around your waist, your back against his chest.

"Sorry for waking you up, love" He whispers.

"It's fine. I prefer to be the one that can comfort you anyway." You assure him.

"You always do. I love you" Seungcheol pulls you to his frame closer and pressed his lips on your shoulder. He nuzzles into the crook of your neck seconds before both of you drifting back to sleep.

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[ my other works / masterlist ]

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a.n : I'm having nightmares lately and I hate waking up at night but also at least waking up "free" me from the nightmare (interestingly enough I never jolted or having any physical reaction when I woke up. It's just I slowly start to wake up and it's somewhat annoying because it takes time to get to open my eyes, still got into cold sweat though.) Yes this is me writing because I couldn't get back to sleep lol

Enough with my stupid rambling, like always, please ignore the grammatical mistakes and typos, I'll fix it after I back to check from time to time.

And I hope you enjoy this one.

[lewkwoodnco]

the tortured poets department - george karim x reader

George stiffened and shut his eyes regretfully as if he couldn’t bear to see that look on her face. A faint flush started creeping up his throat, peeking out from behind his starchy collar. “Don’t,” he whispered.

“Tell me,” she pressed, taking yet another step closer until their noses were barely an inch apart, “who else is going to know me? Truly know me?”

He let go of the breath he was holding and it fluttered across her cheek like the ghost of a kiss. They were venturing into intolerably intimate territory, and she could feel her pulse racing under the distracted brush of his thumb on her wrist.

a/n - HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH thats it thats the a/n also happy birthday to ali hadji-hesmati ia m NOT late shut up

tropes/warnings - slight nsfw towards the end (idk tho??), angst (what else is new lmao), tw slight mention of suicide, ft locklyle wedding (a bit) happy ending tho, i am very sick wrote this entirely on my phone and cannot be held accountable for any of this

word count - 3.7k!

TAGLIST | MASTERLIST

Who uses typewriters anyway?

That was what she had mouthed at her friend from across the Fittes office. They were brand new hires; scribes assigned to different researchers under an apprenticeship programme. Things were off to a rougher start than she had expected. From what she could see, her friend had been assigned to a perfectly normal-looking researcher who, now that introductions were complete, was explaining his filing system to her.

On the other hand, the first thing her oddly intense researcher had asked was if she knew how to use a typewriter. She had laughed, thinking it was a joke, before very quickly realising that he was being perfectly serious. He started explaining how the contraption worked far too quickly for her to catch anything, and she had taken the chance to shoot her friend a look.

“L/N?”

She whipped her head back around, immediately apologetic. “Sorry. I think I get how it works now.” Really, it was just bad luck that she had gotten the short end of the stick.

The next thing she learnt, over many months, was how to pick up on and decrypt George’s nonverbal cues. Namely, knowing what his every sigh, muttering or frown meant. While it had felt frustrating similar to banging her head against a wall in the beginning, he started to grow on her. Learning how George Karim ticked was like figuring out an intriguing puzzle all on her own. Besides, he wasn’t unkind. He could be understanding, so long as he had the patience for it on that particular day.

But there were times when she decided that no, he wasn’t all that compassionate of a coworker. Particularly on nights when he’d have her write up chapters worth of research summarised from his scrawled notes. And woe betide her should she make one too many mistakes.

Who the hell uses typewriters anyway?

"Do you ever think about leaving Fittes?"

Her typing stopped abruptly, her flickering train of thought completely demolished by George's appalling suggestion. They were sitting at their adjacent desks at the Fittes office, her typing up the previous night's case report while George twiddled his thumbs and fiddled with a pen in increasingly creative ways.

"Leave? And go where?"

She followed the line of his hateful stare towards one of the thick metal doors along the corridor which led to a more restricted part of the offices. Like most others, she felt no pressing inclination to snoop around and stumble upon information she would rather not find. But for someone like George, she could practically see how it gnawed at him - libraries of secrets just begging to be known.

Her gaze flitted anxiously between his face and the door. It was both a frightening and thrilling thing when George decided to put his mind to something, using his brain at its full capacity in some sincerely earnest hunt for knowledge. It was also the thing that was going to get him killed sooner or later, mesmerising as he was. It. Mesmerising as it was.

"Start our own agency. Play by our rules."

She laughed nervously, too artificial even for her own ears as she wrung her stiff hands. George's voice had a distant quality to it that told her he was on the way to making some very bad decisions if she didn't step in soon. "Oh, George, you say the…the darnedest things. You're no Tom Rotwell, you know."

"You're not Marissa Fittes yourself, either."

"Rude."

His gaze flickered to her at that, the barest hint of a smile ghosting his lips as the tension in his shoulders dissolved. She visibly relaxed as well, satisfied that it would be a decent while before he once again latched onto this bizarre notion.

Which was why his abrupt switch in employment to some small, crumbling agency had left her more than shell-shocked. Coming into work on a normal, gloomy Monday and seeing George's desk cleared out and painfully sterile of the ideas and theories he buzzed with left her feeling lost at sea in the worst way. And he didn't bother to reach out to her either - not a call, not a letter, not a visit.

That is, not a visit until he turned up at her door in the middle of the night, pale as the Visitors that skulked outside her door.

"Sorry.”

For one stupidly miraculous moment, she thought he might be apologising for a month’s worth of grey days and sleepless nights.

“I know it’s late, but I think I left my typewriter here."

She felt stupidly disappointed.

"You're making a mess of my - what are you doing?"

George had located his otherwise untouched typewriter positioned at one corner of her dining table and was now furiously typing away, a sickly, pallid sheen to his forehead.

"Don't worry, I'll be qui -"

"Karim."

His typing faltered, and for once he had the decency to look marginally embarrassed.

“Sit down. Start from the beginning.”

So he did. He told her everything about some Type Two case at 62 Sheen Road, short of coming out and saying that he had put his associates' lives in danger, but she could hear it in his voice. It was an almost welcome return to the old days of picking out the relevant parts while his mind ran ahead at the speed of light; so much to think and agonise over. When his voice finally started to run thin, she fetched him a cup of tea, taking a moment to process it all.

"Okay, so, if I have this right, none of this is your fault. No - don't argue with me. Drink your tea. You told him to wait, that you needed more time.“

He mumbled something incoherent as he pulled off his glasses, dragging a hand across his eyes, looking far too young and worn. He glanced up to meet her gaze, the look on his face as much of a wreck as the rest of him. He looked down again, staring at his hands splayed on her dining table. George never was one for letting his feelings show, let alone hysterics, and it rubbed at something raw to see him spiralling this badly.

“They’d be better off with a researcher who could actually do his job.”

She suppressed the overwhelming urge to roll her eyes.

“Oh, please, this has nothing to do with being altruistic. This is just you trying to punish yourself over something that isn’t even your fault.”

He showed no sign of having heard her. She sighed and slid into the seat next to his, her fingers nearly brushing his.

“Look - what's done is done. Possibly the worst thing you could do now is leave them in the lurch like this. Of course, it's not going to be smooth sailing throughout, but you made a commitment, so for the love of God keep your head up and stick it through.” She reached out to loosely cover his wrist. “Okay?”

George stayed silent but glanced up at her. Okay. She pulled her hand away. He finished the last of his tea and stood.

“I should get going, I suppose.”

She looked out the window, eyeing the eerie green glow of the ghost lamps critically. “It’s a bit late, don’t you think? Not very safe.”

“I have my rapier on me.”

The corners of her mouth tightened.

“I’d feel better if you left in the morning.”

And so they ended up in her living room, him sitting on the floor and her sitting on the couch, dragging her fingers through his soft curls. They talked about everything and nothing, like the recent layoffs at Rotwell’s and what George’s new associates were like. He made them sound marvellous. It was obvious why he’d leave Fittes. Why he’d leave her.

“The three of us…we live at 35 Portland Row.”

“Mhm.”

“And there’s this doughnut shop down the street from there.”

She lightly scraped his scalp teasingly.

“So that’s why you left.”

She could feel him smile despite himself.

“We should go, someday. You’d love it.”

A vision trickled into her imagination - she and George standing at the end of some empty cobblestoned road with soft, pillowy doughnuts dripping sugar down their knuckles, sprinkles melting into their fingerprints. It’s evening, and the sun is almost painfully intense, beating down a lovely glow over the scene. She’s distantly aware of the impending danger of the rapidly approaching nighttime, but for now, George is standing in front of her in a soft shirt, the edges of his face kind and blunt, the almost permanent furrow of his brow melted away in the liquid sun, reaching out to swipe a thumb at the corner of her mouth -

“Get some rest.” Her voice was thick with a longing for such golden yet treacherously illusory days. George leaned back, resting his head on the couch with half-lidded eyes, his breathing evening out as he drifted off. She gently slipped her fingers out of his hair. She gently pulled his glasses off but before she could put them someplace safe, she was out like a light herself.

She had a fitful sleep and blearily woke up a few hours later, George’s head an oddly comforting weight against her knee. She groggily pulled herself up and tossed a blanket at the figure slumped against her couch before fetching a glass of water and some paracetamol.

Shortly after, George lurched awake like he was sweating out a fever, heart thudding and eyes restless. He groaned, no doubt wincing at the pounding behind his eyes. He caught sight of the water and medicine placed next to him but looked away after a moment of consideration. She raised her eyebrows pointedly, knowing only too well the kind of hell his overactive mind was capable of putting him through.

“How’s your head?”

She hadn’t meant to sound that sarcastic, but it was enough for him to get the hint. He relented, taking a sip of water and then one of the pills just for good measure.

"Good. Now go home and get some proper rest, you moron."

She watched him stumble down the road till he turned the corner, trying to hide how shaken she was by his panic. She sighed wearily. Only a month at Lockwood & Co. and already he would be a desperate wreck without them. She turned back inside, trying to ignore how empty her dining table looked without his typewriter and how vacant she felt without that flimsy excuse for him to see her again.

Years passed. She and George somewhat kept in touch, but it had still been extremely startling when Lockwood & Co. reached out to her with plans to expose her employer, Marissa Fittes. Amongst the tragedy of Portland Row being reduced to rubble, Kipps nearly dying and the Skull almost moving on, unemployment was the least of her concerns.

Still, it wasn’t all sad once Lucy had proposed to Lockwood after one too many failed attempts by the latter party. They had planned a relatively intimate affair, only inviting some old friends of the ex-Fittes employees of the group.  

They held it at an inexpensive banquet hall just a few minutes away from Portland Row. Lucy looked gorgeous and glowing with happiness under the gentle warm lighting, and Lockwood looked dashing in a suit not much more formal than his regular one. He spent the majority of the reception denying that he had teared up at the first glimpse of Lucy at the end of the aisle, insisting that his best man was a pathological liar.

After the main event, the guests milled around, having drinks, and occasionally congratulating the happy couple. As expected, Lockwood became very drunk very quickly, enough to pull out some terribly nonsensical yet oddly stirring comment.

“Here’s to the first day of the rest of our lives.”

She glanced across at George. He met her eye. They immediately looked away. She could have sworn she felt a hitch of some breath between them. She felt the prickle of tears behind her eyes. Lucy was desperately trying to shut up an overly emotional and hence overly talkative Lockwood who looked ready to launch into a speech no one asked for.

“That’s enough now, or we’ll have Kipps bawling all through dinner.”

It wasn’t exactly a sit-down dinner, though there was appropriate seating. Half of the guests were eating and the other half were having fun with some party games. She was watching Holly struggle at Twister when she felt someone slide into the seat next to hers - namely, the best man, George.

“Hey.”

She grinned, flushed from the champagne she had been sipping all evening. “Hey.”

“Having fun?”

“Lots.”

He couldn’t help but return her smile, looking a little tipsy himself. “I can tell.”

They ate in silence for a while, only the tinny sound of the radio’s strain and cheers from the party games filling the space between them.

“I think I missed you at the bouquet toss earlier.”

She nearly swallowed her spoon. He had noticed? He noticed her? She didn't know how to tell him that she couldn't see herself marrying anyone that wasn't him. How could she wake up every day knowing her better half was somewhere out there miles away, wondering if he wished for someone as moron-shaped as her?

“Oh, well, that’s not really my thing. More of a bridesmaid than a bride.”

She resumed eating, presuming that line of conversation to be over until she noticed he was still looking at her strangely, his cutlery stationary in his hands. Her chewing slowed in an attempt at dignity.

“…what?”

He lifted her right hand off her knife, making her heart thud dangerously. Wordlessly, he pulled off the sapphire ring on her middle finger and oh-so-delicately slid it onto her ring finger instead.

“I think you’d make a wonderful bride.”

She stared at the ring, speechless. It wasn’t a proposal, but it wasn’t nothing either. Maybe…maybe this was a second chance at something. Maybe he wouldn’t screw this up this time.

He almost reluctantly relinquished his grip on her hand. She didn’t dare meet his eye. Even his voice, quiet yet slightly rough, felt unbearable to hear.

“Were you mad? When I left without telling you?”

She had waited months to hear those words.

“I wished you'd talked to me about it first. Just...just to make sure your head was screwed on straight.”

He nodded, and they returned to their food, the silence a lot less giddily amicable now.

“So, would you have - “

“Absolutely not. God, no. I would have told you to stay ten feet away from Anthony Lockwood at all times.”

They looked over to where Lucy was helping Lockwood sit down, having unfortunately thrown his back out at Limbo. She winced. “He’s such a wild card.”

“I suppose I am too.”

She turned, curious, and he looked as though he regretted letting that slip out. Her voice dropped, taking on a softer edge.

“Not to me. Not when it’s you.”

He stared at her like there was something bloodied and hungry behind his eyes. She felt this twinge of something in her chest. Oh, how could she bear this? How could she bear him?

Sometimes, part of her wished she were a book - one completely enthralling and riveting, chock-full of secrets eager to slip out and lose themselves in thin air. Perhaps that was just a manifestation of her paralysing desire to be known and to be known by him.

“I should go,” George was saying as he finished up the last of his food. He stood, wiping his mouth, wandering off to find his coat. Maybe it was the liquor or the unfamiliar buzz of hope in the air tonight, but there was some odd tone of finality to his voice. She watched him leave, chewing her food thoughtfully, not feeling very hungry anymore.

As the minutes trickled by, it began to feel exhausting to be surrounded by so many happy couples, happy people, all that revolting joy and merriment. Only a short while after George had left, she located her own coat and weeded Lucy out of a throng of people doing the Macarena.

“I think I might head out now. Congratulations once again, Luce.”

“You too? Aww, thanks. Have you decided about the job offer from Madison?”

“I haven’t written back yet, but I think I’m going to turn them down. I was thinking about talking to Lockwood someday to see if he could take on one more employee. Plus, Madison’s a bit far out, and I’m pretty comfortable where I am.”

“Good. George might have just offed himself if it weren’t for his course at Edinburgh. I mean,” Lucy tripped over her words over the stunned look on her face, “I’m sure he was just kidding.”

“Hang on. Edinburgh?”

“Yeah. For his supervisor training. Did he not tell you? I thought for sure he…”

Lucy’s words muffled into oblivion and bled into some horrible ringing sound. Her mouth felt painfully dry. No. This couldn’t be happening.

“…he wanted to wait till after the wedding to tell Lockwood. Didn’t want to put a damper on things. Don’t get me wrong - I’m just as cut up about it, but…” They looked over to where Lockwood was watching the limbo game from afar with a forlorn expression. “…you know Lockwood.”

“What the hell, George.”

He jumped, freezing with his hand buried deep in his pocket, tediously hunting for his keys. She had managed to catch him at the front porch of Portland Row, looking especially guilty under the tepid glow of the ghost lamps.

“You’re training to become a supervisor?”

His face briefly twisted in annoyance. The audacity. “I told Lucy in confidence -“

“When were you going to tell me, Karim? Or were you just going to let me find out all on my own, like last time?” She wanted to laugh cruelly. There was nothing merciful about this knife in her chest. “I mean, why do this? Why lead me on and make me feel things and give me hope?”

“When have I ever led you on?”

“Then what was all that with my ring? Huh?” Tears sprang to her eyes once again, hot and shameful, stinging like a caustic disinfectant to an open wound. She felt so, so stupid.

“You said you didn’t care.”

“I did care!” she snapped. “Of course I fucking cared. I don’t think I could have stopped myself from caring, not when I know you like the back of my hand.”

“But you don’t care. No - tomorrow you’re going to board a train and move out of my reach and meet someone new to soothe the turmoil in your head and you won’t feel my heart bleeding for you. And if you’re very, very lucky, you might find some semblance of happiness -“

“I weigh you down!” The tirade died at her lips. Fury lined every shadow, every crevice of George’s face. He spat his words out with such venom, utter distaste. “I weigh you down…like a child. You pick me up when I fall down and kiss it better because that’s the kind of person you are. I can’t sentence you to a lifetime of running around trying to save me. I won’t do it. I’ll find someone else.”

A burden. He looked through her eyes and all he saw was a shrivelled excuse of a companion, dragging her into his depths of despair. She’d be lying if she said she never felt suffocated by his baggage. But there were some burdens you didn’t mind shouldering, not when you loved them so tenderly.

After all, who was going to unravel his every pause, stutter, sigh, and ache as she did?

“But who else is going to decode you like I do?”

George stiffened and shut his eyes regretfully as if he couldn’t bear to see that look on her face. A faint flush started creeping up his throat, peeking out from behind his starchy collar. “Don’t,” he whispered.

“Tell me,” she pressed, taking yet another step closer until their noses were barely an inch apart, “who else is going to know me? Truly know me?”

He let go of the breath he was holding and it fluttered across her cheek like the ghost of a kiss. They were venturing into intolerably intimate territory, and she could feel her pulse racing under the distracted brush of his thumb on her wrist.

There was a brooding, resigned look in his eye as if whatever he had been running from had finally caught up to him. He bowed his head and their foreheads touched. Her arms nervously reached around his neck, his hands on her waist steadying her as if to keep their balance on whatever strand of peace the moment had proffered them.

Her lips hovered over his shoulder, clavicle and jaw. She felt him reflexively tighten and loosen his grip, restless fingers fiddling with the folds of her dress and how they wrapped around her body. She brushed against the shell of his ear and felt a shiver run up his spine.

“Who else is going to hold you…like me?”

He turned a fraction and she briefly registered the lack of hesitation in his dark eyes before he finally closed the last of the gap between them. He pressed his lips to hers, soft yet intentional. He tasted like champagne and smoke and promises long-forgotten yet unbroken. It was a dizzying sort of relief to feel that years-old desperate want coiled inside finally melt through arms and fingertips buzzing with curiosity.

After that first touch, it felt as though they couldn’t get close enough, let alone pull themselves apart and have the brisk evening air rush in and nip at sensitive skin. She heard the doorknob rattle as George fumbled with it. After a short struggle, they stumbled into a nearly pitch-dark Portland Row, urgently shucking off each other’s coats and scarves. Her mind was running a mile a minute, her scalp tingling with electricity; white noise over the scrape of his teeth against her skittering pulse.

Her thoughts fragmented. At Fittes. In his room. In her apartment. His typewriter sitting glossy, polished, untouched, maddening -

George Karim was the most affected prick she had the misfortune of knowing. It was bad, bad luck that she was so irrevocably tied to him.

TAGLIST: @cielooci @mohinithoughts @neewtmas @snoopyluver20 @ell0ra-br3kk3r @ahead-fullofdreams @elenianag080 @avdiobliss @mischivana @mitskiswift99

[memopmiff]

do you have any maiko headcanons? i love your artstyle btw <3

Thank you so much I'm glad you like it!

Here's some maiko headcanons

- Once everything is all settled (fire nation is stable, no threat to the throne) they can finally relax and be more open freely towards each other, that includes more kisses in hallways, laying near the pond and the occasional quick makeouts etc.

- They understand each other very well like the silent communication type. They also learn from their mistakes and get better at expressing their feelings as they grow older

- Zuko has the dopiest grin looking at Mai and she melts inside every time

- He’s the only one who knows that Mai is quite an affectionate person when they’re in private

- Mai reveals her pregnancy at the fountain (since izumi means fountain) and Zuko stops breathing and falls into it

- Even though they get better at communicating and expressing their emotions as they mature, their main love language is always touch

- Mai does Zuko’s hair in the mornings but sometimes Zuko offers to do her hair too and he’s pretty good at it!

- Mai is NOT am early riser. She also steals pillows

- And blankets

- Zuko loves cuddles. He would be very happy if Mai’s the one who initiates the cuddle (she’s the more timid of the two)

- Zuko thinks he got every sigh of her figured out but then he completely misread it, obliviously making things worse. Their relationship has bumps and it’s not always perfect, but they always make up for it

- Being firelord keeps Zuko up late at night, Mai lets him work until she thinks that he needs to rest that she forcefully drags him to bed

- Sometimes Mai falls back into her old habits and completely shuts off, but Zuko always gets through to her

- They’re the happiest with each other. She is his anchor and he is her world

- Shortly after Izumi was born, Zuko entertained the idea of having another kid. Mai gave him one look and Zuko went ‘Yep. 1 is enough.”

I like them in a specific way that's hard for me to describe into words but here's the light stuff! Sorry if these are cheesy, thanks for the ask!

[hunieday]

Oogami Banri 2024 RabbiTV - Episode 3 : From now and forever

Episode 1 - Episode 2 - Episode 3

Please note that I am not a professional translator and I'm only doing this to share the side materials to those who cannot access them, if you notice any mistakes please let me know nicely. Enjoy!

(Nakamise Street)

Utsugi Shiro: The hand-kneading pottery was so much fun! Though I didn’t think we’d almost be late to our reservation because of the cream puffs...

Anesagi Kaoru: Traveling is bound to have some accidents! I’m glad we managed to make something in the end. This was my first time trying something like that.

Takanashi Tsumugi: Was that really your first time!? You made such a beautiful teacup, I thought you were used to it!

Oogami Banri: You’re really good with your hands! I think I’ll use the platter I made to serve some side dishes for the president.

Okazaki Rinto: W-We did pretty good for our first time right, Takanashi-san?

Takanashi Tsumugi: Y-Yes! Though I tried to make a teacup like Anesagi-san’s and ended up with a bowl…B-but I managed somehow!

Utsugi Shiro: Okazaki-san’s vase was beautifully made as well.

Okazaki Rinto: It’s… a mug.

Utsugi Shiro: What!? Oops, sorry about that...!

Anesagi Kaoru: Now you can’t cover up your blunder?

Oogami Banri: Utsugi-san, you made a beer cup right?

Utsugi Shiro: Oh, yeah, I thought it would be nice for my evening drinks. I’ve been enjoying an ice cold beer after work lately.

Oogami Banri: I know exactly what you mean! I bet it’s gonna taste even better when you drink from a cup you made yourself.

Okazaki Rinto: You three—Oogami-san, Anesagi-san, and Utsugi-san—are so naturally skilled. I’m a little jealous...

Takanashi Tsumugi: But I’m sure we’ll be impressed with our work when we see the finished products! I can’t wait, Okazaki-san!

Okazaki Rinto: Yeah, Takanashi-san...!

Anesagi Kaoru: Hehe. They said they’ll be ready in about two months. Let’s all take pictures together again once they arrive!

Oogami Banri: Sounds good…! Um, talking about beer is making me crave one. Should we head out soon?

Utsugi Shiro: Sounds good! Looks like there are some food stalls too, let’s go check out the fireworks festival venue.

(Cut to the beach, Night time.)

Takanashi Tsumugi: Amazing…! This spot’s a hidden gem!

Anesagi Kaoru: It really is! There are no buildings blocking the view either. Looks like there aren’t that many people around here.

Oogami Banri: I’m looking forward to the fireworks!

Utsugi Shiro: Hey guys! Sorry for leaving you hanging! I bought all sorts of things for you.

Okazaki Rinto: We’ve got candy apples, chocolate bananas, cotton candy, yakisoba, and grilled squid!

Takanashi Tsumugi: Wow…! Thank you so much! Why does food from stalls always look so appealing?

Oogami Banri: The fact that we’re outside definitely makes it taste better.

Anesagi Kaoru: I still don’t know how you two managed to carry all that food by yourselves.

Okazaki Rinto: Utsugi-san kept buying more and more and just kept going, so we ended up with a lot!

Utsugi Shiro: Ahaha! That’s what makes festivals like these so much fun!

Anesagi Kaoru: Color me surprised. You’re the type of guy who looks more accustomed to city life.

Okazaki Rinto: Yeah, you have more of a “Fireworks? I’ll book a hotel room and watch them from a cool room” vibe!

Utsugi Shiro: Whaaat…Where did that image come from? Oogami-san, please say something!

Oogami Banri: Huh? Me!? Ermmm… let’s just have some beer for now.

Okazaki Rinto: Ah, sounds great! I’ll have a little tonight!

Utsugi Shiro: Count me in.

Anesagi Kaoru: Let’s toast with tea!

Takanashi Tsumugi: Yes! Cheers!

Oogami Banri: …I’m having so much fun. I’m so grateful to have been able to travel with you guys like this so many times.

Okazaki Rinto: Me too. Connections are important in this industry, not just vertically but also horizontally. We’re not just rivals, we’re also friends who get to bond like this.

Anesagi Kaoru: That’s true. There were so many situations that I wouldn’t have been able to overcome without your support.

Utsugi Shiro: Thank you so much. I’m so grateful to be included in your circle.

Oogami Banri: What are you talking about? We’re happy to have you here, Utsugi-san.

Takanashi Tsumugi: We form the Managers team!

Anesagi Kaoru: Hey, now that sounds fierce.

Takanashi Tsumugi: S-Sorry! I just thought it would be nice if we had a team name or something…

Okazaki Rinto: Managers team sounds cool!

Utsugi Shiro: The Managers’ mission for today is to enjoy the fireworks together!

Anesagi Kaoru: There’s no way you’re getting drunk already…

Oogami Banri: Ahaha! It’s been so long since I just relaxed and watched fireworks. Maybe not since high school...

Okazaki Rinto: Sounds nice. Were you with friends?

Oogami Banri: ...Yeah, with friends. We were heading to the station when the fireworks started, so we stopped to watch for a bit.

Oogami Banri: I remember their beautiful reflection on the sea.

Okazaki Rinto: Today’s fireworks will start near the sea so I’m sure they’ll reflect beautifully, just like that day!

Oogami Banri: Yes! I’m looking forward to it.

Anesagi Kaoru: It’s getting somewhat lively around here. Could it be starting soon?

Takanashi Tsumugi: I feel kinda giddy...!

*Boom!*

Oogami Banri: It’s starting!

Takanashi Tsumugi: It’s so beautiful...!

Okazaki Rinto: They’re so powerful!

Okazaki Rinto: Ta-ma-ya! (1)

Utsugi Shiro: Ka-gi-ya! (2)

Anesagi Kaoru: Look, there’s a firework shaped like a heart!

Takanashi Tsumugi: You’re right! It’s so cute...!

Oogami Banri: Amazing, they’re firing off in different shapes now!

Utsugi Shiro: I’m gonna do my best to make ŹOOĻ become the strongest idol group and take over the world!

Okazaki Rinto: Wow! Did you just make a wish?

Utsugi Shiro: I just felt like shouting something.

Anesagi Kaoru: Utsugi-san, that was wonderful! I’ll do the same.

Anesagi Kaoru: I’ll keep learning and growing as a skilled manager just like TRIGGER continues to grow every day!

Okazaki Rinto: Me too...! I hope I can keep growing stronger as Re:vale’s manager!

Takanashi Tsumugi: Um... And I’ll become even more powerful so I can continue supporting IDOLiSH7!

Oogami Banri: I’ll keep supporting MEZZO" so they can stay true to themselves forever!

Utsugi Shiro: The fireworks were so much fun!

Okazaki Rinto: I feel like I enjoyed them differently than usual, but I definitely gained energy from everyone!

Anesagi Kaoru: Well then, it’s about time for that, isn’t it? The crowd is leaving so let’s do it.

Takanashi Tsumugi: Yes! The video call is connected now!

Oogami Banri: Could it be...!

(Cut to the i7 Dorms)

Nanase Riku & Izumi Iori: Banri-san!

Rokuya Nagi & Izumi Mitsuki & Nikaido Yamato: Happy-!

Osaka Sougo & Yotsuba Tamaki: Birthday-!

Oogami Banri: Guys...! Thank you! I’m having an amazing time in Atami!

Nanase Riku: Wahh, I’m so glad to hear that! Banri-san, look, everyone from the other groups came here as well!

Anesagi Kaoru: You made it to work on time though, right?

Yaotome Gaku: Of course! We got it all done! Are you enjoying Atami?

Kujo Tenn: Hey, don’t push me. Anesagi-san, thank you for your hard work. I’m glad to see you look refreshed.

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: Ah, I can see the sea! Anesagi-san, you look like you’re having a lot of fun!

Momo: Okariiiiiin! We’re here too!

Yuki: Yo, how’s the night in Atami?

Okazaki Rinto: It’s amazing! I’m having a great time thanks to you!

Inumaru Touma: Utsugi-san! Are you enjoying yourself?

Mido Torao: You got a great view of the fireworks, right?

Utsugi Shiro: Hey guys! We’re having an amazing time! Let’s come together next time.

Natsume Minami: Gladly. I’ll conquer the food stalls.

Isumi Haruka: I’m definitely gonna have a candy apple!

Izumi Mitsuki: We were talking about how jealous we were of the managers attending a festival, so we’re gonna have one here as well!

Nikaido Yamato: Grilled corn on the cob, fried chicken, grilled chicken skewers, yakisoba, we even got beer! It’s way too good.

Rokuya Nagi: TRIGGER brought a shaved ice machine too. Dessert is perfect now!

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: I’m glad we brought it! We have plenty of syrup too.

Yotsuba Tamaki: Me and Isumin also made a ring toss mini-game out of cardboard!

Isumi Haruka: This is actually pretty fun! It’s a bit difficult to make the rings though...

Osaka Sougo: I’m working on the BGM with Touma. Of course “Danshi Tarumono! (Matsuri)’ is a must.

Inumaru Touma: I end up humming it unconsciously! Maybe we should just loop it!

Yaotome Gaku: Thanks, you two! “NATSU☆Shiyouze!” and ŹOOĻ’s “BLACK TIGER” also got me pumped up!

Izumi Iori: Natsume-san and Mido-san also helped with the decoration. I must say we have quite the unique drawings over here…

Natsume Minami: Hehe. Here’s a king pudding in a yukata.

Mido Torao: There’s also a pudding wearing a happi coat. (3)

Momo: Leave the drink management to Momo-chan’s team! Yuki the Bartender will make the best drinks!

Yuki: Hello. I’m Yuki the Bartender.

Nanase Riku: We’re having a great time over here as well! Right, Tenn-nii?

Kujo Tenn: Yeah. It’s been a while since the two of us attended a festival together, Riku.

Izumi Iori: Don’t forget the other fourteen people in this room ...Well then, Nanase-san, let’s get to the main topic.

Nanase Riku: Oh! That’s right!

Nanase Riku: Umm, we’d like to express our gratitude to all the managers for constantly having our backs! Let’s start with Momo-san!

Momo: Yeeees! Okarin, you always believe in us and push us to do our best! We are always saved by your reliability. Please continue to be our best manager forever!

Kujo Tenn: Anesagi-san, you’re an indispensable presence as we continue to walk our path. We’d be happy if you continue supporting us as we rise to even greater heights.

Isumi Haruka: You know... Utsugi-san is always there for us no matter what. You’re the reason we are able to do our best. Thank you.

Nanase Riku: Manager, Banri-san, thank you for always being there for us. We will always love you!

Nanase Riku: One, two!

TRIGGER & IDOLiSH7 & Re:vale & ZOOL: Thank you for loving us so much! Please continue to support us in the future!

Oogami Banri: Guys...!

Takanashi Tsumugi: Likewise, thank you so much!! I’ll keep doing my best to support you all!

Anesagi Kaoru: You guys have done so much for us today. I’ll do everything in my power to protect your brilliance.

Okazaki Rinto: I am very proud to be Momo-kun and Yuki-kun’s manager. I will protect you guys with my life!

Utsugi Shiro: I’m truly grateful to have met you. ŹOOĻ is the strongest and dearest existence for me.

Oogami Banri: Thank you so much today. I really love all of you!

Oogami Banri: I’ll continue to support all of you forever and always!

End of Episode 3.

(1) & (2) Traditional words shouted while viewing fireworks.

(3) Happi: Traditional Japanese coat

[obsessivevoidkitten]

A Moth To His Flame

 Yandere Rosy Maple Moth Fae x Gender Neutral Human to Fae Reader (CW: Moth transformation, pheromones, kidnapping, stalking, yandere moth-like fae, no smut, general yandere behavior) Word Count: 1.5k 

(I typed this up in under 2 hours, not beta read so I hope you will forgive any mistakes. Also sorry if there are any formatting anomalies, I had some issues adding a “keep reading” line. I made a post a couple weeks ago about having the idea for this fic and here it finally is! Enjoy!) 

 You did not know what had attracted him to you. Perhaps it was your way with plants, or your vibrant colorful aesthetic, hell it could even just be your scent for all you knew. Whatever the reason he was head over heels for you and you really wished he wasn’t. Very nearly every single day this mothy fae man wandered out of the forest and tried to flirt with you as you tended your many crops.

 It started towards the end of spring about a year ago. He came walking out of the forest seemingly at random and had introduced himself as Basil. He was a tall moth like fae, with large pink and yellow wings and bands of fluff around his wrists, ankles, and neck. His head was entirely like a human’s except for the feathery antenna sticking out from his curly pink hair. You were not frightened, fae and humans interacted all the time where you lived and it was not an odd occurrence to see one, but you did wonder why he had approached you.

 “Well, I am (Y/N), what can I help you with Basil?” You thought perhaps he wanted to purchase some of your crops, though it was still odd to be approached when your market stall and signs were not posted.

 “Oh, well, I thought you were really cute and I was wondering if you wanted to go out with me sometime?” Basil flashed you a sweet smile. That was definitely odd considering he had never seen you before, but perhaps you would think it odder had you known that he had been watching you from the woods ever since you moved in over a year ago.

 You had politely declined his date offer, telling him that you two did not know each other and you were not really too interested in dating right now, but almost everyday that you were outside he approached you, made some small talk, asked how you were doing, and inevitably asked if you had changed your mind about letting him take you some place.

 Now that around a year had passed you had gotten to know him pretty well but you remained uninterested in him romantically. It may be a bit of a stereotype but you could not help but worry he was hiding something and might be trying to trick you in some way, and even if he wasn’t you just were not into him.

 Basil, on the other hand, was more interested in you than ever. You were so cute and small compared to him, and your human ways were so fascinating, like how you tended to your plants so sweetly. He wanted to tend to you that way~ You were such a nice human and as far as he was concerned you should just let him take care of you.

 Eventually with all his pestering you agreed to exactly ONE date. He was ecstatic, you had FINALLY seen that he was a good mate for you and agreed to let him “take you some place nice.”

 And, well, he did technically hold up his side of the bargain. He took you to his own gardens, deep in the woods there lay a path accessible only to fae and those with a fae escort that took you to their realm.

 His cottage and surrounding gardens were surreal, the plants were like something out of a dream, the sunlight was golden and everything seemed to shimmer and glow. And when night time came the blooms really did glow under the silver blue light of the moon.

 Honestly you had had a great time exploring Basil’s personal gardens and drinking tea with him in his cottage, but it was getting late and you really had to leave, and you had only accepted the date to end Basil’s pestering, and though you wanted to remain friends you were still uninterested in being his partner.

 “Hey, this was great Basil, but… I still really do not want to date anyone right now.. I hope we can still be friends though!” You looked down nervously. “And uh… I should really be getting back ho-”

 Basil stared at you intensely with his golden eyes as he spoke, “No, I don’t think so (Y/N), you agreed that I could take you some place nice, there was nothing in our verbal contract about me having to take you back.” He wisely grabbed your wrist and pulled you to him before you could react. He had not wanted it to come to this, but he was not opposed to making you stay with him, he knew deep down you had to like him, you were always so polite to him and you yourself had agreed to a date with him.

 The strong fae dragged you kicking and screaming back to his cottage. What had seemed so idyllic and cozy in the day time now only filled you with dread as you were forced inside.

 “I really am a nice guy, you need to just let me take care of you!”

 Basil kept you trapped for weeks in his cottage, he had used a spell that made it impossible for you to leave. He kept trying sweetly to get you to talk to him, but you adamantly refused to say anything other than demands that you be released. But… that really wasn’t part of the deal he made with you so he just wouldn’t do something that silly.

 Besides, he knew you would show your love for him eventually, you just needed a little help was all. Basil tried gifts of the type a human could only dream, he tried candies and other various sweets, he tried physical affection, he made you cups of fancy teas, and offered to let you garden the most wondrous fae plants. He even attempted to use his mothy pheromones to whoo you, it was considered high romance in the mothy fae realm, but as you were human they just flustered you slightly.

 You refused all of it, you just wanted to be taken home and left alone, you told him you never even wanted to see him again.

 Finally he decided he would just turn you into a fae like him. You would be fully at the mercy of his pheromones and completely attracted to him. You had not been born as a mothy fae and you had no resistance to them. Plus you would look just too perfect with antenna, wings, and cute pink moth fluff. Basil had been planning to turn you into his little moth mate since the very first time he had laid eyes on you, but he had wanted to wait until you were willing so the process would be less scary for you. But oh well, you’d forgive him, this was just that nudge you needed to be able to confess your love for him.

 Basil approached you with a strange look in his eye that you couldn’t place, you scooted into the corner of the room but he still approached, stopping when he was a few feet away from you. He did not say anything and you were a bit scared, what if he decided that you weren’t worth the trouble, or worse, what if he decided he was going to be more violent in his persuasion attempts?

 Basil began flapping his large wings and shimmering powder coated your entire body, you went completely limp. You were fully conscious of your surroundings but you were paralyzed, unable to even scream. He easily picked you up and pressed a gentle kiss to your forehead before laying you on his large bed.

 “I know you’re scared babe, but I am just trying to help you okay?”

 Basil began the task of lovingly wrapping you in his own soft magical silk produced from his wrists. Within hours you couldn’t see a thing and were fully trapped within a cocoon, you could hear Basil mumbling some sort of spell before he lay beside your cocooned form and wrapped an arm around you in what was intended to be a comforting gesture.

 But nothing could comfort you now, over the next 24 hours you slowly became a fae like him. It started with an intense itching that you were powerless to do anything about as fluffy fur grew in the same places that he had it, then an immense pain in your back and head as you sprouted antenna and wings.

 Finally, mercifully, the pain subsided. You planned to fight viciously with your captor. Even though somehow his past actions now seemed somehow a bit romantic as your brain chemistry and perspective of his behavior had been forcibly altered by your transformation.

 Not so much that you actually wanted to be his though, but that changed immediately when the silk cocoon fell away. Your new antenna instantly picked up on a heady intoxicating scent, what WAS that? You sniffed and inhaled deeply in his direction as your antenna began twitching from his pheromones.

It was the scent of a strong and loving mate, just for you! You buried your face into his neck as your antenna continued twitching.

 Basil held you close, kissing the top of your head sweetly and rubbing your antenna against his as he cooed softly. It had taken years, but you were finally where you were always meant to be, at his side as his little mate.

[quaranmine]

leave a light on for me

If you think all your friends hate you, it's probably time to go to bed. If you're stuck in your fifth death game, unable to fall asleep, and in pain from injuries that can't heal, then it's safe to say you probably have other issues too. Martyn has moved into Jimmy's shack in Secret Life. They're sleeping in the same room together again, just like all those years ago in the Property Police station on Evo. Unfortunately, a lot has happened between them since.

Word count: 3,167

hiiii so i saw property police were teaming in secret life, blacked out for like two days, and this appeared. CW: there is quite a lot of self-hate, self image issues, and abandonment issues packed into 3k words here. as a result i feel the unnecessary need to once again clarify this is about characters, not real guys,,,

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

The thought comes to him late at night, as thoughts of these types often do. 

Jimmy’s laying curled in his bed, arms wrapped protectively around himself. It’s a very careful position. He hasn’t slept yet; he hasn’t been able to. Everything just hurts so, so, so much. 

It’s not fun living on a server without regen. Sure, the hanging out with friends is fun, and the early days are always fun before everybody hates each other, and the secrets are silly and goofy but it—it always turns. It always turns. And it isn’t fun right now.

His ankle is on fire from where he twisted it earlier by falling. He’s not sure which landing did it; he’s too used to jumping off random heights without worrying about it. He should probably prop it up to help with the swelling, but the mere thought of it makes everything hurt even more. Besides, his leg’s also burned from where Scott set him on fire earlier. 

No, curled up is the best way to deal with this. If he stays as still as possible, everything hurts less. Staying still has other benefits too, like making sure the arrow wound on his shoulder blade doesn’t reopen and drip white hot blood and pain. 

His thoughts aren’t actually about the pain, though. Well, most of his thoughts. It’s pretty hard to ignore every time his breathing shifts a cracked rib. His green life is hanging by a thread, and every so often it feels like a blanket settles over the critical thinking center of his brain, making it impossible to focus on anything but the klaxon horn going you’re hurt, you’re hurt, you’re hurt. 

But the rest of his thoughts are about the usual late night things—

Life. Death. The Universe. Whether people actually hate him or not. That embarrassing thing he did yesterday, and the day before that. His entire past stretched out on a table and examined with a magnifying glass. Weighed and balanced, mistakes and karma and loves and losses. The breathing of the person across the room. 

“Martyn?” he calls softly. “Are you asleep?”

There’s a rustle of blankets, and then a groan. “I was until you said that.”

He’s lying. Jimmy knows the way he breathes when he’s asleep. They used to sleep in the same room years ago, too. 

“Sorry,” he mumbles. “I was just—thinking.”

“You had a thought?” 

Jimmy giggles, and it stabs him. “Stop it,” he says when he catches his breath. “I mean it!”

“Should we break out the record books? Mark the day Timmy had an independent thought?”

“I’m going to—I am going to kick you out of my shack,” Jimmy says. “That’s it, your big man privileges are revoked.”

“You’d kick me out into the dark and scary night all alone?”

“I would have no second thoughts! I would have no second thoughts.”

He’s actually having a lot of second thoughts, which is the problem. He’s having second thoughts about Martyn and—since when was that the case? Needing to question his best friend? Well, he knows since when, but that doesn’t make it hurt any less. In any case, he’s not going to kick Martyn out into the dark. He’s not going to kick him out at all. If Martyn wants out, all he’ll have to do is walk out. Jimmy just isn’t sure he won’t.

“Well, then you can’t leave me hanging,” Martyn says. “What was your thought?”

“It’s silly,” Jimmy says. “I was just…do you ever still think about Evo, Martyn?”

This is possibly the most loaded a question could ever be between them. Martyn sits up in bed sharply, just a shadowy blur in Jimmy’s periphery. “Why would you bring that up?” he says sharply. The venom is clear: this is not safe territory for Jimmy to traverse. 

The moonlight is cold and diffuse, leaving the room with a gloomy air. The mood in the room has shifted. After a moment he responds, carefully redirecting the conversation around the Watchers. “It just feels like it doesn’t it? Us sleeping in the same room together? The Property Police.”

Martyn is silent. Then, finally: “I guess it does.” 

He sounds calmer now. Jimmy’s mistake was asking a question too open-ended, because for once he’s not thinking about everything that went wrong in Evo. He’s thinking about everything that went right, and that’s what hurts the most right now. Not his broken ribs or wounds, but the way everything used to be okay and isn’t anymore. 

Jimmy’s blunt. “Are you going to stay this time?”

“What—what do you mean?” Martyn sputters. “Of course. We’re shacked up together. That’s sacred, you know.”

Jimmy picks at the thread of the blanket. “‘Cause, well, the last time you said it’d just be me and you, you were lying to my face.”

They were in a hilly forest. Jimmy was green for the longest he’d been the entire game, and it felt like buzzing life in his veins instead of dread. Grian was red and the Southlands felt like it was splintering. And Jimmy was running, Martyn hot on his heels. 

“Dude, you cannot still be hung up on that,” Martyn says. “That was—hold on, let me count, three whole games ago? Come on, you’re the one who invited me to the shack.”

Why don’t we leave together? We’ll figure something out and we’ll move away together. Everybody knows the Southerners are weak. We can set up the Boogey Blockers, remember? You know, the idea for Property Police two-point-oh from session one. You’ve got nowhere to go and neither do I, so we’ll figure it out together. Just give me the heart back. 

“I believed you when you told me that.”

Martyn scoffs. “Yeah, ‘cause you’re the most gullible person on the server. And don’t give me some pity party either, you were literally stealing from me. I’m not going to say sorry for getting my life back.”

Jimmy has a list of justifications for why he stole that heart. He was anxious, for one. He started the game on yellow while other people were given six whole lives. Six! Imagine. Or imagine being one of the few who’d started on yellow and been voluntarily given a life by an ally. Nobody wanted to do that for him, so what if he stole it instead? What about it? Stealing a life without murdering for it is far from the worst crime someone could commit on that server. 

He had felt like the group was splintering, for another. Grian was gone. Both he and Mumbo were yellow—one accident away from red. It wasn’t the same as 3rd Life, where he had a husband to stick next to him even when he turned red. Nobody was going to do that for Jimmy this time, which meant he had to look out for himself. He just…didn’t want to have to, that’s all. 

But those justifications feel stupid now in the future. He died first anyway, and again, and again. He doesn’t raise these points to Martyn now. 

He also doesn’t actually want Martyn to apologize for what he said in Last Life. He certainly isn’t going to apologize for stealing the life. He doesn’t care about what happened in the past—no really, he swears he doesn’t—he just wants to know if Martyn means it this time.

Part of him wonders, though, if Martyn realized just how easily he could manipulate Jimmy back then. If Martyn had known how much Jimmy cared about him and used that to his advantage. If he realizes now just how easily he could do it again, and again, and again. 

I didn’t mean a word of what I said, Martyn had spat as soon as Jimmy transferred the life again. You’re an idiot.

Jimmy’s quite aware he’s an idiot, really. He’s reminded of it every day. The thing is, he doesn’t think. He never thinks. His life would be a whole lot better if he didn’t wait to think until it was late at night and he felt alone and all his mistakes were already made. 

“I just thought you meant it back then,” he says finally. “That’s all. You lied to me again today too.”

“Sorry. That one was a task requirement,” Martyn says. “I needed someone who’d believe any story I made up. But I’m still here, aren’t I? Big men don’t lie to each other. Starting now."

Jimmy remembers another time Martyn tried to leave, back when it was just the two of them. He’d woken up in the Property Police station to the sound of Martyn rummaging through their chests for supplies to take with him. He told Jimmy he was leaving because he was sick of the Watchers. He’d planned on leaving before Jimmy even woke up, so it was only by luck Jimmy caught him in time. He called Martyn a coward and chased him all the way to the end portal. 

Martyn asked if he was coming with him. Jimmy said no. He was only following to stop him or say goodbye.

In hindsight, this was another one of Jimmy’s idiot moments. He was so naive. He didn’t realize how bad the Watchers would become yet, or what the cost of staying was. They should have gone together. He shouldn’t have called Martyn a coward for seeing a future he didn’t. But even if Martyn was ahead of the curve, he’d still been willing to leave him behind. 

In the end, nobody could leave. The Watchers had sealed the portal. 

But it’s the thought that sticks with Jimmy, even when he pretends it doesn’t. 

Martyn trying to leave Jimmy on Evo. Martyn tricking Jimmy on Last Life. Martyn lying to him just this morning. It’s the thought of it that still sticks with him. 

“Can I trust you?” he asks. 

“Yeah, of course,” Martyn says. “I’m loyal.”

“You’re loyal to Ren.”

Jimmy takes a bit of pleasure in the way Martyn sucks in a breath. It’s a low blow, but it works. He doesn’t know what the two of them have going on, but he knows Martyn would betray him twice over for Ren. He’s since learned about Martyn’s Shadow Alliance plans in Last Life—how Martyn was lying when he said the two of them could run away together, but not lying about being willing to betray the Southlands. Lizzie had told him about it months later on Empires. 

Normally, Jimmy wouldn’t have held the betrayal against him. Not this long into the future, at least. It’s a death game; these things happen. But normally Martyn isn’t sleeping in the same room as him. 

“Ren isn’t here right now,” Martyn responds, every word clipped and intentional.  

Martyn feels dangerous to team with. Martyn might leave. Martyn doesn’t have any qualms about betraying people in these games. But Jimmy would follow Martyn into any fight if they were on the same side. He stood next to Martyn and faced things that the two of them still won’t talk about. He knows the sound of his breathing when he sleeps.

He and Martyn fall into rhythm together.

“You wouldn’t be here if he was,” Jimmy mutters. 

“What—What are you on about tonight?” Martyn says. “Huh? What’s gotten into you tonight?” He doesn’t sound as angry as Jimmy expected him to. Instead, he almost sounds…worried. 

“I’m fine,” Jimmy says listlessly. “I told you, I was just thinking.”

“Nuh-uh, you never think! Look at me. What’s up?”

“No.”

“Be like that then. I’ll come to you,” he says, and Jimmy hears the sound of rustling blankets followed by footsteps across the wooden floor. Seconds later the bed dips slightly, and it jostles his foot that he has been keeping very still. This sets off fire in his nerves, and Jimmy gasps. 

“Ow,” he whines. 

“I didn’t even touch you,” Martyn says. His voice is sharp in that acerbic tone he’s so good at, where every sentence is met with either snark or wit.  

“You moved the bed.”

“Oh,” Martyn says and then, “Oh. You’re all battered right now. Broken and bruised, not thinking straight. You know, I got down to five and a half last session. That hurt like a—it hurt a lot. It gets better.”

“Yeah, it hurt less after you died from it,” Jimmy says. “No thanks. I’ll stay on green.”

Martyn’s frowning. “You’re in an awfully bad mood tonight,” he says. “You’re like actually upset right now, aren’t you?”

“I failed my task,” Jimmy says. 

“So?” Martyn asks. “You weren’t the only one who failed today. Can hardly get worse than being the only yellow, if you know what I mean.” He laughs softly. 

“I just needed to tell someone to tell me to get out, but nobody would.” Jimmy sighs. “But they—nobody wanted me there. Nobody. The only reason they didn’t say anything is that they wanted to help me with my task.”

“I don’t know if I see the problem there, Tim,” Martyn says. “Aside from the whole ‘they were too nice to you for you to succeed.’ You said that earlier, that nobody was rude enough to say the line.”

Jimmy’s been turning that around in his head for a while too. What’s wrong? Why does he feel so bad that people were nice to him? Why is he scared that Martyn agreed to be allies? Something about the situation was making him feel awful tonight but he has to work to pin it down. The feeling gets triggered first. He has to track down the logic of it afterward. 

He just feels—he feels like they all hate him. All of them. And he hates himself too, so he gets it. There’s something wrong with him and he’s never seemed to be able to figure it out and fix it. He can’t look into the mirror of his soul and see the problem. He can’t adjust his behavior to get rid of it. No matter what he does, it’s there. 

The problem is just him. He’s deficient. He can’t fix something that’s innate. 

The thing is, it’s not really about how people wanted to help him succeed today, it’s the underlying reasons for it. It’s why they helped him. 

“It was just…obligation,” he says after a minute. “It was just an obligation. They were being polite. Nobody said anything because they wanted to help with the task, not ‘cause they actually were willing to let me stay with them. Not because they wanted me there. They just wanted to get rid of me faster.”

“I mean,” Martyn says, dragging out the word. He’s puzzled. “Weren’t you trying to be intentionally annoying about it, though? To get yourself kicked out so they’d say the thing? I saw whatever you were doing in Scott’s house. You were being so weird about it.”

Jimmy presses the palms of his hands into his eyes. His eyes are watering now, little prickles of tears that threaten to spill over if he blinks too much. He doesn’t want Martyn to see. It’s also the most he’s moved in a while, and the motion makes his vision go fuzzy on the edges anyway. 

“Maybe I want someone to stay,” Jimmy says, voice cracking. “Maybe I want someone to want me to stay. Even when I’m being especially annoying. Even when I’m being me.”

For a moment, the room is so quiet he could hear a pin drop. Then Martyn just says, “What?”

“I don’t—I don’t want people to leave me, or lie to me, or pretend to want me in the room when they’re actually just happy the moment I go home.”

“Tim,” Martyn says. “Do you actually think all that? That people hate it when you’re yourself?”

Jimmy shakes his head. “I dunno. Maybe. Maybe not. It’s bad tonight.”

“Are you sure it’s like that?” Martyn says. “I mean, like—do you think that’s an accurate idea of what’s going on, or just your brain tellin’ ya that? I had fun with you today. Wouldn’t have followed you home afterwards if I didn’t.”

He knows he’s having irrational thoughts about this. He knows he’s had irrational thoughts before, so this time they might be irrational too. He can recognize this part of the cycle, at least. But the problem is, are they irrational this time? Are they? Is he confident they are? How can he be confident they are? Is Martyn just telling him what he wants to hear so he’ll stop acting stupid? 

Will Martyn be here in the morning? 

He grimaces. “I think I need to sleep,” he whispers. “This no-regen nonsense hurts and it’s making everything worse.”

Martyn doesn’t know what to say, so he dodges it.  “Do you…d’you want me to call someone for you? Who could help better? Maybe Scott, or Tango, or Grian….or maybe not Grian, but anyone else really…”

Jimmy turns his head to look at Martyn, revealing his face again. Martyn’s eyes are wide and unsettled. He is sitting on the bed, but he’s also sort of hovering, being very careful not to touch Jimmy. They’d been joking earlier, why aren’t they now? Jimmy’s not sure. They operate well when there’s a bit to play into, but there isn’t one now. He thinks maybe their years of playing bits have left them without the words to truly communicate anything else. 

While looking at Martyn, it strikes Jimmy: He doesn’t even realize. He thinks there’s someone else more important to Jimmy who could be in the room right now instead of him. It’s almost laughable. Martyn’s right, there’s many people in Jimmy’s life who are important to him. Who can, and have, helped him. But is it Jimmy’s fault that Martyn doesn’t realize he’s still one of them? 

While looking at Martyn, it strikes Jimmy: He has to give this alliance a try anyway. He can’t write it off before it begins. It might be doomed to fail. Certainly will be, with Martyn being the first yellow and Jimmy’s illustrious record of survival. It might hurt him. It might fix him. 

What’s actually real, though, is that Martyn is here right now. It feels like the old days. They only get scraps of time together these past few years. A MCC team here, a death game there. They’re rarely on the same servers as each other. They don’t see each other like they used to. They don’t live together anymore. They don’t sleep in the same room anymore. It makes Jimmy’s chest ache.

“I’d rather have you here,” he says finally.  

Martyn is surprised. “Oh!” he says. “D’ya want me to do anything?”

“No,” he whispers. “Just stay while I fall asleep. I’ll be okay again in the morning.”

Jimmy closes his eyes and they feel like they burn underneath his lids. There’s tears drying on his cheeks. His ankle still throbs. 

He feels fingers card through his hair gently, the touch hesitant and light. Uncertain.  “Shh,” Martyn says. “Big men don’t cry.”

Jimmy tries to sleep, and knows that isn’t true. 

[noffy96]

Okay. I haven't seen a lot of people talk about it yet. Because I have a feeling a lot of people are dropping of tsams because of what happened in the last arc.

But I really wanna talk about old moon for a second. Because I've been really liking these past few episodes.

But first. I must say i am pretty bummed that I am getting this after how nexus/new moon had been handled. I think it could have been done way better. And I am not surprised it left a bad taste in a lot of people's mouth. No matter how you look at it.

But I am not gonna hold that against what old moons character (for now)

While I would have liked a bit MORE out of a reaction from sun. I am kinda glad they are taking this more calm/detached approach.

It feels like we get a bit of calm after weeks of angst and stress that was surely needed. Also it gives old moon a few times to act on trying to do better in small ways and succeed. Before getting to get put in front of a BIG desission again. And seeing if he will fuck up big time. Small time or not at all.

Personally I would like it if he fell back, but not all the way. But we'll see how it goes.

In absolutely LOVE how awkward he was with earth

Just you could feel it dripping of every second of that conversation. And just the fact that we learned through this that he can't cook was hilarious

. And how he interacted with dazzel as well.

Just being fascinated by her. And just...at the end that sentiment of "I don't know what you are. But I want to help you find out"

I dunno it felt very sweet.

Him getting drunk with Monty was fun. Glad to see them still being friends and have a person he is not so stilled with. (Also hope sun gets to find out and tease him for it. )

And then there is how he is interacting with sun. Sun still seems distant. Sun is seemingly just trying to go through the motions and getting him up to speed. But emotionally not fully checked in.

So far, sun hasn't called moon brother again....at least I don't think so? Just moon. And I think it kinda shows that despite sun being friendly and willing to at least mend things. He ain't there yet.

But old moon seems to be trying, and legit trying. He still runs his mouth and seems to notice when he might even on accident be putting sun down. So much so he might be a bit... overcorrecting with the ' I don't mean you by that' type comments.

And he is involving sun. Telling him about the new lap. Showing him. Giving him the option to get his magic back About what he plans to do for dazzel. Not hiding that he is doing something for Monty. Wanting sun along to look for the thing ruin made.

And him talking to sun about KC and earth misconception despite saying initiallu that telling him might not be the best idea.

(also just most of the lab episode was really nice. Conversations still feeling strained...yet reaching over the smaller. Easier to talk about gaps. When the big ones feel so big)

I just.

It feels to me. That he is LEGIT trying. And while I dont love how we got to this situation. I do like these moments. They feel good.

I am excited to see more of that develop. I am still hesitant on als the stuff that is gonna have to come to pass with nexus/new moon and dark sun.

But right now i am liking this. And wanted to ramble positively about the show for a bit.

This show makes me feel crazy with how contradictory it can make me feel on certain espacts of it.

While sorry for the long rambly post.

Just needed to get it out of my system sorry about any spelling mistakes. I blame my phone. My autocorrect and the late hour.

Okay...bye

Edit.

Also just the whole family doing d and d was fun. And I wanna see more (and as i saw some people say. There is still a spot on that table for solar to join. And yes. Leg him join family game night)

[lady-ashfade]

Guilty

Poly!Anthony lockwood & Lucy carlyle x Fem!reader.

I call him Anthony and lockwood because i am that way. Idk. Also, I’m sorry if this sucks I am sick and finishing this at 5 am in the morning.

Warnings: Poly relationships, blaming one’s self, sadness, spelling mistakes.

You felt guilty.

So, so, very guilty for feeling you tried to control. It wasn’t right, you felt so selfish to have feelings for them both at the same time- When they were already a couple. But it’s not like you haven’t felt this way before they got together…But it still ate you up inside.

You met, Lockwood when George introduced you two. George, called you and ask you to come visit his new agency and that’s when you met the most charming and handsome boy you had ever met. They why he looked at you, the honeyed words he spoke…His smirk or soft smile. It was captivating.

You joined the agency when they asked you to, George knew you needed some where to work and you were very talented. You were trained very well with a rapier, it almost compared to lockwoods skills. That’s when the relationship bloomed between the two of you, becoming close within a matter of a few weeks. Your little crush didn’t go away and only grew worse. You didn’t have the confidence to acted on your feelings, even when it felt like he was flirting with you. But that was lockwood, he was a flirt no matter who he talked to.

Then you met, Lucy. She was beautiful. Her talents were amazing to watch. It was nice to have another girl around the place and not just the boys. The more you hung out with her the more you realized you felt the same about her as lockwood. You liked everything about her, the way she carried herself, how she was a powerful woman and the facted she was pretty.

One night with Lucy you both stayed up late in your shared room and listened to her worries, and even about the friend she had back in her hometown. You comforted her they way she needed. You felt a connection as you held her hand and let her hug onto you. But when she fell asleep you pulled yourself back from it, knowing there was no reason for her to like you back.

After all, you saw the way they looked at each other.

The same look you gave them.

Then you watched as they become a couple and it broken your heart more then you thought was possible. But it was what you deserved for falling in love with them both. And all you could do was watch and put on happy a face, because even if it killed you inside. You wanted nothing but their happiness.

Even now, as you sat in the kitchen early in the morning.

“I was thinking, there’s a case in the paper. It sounds like a type one and easy, it would be a nice change of pace.” George mumbled while putting a mug up to his lips. It was the morning so everyone was pretty tired.

“I’ll look into it. Why don’t you and y/n research it today while we go talk to the owners.” Lockwood spoke and you perked up at his words. Lucy was sitting by him with their hands interlock on top of the table.

“I can’t.” His eyes met yours confused as they all turned to look at you. “And why not?” You took a deep breath and got slightly embarrassed. “I have plans that I can’t cancel- Not again.” That caught their interest.

Lockwood leaned forward and arched his brow. “And why not? I don’t remember you having any plans.” There was no way you could get out of this situation without telling them. I mean your saying no to work for this- They deserve to know.

“Fine, but I don’t want you guys to go crazy. So, I have a date today.” The look on Lucy and lockwoods faces drop but go unnoticed by you. George was smirking into his mug, “With who?” He asked and you shook your head.

“Someone you don’t need to know.” Then lockwood cut in. “I think we need to know- As your boss and friends. It’s our business to know.” You laughed and sat up. “This girl from the coffee shop. Honestly i didn’t know what to do at first, but I need to get back out there.”

“What’s her name?” Lucy asked while the grip on her boyfriends hand was shared. “Alice, she’s actually really sweet.” They shared at look of worry.

“Well, I am happy for you,” George came to the back of their chairs and hit their shoulders, “Aren’t you guys?” The way his voice and gripped affected them. He was taunting them, and they could hear the grin on his lips. Lockwood and Lucy wanted to kill him.

“Very happy for you.” Lucy forced herself to speak and act like she was happy. Lockwood smiles and leaned back, putting on his famous face. “Good for you.”

Their hearts tighten up and wanted to burst into a million pieces. It was their own faults. Waiting to long to ask her out. The couple was so in love with y/n, but so scared to lose her. If only they had been quicker to confess, she would be theirs already.

But on the other side of the coin you were aching at their reaction. It seem as though they didn’t care about your date and that they were really happy for you- I’m so stupid. The thought screaming in your head. How could you feel sad about them being happy for you?

“Well, I actually should go get ready. I hope to hear all about the case tonight.” You got up from your seat and shot them a smile before walking out the room.

The room was quiet at the couple stared at each other, no words but their eyes saying everything. George however was a bit happy. Not about his friends being sad but that they are all idiots by not saying anything to each other. This was their only chance.

“I can’t believe you didn’t say anything.” George came around and sat in the chair where you once sat. “About what?” Lockwoods question made him laugh. “About the date. You guys are bloodily idiots if you let her do this, she could actually enjoy it.”

Lucy looked at him with a annoyed look, “Isn’t that what a date is for.” George slammed down his mug on the table and put his weight on the table. “Not when it’s not you guys.” He took a breath and looked between his friends.

“The only thing stoping your relationship is you! I know you have feelings for her and now is your only chance. If she goes out that door then you may never get another chance, she’ll live happily ever after without you. And I will not be listening to your pity party forever.”

He was right.

Shit, he was right.

“We need to stop her.” Lucy had enough. You were the only other one in her life that she was willing to share her happiness with. She craved to have you in her life and love you the way she loves lockwood. Lucy pulled lovkwood up but he didn’t move and just looked at her, almost petrified.

“What if she doesn’t want us.” He was right. After everything she still couldn’t feel the same and that terrified him. Not knowing is easier because when you know, every bit of hope leaves. And he did no want you leaving. “We need to find out. The least we can do is try.”

You hummed to yourself as you held up the outfit to your body in the mirror, the place was a little bit of a wreak from the clothes you had thrown everywhere. But it was no longer a shared room, not really. Lucy moved into lockwoods room for the most part but only came back when they got into a fight or wanted to spend time with you.

The door slammed open and you heard heavy rushed footsteps come up the stairs. Your eyes locked onto the people you love as they breathed heavily and stared at you. Being confused you look back at them and just stay still.

“Has something happened?” You asked curiously.

“Don’t go with her.” The two of them say together. That made your head spin even more. Why didn’t they wanted you to go? “And why not?” Setting down the clothes you put a hand on your hip. And the next words coming out their mouths would make your stomach drop.

“Because we love you.”

Because they loved you. Of course they did, who wouldn’t love someone like you? After every night you are there to warm their heart, put a smile on their faces and just be there for them since day one. When they thought of love, it was with you.

“Oh.” The small words came out your mouth as the world spinned. Almost feeling light headed your legs almost gave out, your eyes widened but so did your brain with questions. Did you hear them right? Was this all a dream to make you wake up in agony.

When you shut down staring at them and the small noise you let out worried them. This was it. This was when the lost you forever. You didn’t love them back, they must freak you out now. Leave it to them to make things awkward.

“You-, hmm.” You cleared your throat after you gain your conscious back. “Like, are in love with me? Not just they, “Hey, I love you buddy” way but in the “I wanna kiss you” way, right?” The burning on your cheeks as you asked that question was embarrassing.

“Yes, we- Want to kiss you.” The way Anthony was speaking wasn’t like him, he was nervous and almost shy. Lucy was staring at you with a scarred look in her eyes, the same way he also looked. God, they were telling the truth!

You broke out into a smile and let out a laugh, “Oh, guys.” You ran towards them and pulled them both onto a hug because they looked like they needed it more then you. They were shocked for a minute but pulled you into with a tight embrace.

“Does this mean you’ll cancel the date?” Lucy asked in your shoulder making you laugh and pull away. “Does this answer your question?” You leaned in and kissed her lips, you closed your eyes and it felt like you were on cloud nine.

“I want one, can’t leave me out.” You both pulled away from the kiss with a giggle, and you gave him a kiss that was just as soft. “We would never dream of it.” You spoke and glanced between each of their eyes.

Lucy wrapped her arms around you and pulled you close as Anthony looked at you from above, he took your chin with his fingers and started to kiss you again. Lucy started to leave soft kisses on your neck and shoulders.

“I still need to cancel.” You tried to speak but Anthony wouldn’t stop kissing you and you could feel his lips turn into a smirk. “Call her later, it’s our time with you.” Lucy spoke into your ear with a smile, her embrace was so warm and it gave you comfort.

For the rest of the day they treated you like royalty, welcoming you into the relationship. They couldn't stop holding onto you and never wanted to let go of you but that was fine. They were yours now, and you weren't letting them go either.

Ah

For the rest of the day they treated you like royalty, welcoming you into the relationship. They couldn't stop holding onto you and never wanted to let go of you but that was fine. They were yours now, and you weren't letting them go either.

For the rest of the day they treated you like royalty, welcoming you into the relationship. They couldn’t stop holding onto you and never wanted to let go of you but that was fine. They were yours now, and you weren’t letting them go either.



[shiraki-yurara]

On-Screen Lovers Part 2 Story Event - Jace - Chapter 1

Disclaimer: Morganatic Idol belongs to Cybird & ABC Frontier.

My Notes: Translation is for entertainment purpose only. Translation may or may not be correct. Please ignore any grammar mistakes.

One night during a busy yet fulfilling life-----

---

(Phew…… I was busy today so I'm a little late.)

Rina: Hm? That is……

When I walked into the dining room on my way home from work, I found Jace-san and Sakura-san there.

Sakura: So, here's the script.

Jace: Hmm, I'll check it out.

Jace-san received a thick booklet from Sakura-san.

(I just heard it was a script…… What kind of material is that?)

I was wondering how to call out to him when Jace-san noticed me.

Jace: Welcome back, Rina-chan. Did you just get home?

Sakura: Ah, good work. I didn't even notice.

Rina: Both of you, good work.

I walked over to Jace-san, he gave me a gentle embrace and kissed me on the cheek.

Rina: Ah, Jace-san. Just now is embarrassing.

Sakura: It's true. If you're going to flirt, I hope you pick the right time and place.

Jace: Eh~? If your girlfriend appeared in front of you, wouldn't you normally do something like this?

Jace-san, with a pout on his face, put his arms around my waist, so I quickly made a suggestion.

Rina: In that case, why don't we go to your room, Jace-san? I'd like to have a long talk with you.

Jace: Oh, that's a good idea. So, Eito-san, can we call it quits now?

Sakura: That's fine. I gave you what I wanted to give you, so you can relax for today.

Jace: Okay--, good night then.

Rina: Good night, excuse us.

After bowing to Sakura-san, I left the dining room with Jace-san.

---

Rina: Was what you were talking about earlier with Sakura-san about a new job or something?

Jace: Hmm? Oh, yeah. I was given a script.

Jace-san nodded as he sat down next to me on the couch.

Jace: Actually, I've been offered a lead role in a movie right now.

(A movie! Moreover, he said a lead role just now……)

Rina: That's amazing. Jace-san, this is your first time working in a movie, right?

Jace: Yeah, so I'm a little nervous.

Apparently, the movie was a romance movie about forbidden love, and Jace-san's role was that of “a spy who falls in love with a woman from a rival organization”.

Jace: I have a meeting and script reading coming up, so I need to check it before then.

I quickly flicked through the script that Jace-san gave me.

Rina: Wow…… There's a lot of action scenes, it looks exciting.

Rina: And Jace-san's character is…… how should I put it…… a wild man?

Jace: Ahaha, that's right. The so-called "Ora Ora" type.

Jace: It's quite different from my image, but I think they purposely chose me for the role.

Rina: Purposely?

As I tilted my head, Jace-san nodded slowly.

Jace: Yeah, I've been friends with the director of this movie since we started shooting music videos.

Jace: He has been telling me for a while that it would be good if I branched out more.

Jace: That was something I was thinking about too, so this talk came at a good time.

Jace-san's expression was gentle as he spoke, and his trust in the director was clear.

(It’s such a wonderful story……)

Rina: Certainly, Jace-san, you have recently been actively accepting offers that go beyond the framework of an idol.

Rina: The public's reactions also said that you have become more human and attractive……

Jace: That's right, and they said I could show more of my different sides.

Rina: After hearing about it, I am really looking forward to it.

Jace: Hehe, if Rina-chan has high expectations of me, then I'm super motivated~

Jace: It's my first role so I'm a bit nervous, but I'll see it through.

Seeing his smile made my heart warm too.

At that moment, Jace narrowed his eyes dazzlingly and-----

Rina: ? Eh…… Nnn.

Suddenly the distance between us became zero and our lips lightly touched.

As I let out a cry at the sweet sensation, Jace-san smiled slightly.

Jace: Sorry for the suddenness. But as we were talking, I felt like kissing you……

Jace: After all, it's thanks to you that the scope of my work has expanded like this, right?

Rina: Thanks to me?

Jace: Yes……, I changed after meeting you.

Jace: That's why I think I was able to be entrusted with a different job than I had been doing before.

Rina: Jace-san……

Jace: Thank you so much. I'm always grateful to you, Rina-chan.

Rina: That’s…… I'm really happy to be by your side, too.

Rina: There are days when we can't meet because of work, but I'm always happy whenever we can spend time alone together……

When I told him this in a shy tone, Jace-san groaned, as if he couldn't stand it.

Jace: ~~~, why is my girlfriend so cute?

Rina: Eh? Kyaa……

Jace-san embraced me and we collapsed onto the couch.

When I hurriedly looked up after being pushed down, a beautiful face appeared before my eyes.

Jace: ……Then let's make out as much as we want.

Rina: !

Jace: Once the filming begins, we'll have even less time to meet than we do now.

Jace: I need to feel you while I still can.

His voice was filled with sorrow as he pleaded, making my heart ache.

(I want to spend more time with Jace-san too……)

Filled with love, I stretched out my arms and wrapped them around his neck.

Jace: ! Rina-chan?

Rina: I'm happy to see you doing well, Jace-san, and I'm really looking forward to this movie.

Rina: So I will do my best to support the filming so that it goes smoothly and the movie becomes a hit.

Rina: But……, Jace-san, just like you, I'm sure I'll get lonely during the filming.

Rina: I want to touch you right now……

Jace: Rina-chan……

The conversation broke off, and our lips met again.

The kiss quickly turned into a deeper one.

Rina: Nnn, ah……

Jace: Fufu, so cute. You already looked charmed.

Rina: ……Please don’t say it.

Jace: Hmm, what should I do? I want to see you being embarrassed more.

The conversations we had in between kisses made me feel a ticklish sensation.

Just touching someone I love could make me feel so fulfilled-----

(I didn’t know this until I met Jace-san.)

Rina: I love you, Jace-san.

Jace: I love you too. I won't let you go today so prepare yourself.

Rina: Yes……

Embraced by his warm arms, I surrendered to the feeling of happiness.

[alessiathepirate]

Duskwood

PAST 2 A.M.: Richy Roger x fem!reader

Summary: "Can you please talk to me til I fall asleep? I don't want to be like, alone alone you know."

Notes: English isn't my first language. I apologize for any mistake I may have made while I wrote this short story.

So... Moonvale didn't really catch me - not like Duskwood did the very first time I played it. I decided to replay Duskwood once again and thought: why not give the characters some appreciation on Tumblr as well?

I hope you'll enjoy it :)

Warnings: SPOILERS! (please finish the game before reading), swearing

•••

Hey!

I can see that you're awake too.

Richy looked at the screen of his phone and frowned. Of course he was awake! All those things about the Man Without a Face were keeping him up at night, not being able to fall asleep.

His mind was going and going, the cogs in his brain turning.

But what could she want? It was late, way past 2 a.m.. At the very least she should be asleep.

Haha, you got me!

I can't really fall asleep now.

Yeah. I get it.

There's just too much on my mind right now.

Well, it wasn't surprising.

She was pulled into this mess and until a few days ago she had no idea whatsoever who they were. She was also empathetic - he liked that about her a lot. And because of that she felt useless - she was far away, unable to help.

You and me both.

But are you okay?

Dumb question, but still... he wanted to know.

He liked her. Liked her a lot.

And although it was absolutely neccessary to mess with her too, to try and keep her away, he sometimes - everytime - felt bad about doing so.

I don't know. Maybe?

Not really?

I'm worried about Jessy.

Richy swallowed, glad that they were only texting. Otherwise he would've been caught red handed.

He had to do that too. But it wasn't anything serious. He didn't want to hurt Jessy. He made sure she was okay.

I know. I am worried too. But Jessy's strong. She'll pull herself through this.

And then we can all go and kick that Man's ass.

Richy chuckled. A hint of nervousness was in his voice.

Well said.

So...

So what?

You sure you're not in love with her?

With Jessy I mean.

Richy grinned, blush painting his cheeks red.

No, of course not.

Jessy was a great friend and a nice girl, although sometimes a way too distracted employee, but still-- she was just a friend.

The question made him smile, suddenly all his worries forgotten. It was cute - the uncertainity.

Sometimes he wondered if she had someone else too.

Umm...

Yeah. I'm pretty sure.

Like very sure.

Alright then.

So...

What about you?

What about me?

Are you in love? With anyone I mean.

Richy looked at the three dots and small pencil in the left corner. He'll know. He'll know the answer soon.

No. I'm not.

Single life's great, isn't it?

Richy laughed.

Yeah it is.

Her being free of any romantic emotion for anyone gave him hope. Maybe... Maybe if he cleans this mess up, he'll have a chance.

So... I kinda wanted to ask for a favor.

Richy raised one of his eyebrows.

A favor? Past 2 a.m.? What kind?

Sure. What can I do for you?

Can I call you?

Richy felt his heartbeat quicken, his pulse jumping up and down.

Call him?

Is everything okay?

Yeah, I just...

Can you please talk to me til I fall asleep?

I don't want to be like, alone alone you know.

Richy looked at the screen in disbelief.

She trusted him that much. She liked him that much.

For a while he didn't know what to type.

Are you still here?

Shit...

Yes. Sorry I'm here. I just don't even know what to say...

Why me?

The three dots with the pencil appeared again - then disappeared. It happened once again, and then her answer finally appeared on the screen.

I like you.

I mean a lot.

It's okay if you don't want to I just don't want to be completely alone right now.

Texting is just fine too.

The messages had appeared quickly, one after the other. She must've been nervous. It wouldn't have been surprising - this call would be more... personal. More of a personal need than anything else.

Instead of answering, Richy simply just called her.

And she picked up - after swallowing down a tiny heart attack.

"Hi..." she whispered, her voice hoarse and tired.

It must've sounded hoarse. She knew she cried a lot after what had happened to Jessy, and she haven't really found her voice since then.

"Hi." Richy didn't sound nervous or stressed at all - tired, maybe. Tired a whole lot. "Is everything okay?"

"Better now." she smiled although she knew he couldn't see it. "I just needed someone to get my mind off things."

"I'm happy to help." she could hear the smile in his voice.

"Thank you, Richy. Really..." she pulled the covers up, hiding her whole body from the cold room. Even though the room was still dark and cold, it wasn't that lonely anymore.

"No problem." silence wanted to settle in, but Richy stopped it just in time. "So... this club of ours isn't too fun when we can't sleep at night, huh?"

She chuckled. She hoped he heard it.

"No, definitely not. But at the very least we are in the same boat."

"Well said."

She closed her eyes for a second, then opened them again. The world seemed to finally slow down, her mind got quieter - she felt the sleepiness in her eyes.

"Tell me something. Something fun. Like when you told me about the dare-house." she asked and then got quiet as she waited for an answer.

"Well, there was this one time when Dan got a job at the florist'..." Richy began and she let out a chuckle.

"Jessy already mentioned this one." she confessed.

"Did she tell you what we did after we found out?" he asked.

She could clearly hear that he was surpressing a laugh.

"Not really..."

"We decided to order this very big bouquet, full of roses and everything. We made him write 'To my bestest friends' with a heart on it. He didn't know we were the ones who ordered it of course, so when all of us turned up there for it he was really surprised."

She giggled.

"Poor guy. Was he mad?"

"Upset is a better word for it." he laughed too.

"Upset?"

"Well he might've thrown us out of there..."

She turned to rest on her back as she giggled, imagining the whole scene play out. All of them standing there - the whole group including Hannah too...

Hannah.

They have to find Hannah. They have to make the culprit pay. Especially after what he did to Jessy.

Richy was suddenly saying her name. He must've noticed how quiet she became.

"Sorry, I just... got distracted."

"The bad kind?"

She sighed.

How does he always know?

"The bad kind." she explained. "Just... take care of yourselves, okay? Especially you and Jessy, now that she was attacked and you were marked."

"We'll look out for ourselves, don't worry."

His voice was strange. She could hear something in it. Something what wasn't like him at all. There was no joy in it, no joke in it. It was completely serious - the very bad kind of serious.

But before she had a chance to question it, Richy spoke up again.

"But you have to look out for yourself too. Jessy would want that, wouldn't she?"

Damn, he knew how to get her to do what was good for everyone.

"She'd want me to have a good night's sleep." she agreed. "But she'd want the same for you as well."

It was quiet for a while again.

Then ignoring the serious topics they began to talk about, Richy continued to talk about different things that had happened to them, long before Hannah disappeared.

He told her how Cleo messed up her pyramid cake once so almost everyone in the group got food poisoning... How Richy accidentally scratched a client's car... How Hannah once poured a whole bottle of beer onto someone at the Aurora... How Thomas once got so drunk that he forgot Hannah was his girlfriend and started to cry when she told him she wasn't single... Or how Jessy once made them have a horror movie marathon, even though Lilly wasn't the biggest fan of it.

She sometimes laughed or smiled.

And after a while she got too tired to answer.

Some time ago her eyes closed and she fell asleep, completely oblivious to the fact that Richy finished his last story and chose to not say anything else. He continued to listen to her breathing, waiting patiently.

Then after some time, after he was sure she was asleep - that she won't wake up anytime soon, he said:

"I'm so sorry, MC. But I have to finish this now."

His voice was full of guilt.

He felt guilty.

He felt every ounce of hope disappear.

He won't have a chance to make everything better.

Then the call ended...

[averagemizukikinnie]

"I'm sorry I deceived you, I'm sorry I couldn't tell you."

TW: HUGE warning for SH (it’s what the fic evolves about pretty much) , ED implication, cursing

a/n: it’s my first time in writing for a pair, i apologize for any grammar or spelling mistakes in advance since english isn’t my first language!! there are also more notes at the end. this fanfic can also be interpreted as platonic

“23, 24, 25…”

. . .

The bigger the number got, the more aggressive Mizuki became, and the deeper the slashes cut. They don’t remember how their abdomen looked when it was clear, all they can see now is red and brown lines over it, some are even white.

“Ahahaha… I’m really filthy and disgusting, aren’t I? I ate more than I’m supposed to when I was at the diner with Ena, Mafuyu, and Kanade. I made a promise to tell Ena the truth of what I’ve been keeping inside long ago, yet I still avoid the topic whenever it’s brought up being the coward I am. I’m surprised they didn’t leave just like everyone did…” . While they were indulging themself in their self-deprecating self-talk, they went in deeper than intended. It wasn’t really a problem anyways, their parents were out of the city for work, their sister lives overseas, no one could stop them from getting so engrossed in their own mind.

. . .

1 hour later

*doorbell rings*

“Mom and Dad aren’t supposed to be back until next Tuesday, who could it be?”. They panicked for a split second when they remembered they were supposed to have a sleepover with Ena tonight. “Good thing I finished cleaning up just a moment ago” they mumbled to themselves right before they put up their usual grin, when had they gotten so good at switching their expression? That is a question that they’re unsure of what a right answer for it could be. They felt the burning sensation of the clothes brushing against their stomach —but thankfully for them—, they were already used to it, so hiding it was a piece of cake, they already hide so much anyways.

“Yaho!~ Woah you arrived just 3 minutes late, that’s a new record!! Did poor lil’ bro have to shake the entire room to wake you up?”

“I knew this would happen.”

Ena muttered under her breath. “Can’t you just say a normal greeting for once whenever we both meet up alone?”

“Waaaaaahhh!! You’re so mean!~”

Mizuki fake-cried as they dramatically had the back of their hand on their forehead.

“Yeah yeah whatever. Anyways, can we just actually get inside?”

They finally settled in Mizuki’s room. Ena felt so fascinated by the aesthetic of the room, it felt so… Mizuki. She could tell they poured their heart in making it to their liking. It might not be obvious from first glance for others, but for Ena it is.

As Ena’s eyes were hovering around, she noticed the torso near the mirror with an unfinished project on it that seemed like it collected some dust, she found it a little strange since she had this idea Mizuki is the type of person to get absorbed into whatever project they’re working on if it’s related to their passions. Ena recalled some of Mizuki’s rambles about clothes making on Nightcord, she secretly adored these rambles even if she knew nothing about that side of fashion herself; because she can hear Mizuki being so passionate and full of joy. If she ever admits it out loud she will never hear the end of it thanks to Mizuki’s teasing.

“Oi~ Earth to Ena— Does the princess need to sleep already?~”

“Huh?! First of all, why the hell are you calling me that?? Second of all, is zoning out for just a single moment a sign of sleep deprivation now?? Ugh this is going to be a really long night.” Mizuki couldn’t help but burst out laughing at Ena’s reaction, her reactions are one of the reasons they tease her more than other people.

. . .

Later on, they both decided they will play on Mizuki’s gaming console. It was kept up in Mizuki’s closet, they haven’t used it for some while. They bought it back in those times as a way to distract themselves even further from reality. It was so up high, Mizuki was wondering how on Earth they got it there before.

“Ah! I’m finally getting a grasp of it!” , just when they said that, they lost balance and fell on their back.

Ena immediately rushed to Mizuki to check if they’re fine, and help them get up if needed.

“Are you alright?? Did you get hurt? Do you need help getting up?”

“It’s ok I didn’t get hurt! I’m totally fi-“

Right when they started to get up, one of the console’s controllers fell on their abdomen, right where the fresh, deep, red scars are.

“Again?? Seriously what’s up with its location? Anyways are you ok? Again did you get hu-“

As Ena was saying that, she saw a dark red spot forming on Mizuki’s white shirt. Her face turned white when she realized what it was, it was blood.

“Mizuki, can you let me open the shirt to see the wound and clean it? Please? It would be terrible if it gets infected…”

“… No.”

“Why?… It would be difficult for you to get up and clean it up all by yourself.”

“The reason is not important… I can handle th— SHIT—“

“Mizuki please let me see it. It’s clearly hurting badly-“

“As I said, I can handle this.”

“You’re obviously lying. Whether you allow it or not, I have to check the wound and how bad it is.”

Mizuki grabbed Ena’s wrists with all the force they could gather, Ena struggled for a bit as she was letting herself go from their grasp, thankfully, she eventually managed to do so thanks to Mizuki’s state.

Ena finally lifted up their shirt, and what she saw was horrifying to say the least. Her face got devoid of any traces of curiosity just now just for it all to be replaced with horror, as if she saw a ghost. She saw all the variations of red, brown, and white contrasting against Mizuki’s light skin color, how there was some skin peeling around some scars, and most importantly, how fresh some of them were.

On the other hand, Mizuki wanted to escape from Ena’s gaze on their body as fast as possible, she saw what they thought was the most disgusting, filthy, and deformed part of themselves they ever showed to her. They thought she was going to abandon them for good, just like many people did. Everything Mizuki did in order to preserve their bond with Ena, it all seemed useless and futile now, just like they feared.

What snapped Mizuki out of their thoughts was Ena’s shaky breathing, they thought that this is it, that there’s now another person on the mental list of people they lost because of something about Mizuki.

“What the FUCK is wrong with you?!”

“You’re so fucking disgusting.”

“I never imagined someone this filthy exists, but here you are.”

Mizuki can already feel the words coming, they embraced themselves for it, it’s a matter of few seconds before they actually hear them… Or so they thought.

“… For how long have you been doing this?… I might not be the best at comforting, but why didn’t you tell me sooner? I- I just- I wish I realized this sooner. I’m so sorry for not being the person you needed. You were going through such a hard time without me knowing about it… I just-“

Mizuki didn’t expect this would be her reaction, they thought it will be the last time they ever talk, they thought this was going to be the end.

“I *sob* I���m so sorry… I can’t believe *sob* I didn’t know about this sooner…”

Ena grabbed both of Mizuki’s hands and gently kissed them, she then proceeded to wrap her arms around them and pull them into a tight hug. Mizuki froze in their place because of how astonished they were, they never thought of such outcome, not just did Ena not give the type of reaction they thought they were going to get, not just did she sound genuinely concerned, but she was also apologizing for not knowing better?? They never even dared to try dreaming of this yet here it is being actual reality.

Slowly, Mizuki started to wrap their arms around Ena, and they could feel tears forming in their eyes as well, they kept it inside for so long yet they couldn’t bring themselves to say a word out of fear of their past repeating itself again, they didn’t want to lose yet another person they want to stay with.

“No… please don’t say that to yourself it isn’t your fault in the slightest… Please don’t cry…”

“How the hell am I supposed to NOT cry?? Seeing you in pain hurts me and this time and this time it affected you physically and *sob* and to make matters even worse I couldn’t help you because of how oblivious I am…”

“Ena please… It’s my fault for being such a coward and not saying anything… I don’t want to see you cry because of me…”

Ena’s expression turned to a determined one, with tears still in her eyes, her nose still red, and her cheeks still puffy. She cupped Mizuki’s cheeks with both her hands and wiped the tears with her thumbs and said

“Mizuki, don’t say this about yourself. You are not a coward for not telling me about your struggles, l know it can be hard to open up to someone, no matter who that someone is. But whenever you feel like you’re struggling again and are close to doing this to yourself, come to me instead okay? You don’t have to force yourself to tell me you’re so close to doing it, just come to me and start the conversation like you normally do. Please.”

This was Mizuki’s last straw. Before they knew it they started sobbing uncontrollably with Ena having a firm, right grip on them. They were feeling so many emotions, they were keeping it inside for so long, they were so scared of Ena leaving them because of this secret of theirs they deemed “ugly and filthy” , they were in so much pain, they had so much on their mind, and most importantly, they were happy the what-it’s in their mind didn’t come true.

They were happy Ena didn’t reject this part of them. They want to stay with her as long as they can, even if their time together isn’t meant to last much longer, they hope it is.

Note: i am not implying that sh scars are something scary in ena’s reaction, the reason i wrote her reaction that way is because i wanted to interpret that she’s horrified because it’s happening to Mizuki. I hope you understand i meant no harm in the way i wrote her reaction, i struggle with sh myself.

[glatisant-questing]

Yamazaki's Short Story from Hakuoki Manyo no Shou Limited Edition Booklet (Translation)

This story is sooo cute that I got to translate it. I often wondered if Yamazaki and Chizuru are of the same MBTI type. The two of them are just perfect together.

(As for the Chinese herbal medicine, it seems that there is no need to buy more for the time being… The problem is the tools and medicines used for treating wounds and Western medicine…) 

I am completely ignorant about the tools and medicines for medical arts and Western medicine. I have no choice but to consult with Yukimura-kun.

As I was thinking about these things, I looked for Yukimura-kun, but I couldn’t find her. 

When I went out to the courtyard, I saw Shimada, who was about to go somewhere, so I called out to him. 

“Shimada-kun, have you seen Yukimura-kun? I have something to ask her.” 

“Oh, Yamazaki-kun. I saw Yukimura-kun hanging kimonos in the courtyard.” 

“The courtyard, huh? Thanks.” 

I thanked Shimada-kun and hurried to the courtyard. 

As Shimada-kun said, Yukimura-kun was in the courtyard, hanging kimonos. 

“Yukimura-kun.” 

When I called out to her, she quietly turned around. 

“Ah, Yamazaki-san, hello.” 

“Are you hanging kimonos?” 

“Yes, it’s almost the season to change clothes. I want the other Shinsengumi members to wear them comfortably.” 

“…I see.”

It is said that women tend to notice the details more than men, and I strongly feel that when I look at Yukimura-kun.

 (I also pride myself on being attentive, and I often receive compliments from the Vice-Commander, but still I can’t match Yukimura-kun.) 

As I was thinking about that– 

“So, Yamazaki-san, do you have something for me?”

 I came to my senses when Yukimura-kun asked me. 

“Ah. Actually–” 

I asked Yukimura-kun for advice on buying medical tools and Western medicines. 

“…So, if there is anything missing, I thought I would buy it on the way.” 

“I understand. I will check our backlog as soon as I finish this.”

 Yukimura-kun said so and tried to resume her work.

 “I’ll help you. It will be faster if we do it together.” 

“But… are you sure? Yamazaki-san, don’t you have other work to do?” 

“It’s not that I don’t, but it’s not so urgent that I have to do it right now. Besides, it would be better if you come with me for shopping. And we might be able to find Koudou-san on the way.” 

“Yamazaki-san…” 

Yukimura-kun looked at me with a grateful expression… 

(When I’m looked at like this, I feel… uneasy. I know she doesn’t have any ulterior motives, but still…)

 She bowed her head, expressing her gratitude. 

“Thank you for your kindness. I’ll take your word and go with you.” 

“Don’t mention it. After all, we are the ones who are forcing you to live in inconvenience. Rather than that, let’s finish this quickly. You also would like a bit more time looking for Koudou-san, don’t you?” 

“Yes, I understand–”

The moment she finished speaking, a small yawn escaped from her mouth.

 “Ah… I’m sorry! I was up late last night.” 

She apologized, looking away in embarrassment.

 “Didn’t you sleep well?” 

“I was reading the book on Eastern medicine that you lent me the other day.” 

“…You don’t have to rush to read it. I told you that you can return it anytime when I lent it to you.” 

“That’s true, but…” 

“If you’re sleepy and tired–”

 I was about to suggest canceling today’s outing, but I stopped myself. 

For Yukimura-kun, who was allowed to go out alone, she couldn’t miss the opportunity to look for Koudou-san. 

“You should take a nap over there. I’ll take care of the clothes.”

 “That’s-- too much!” 

Yukimura-kun immediately refused my offer… 

“If you go out with me like this, it will be more troublesome if you collapse on the way. Just follow what I said.” 

She showed a sad expression on her face. 

“You’re right. I’m sorry.” 

“No, I didn’t mean to blame you… Sorry, I chose my words poorly.” 

“No, it’s not like that…” 

Seeing Yukimura-kun’s expression become more depressed, I regretted my earlier mistake. 

“I know very well that you’re working hard for the Shinsengumi. It won’t hurt to take a nap. I’ll call you when I’m done, so rest over there.”

 I secretly worried that she would take my words in a bad way again, and waited for her reply. 

A smile finally appeared on her lips.

 “I understand. Then I’ll take your word and rest for a while. Thank you always, Yamazaki-san.”

 She bowed her head slightly and sat down on a bench nearby. She closed her eyes and began to doze off. 

(I didn’t do anything worth thanking me for. What is it… How nice is she?)

 I thought so, but I felt relieved by talking to her. 

(She’s good at medicine, of course, but maybe she also has the power to heal broken hearts without knowing it.) 

I thought so as I started working on the clothes that I took over from Yukimura-kun (somewhat forcibly).

Before long– I was in trouble after I finished hanging all the kimonos.

The problem was when to call out to her and wake her up. 

Probably, if I call out to her now, it would be too short a time to be called a nap.

 But if I go and do other work and then wake her up, it might be too late. 

But more than that, I can’t leave Yukimura-kun sleeping here. 

(Well, what should I do…) 

I was thinking about these things as I stood next to her. 

When I am looking at Yukimura-kun sleeping defenselessly, I feel somewhat sorry to wake her up.

 Or rather, I feel like I want to keep looking at her like this——. 

As I dwelled on these thoughts, a gust of wind began to blow.

 “Hmm… Ah… Um, how long have I been sleeping? The kimonos?” 

Yukimura-kun woke up and asked me, looking around at me and the surroundings. 

“O-oh, I’m glad you’re awake. I finished hanging the kimonos and was about to wake you up.” 

“Is… is that so… I’m sorry. I really left it all to you.” 

“Don’t worry about it. Come on, get ready to go out.” 

“…Yes!”

 She left a cheerful reply and went away.

As I watched her back, I wish I could have seen her sleeping face a little longer…

---fin---

[luciawithoutj]

It is 2 am so sorry if what I am writing doesn't make any sense but I finally realized what vibe Joker Out songs give me and why I like them so much. Also english isn't my first language and I have dyslexia so I am sorry for any spelling mistakes or if my thoughts sound like they are all over the place.

It is a bit long post so I put the cut.

First I am gonna talk about Vem Da Greš because I am listening to it right now and it got me thinking. That songs feels like those teenager (or even childhood) nostalgic memories of late august or september until beginning of october (depending on where you live) or later spring when days are getting longer. But basically that time of the year when it is hot enough to be outside and wear summer clothes but chilly enough to not die from the heat. That song feels like evenings in those months. It feels like those moments when you are just going home from the beach while the sun is setting down. It feels like those evenings when you are sitting on the balcony or in some park with your friends and just chatting and laughing. That song is so summer sunsets colored. It makes you feel really warm inside but at the same time deep inside of you you feel a bit of sadness and stress crippling in because you know that these beautiful moments won't last forever so you try to enjoy the moment and take most of it into your heart. It feels like those last free day before school starts on monday. Also this songs are really small suburbs or small towns or even villages vibes.

And a lot of their songs give major evening - night vibes and that is why they concerts work so great during those time of day and they are perfect for small venues because you feel it on more personal level then when you are part of huge crowd. (maybe other people have different experiences, this is just mine from concerts I went too). Their songs make you want to make memories but not just to post them on social media but to actually be present and enjoy the moment while it lasts. Take it all in. Be human and enjoy life.

But they have those songs that have more darker themes which are so gloomy late nights coded or have vibes of afternoon in winter months when it has been dark since 3 pm. And some of them really go for those balkan winter vibes that some westerners that see those "eastern europe aesthetic" videos and call them sad and depressing but we who grow up there feel warm, at home and nostalgic. In that darkness, concreate, coldness, rainy weather we see some kind of harsh beauty. Those songs really gives those big cities with lot of concretes that feel empty and lost in time during winter months. It feels like you are stuck in still picture forever and you are drowning and can't get our but in a way you maybe don't want to escape and want to keep drowning and losing yourself until you become nobody just a dark figure at 3 am sitting on a cold bench, smoking and drinking while you think how everything went downhill. Basically those songs are just big cities where you go to chase better life but end up losing.

Barve Oceana and Tokio are only day songs in my mind. They are only really light and pastel and colorfull. And for some reason ngvot for me is especially really really early morning song that gives me hope for new beginnings (but that is maybe because that song got me into fandom and because of it I made my first (kris guštin) poster and joker out fanart in general).

Overall they make type of songs that feel really nostalgic for diffrent times in my life and they make me appreciate life more, both the nice part of it but also the moody and dark part becuse both have their special vibes and beauty.

Honestly I am not sure what did I yapp about and if anything makes sense but one day when my art skills get good enough I want to make joker out fanart that perfectly capture those summer evening with friends in small neighborhood and alone winter nights in big concrete city vibes.

If you came this far thank you for reading all that mess and thank you for coming to my TedTalk.