#* unseen courage ( ic . )

[elryuse]

The Story Of, How A Cafe Worker Wins The Heart Of A Superstar

Wonyoung X Male Reader

Tags : Idol Wonyoung, Cafe Worker Male Reader, Fell in love at first sight, Kiss, Strangers to Lover, Fluff, Full of emotion

The cafe bell chimed a familiar melody as the door swung open, announcing the arrival of a new customer. Busy with wiping down a table, I momentarily glanced up, my breath catching in my throat. A girl, shrouded in a white bucket hat and a mask, stood awkwardly by the entrance.

"Hi there! Welcome to Sunray Cafe," I greeted warmly, my usual chipper self shining through. "What can I get you today?"

The girl, her eyes sparkling even beneath the mask, approached the counter. "Can I get a large Americano, please? With no sugar, and maybe less ice?" Her voice was soft, melodic, like a gentle stream tinkling over smooth pebbles.

"Absolutely! Coming right up!" I punched in her order on the register, a thrill shooting through me. Today was definitely turning out interesting. As I busied myself brewing her coffee, I stole another glance at her. There was a certain aura about her, an ethereal quality that made her stand out even amongst the usual cafe crowd.

"Here you go," I announced, placing the steaming cup on the counter. "One large Americano, no sugar, less ice. Just the way you like it, I presume?"

A hint of a smile played on her lips, barely visible beneath the mask. "Thank you," she murmured, her voice barely a whisper.

The silence stretched for a moment, filled with an unspoken awkwardness. I yearned to strike up a conversation, to get to know the girl behind the mask, but something held me back. Perhaps it was the air of mystery surrounding her, or maybe just a touch of shyness on my part.

She settled down at a corner table, the clinking of her spoon against the ceramic mug the only sound for a while. I watched her from afar, mesmerized by the way her gloved fingers cradled the cup, how her eyes sparkled with an unseen emotion as she sipped her coffee.

As the cafe slowly filled with the afternoon crowd, I found myself drawn to her table again and again. Each time, our eyes would meet for a brief moment, a silent exchange that sent a flutter to my heart. Who was this girl? What was her story? I couldn't help but wonder.

Days turned into weeks, and the cafe slowly became synonymous with Wonyoung's presence. Every afternoon, like clockwork, she'd walk in, a vision in white with her signature Americano order. Each time, a wave of exhilaration would wash over me. We'd fallen into a comfortable routine – our exchanges started with greetings, then brief conversations about the weather or the latest K-Pop releases.

One sunny afternoon, as I placed her usual cup on the counter, I mustered up the courage to ask, "The Americano with no sugar, less ice – is that your favorite, or just a habit?"

A soft laugh, like wind chimes on a summer breeze, escaped her lips. "A bit of both, I guess. But honestly, it's more about the company now." Her words sent a jolt of joy through me. Was she implying...?

"Really? You like coming here just for the company?" I couldn't help the hopeful lilt in my voice.

She met my gaze, her eyes sparkling with an emotion I couldn't decipher. "The coffee's not bad either," she admitted with a playful smile. "But yes, the company is definitely a perk."

Emboldened by her words, I took a chance. "Actually, my name is Y/n," I blurted out, feeling a bit flustered. "W-what about you? I keep seeing the name 'Won' written on your cup."

A hint of surprise flickered in her eyes, but it was quickly replaced by a soft smile. "Won is fine," she replied, her voice barely a whisper.

As she turned to leave, I blurted out, "Wait!" She paused, her back to me. "Can I, uh... walk you home?" My cheeks burned with a blush, but I held her gaze.

To my surprise, she didn't refuse. Instead, she turned around, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "Sure," she said simply. "That sounds nice."

As we walked side by side, the setting sun casting an orange glow on our path, I felt a lightness in my step, a joy that resonated deep within me. We talked about everything and nothing – our dreams, our favorite foods, the stray cat that frequented the back alley of the cafe. It felt effortless, comfortable, like we'd known each other for years.

When we reached her doorstep, the air crackled with a nervous energy. "Today was nice, Y/n," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Would you like to do it again sometime?" I asked, hope flickering in my chest.

A genuine smile bloomed on her face, as radiant as the sun that had just dipped below the horizon. "I'd like that," she replied, taking out her phone. "Here, put your number in."

As I entered my contact information, her phone vibrated. Glancing at the screen, I noticed she saved my number under the name "Sunray Cafe." A pang of disappointment shot through me, a silent acknowledgement of the distance between our worlds.

But then, she added a single emoji – a bright yellow sun – beside my name. The small gesture sent a warmth blooming in my chest, a promise of sunshine and happiness to come. "I'll call you, Won," I said, my voice filled with newfound determination. "And I'll make you happy, I promise."

She tilted her head, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "We'll see about that, Sunray Cafe." With a final wave, she disappeared into her apartment building, leaving me with a heart full of hope and the promise of a future filled with sunshine, coffee, and maybe, just maybe, a love story blooming amidst the aromatic warmth of the cafe.

The following afternoon, butterflies danced a frenetic jig in my stomach as Won walked into the cafe. Today, I had a surprise planned. Mustering up all my courage, I approached her as she placed her usual order.

"Hey, Won," I greeted, my voice a touch shaky. "So, I was wondering..." I hesitated, searching for the right words. "Would you like to go out on a date with me sometime?"

Her eyes widened beneath the mask, a flicker of surprise giving way to a hesitant smile. "A date?" she echoed, her voice barely a whisper.

"Yeah," I blurted out, my cheeks burning. "Just to, you know, hang out outside of the cafe."

To my utter delight, she didn't say no. In fact, a hint of a blush seemed to color her cheeks, hidden beneath the white mask. "I'd... I'd like that," she replied softly.

We set a date for the weekend, and the anticipation gnawed at me for days. Finally, the day arrived, and I found myself waiting for her at a park, a bouquet of sunflowers – her favorite – clutched nervously in my hand.

When she arrived, my breath hitched. Even in casual clothes and the ever-present mask, she looked radiant. Today, however, there was a certain spring in her step, a shy smile playing on her lips.

"Hey," I said, extending the flowers towards her.

Her smile widened as she accepted the bouquet. "Thank you, Y/n. These are beautiful."

The afternoon unfolded like a dream. We strolled through the park, the scent of summer flowers filling the air. We talked about everything and nothing – our dreams, our favorite movies, the stray cat that frequented the back alley of the cafe. Her laughter, a melody tinkling in the summer breeze, sent shivers down my spine. There was a comfortable ease about our conversation, a sense of connection that transcended the barrier of the mask.

Later, we decided to catch a movie. As we sat shoulder-to-shoulder in the dimly lit cinema, a thrill coursed through me. Stealing a glance at her, I noticed her eyes glued to the screen, tears glistening in them during a particularly emotional scene. In that moment, I felt a surge of protectiveness towards her, a desire to shield her from any harm.

As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the city, I suggested a final stop – Sunray Cafe. The familiarity of the place brought a smile to both our faces.

"Welcome back," I said, ushering her in.

The cafe was bustling with customers, but a corner table by the window was miraculously free. I settled Won into the seat, her eyes sparkling as she took in the familiar surroundings.

"This place feels different somehow," she remarked, tilting her head.

"Because you're here with me," I replied impulsively, my cheeks burning with a blush.

She met my gaze for a long moment, a blush creeping up her neck despite the mask. Then, she smiled, a shy, sweet smile that sent my heart into overdrive.

"I'm glad I am," she whispered.

I ordered her usual Americano, this time with a hint of caramel syrup, hoping to surprise her. As I placed the cup on the table, I blurted out, "There's something I've been wanting to ask you."

She looked up, her eyes curious. "What is it?"

Taking a deep breath, I said, "Won, would you ever consider taking off your mask?"

A flicker of vulnerability crossed her features, a silent plea in her eyes. Then, she shook her head gently. "Not yet, Y/n. Maybe someday."

Disappointment tugged at my heart, but seeing the unspoken emotions in her eyes, I understood. This wasn't the right time to push her.

Taking her hand in mine, I squeezed it gently. "Okay," I said softly. "Whenever you're ready."

A warm smile bloomed on her face, chasing away the shadows in her eyes. "Thank you, Y/n. For understanding."

We spent the rest of the evening talking, sipping our coffee, and simply enjoying each other's company. As we walked out of the cafe hand-in-hand, the night sky ablaze with stars, I knew this was just the beginning of something special. The mask might have hidden her face, but it couldn't hide the connection we shared, a connection forged over cups of coffee, shared dreams, and stolen glances under the summer sun.

The next day, A sudden jolt of electricity shot through me as the cafe door chimed, announcing a new arrival. But it wasn't just any customer. It was Won, but this time, there was another man by her side.

He was tall and impeccably dressed, but his aura was cold, his expression unreadable. He held himself stiffly, a stark contrast to Won's usual radiant presence. Even with the mask on, I could sense the tension radiating from her, a silent plea for help I couldn't quite understand.

The man approached the counter, his voice devoid of warmth. "Black coffee, hot. No sugar, and a side of rock sugar."

The odd combination sent a shiver down my spine, but I nodded curtly, professionalism overriding my growing unease. As I brewed the coffee, I stole a glance at Won. Her eyes darted around the cafe nervously, avoiding mine altogether.

When I placed the order on the counter, the man picked up the cup and took a long sip. His face contorted in disgust. He then reached for the rock sugar, a single, unrefined cube, and popped it into his mouth before taking another sip of the coffee. He grimaced again, then let out a heavy sigh.

"Looks like the merger will have to be expedited," he said to Won, his voice laced with a coldness that sent chills down my spine. "Your father called. He needs a faster turnaround on the debt settlement."

Won's mask seemed to shrink around her face, her shoulders slumping in defeat. But amidst the fear in her eyes, there was a flicker of defiance. "Marriage?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

The man nodded curtly. "That's what your father wants. Apparently, a public display of unity will appease the investors."

A suffocating silence descended upon us. The man seemed oblivious to the turmoil brewing within Won, his gaze fixed on his now lukewarm coffee. But I knew something was terribly wrong. This marriage, this entire situation, felt forced, a business deal masquerading as love.

The man finally set down his cup, his gaze snapping towards Won. "Who is he?" he demanded, his voice laced with a dangerous edge. "The one you truly care about."

The air crackled with tension, the question hanging heavy in the air. My heart pounded in my chest, a drumbeat against my ribs. Won's eyes met mine for a fleeting moment, a silent plea for understanding, for help. And in that shared look, everything hung in the balance.

Unable to bear the suffocating tension any longer, I took a deep breath and approached their table, my voice firm but calm. "Excuse me," I said, forcing a smile, "but could you please keep it down? There are other customers here trying to enjoy their coffee."

The cold man's icy gaze snapped towards me, his expression hardening further. He took a slow, deliberate sip of his coffee, the clink of the cup against the saucer the only sound for a moment.

"A lowlife like you wouldn't understand professionalism," he sneered, his voice dripping with disdain. "Perhaps you haven't noticed, but I could easily buy this entire cafe and kick you out on the street."

A surge of anger flared within me, but I fought it down. This wasn't about me. It was about Won, about the fear and helplessness etched on her face.

"Professionalism isn't about money," I countered, my voice steady despite the tremor in my heart. "It's about respect. Respect for your partner, respect for others around you."

The man scoffed, a humorless sound. "Partners? Don't make me laugh. This is a business arrangement, nothing more." His gaze flickered to Won, his voice softening a touch. "Isn't that right, darling?"

Won remained silent, her eyes downcast. My heart ached for her, for the unspoken words trapped behind the mask.

The man seemed to take her silence as agreement. He flashed a cold smile in my direction, his parting words laced with a veiled threat. "Consider yourself warned, kid. Don't get in the way of things you don't understand. I won't let her be taken that easily." With that, he rose from his seat, leaving Won and me alone in a tense silence.

As the cafe door chimed shut behind him, the weight of his words settled heavily upon us. Won's shoulders slumped further, and for a moment, I thought she might crumble. But then, she lifted her head, a flicker of determination replacing the fear in her eyes.

"Y/n," she whispered, her voice trembling slightly. "We need to talk."

My heart hammered against my ribs, a frantic drumbeat against the sudden surge of hope that bloomed in my chest. This wasn't just fear in her eyes anymore – it was a spark, a defiance against the future that had been thrust upon her.

Before I could respond, she surprised me by reaching out. Her gloved hand cupped my cheek, the touch sending a jolt of electricity through me. My breath hitched as she leaned in closer, the mask a barrier between us yet somehow insignificant in the face of the raw emotion in her eyes.

"Thank you," she murmured, her voice barely a whisper against my lips. "For everything."

Then, in a move that stole my breath away, she leaned forward and kissed me. It wasn't the soft, sweet kiss I'd dreamt of. It was a fleeting touch, a soft brush of cotton from her white mask against mine, yet it held a universe of unspoken emotions. The taste of coffee and something uniquely hers lingered on the fabric as she pulled away, a blush creeping up her cheeks despite the mask.

"I... I need to go," she stammered, her voice flustered. "But this isn't over. Not by a long shot."

With that, she turned and hurried out of the cafe, leaving me standing there in a daze. My hand flew to my lips, the warmth of her touch still tingling on my skin. The kiss was a promise, a declaration whispered against the storm brewing in her life.

Hope, a fragile thing, blossomed in my chest. Won might be trapped, but she wasn't defeated. And neither was I. We had each other, a connection forged over stolen glances and shared dreams. Together, we would find a way. The road ahead might be difficult, but with the faint memory of her touch and the soft brush of cotton from her mask against my lips, I knew I wouldn't face it alone.

A year had crawled by, each day a monotonous echo of the last. The cafe, once a haven for stolen glances and whispered dreams, now felt hollow without Won's presence. I wiped down the counter with a practiced efficiency, a ghost of a smile clinging to my lips. The memory of our date – the sunflowers, the movie, the shared coffee – played on repeat in my mind, a bittersweet reminder of a happiness that felt like a lifetime ago.

Just as I was about to flick off the neon "Open" sign, a soft rapping sound startled me. A figure stood hesitantly on the other side of the glass door, the setting sun casting a golden glow around them. My heart lurched in my chest – could it be…?

With trembling hands, I unlocked the door. A wave of relief washed over me as I saw Won, her ever-present white mask the only thing obscuring her face. But this time, there was a different glint in her eyes, a mix of determination and something else – nervousness?

Before I could even formulate a greeting, she was in my arms, clinging to me like a lifeline. "Y/n," she choked out, her voice thick with emotion. "I'm so sorry."

Tears welled up in my eyes, spilling over as I held her close. "Won," I croaked, my voice hoarse. "I thought… I thought I lost you."

She pulled back slightly, cupping my face in her gloved hands. Her eyes, filled with a newfound fire, held my gaze. "Never," she whispered fiercely. "That awful man… It turned out he was a corrupt business owner. My dad cut ties with him, but it caused a huge fight with my parents. In the end, I couldn't take it anymore. I had to choose my own path."

A smile, hesitant but genuine, bloomed on her face as she slowly began to untie the straps of her mask. My breath hitched in my throat. For all this time, the girl who filled my days with sunshine had been Jang Wonyoung, the K-Pop idol I adored.

As the mask fell away, revealing the breathtaking beauty I'd only glimpsed in dreams, a blush flooded my cheeks. Her eyes, sparkling with mischief, met mine. "Now you know why I always hid behind the mask, huh?"

A nervous laugh escaped my lips. "If anyone saw you in this cafe, the whole place would explode!"

We both burst into laughter, the tension dissolving into a comfortable warmth that felt like coming home. Wonyoung cupped my cheeks once again, her touch sending shivers down my spine. "It took me a whole year, Sunray Cafe," she admitted, her voice barely a whisper. "But I'm here now. And I'm not going anywhere."

A surge of joy filled me as I leaned in, closing the distance between us. Our kiss was tender, a promise whispered on the wind. "I'm all yours, Wonyoung," I murmured against her lips.

The future stretched before us, uncertain yet filled with possibilities. We had a fight on our hands, the challenge of keeping our love a secret amidst the glare of the spotlight. But together, with the shared warmth of a stolen kiss and a year of yearning, we were ready to face anything. The cafe, once a symbol of lonely longing, was now bathed in the golden glow of a new dawn, the start of a beautiful love story between a barista and his superstar.

The End

[artificial-transmutations]

Max’ Journey - Primeval

When Max came to, his surroundings had changed massively. No longer was he in the dusty archive cellar, but in bright sunlight in what appeared to be a forest. Several huge trees stood tall, their thick branches spreading far into the sky. Max raised his head and looked around. Not only was it bright, but there was also a warm breeze. It was also rather loud around him: Several birds were singing only to be interrupted occasionally by the sounds of unseen animals.

Max's first reaction was confusion. He was in a forest, surrounded by nature, yet he wasn't even wearing a t-shirt. It wasn't that unusual for a scientist to work in his lab shirt, but he still wasn't used to being shirtless in the middle of a forest. Even worse, he felt the cool, moist grass underneath his feet. He was completely naked! Max quickly put his hands over his privates and looked around. Luckily, nobody had seen him exposed like that!

Max let out a deep sigh. His clothes and the strange device were nowhere to be found. How had he lost them? And why? And when? He was suddenly very afraid. Max decided that the best thing he could do was to leave this place. He started walking towards the closest tree, hoping he could find his way back to the laboratory. He soon realized that wasn't going to happen. As far as the eye could see, there were only plants, large ferns and birds. Everything looked so natural and untouched by human hands, that Max didn't dare to approach any closer to one of the massive trees.

"Hello?" Max said, finally finding the courage to call out to somebody. He startled a bird, but other than that, he received no answer. Apparently, nobody was around. The only thing he heard was the chirping of the birds and the rustling of the leaves in the wind. Max decided to walk a bit further, hoping he would find some sign of civilization. Maybe someone would come along eventually and tell him where he was.

Walking with his hands on his privates was not exactly comfortable though. He often needed his hands to brush aside a fern or a branch, so after a few minutes of trying, he just sighed and didn't try to cover himself up anymore. There was, after all, nobody here right now, he reasoned. So, it didn't matter if he had his hands on his crotch. He shortly considered using some leaf as a sort of improvised loincloth, but since he had no string, he didn't see any way to fashion clothing out of the foliage.

After another half hour of walking, his muscles ached, and his bare feet hurt. The forest hadn't changed much, and the warm damp air made him sweat a lot. It wasn't that hot, but it was humid and that made the sweat stick to his body. He desperately needed a shower, but there was still no sign of civilization anywhere to be seen. It was no use, he needed a rest.

After sitting down against one of the large trees for a bit, he continued his way. The sweat was still clinging to his body, and his naked dick and balls stuck to his legs every now and then. Worst of all, he started to feel thirsty. Although the air was humid, Max had not seen a source of water anywhere yet, so he was ecstatic when he heard the sounds of running water after a few more hours of walk. Max rushed to the sound and found, to his delight, a waterfall with a small pond beneath it, sourcing a stream that went off into the forest. Max took a refreshing drink from the cold water and washed his face. After a few moments of relaxing in the sun, he felt better, both physically and mentally. Since it was already late afternoon, Max decided to make camp here.

After checking out the pond and the waterfall, Max took inventory of himself. As expected and feared, walking through a forest naked had left Max dirty from head to toe. The water was ice cold, but Max still decided to take a quick bath in the pond to wash away the worst dirt. Having cleaned himself, Max had the chance to look at his dripping wet body. Amazingly enough, he didn't appear to have hurt himself on his hike. However, something was off: His feet didn't look like they belonged to him at all. They were rough and sturdy and looked bigger than he was used to. Now that he thought about it, he noticed that he didn't feel any pain in his feet after his short break. Additionally, his feet and lower legs were quite hairy, which was odd: Max usually didn't have any body hair at all. His chest, arms and legs were naturally hairless. But the short coarse hairs were there and firmly attached to his legs.

Max finished his bath and was about to get out, but noticed his dick was fully erect. He wasn't quite sure how it happened, but he was completely hard. It was certainly not a situation he was used to, so he tried to hide it. He had a very low sex drive usually, almost asexual. However, now he was clearly sporting an erection. He pondered for a moment if he should stay inside the pond and wait it out, but finally concluded that there was still nobody around to see his indecency. With a sigh of resignation, he stood up and let his penis spring free. It was a little bit embarrassing, but it couldn't be helped, he thought.

It got dark quickly, and Max was very tired from the walk, so he drifted to sleep quickly despite shivering from the wet cold against his naked skin. His dreams were incoherent and wild, with him running through the forest, hunting or being hunted by something or someone.

In the middle of the night, Max woke up. At first, he didn't know why, and he could not see anything. It was completely dark around him and he could not see a single thing. Then, he felt his cock twitch and realized he had woken up from his own arousal. Max had never felt that horny in his entire life. Without thinking much, his right hand closed around his aching cock, and he started to stroke it slowly, enjoying the feeling. His hand glided up and down his shaft and the head of his dick felt like it was ready to explode. With every stroke, his breathing became heavier, and his cock throbbed more. His left hand went down his body through dense hair on his chest. Hair? He stopped shortly in his track, but his throbbing cock demanded attention. He continued his pumping and, after a short while, came with a loud cry all over his body. Almost immediately, he felt very tired again. He briefly wondered if he should clean himself but put that back to tomorrow. He wouldn't see anything tonight anyway.

Max did not clean himself the next morning. His body changed a lot during the night: He was hairy all over and his dried up cum was sticking to his mat of chest hair. Above all else however, Max felt hungry - so he went out to find food. After a short while, he found a bush full of berries which he ate right there. Normally, he would have spent more thought about if the fruit might be poisonous, but he was feeling way too hungry for second thoughts. Besides he had a gut feeling, almost an instinctual knowledge that this berry would be fine. When he returned to his waterfall site, he noticed that he had developed a musky body smell. He sniffed his armpits and smelled a definite manly scent. He also noticed that his body had become slightly more muscular and his chest more pronounced. It was as if he had been transformed into some kind of more primitive, more primal man. And God, he was feeling horny again. Without any reservation, he grabbed his stiffening cock again and started jerking off, occasionally grunting in pleasure.

Over the next few days, Max' changes continued. His body was becoming more muscular, and his senses sharpened. A thick layer of body hair covered his limbs and chest, and a beard grew in. At first, Max wanted to take note of his changes and deduct theories about what happened to him, but as his mind slipped away into a more primitive version of himself, he quickly forgot about it. His new instincts and faster reflexes helped him get by better and better - he soon began hunting and fashioned himself some sort of rag clothing from the fur he collected. More and more, his prior life began to fade and all that was left was Max, the cave man.

He would probably have continued his primitive life, only consisting of hunting, eating, sleeping and jerking off (a lot) and be content with it, wouldn't it have been for a discovery the cave man made one night. He was, again, busy pumping his cock, when he saw a bright yellow light shine from between the trees. With a confused grunt, he stepped closer and saw a swirling portal of yellow light. He had seen this before, but he could not remember where... Regardless, he grabbed his spear and stepped through.

Confused about the setup? Don’t be! You can read the prologue here. You can also continue to the next episode

[wtfisthatfockingthing]

Silent harmonies

Context: Y/N is the replacement for Aether. Dewdrop doesn't like this and he always insults her, but Y/N didn't do anything wrong...

Pairing: Dewdrop (Sodo) x Fem!Reader

Warning: None

Length: 3500~ letter

(Ps.: lately I've been reading a lot of dictionaries out of boredom, so if there are words in it that are not used that much in conversation, I apologize)

Dewdrop strummed his guitar absentmindedly, lost in the haunting melodies that drifted through his mind. The Ghost band practice room was filled with tension, an unseen barrier between the two guitarists, Dewdrop and Y/N. Y/N, the rhythm guitarist who had stepped up to fill the void left by Aether's departure, had become the unwilling recipient of Dewdrop's misplaced frustration. Ever since Aether's departure, Dewdrop found himself yearning for the familiar harmonies and connection they once shared. Y/N was an exceptional musician in her own right, but to Dewdrop, her presence was a constant reminder of what was lost. He struggled to accept her as Aether's replacement, and in his pain, he turned to criticism as a means to cope.

Each practice session grew more hostile, each note became an opportunity for Dewdrop to unleash his discontent. He criticized Y/N's every chord, every strum, even when she played flawlessly. His words were shards of ice that pierced through her heart, chipping away at her confidence and leaving her feeling broken. One fateful day, as the piercing remarks echoed in the room, Y/N could no longer bear the weight of Dewdrop's hostility. In a moment of sheer frustration, she slammed her guitar down, her voice trembling with anger. "I've had enough!" - Y/N's voice trembled, her eyes blazing with emotions. "I can't take your constant criticism anymore, Dew! I didn't choose to replace Aether, and I don't deserve this treatment!" - Tears welled up in Y/N's eyes, a mixture of anger, hurt, and a desperate need to escape. Without another word, she turned and fled from the practice room, her footsteps echoing down the empty hallway.

The silence that followed was deafening. Dewdrop stood there, the weight of his own bitter words crashing down upon him. Regret flooded his heart like a tidal wave as the reality of his actions settled in. He had allowed his pain to consume him, blinding him to the damage he was causing. Dewdrop's remorse fueled his determination to mend what he had broken. He searched tirelessly for Y/N, seeking forgiveness and the chance to make amends. It took hours of searching through familiar spots and hidden corners until he finally spotted her, sitting alone on a park bench, silently succumbing to her tears.

Summoning his courage, Dewdrop approached Y/N. His voice was filled with sincerity, a plea for understanding. "Y/N, I am so sorry," - he whispered, kneeling before her. "I let my grief consume me, and I unjustly took it out on you. I know I've hurt you, and I hate myself for it." - Y/N's tear-stained face turned to meet Dewdrop's gaze, a mixture of skepticism and pain lingering in her eyes. "You have no idea how much your words have hurted me," - she replied, her voice strained. "I gave my all to be part of this band, to support you, and yet you treated me with nothing but hostility." - Dewdrop bowed his head, his own tears threatening to escape. "I didn't want to hurt you, you didn't deserve what I did to you." - he apologized, his voice choked with emotion. "I miss Aether, and your presence as the new rhythm guitarist only amplified that pain. But it was never your fault, and I want to make it right." - Y/N's eyes softened slightly, a flicker of hope igniting within. She could sense the sincerity in Dewdrop's voice, the genuine remorse in his eyes. Slowly, she spoke, her voice strained with vulnerability. "If you truly mean what you say, if you're willing to change, then maybe we can find some common ground." Dewdrop nodded, tears now freely flowing down his face. "I promise" he whispered, his voice trembling. "I will work to earn your trust again, to show you the respect you deserve as a musician and as my bandmate." Together, they sat on that bench. In the stillness of the moment, they shared their pain, their fears, and their hopes. It would be a long road to rebuilding the trust that had shattered, but they were willing to take the first step together.

In the days that followed, Dewdrop stayed true to his promise. He replaced criticism with encouragement, sharing his experience and knowledge with Y/N to help her grow. And slowly, the hostility between them melted away, making room for a newfound harmony within their music and their relationship.

[loving-the-cambridges]

First winter date - Captain Rex - reader

Life day fic exchange 2023 @cloneficgiftexchange

for @dystopicjumpsuit I hope you'll enjoy this :-)

The police station, with its incessant hum of activity, was a world unto itself – a place where stories unfolded every day, some of hope, others of despair. In this world, Rex moved with a quiet authority, his presence both commanding and reassuring. Among the bustling corridors and busy desks, there was a sense of family, a bond forged in the face of shared challenges. Cody, his brother, was a constant figure, his leadership as steady as it was inspiring. Ponds and Fox, his other siblings, added to the familial atmosphere, each with their own unique strengths. Fives and Echo, his cousins, were the younger, more spirited members of this tight-knit group.

In this hive of activity, (Y/N) was a beacon of calm. As a victim counselor, her role was to mend the unseen wounds, to offer solace in the midst of chaos. (Y/N)'s arrival at the station had brought a new dimension to their work, a reminder of the human element in their often mechanical routine.

Rex had been drawn to her from the start. It wasn't just her compassion that captivated him, but the way she seemed to truly listen, to understand the pain of others and guide them through it. He had seen her soothe frayed nerves with just a few words, seen her bring a semblance of peace to tormented souls. And each time, he found himself admiring her more, the professional respect gradually intertwining with a deeper, more personal affection.

But expressing those feelings was a battle in itself. Rex was a man of action, not words. His emotions were a private affair, often hidden behind a facade of stoicism. Yet, with (Y/N), he felt a desire to open up, to share parts of himself he had kept locked away.

The winter evening was a symphony of crystalline beauty, the snowflakes dancing in the air like a myriad of tiny stars. It was on such an evening that Rex found the courage to ask her out. The ice rink, with its festive lights and the promise of shared laughter, seemed like the perfect place.

"Hey, (Y/N)," Rex started, his voice betraying a hint of nervousness. "I was wondering if you'd like to go to the ice rink tonight? Thought it might be a fun way to unwind."

(Y/N) looked up, surprise flickering in her eyes, quickly replaced by a warm smile. "That sounds wonderful, Rex. I'd love to."

The ice rink, aglow with twinkling lights and festive cheer, was a stage set for an evening of clumsy grace and laughter. Rex, with the effortless glide of a seasoned skater, approached (Y/N), who was clinging to the rink's edge like a lifeline. Her determination to spend time with her crush had brought her here, but her skating skills were as untested as a ship's maiden voyage.

"Seems like you've found a new best friend in that railing," Rex quipped, skating up to her with a playful smirk.

(Y/N) rolled her eyes, her grip on the railing tightening just a tad. "Well, it's certainly more reliable than my skating skills," she shot back, her tone light but tinged with a hint of nervousness.

Rex chuckled, extending his hand towards her. "How about you ditch the railing for a while? I promise I'm a better partner than cold metal."

Hesitantly, (Y/N) took his hand, her heart skipping a beat. As they slowly moved away from her safety net, she wobbled unsteadily.

"Whoa there, are you trying to skate or are you practicing your penguin impression?" Rex teased, his grip on her hand reassuringly firm.

"Hey, I'll have you know penguins are very graceful creatures... on land," she retorted, trying to mask her anxiety with humor.

Rex laughed, his eyes sparkling with mirth. "Alright, let's focus on the basics. Just follow my lead and try not to mow down any innocent bystanders."

They began with simple glides, Rex patiently guiding her through the motions. Every time she faltered, he was there, his presence a constant source of support.

"You know, for someone who clings to railings, you're surprisingly adventurous," he noted, as she took a shaky glide forward.

(Y/N) grinned, feeling a surge of confidence. "I have a good teacher," she said, her voice softer, more sincere.

As they continued, Rex's teasing became a comforting rhythm, a playful undercurrent to their conversation. He joked about starting a skating school for the hopelessly uncoordinated, playfully suggesting she could be his first student. She laughed, the sound mingling with the crisp night air, her earlier apprehension melting away like snow in the sun.

They attempted a cautious turn, Rex's instructions interspersed with light-hearted comments. "Okay, now just pivot on your left foot... or just do a wild spin, that works too!"

(Y/N)'s attempt at a pivot ended in a whirl of arms and a near collision, but Rex's quick reflexes saved them both from a tumble. They ended up in a close embrace, her hands on his shoulders, his arms around her waist. For a moment, they just looked at each other, the laughter fading into a moment of silent connection.

"See, you're getting the hang of it. Soon you'll be out-skating me," Rex said, his voice warm, his smile genuine.

(Y/N) felt a rush of warmth, not from the exercise, but from the feeling of being this close to Rex, of being the focus of his playful yet caring attention. The evening was no longer about skating; it had transformed into a dance of words and laughter, a shared experience that spoke of budding feelings and the promise of more.

As they left the ice, their hands still joined, the night seemed to wrap around them, a blanket of stars and possibilities.

The transition from the ice rink to the bustling Christmas market felt seamless, a continuation of the evening's enchantment. Rex, still holding (Y/N)'s hand, felt an unspoken reluctance to let go, their fingers intertwined as they navigated through the vibrant maze of stalls and lights. The market was alive with the spirit of the season, each corner a new discovery, each sound a note in the festive symphony.

(Y/N)'s eyes sparkled under the canopy of Christmas lights, her gaze wandering from one stall to the next with childlike wonder. "Look at these ornaments, Rex! Have you ever seen anything so detailed?" she exclaimed, her voice a mix of awe and excitement.

Rex leaned in to look at the intricate glass baubles she was pointing at. "They're pretty amazing. You have a good eye for these things," he replied, his tone laced with genuine admiration.

As they moved on, (Y/N) couldn't help but shiver slightly, the cold finally catching up with her. Rex immediately noticed, his concern evident. "Getting chilly?" he asked, his hand instinctively rubbing her arm in a comforting gesture.

"Just a little," she admitted, a slight quiver in her voice.

Rex's eyes scanned the nearby stalls, landing on one that promised warmth in a cup. "How about a hot drink to warm you up? What would you like?" he asked, ready to fetch whatever she desired.

"Surprise me," (Y/N) said with a trusting smile, her eyes twinkling in anticipation.

Rex returned shortly, two steaming cups in his hands. He handed her a hot chocolate topped with marshmallows, the steam rising like a warm embrace. "Thought you might like this," he said, his eyes searching hers for approval.

(Y/N) took a sip, the warmth of the chocolate spreading through her. "It's perfect. How did you know?" she asked, her smile brightening the already illuminated night.

Rex shrugged modestly. "I just took a wild guess. Glad I got it right," he replied, his own cup of mulled wine warming his hands.

They continued their stroll, sipping their drinks and sharing laughs. Rex pointed to a ring toss game. "Bet you can't get three rings on those bottles," he challenged, his eyes gleaming with playful mischief.

(Y/N) accepted the challenge, her throws missing the mark but eliciting more laughter than disappointment. "Seems I'm as good at this as I am at skating," she joked, her laughter infectious.

Rex joined in, his attempts equally unsuccessful. "Looks like we're both in need of some practice," he conceded, his smile never fading.

Their journey through the market led them to a photo booth adorned with festive props. Rex, ever the instigator of fun, grabbed a Santa hat, placing it on his head with a grin. "Your turn, choose your festive disguise," he said, handing her a pair of reindeer antlers.

(Y/N) put on the antlers, striking a pose. "Ready for our close-up, Santa?" she teased, her eyes shining with mirth.

The photos they took were a series of silly poses and laughter-filled moments, each click capturing the joy and ease of their burgeoning relationship.

As they neared a group of carolers, their voices harmonizing in a timeless Christmas tune, (Y/N) felt a pull towards Rex, a desire to be closer. She leaned against him, her head resting gently on his shoulder. "I love this song," she whispered, her breath visible in the cold air.

Rex's arm found its way around her, pulling her closer. "Me too," he replied, his voice soft, his heart full.

The journey from the vibrant life of the Christmas market to the quiet streets leading to (Y/N)'s place was a mix of comfortable silence and soft conversation. The car ride, with Rex at the wheel, felt like a gentle deceleration from the evening's excitement, a gradual return to reality, yet tinged with a reluctance for the night to end.

(Y/N) sat beside him, her thoughts a whirlwind of emotions. The evening had unfolded like a chapter from a fairy tale, each moment with Rex adding another layer to her growing feelings. She glanced at him, his profile illuminated by the passing streetlights, a sense of warmth enveloping her.

As they pulled up to her apartment, the car's engine coming to a quiet stop, a sudden nervousness gripped her. She didn’t want the night to end, not yet. "Thanks for tonight, Rex. I had a really great time," she said, her voice laced with sincerity.

"Me too, (Y/N). It was... it was really special," Rex replied, his tone reflecting a depth of emotion that resonated with her own feelings.

There was a pause, a moment suspended in time, as (Y/N) gathered her courage. "Would you like to come in? Maybe watch a Christmas movie or something?" she asked, her heart racing with the boldness of her invitation.

Rex turned to look at her, surprise and happiness mingling in his eyes. "I'd like that," he said, a smile spreading across his face.

Inside her apartment, (Y/N) felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. She busied herself with small tasks, turning on the lights, taking off her coat, anything to calm the fluttering in her stomach. Rex followed her in, his presence filling the space with a comforting warmth.

"So, any favorite Christmas movies?" Rex asked, his voice casual but his eyes holding a hint of anticipation.

(Y/N) thought for a moment, wanting to pick something that would set the right tone. "How about 'It's a Wonderful Life'? It's a classic," she suggested, hoping her choice would prolong the warmth and closeness of the evening.

"Perfect choice," Rex agreed, settling onto the couch.

In the cozy confines of (Y/N)'s living room, with the final scenes of "It's a Wonderful Life" painting flickers of light and shadow, Rex and (Y/N) found themselves in a world of their own creation. Their confessions of feelings had woven a new tapestry of emotions, coloring the room with an unspoken promise of something profound and beautiful.

(Y/N) felt a whirlwind of emotions as she leaned into Rex, his arm around her, a gesture of comfort and connection. His heartbeat, steady and reassuring under her ear, was a melody that harmonized perfectly with the rapid beats of her own heart. The air between them was charged with a new energy, an anticipation of what was to come.

Rex, overcome with a sense of rightness and completion, looked down at (Y/N), her eyes lifting to meet his. In her gaze, he found reflections of his own feelings – a mixture of wonder, happiness, and a profound connection that went beyond words. The room, with its soft lighting and the quiet hum of the ending movie, seemed to fade into insignificance, leaving only the two of them, suspended in a moment that felt as timeless as it was fleeting.

As the closing credits rolled, the music a soft undertone to their shared silence, Rex gently tilted (Y/N)'s chin up towards him. Their eyes locked, conveying depths of emotion that words could never fully capture. The distance between them lessened, the magnetic pull of their mutual affection drawing them closer.

(Y/N)'s heart raced as she realized what was about to happen. Her nervousness was a fluttering bird in her chest, but it was overshadowed by a profound desire, a yearning that had been building throughout the night. She could feel Rex's breath, a warm whisper against her skin, the closeness sending a shiver of anticipation down her spine.

And then, in a moment that seemed both an eternity and an instant, their lips met. It was a gentle collision, a soft convergence of emotions and desires. The kiss was tentative at first, a careful exploration, but it quickly deepened, fueled by the pent-up feelings and the undeniable connection that had brought them to this point.

The world outside, with its cold winter night and silent stars, seemed a universe away. In that kiss, they found a warmth and a rightness that spoke of shared futures and whispered promises. It was a first kiss, but it carried the weight and depth of something much more, a symbol of a bond that had been forged in shared laughter, stolen glances, and unspoken affections.

As they finally pulled away, a breathless moment later, their eyes opened to a world that seemed brighter, more vivid.

In the aftermath of their first kiss, a silence filled the room, profound and comfortable, wrapping Rex and (Y/N) in a cocoon of newfound intimacy. The flickering lights from the TV cast a soft glow on their faces, revealing shared smiles and eyes bright with emotion.

Rex, his heart still pounding from the kiss, felt a clarity he had never experienced before. Looking into (Y/N)'s eyes, he found the courage to give voice to the feelings that the kiss had only begun to express. “(Y/N),” he started, his voice low and filled with emotion, “I need to tell you... I’ve fallen for you. It’s been building for a while, but tonight, everything became so clear.”

(Y/N)’s eyes widened slightly, a soft blush coloring her cheeks. Her own emotions, a tangled mix of joy and affection, bubbled to the surface. “Rex, I feel the same way,” she confessed, her voice a whisper of shared sentiment. “I didn’t realize it until tonight, but what I feel for you... it’s more than I ever expected.”

Their confessions hung in the air, simple yet profound, bridging any distance that had once existed between them. In that moment, they understood that what they had was special, a connection that went beyond mere attraction or companionship.

With a newfound boldness, (Y/N) leaned in for another kiss. This one was different from the first – it was a confirmation, a seal on the feelings they had just confessed. Their lips met with a gentle urgency, conveying years of unspoken emotions and desires. It was a kiss that spoke of beginnings, of a journey they were now embarking on together.

Eventually, they pulled apart, their smiles reflections of their inner happiness. (Y/N) suggested, “How about we watch another movie?” Her tone was light, but her eyes held a deeper invitation, a desire to prolong the magic of the evening.

Rex nodded, his heart still soaring from their exchange. “That sounds perfect.”

They settled onto the couch, (Y/N) fetching a cozy blanket which she draped over them. As she snuggled into Rex's side, the warmth of their closeness enveloped them, a physical manifestation of the emotional warmth they were both feeling.

As the opening credits of the new movie rolled, they found themselves less focused on the screen and more on the comfort of being in each other's arms. The movie played on, but their attention was on the soft sound of their breathing, the gentle rhythm of their heartbeats, and the warmth of their entwined hands under the blanket.

In the dimly lit room, with the soft murmur of the movie playing in the background, Rex and (Y/N) lay under the cozy blanket, a sense of complete contentment enveloping them. The outside world, with all its noise and haste, seemed a distant memory, irrelevant to the sanctuary they had created here, in (Y/N)'s living room.

Their confessions of affection still echoed in the space around them, a tender yet powerful admission that had changed the very air they breathed. Now, under the blanket, they found themselves in a world of their own making, a world where every glance, every touch, spoke of the deep connection they shared.

(Y/N) looked up at Rex, her eyes shining with unspoken emotions. In his eyes, she saw a reflection of her own feelings – a mixture of wonder, joy, and a profound sense of rightness. It was as if all the scattered pieces of her life had suddenly clicked into place, forming a picture that was more beautiful than she had ever imagined.

Rex, feeling her gaze, turned to meet her eyes. In that moment, words were unnecessary; everything they needed to say was conveyed in the depth of their look. He leaned down, and their lips met in a gentle kiss, a soft caress that spoke of new beginnings and uncharted futures. The kiss was a whisper of promises, a seal on the feelings they had just shared.

As they pulled away, their smiles were reflections of their inner happiness, a happiness that was as much about the presence of the other as it was about the connection they had forged. They stole another kiss, and then another, each one a celebration, a joyful acknowledgment of the journey they were embarking on together.

Lying there, with Rex's arm around her and her head on his chest, (Y/N) felt a sense of completeness she had never known. The sound of his heartbeat was a steady rhythm that seemed to sync perfectly with her own. Every so often, they would exchange a look or a smile, a silent conversation that spoke of shared joy and the comfort of being understood.

Rex, with (Y/N) nestled against him, felt a sense of peace that was new and profound. The weight of his past, the uncertainties of his future, all seemed to fade away in the face of this simple yet profound happiness. He kissed the top of her head gently, a gesture of affection and protection.

The movie played on, but it was merely a backdrop to their own story, a story that was just beginning. Every touch, every shared laugh, every quiet moment under the blanket was a brushstroke in the masterpiece they were creating together.

As the night deepened, they lay there, wrapped in the warmth of the blanket and the warmth of their newfound love. It was a feeling of complete rightness, a sense that, in this moment, in each other's arms, they were exactly where they were meant to be. The world outside could wait; what mattered was the magic they had found in each other's presence, the promise of all the nights and days to come, filled with laughter, love, and the quiet joy of being together.

[songbirdsanctuary]

Safe Space, part 3: Watched

Is is part of a story but can be read as is, but to understand you should read part 1: Panic.

Warnings: none

Word count: 1,014

That night, as Grian drifted off to sleep, his mind plagued by the weight of his worries, he found himself caught in the grip of a vivid and unsettling dream.

In his dream, he wandered through a dark and twisted forest, the gnarled trees looming over him like silent sentinels. The air was heavy with an oppressive stillness, broken only by the distant sound of cawing crows and the rustle of leaves underfoot.

With each step, Grian felt a growing sense of unease gnawing at his insides, a feeling of being watched by unseen eyes lurking in the shadows. He quickened his pace, his heart hammering in his chest, desperate to escape the suffocating darkness that seemed to close in around him.

He picked up his pace, his talons felt like every step he took was in quicksand And then, he saw them – a pair of glowing eyes peering out from the darkness, their gaze cold and merciless. The eyes followed him as he stumbled through the forest, their intensity piercing through him like daggers of ice.

As he pressed on, the forest seemed to twist and warp around him, the trees contorting into grotesque shapes that loomed menacingly overhead. Grian's breath came in ragged gasps as he fought to navigate the nightmarish landscape, his every instinct screaming at him to run faster than he already was.

And then, just when he thought he couldn't bear it any longer, he stumbled upon a clearing bathed in an eerie purple light. At its center stood a figure cloaked in shadow, its features obscured by darkness.

"Who are you?" Grian demanded, his voice trembling with fear.

Grian's breath caught in his throat as he awaited the Watcher's response. The figure remained silent, its piercing gaze boring into him with an intensity that sent shivers down his spine. He could feel the weight of its scrutiny, like a heavy cloak wrapped around his shoulders, suffocating him with its oppressive presence.

As seconds stretched into eternity, Grian felt the tendrils of fear creeping through his veins, paralyzing him with their icy touch. He struggled to maintain his composure, to push back the rising tide of panic that threatened to consume him whole.

But even as his mind raced with a thousand questions, he knew deep down that he already held the answers. The Watchers. They were the stuff of nightmares, whispered about in hushed tones around campfires feared for what they could do.

And now, here they stood before him, their presence a chilling reminder of the unseen forces that lurked beyond the veil of reality. Grian's heart hammered in his chest as he struggled to make sense of it all, to grasp the magnitude of what was unfolding before his very eyes.

"What do you want from me?" he managed to choke out, his voice barely above a whisper.

The Watcher continued to regard him with its inscrutable gaze, its silence a deafening roar in the stillness of the clearing. And yet, despite the absence of words, Grian could sense the weight of its intentions hanging heavy in the air, like a storm cloud on the brink of unleashing its fury.

As the tension mounted, Grian felt a surge of adrenaline coursing through his veins, driving him to the brink of desperation. He knew he had to act, to break free from the suffocating grip of the Watcher's presence before it was too late.

Summoning every ounce of courage he possessed, Grian forced himself to take a step forward, his movements slow and deliberate. He refused to let fear dictate his actions, refused to cower in the face of the unknown.

"You know who we are," the Watcher finally intoned, its voice echoing through the clearing like a chilling whisper. The words sent a chill down Grian's spine, their meaning hanging heavy in the air like a shroud of darkness.

And in that moment, as he stood face to face with the embodiment of his deepest fears, Grian knew that he was in for the fight of his life. But he also knew that he would not go down without a fight, that he would face whatever trials lay ahead with courage and determination.

Grian awoke with a start, his heart pounding in his chest. Sweat beaded on his brow as he lay there in the darkness, trying to shake off the lingering tendrils of his dream.

But even as he struggled to calm his racing thoughts, he knew that the dream held a deeper significance – a warning, perhaps, or a glimpse into the turmoil that lurked within his own subconscious mind.

And so, With a heavy heart and a sense of trepidation weighing on his soul, Grian found himself at a crossroads. The unsettling dream he had just experienced lingered in his mind like a haunting melody, its echoes reverberating through the chambers of his consciousness. Yet, amidst the fear and uncertainty that gnawed at his insides, a glimmer of resolve flickered to life within him.

He knew that he could no longer continue to shoulder the burden of his fears alone, that he needed to face them head-on if he ever hoped to find peace. And so, with a deep breath and a steeling of his nerves, Grian made a decision.

He would accept Mumbo's offer of refuge, seek solace in the safety of his friend's base, and confront the demons that haunted his dreams with unwavering determination. It was a daunting prospect, to be sure, but he knew that it was the only way forward.

As he made his way through the darkness towards Mumbo's base, Grian felt a sense of anticipation building within him, mingled with a tinge of apprehension. He knew that the path ahead would not be easy, that he would be forced to confront his deepest fears.

But he also knew that he was not alone, that Mumbo would be there to support him every step of the way. And with that thought buoying his spirits, Grian pressed on, his determination burning bright against the backdrop of uncertainty.

[davinamikaelsonalwaysandforever]

Ode to Fire and Ice

Hail to the dragon, hail to the wolf,

To fire’s fierce queen, to ice’s brave soul.

In lands far apart, their paths wind alone,

Bound by fate, by blood, by iron and stone.

Oh silver queen, born of a storm’s wild breath,

Who walks unafraid through flame and death.

The last of her house, with dragons at heel,

A breaker of chains, with an unbending will of steel.

You stand as the fire, the dawn’s red blaze,

With fury and mercy, through deserts and haze.

In the dust of empires, you rebuild anew,

A queen of the people, fierce and true.

And the white wolf raised in shadow’s cold grasp,

Bound by his honor, his vows tight and fast.

Son of the North, yet unknown in his name,

A guardian of all from death’s dark claim.

Where others have faltered, his courage holds fast,

With ghostly resolve, through winds icy and vast.

A shield in the darkness, a sword in the night,

In a world steeped in shadow, he fights for the light.

Two stars that rise from lands bleak and far,

One led by moonlight, the other a star.

The fire that burns, the ice that withstands,

Two forces united by fate’s unseen hands.

For they bear the weight of an ancient song,

Of a realm divided, of righting the wrong.

Together they stand, as fire and frost,

To reclaim the dawn, no matter the cost.

Oh, children of sorrow, of honor, of flame,

You journey as strangers, yet share the same name.

In prophecy’s shadow, your paths will align,

To guard against darkness, to break the world’s spine.

So rise, fire and ice, in fierce harmony,

As the dawn’s final hope, as a world yet to be.

Through storm and winter, through shadow’s dread call,

Together you’ll rise, or together you’ll fall.

For in the heart of night, in the blood’s silent flow,

Is the promise of fire, and the whisper of snow.

So sing of the dragon, and sing of the wolf,

Of the flame that endures, and the cold unbreakable soul.

[star-wars-writing]

First Winter Date

This was written for the Life Day Fic exchange for Tumblr Cloneficexchange for dystopicjumpsuit. Rex and OFC have feelings for each other, Rex asks her out to the Christmas market, they haven't put a name to it but anything can happen. first posted on @loving-the-cambridges

The police station, with its incessant hum of activity, was a world unto itself – a place where stories unfolded every day, some of hope, others of despair. In this world, Rex moved with a quiet authority, his presence both commanding and reassuring. Among the bustling corridors and busy desks, there was a sense of family, a bond forged in the face of shared challenges. Cody, his brother, was a constant figure, his leadership as steady as it was inspiring. Ponds and Fox, his other siblings, added to the familial atmosphere, each with their own unique strengths. Fives and Echo, his cousins, were the younger, more spirited members of this tight-knit group.

In this hive of activity, (Y/N) was a beacon of calm. As a victim counselor, her role was to mend the unseen wounds, to offer solace in the midst of chaos. (Y/N)'s arrival at the station had brought a new dimension to their work, a reminder of the human element in their often mechanical routine.

Rex had been drawn to her from the start. It wasn't just her compassion that captivated him, but the way she seemed to truly listen, to understand the pain of others and guide them through it. He had seen her soothe frayed nerves with just a few words, seen her bring a semblance of peace to tormented souls. And each time, he found himself admiring her more, the professional respect gradually intertwining with a deeper, more personal affection.

But expressing those feelings was a battle in itself. Rex was a man of action, not words. His emotions were a private affair, often hidden behind a facade of stoicism. Yet, with (Y/N), he felt a desire to open up, to share parts of himself he had kept locked away.

The winter evening was a symphony of crystalline beauty, the snowflakes dancing in the air like a myriad of tiny stars. It was on such an evening that Rex found the courage to ask her out. The ice rink, with its festive lights and the promise of shared laughter, seemed like the perfect place.

"Hey, (Y/N)," Rex started, his voice betraying a hint of nervousness. "I was wondering if you'd like to go to the ice rink tonight? Thought it might be a fun way to unwind."

(Y/N) looked up, surprise flickering in her eyes, quickly replaced by a warm smile. "That sounds wonderful, Rex. I'd love to."

The ice rink, aglow with twinkling lights and festive cheer, was a stage set for an evening of clumsy grace and laughter. Rex, with the effortless glide of a seasoned skater, approached (Y/N), who was clinging to the rink's edge like a lifeline. Her determination to spend time with her crush had brought her here, but her skating skills were as untested as a ship's maiden voyage.

"Seems like you've found a new best friend in that railing," Rex quipped, skating up to her with a playful smirk.

(Y/N) rolled her eyes, her grip on the railing tightening just a tad. "Well, it's certainly more reliable than my skating skills," she shot back, her tone light but tinged with a hint of nervousness.

Rex chuckled, extending his hand towards her. "How about you ditch the railing for a while? I promise I'm a better partner than cold metal."

Hesitantly, (Y/N) took his hand, her heart skipping a beat. As they slowly moved away from her safety net, she wobbled unsteadily.

"Whoa there, are you trying to skate or are you practicing your penguin impression?" Rex teased, his grip on her hand reassuringly firm.

"Hey, I'll have you know penguins are very graceful creatures... on land," she retorted, trying to mask her anxiety with humor.

Rex laughed, his eyes sparkling with mirth. "Alright, let's focus on the basics. Just follow my lead and try not to mow down any innocent bystanders."

They began with simple glides, Rex patiently guiding her through the motions. Every time she faltered, he was there, his presence a constant source of support.

"You know, for someone who clings to railings, you're surprisingly adventurous," he noted, as she took a shaky glide forward.

(Y/N) grinned, feeling a surge of confidence. "I have a good teacher," she said, her voice softer, more sincere.

As they continued, Rex's teasing became a comforting rhythm, a playful undercurrent to their conversation. He joked about starting a skating school for the hopelessly uncoordinated, playfully suggesting she could be his first student. She laughed, the sound mingling with the crisp night air, her earlier apprehension melting away like snow in the sun.

They attempted a cautious turn, Rex's instructions interspersed with light-hearted comments. "Okay, now just pivot on your left foot... or just do a wild spin, that works too!"

(Y/N)'s attempt at a pivot ended in a whirl of arms and a near collision, but Rex's quick reflexes saved them both from a tumble. They ended up in a close embrace, her hands on his shoulders, his arms around her waist. For a moment, they just looked at each other, the laughter fading into a moment of silent connection.

"See, you're getting the hang of it. Soon you'll be out-skating me," Rex said, his voice warm, his smile genuine.

(Y/N) felt a rush of warmth, not from the exercise, but from the feeling of being this close to Rex, of being the focus of his playful yet caring attention. The evening was no longer about skating; it had transformed into a dance of words and laughter, a shared experience that spoke of budding feelings and the promise of more.

As they left the ice, their hands still joined, the night seemed to wrap around them, a blanket of stars and possibilities.

The transition from the ice rink to the bustling Christmas market felt seamless, a continuation of the evening's enchantment. Rex, still holding (Y/N)'s hand, felt an unspoken reluctance to let go, their fingers intertwined as they navigated through the vibrant maze of stalls and lights. The market was alive with the spirit of the season, each corner a new discovery, each sound a note in the festive symphony.

(Y/N)'s eyes sparkled under the canopy of Christmas lights, her gaze wandering from one stall to the next with childlike wonder. "Look at these ornaments, Rex! Have you ever seen anything so detailed?" she exclaimed, her voice a mix of awe and excitement.

Rex leaned in to look at the intricate glass baubles she was pointing at. "They're pretty amazing. You have a good eye for these things," he replied, his tone laced with genuine admiration.

As they moved on, (Y/N) couldn't help but shiver slightly, the cold finally catching up with her. Rex immediately noticed, his concern evident. "Getting chilly?" he asked, his hand instinctively rubbing her arm in a comforting gesture.

"Just a little," she admitted, a slight quiver in her voice.

Rex's eyes scanned the nearby stalls, landing on one that promised warmth in a cup. "How about a hot drink to warm you up? What would you like?" he asked, ready to fetch whatever she desired.

"Surprise me," (Y/N) said with a trusting smile, her eyes twinkling in anticipation.

Rex returned shortly, two steaming cups in his hands. He handed her a hot chocolate topped with marshmallows, the steam rising like a warm embrace. "Thought you might like this," he said, his eyes searching hers for approval.

(Y/N) took a sip, the warmth of the chocolate spreading through her. "It's perfect. How did you know?" she asked, her smile brightening the already illuminated night.

Rex shrugged modestly. "I just took a wild guess. Glad I got it right," he replied, his own cup of mulled wine warming his hands.

They continued their stroll, sipping their drinks and sharing laughs. Rex pointed to a ring toss game. "Bet you can't get three rings on those bottles," he challenged, his eyes gleaming with playful mischief.

(Y/N) accepted the challenge, her throws missing the mark but eliciting more laughter than disappointment. "Seems I'm as good at this as I am at skating," she joked, her laughter infectious.

Rex joined in, his attempts equally unsuccessful. "Looks like we're both in need of some practice," he conceded, his smile never fading.

Their journey through the market led them to a photo booth adorned with festive props. Rex, ever the instigator of fun, grabbed a Santa hat, placing it on his head with a grin. "Your turn, choose your festive disguise," he said, handing her a pair of reindeer antlers.

(Y/N) put on the antlers, striking a pose. "Ready for our close-up, Santa?" she teased, her eyes shining with mirth.

The photos they took were a series of silly poses and laughter-filled moments, each click capturing the joy and ease of their burgeoning relationship.

As they neared a group of carolers, their voices harmonizing in a timeless Christmas tune, (Y/N) felt a pull towards Rex, a desire to be closer. She leaned against him, her head resting gently on his shoulder. "I love this song," she whispered, her breath visible in the cold air.

Rex's arm found its way around her, pulling her closer. "Me too," he replied, his voice soft, his heart full.

The journey from the vibrant life of the Christmas market to the quiet streets leading to (Y/N)'s place was a mix of comfortable silence and soft conversation. The car ride, with Rex at the wheel, felt like a gentle deceleration from the evening's excitement, a gradual return to reality, yet tinged with a reluctance for the night to end.

(Y/N) sat beside him, her thoughts a whirlwind of emotions. The evening had unfolded like a chapter from a fairy tale, each moment with Rex adding another layer to her growing feelings. She glanced at him, his profile illuminated by the passing streetlights, a sense of warmth enveloping her.

As they pulled up to her apartment, the car's engine coming to a quiet stop, a sudden nervousness gripped her. She didn’t want the night to end, not yet. "Thanks for tonight, Rex. I had a really great time," she said, her voice laced with sincerity.

"Me too, (Y/N). It was... it was really special," Rex replied, his tone reflecting a depth of emotion that resonated with her own feelings.

There was a pause, a moment suspended in time, as (Y/N) gathered her courage. "Would you like to come in? Maybe watch a Christmas movie or something?" she asked, her heart racing with the boldness of her invitation.

Rex turned to look at her, surprise and happiness mingling in his eyes. "I'd like that," he said, a smile spreading across his face.

Inside her apartment, (Y/N) felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. She busied herself with small tasks, turning on the lights, taking off her coat, anything to calm the fluttering in her stomach. Rex followed her in, his presence filling the space with a comforting warmth.

"So, any favorite Christmas movies?" Rex asked, his voice casual but his eyes holding a hint of anticipation.

(Y/N) thought for a moment, wanting to pick something that would set the right tone. "How about 'It's a Wonderful Life'? It's a classic," she suggested, hoping her choice would prolong the warmth and closeness of the evening.

"Perfect choice," Rex agreed, settling onto the couch.

In the cozy confines of (Y/N)'s living room, with the final scenes of "It's a Wonderful Life" painting flickers of light and shadow, Rex and (Y/N) found themselves in a world of their own creation. Their confessions of feelings had woven a new tapestry of emotions, coloring the room with an unspoken promise of something profound and beautiful.

(Y/N) felt a whirlwind of emotions as she leaned into Rex, his arm around her, a gesture of comfort and connection. His heartbeat, steady and reassuring under her ear, was a melody that harmonized perfectly with the rapid beats of her own heart. The air between them was charged with a new energy, an anticipation of what was to come.

Rex, overcome with a sense of rightness and completion, looked down at (Y/N), her eyes lifting to meet his. In her gaze, he found reflections of his own feelings – a mixture of wonder, happiness, and a profound connection that went beyond words. The room, with its soft lighting and the quiet hum of the ending movie, seemed to fade into insignificance, leaving only the two of them, suspended in a moment that felt as timeless as it was fleeting.

As the closing credits rolled, the music a soft undertone to their shared silence, Rex gently tilted (Y/N)'s chin up towards him. Their eyes locked, conveying depths of emotion that words could never fully capture. The distance between them lessened, the magnetic pull of their mutual affection drawing them closer.

(Y/N)'s heart raced as she realized what was about to happen. Her nervousness was a fluttering bird in her chest, but it was overshadowed by a profound desire, a yearning that had been building throughout the night. She could feel Rex's breath, a warm whisper against her skin, the closeness sending a shiver of anticipation down her spine.

And then, in a moment that seemed both an eternity and an instant, their lips met. It was a gentle collision, a soft convergence of emotions and desires. The kiss was tentative at first, a careful exploration, but it quickly deepened, fueled by the pent-up feelings and the undeniable connection that had brought them to this point.

The world outside, with its cold winter night and silent stars, seemed a universe away. In that kiss, they found a warmth and a rightness that spoke of shared futures and whispered promises. It was a first kiss, but it carried the weight and depth of something much more, a symbol of a bond that had been forged in shared laughter, stolen glances, and unspoken affections.

As they finally pulled away, a breathless moment later, their eyes opened to a world that seemed brighter, more vivid.

In the aftermath of their first kiss, a silence filled the room, profound and comfortable, wrapping Rex and (Y/N) in a cocoon of newfound intimacy. The flickering lights from the TV cast a soft glow on their faces, revealing shared smiles and eyes bright with emotion.

Rex, his heart still pounding from the kiss, felt a clarity he had never experienced before. Looking into (Y/N)'s eyes, he found the courage to give voice to the feelings that the kiss had only begun to express. “(Y/N),” he started, his voice low and filled with emotion, “I need to tell you... I’ve fallen for you. It’s been building for a while, but tonight, everything became so clear.”

(Y/N)’s eyes widened slightly, a soft blush coloring her cheeks. Her own emotions, a tangled mix of joy and affection, bubbled to the surface. “Rex, I feel the same way,” she confessed, her voice a whisper of shared sentiment. “I didn’t realize it until tonight, but what I feel for you... it’s more than I ever expected.”

Their confessions hung in the air, simple yet profound, bridging any distance that had once existed between them. In that moment, they understood that what they had was special, a connection that went beyond mere attraction or companionship.

With a newfound boldness, (Y/N) leaned in for another kiss. This one was different from the first – it was a confirmation, a seal on the feelings they had just confessed. Their lips met with a gentle urgency, conveying years of unspoken emotions and desires. It was a kiss that spoke of beginnings, of a journey they were now embarking on together.

Eventually, they pulled apart, their smiles reflections of their inner happiness. (Y/N) suggested, “How about we watch another movie?” Her tone was light, but her eyes held a deeper invitation, a desire to prolong the magic of the evening.

Rex nodded, his heart still soaring from their exchange. “That sounds perfect.”

They settled onto the couch, (Y/N) fetching a cozy blanket which she draped over them. As she snuggled into Rex's side, the warmth of their closeness enveloped them, a physical manifestation of the emotional warmth they were both feeling.

As the opening credits of the new movie rolled, they found themselves less focused on the screen and more on the comfort of being in each other's arms. The movie played on, but their attention was on the soft sound of their breathing, the gentle rhythm of their heartbeats, and the warmth of their entwined hands under the blanket.

In the dimly lit room, with the soft murmur of the movie playing in the background, Rex and (Y/N) lay under the cozy blanket, a sense of complete contentment enveloping them. The outside world, with all its noise and haste, seemed a distant memory, irrelevant to the sanctuary they had created here, in (Y/N)'s living room.

Their confessions of affection still echoed in the space around them, a tender yet powerful admission that had changed the very air they breathed. Now, under the blanket, they found themselves in a world of their own making, a world where every glance, every touch, spoke of the deep connection they shared.

(Y/N) looked up at Rex, her eyes shining with unspoken emotions. In his eyes, she saw a reflection of her own feelings – a mixture of wonder, joy, and a profound sense of rightness. It was as if all the scattered pieces of her life had suddenly clicked into place, forming a picture that was more beautiful than she had ever imagined.

Rex, feeling her gaze, turned to meet her eyes. In that moment, words were unnecessary; everything they needed to say was conveyed in the depth of their look. He leaned down, and their lips met in a gentle kiss, a soft caress that spoke of new beginnings and uncharted futures. The kiss was a whisper of promises, a seal on the feelings they had just shared.

As they pulled away, their smiles were reflections of their inner happiness, a happiness that was as much about the presence of the other as it was about the connection they had forged. They stole another kiss, and then another, each one a celebration, a joyful acknowledgment of the journey they were embarking on together.

Lying there, with Rex's arm around her and her head on his chest, (Y/N) felt a sense of completeness she had never known. The sound of his heartbeat was a steady rhythm that seemed to sync perfectly with her own. Every so often, they would exchange a look or a smile, a silent conversation that spoke of shared joy and the comfort of being understood.

Rex, with (Y/N) nestled against him, felt a sense of peace that was new and profound. The weight of his past, the uncertainties of his future, all seemed to fade away in the face of this simple yet profound happiness. He kissed the top of her head gently, a gesture of affection and protection.

The movie played on, but it was merely a backdrop to their own story, a story that was just beginning. Every touch, every shared laugh, every quiet moment under the blanket was a brushstroke in the masterpiece they were creating together.

As the night deepened, they lay there, wrapped in the warmth of the blanket and the warmth of their newfound love. It was a feeling of complete rightness, a sense that, in this moment, in each other's arms, they were exactly where they were meant to be. The world outside could wait; what mattered was the magic they had found in each other's presence, the promise of all the nights and days to come, filled with laughter, love, and the quiet joy of being together.

[huntershowl]

and if she notices, if she decided to slide a hand within her left pocket, she'd notice there was a note already slipped in between fabric. it wasn't there before, certainly not before she'd met with shouta just moments prior. and if she'd go to read it, she'd read the simple handwriting and know it as his: " i will always wonder if i could have saved you. "

PERSEPHONE IS ALREADY SHAKEN FROM a confrontation that shouldn't have happened by the time they arrive at the broken, abandoned apartment building they will call home tonight. no one lives here; the building was partly demolished by a hero fight some time back, most of the apartments were evacuated, and the unseen bought the place before it could be taken in by the city and rebuilt. like an increasing number of apartment buildings throughout japan's prefectures and cities, it now serves as a home for rats — and the occasional shelter for a hound.

she takes the stairs two at a time. already, the world has begun to shrink around her, every footfall harder to pick back up. when she arrives at her unit on the top floor, she flings open the door, slams it, bolts it, barricades it. sinks to the floor against the wall adjacent.

it's only in that motion, that bend, that she hears a strange sort of crinkling from one of her pockets. wasn't there before. wrong. amiss. and that jolt of ice-cold fear only worsens when they pull from it a note.

many of their nightmares begin this way: an envelope slid under the door of a unit no one should know she stays in. upon opening, a letter written in a scrawling hand that makes her nauseous to look at; a small, bird-shaped pair of scissors; a single pressed flower. a taunt. it marks the beginning of a hunt, one in which hellhound is not the predator.

it takes her ages to gather the courage to read it. her mind splits under the pressure of this moment, and under the strain of the last; she can still pick up the faint echoes of shouta's scents and — fuck. to hell with it. they force their fingers to move, opening the folded piece of notebook paper under threat of their heart escaping their fucking chest. if it is what they fear it is, then so be it. it was always going to happen eventually, so why not right after opening an old wound? why the hell not? if the confrontation is to happen now, persephone is prepared. she has spent three years sharpening her teeth.

it is a familiar scrawl, but not the one that she dreads. not the one that starts the timer. it is short — one sentence, a period, in handwriting they instantly recognize as shouta's. shouta's. their first friend, perhaps their truest — when did he slip them this? how did he get so close, how did they not notice?

i will always wonder if i could have saved you.

images flash across their mind: persephone at twelve years old, holding a gun. ( she had taken six lives by then. ) persephone in high school, sitting on shouta's desk and laughing, kicking at hizashi with a gangly boot-clad leg. ( twenty-one lives. ) persephone, her arms torn away, nineteen and numb from crying out please. persephone at a vanity table swathed in white, pressing ice to cracked ribs, a fresh flood of tears sticking the veil to her face as a hand threads through her hair. persephone holding their hand to a cut throat; persephone curled up on the floor of a burning house. persephone, twenty-five and a revenant.

she has died so many times. shouta never had a chance.

something strangled, like a sob, wracks their body as they clutch the note close to their chest, curl in on themself, as if trying to become so small they disappear. he doesn't know; he can't know, and it must be killing him. but learning what happened to her comes with the price of the learner's life, if they're lucky. there was never a happy ending in store for persephone; she was doomed from the start. but if they do one good thing in this dogshit excuse for a life, it will be to spare their loved ones the same fate. ( even if it causes them pain. )

she gasps in a breath, tries to exhale, but it stutters out as another sob — and only then, in the fury and pain of it all, do they scream. the sound rattles the apartment's dirt-crusted windows. it reverberates through the space around her, as violent and anguished as the hound's howl heard throughout the neighborhood on the night of a kill. but it does nothing. no one reacts, because no one is there.

[paralyze-fic]

Paralyze.

Chapter 76

[Jiro. You. Both.]

"Let's do this shit!"

Well, I kind of was expecting something like that coming from Katsuki. I had a small smile on my face and I looked up slightly, soon catching sight of Eri. Her red eyes were looking at Deku, who was smiling brightly at her, and then she looked at me. I smiled at her, soon feeling my nerves fading away and wanting to make her smile too.

"We're gonna murder at U.A." Katsuki's manacing tone and his glare made a few people in the audience tremble, I didn't even have to look at him to see the expression he was making, "Murder 'em with our music!"

Jesus-! Katsuki, why?!

Thankfully, Katsuki's explosion didn't actually make me forget to dance, it kind of scared me but it's Katsuki, I should've expected this much from him. The band started to play and we started to dance.

What am I to be

What is my calling 

I gave up giving up 

I'm ready to go

The future's left unseen

It all depends on me

Putting on the line 

To follow my dreams, yeah

Tried all my life 

I tried to find

Something that makes me hold on and never let go

Ooooh!

I walked up the front and made my way next to Jiro, just like how Mina had told me on the first day of practice.

Hero too

I am a hero too

My heart is set

And I won't back down

Hero too

Strength doesn't make a hero

True heroes

Stand up for what they believe

I moved slightly back so Izuku and Aoyama could run at each other, and I saw Izuku throwing the blond up in the air, who shot his lasers.

So wait and see

So wait and see

After Ojiro caught Yuga as gravity did its job, Izuku walked out of the stage to do the rest and... oh god, now I have to sing on my own. I briefly made eye contact with Jiro and she smiled at me, silently mouthing a 'Ganbare!' at me. It actually helped me relax quite a bit as I took a deep breath.

What do they think of me

What do they think I'll be

I could not care less

I don't want to know

Am I doing right

Am I satisfied

I want to live my life

Like it's meant to be, yeah

Tried all my life 

I tried to find

Something that makes me hold on and never let go

I stood back to back with Jiro in front of her mic, and we sang with big smiles on our faces.

Looking up briefly at everyone from the stage team, I noticed that they were getting ready to do what would be the best part of the whole performance. Shoto used his ice with Sero's help, and Yaomomo shot confetti with her quirk.

Oooooh!

Hero too

I am a hero too

My heart is set

And I won't back down

The rest left to keep dancing on the ice that Shouto made, while I stayed on the stage with Jiro, now just singing with her.

Hero too

Strength doesn't make a hero

True heroes 

Stand up for what they believe

So wait and see

People will judge for no reason at all

Yeah they might try

To say your dream's dumb

Don't listen

They may look down on me

And count me out

I'm going my own way

They may look down on me

And count me out

I'm a hero

I've got music

Hero too

I am a hero too

My heart is set

And I won't back down

Hero too

Strength doesn't make a hero

True heroes 

Stand up for what they believe

Yeah I'll be!

Oh, she did what she told Katsuki not to. She improvised and he realized it, he had a pissed off expression and it was hard not to laugh at it.

Hero too

I am a hero too

My heart is set

And I won't back down

Hero too

Strength doesn't make a hero

True heroes 

Stand up for what they believe

So wait and see

I have met so many heroes in my life

Give me strength and courage to survive

Gave me the power to smile every day

Now it's my turn

To be the one 

To make you smile

I finally locked eyes with Eri again and what I saw made me tear up.

She's smiling...

///////

After our performance, everyone was helping with the cleaning, picking up the pieces of ice and taking them to Katsuki and Shoto, who were the ones in charge of melting them. As I picked up big chunks of ice in my basket, I saw Izuku with All Might, who looked at the greenette worried, I'm sure he was supposed to be scolding him for what happened earlier, but it didn't actually look like a scolding at all.

Well, that was until I saw Hound Dog showing up with Ectoplasm and he did scold Izuku, quite loudly might I add, I heard him pretty clearly, although it could've been because I was standing quite close to them.

But I couldn't really pay them that much attention because I saw Togata senpai walking closer with Eri next to him. He said hi to me while I walked back to dump the ice with Katsuki and we talked for a bit as we waited for Izuku. And I couldn't help but notice Eri's expression, despite being in complete silence.

She looks so happy.

I stared at Togata senpai again, and he was also staring at her, tears filling his blue eyes. We made eye contact and we smiled at each other, as we were probably remembering Sir too.

I noticed a green mess of curly hair walking closer, completely oblivious to us until Togata caught his attention. "Yo! Nice job back there!"

As soon as he said that, Eri looked up and started explaining excitedly the performance, making cute gestures and adorable noises, recreating to us what her reaction was. "And, and! (M/n)-san's voice sounded so good with the girl's voice! Like... it was like angels singing!" I chuckled softly, feeling embarrassed by a six-year-old kid's compliment. But it was so wholesome and genuine that it actually filled my chest with joy and my eyes with tears. Izuku seemed to be feeling just like I was feeling because he rubbed his eyes with his forearm.

"I'm so glad you enjoyed yourself, Eri-chan!" I nodded and I was about to say something else, but Mineta yelled at us for being lazy and not helping with the ice, so I immediately went back to cleaning, taking the ice chunks to Katsuki.

[vintersang]

@dangaer has walked into the unknown.

Her hands have been trembling all day, starting ever since the gates were opened for her coronation day. Only God knew this, but Elsa has used her three years to try to prepare herself for the day where she must take her vows. Once a week, maybe twice a week if she was feeling brave, she would secretly go to the royal chapel to train herself. She would grasp the solid scepter and orb, gold and ancient, without the use of her gloves. She should lose herself in prayer when visiting the royal chapel, but all she could do was practice and practice on holding her pose.

Three years of private training by herself were wasted, however... Frost still crept over the sceptre and orb the moment she was forced to remove her gloves, much to her dismay. No one, she hoped, would notice the sight of their newly crowned queen. They may see her stiff shoulders, maybe even the rigidness of her hands, but hopefully not the chill in the air. Completing one single day is all she needed to worry. Her coronation day may have almost gone terrible, but she managed to handle such a daunting task... only by a thread of pure luck.

Everything was almost over. All she had to do is survive the celebrations until it was time to retire back to her bedchamber, safe and all alone. She skillfully avoided invitations to dance, weaving together excuse after excuse. Not many, however, had the courage to ask for her hand. One messy conversation with Anna, her dearest sister, is all that it took for her world to come crashing down before her very eyes. Ice burst forth, dangerous and sharp and refusing to listen to her. Everyone saw the sight play out, including many wide-eyed foreign guests— The Duke of Weselton cried out of the word she feared most: Sorcery!

One word is all it took for Elsa to flee from her own home.

It rang in her mind, louder than any church bell.

The horror of the people, her people, played back in her mind with each step she took across the lake. She ran and ran and ran, adrenaline fueling her legs to keep moving. She ran until her lungs burned. She left a trail of decay in her wake, frost creeping over everything around her. Elsa didn't know how much time she has lost, but soon the world was covered in snow. The cool summer night is gone, replaced with a cold that was more colder than the corpse of a body. The wind howls, matching the unseen storm within her racing heart...

Fat snowflakes fall from the heavens above, not showing any signs of stopping any time soon. The onslaught of snow and loud wind make a violent yet beautiful dance. Anyone caught in this weather would no doubt lose their bearings... if they weren't already freezing to death. Elsa pushed forward, still wearing her coronation dress. She kept moving, not bothered by the weather. She only had one single thought in her mind: Get as far away from Arendelle as possible.

How many in attendance saw her secret become revealed? She knew there were many influential people at her party, ranging from the Southern Isles to all the way in Italy. The list was too long for her to remember, but the castle's staff were more than prepared to welcome as many guests as possible. They had more than enough plates and finery to entertain foreigners, eager to have the castle come back to life again. Even though she was far from the eyes of society, the memory of all their eyes landing on her body is enough to make her feel sick to her stomach. Their shock and horror stabbed her, pinning her to her spot. Even now, the thought of being caught only encouraged her to move.

"What do I do now?" She murmured the desperate question to herself, but she knew she was speaking to her father. She secretly wished for her father's spirit to materialize, though she doubts she can handle the sight of his disappointed expression. She longed for his comforting hand as much as she desired a drop of his wisdom. There are no spirits on the mountain tonight, no one here to guide her away from herself. Like her mother and the rest of the people on their ship, her father's body is lost at sea. Her prayers for them to miraculously survive were not granted as the whole world of Arendelle fell upon her shoulders.

Elsa falls to her knees, hindered by her dragging cape and aching legs. The snowstorm continues to beat down upon the land, only lightening up once every few minutes. Soon, her tracks will be covered up by snow. She stares down at the tiara in her bare hand, weighing the options in her head. "I don't know where to go..." The words are released to the wind, unable to escape from the harsh reality of how she fled from her people and duty and... her own sister.

"But I can't... I can never go back..." They will kill her, will they not? No one, not even Arendelle's nearest and oldest allies, will accept a sorceress as a legitimate ruler. A witch with a cold heart is not meant to rule anything or anyone; their fate is meant to be condemned to death. She was, perhaps, even more disliked than a bastard trying to claim the throne. Elsa remains on the snow-covered ground, clutching her tiara closer to her chest. She allows the wind to muffle her sobs, unknowingly allowing the wild storm to grow stronger...

She doesn't know how long she sits in the snow upon the mountain, lost and confused. She knows her tears have long since stopped, but she still clung to the tiara in her bare hands. She has allowed both her cape to be carried away by the wind. She, however, was still unable to throw away the tiara. The quiet sound of a crunching snow alerts Elsa in an instant, drawing her gaze upward to gaze upon a man with semi-long brown hair and ocean blue eyes...

She stares at him, voice now caught in her throat. His body, she distantly noticed, went still as a statue, almost as if she caught him red-handed with only her very gaze. Any stealth attempts were foiled by the unnatural snowstorm, though she couldn't quite confirm if he was aiming for stealth. He looked vaguely familiar, but what did look very familiar is the sight of her purple cape in his grasp. He has a handsome face, but what caught her attention a lot more faster is the sheathed weapon at his hip. He looks very pale, no doubt struggling with the harsh winter in the middle of July. The inner depths of Elsa feel completely and utterly unraveled, but she is certain that she still appears as cold and unapproachable on the surface.

"Why are you here?" Elsa has found her voice, breaking the spell of silence with her now hardened voice. She remains on the ground, snowflakes kissing every inch of her body. Though she is tired, she still tracks every little move the man makes with her piercing gaze. She has no weapons on her person, not like him, but the cold air has only dropped until it was as cold as a winter night. There is no need for pleasantries or small talk on the mountain tonight, not when she is on the run.

"Who are you?"

[xasha777]

In the frozen expanse of the Recessional Peaks, legends spoke of a monstrous guardian, an ancient entity known as the Guardian of the Pass. Few believed the tales, dismissing them as myths conjured to deter explorers from the perilous journey through the treacherous mountains. However, those who ventured into the heart of the range and returned had spoken of a colossal beast with fiery red eyes, towering horns, and a roar that echoed like the shifting glaciers.

Eirik, a seasoned warrior from the northern tribes, had heard these legends his entire life. His ancestors spoke of the Guardian with reverence and fear, yet Eirik saw it as a challenge, a test of his strength and courage. Clad in furs and steel, with his sword Frostbane at his side, he ventured into the icy wilderness, determined to face the beast and uncover the truth.

Days turned into weeks as Eirik trudged through snow-laden paths and treacherous cliffs, guided only by the dim light of distant stars and the occasional shimmering aurora. The air grew colder, and the wind howled with an almost sentient ferocity. Yet, Eirik pressed on, driven by a mix of curiosity and destiny.

As he neared the heart of the peaks, a strange phenomenon began to occur. The stars above seemed to shift, their light stretching into streaks across the sky. Eirik, though no scholar, recognized the signs of recessional velocity—a cosmic phenomenon where objects in the universe moved away from each other, stretching light and time. It was as if the very fabric of space-time was being manipulated by an unseen force.

Eirik's thoughts were interrupted by a low, rumbling growl that seemed to vibrate through the mountains themselves. He tightened his grip on Frostbane, his breath forming icy clouds in the frigid air. Emerging from the shadows of a narrow pass was the Guardian of the Peaks.

The creature was even more fearsome than the legends described. Its massive form blocked out the sky, muscles rippling beneath its shaggy, ice-coated fur. Its horns curved menacingly, and its eyes glowed like molten lava. Eirik felt a primal fear grip him but steeled himself, standing firm against the towering beast.

"You seek to challenge me, mortal?" The Guardian's voice was a deep, resonant growl that seemed to come from the very earth beneath Eirik's feet.

"I seek the truth," Eirik replied, raising his sword. "And if it means facing you, then so be it."

The Guardian bared its fangs in a semblance of a grin. "Very well. But know this, warrior: the truth you seek is bound to the stars and the very essence of our existence."

With a thunderous roar, the Guardian lunged at Eirik, its claws tearing through the air. Eirik dodged, rolling to the side and striking at the beast's flank. The sword's enchanted blade cut through fur and flesh, eliciting a roar of pain and fury from the Guardian.

The battle raged on, a dance of steel and ferocity against ancient power. Eirik fought with every ounce of his strength, his mind racing to understand the connection between the beast and the cosmic anomalies he had witnessed. As the Guardian lashed out with a massive paw, Eirik saw his chance. He plunged Frostbane deep into the creature's chest, piercing its heart.

The Guardian let out a final, deafening roar before collapsing to the ground. As its life force ebbed away, the mountains themselves seemed to sigh, the stars above returning to their normal, twinkling state. Eirik stood over the fallen beast, breathing heavily, his mind awash with the revelation.

The Guardian was a remnant of an ancient civilization, one that had harnessed the power of recessional velocity to manipulate space-time. The beast had guarded the pass, not just to deter travelers, but to protect the secrets of its creators—secrets that could unravel the very fabric of the universe.

Eirik sheathed his sword and looked to the stars, understanding now that his journey was far from over. The truth he sought was out there, beyond the peaks, in the vast expanse of the cosmos. And with the Guardian defeated, he was now the keeper of its secrets, destined to explore the mysteries of the universe and his own place within it.

[prosegalaxy]

In a world of magic and might, where heroes once roamed free, A decision so grave, its consequences unseen, Epic quests, unlikely heroes, magical artifacts gleamed. In the shadow of ancient ruins, where whispers echoed in time, A choice lay before them, the fate of the world was their crime. With hearts full of courage and hope, they embarked on a journey, To unite the fragmented realms and forge an eternal harmony. Through deserts of fire and mountains of ice, their path they did carve, Unraveling mysteries, confronting their fears, with each step they would serve. In the end, it was not strength or power that saved them from the abyss, But love and unity, forged in the crucible of their epic quest's kiss.

[haverdoodles]

The Gift

— (Dorian & Ellana)

.

Ellana wrenched her door open. “What?”

Dorian stood agape on the other side of the threshold, one hand still awkwardly raised to knock. Slowly, he lowered it, staring at her with visible incredulity.

“My goodness,” he said. “I didn’t know it was possible for you to look terrible.”

Ellana’s eyes narrowed. “Dorian, I am not in the mood —“

“Yes, yes, as I’m sure you’ve already told the five others who came knocking already. Fortunately for you, I am not daunted by the thought of being maimed.” He gestured impatiently. “Now, let me pass, will you? We haven’t got all day.”

Ellana bared her teeth in a silent snarl but did as he bade, stiffly stepping aside as he whisked his way confidently into her quarters.

“Now, then.” Dorian stopped in the middle of the grand room and spun towards her, bracing his hands on his hips. “The ideal would be to whisk you away from your exciting life of slaughtering demon hordes and toying with royalty for a day, but unfortunately Lady Josephine has forbidden me from doing so. She appears to be holding you hostage.”

“Important dignitaries are arriving at Skyhold,” Ellana replied. “I am to entertain them for the week.”

Dorian arched a brow. “Yes, and don’t you sound excited for it! You are exuding about as much enthusiasm as a cold, dead fish, sweetness.”

Ellana turned to shut the door. “If being the Inquisitor was meant to be enjoyable,” she said, resting a hand on the polished wood, “Then there would be far more clamouring for the position.”

There was a moment of heavy silence between them, swiftly broken when Dorian sighed. “Ellana. Come here, will you?”

Ellana obeyed, her bare feet padding soundlessly over stone and plush carpet to reach him. She stopped mere paces away, tilting her head back to meet the worried eyes of her friend, observing as they glowed gold in the sunlight.

“As I thought,” he said. “You are not alright.”

Ellana stiffened, and Dorian was swift to raise his hands placatingly. “I did not come here to lecture you,” he reassured her. “I am sure the Commander is already itching to do so. As a matter of fact, he is most likely on his way over here now.”

“Not yet,” Ellana responded. “Cullen is still pacing around his office, but he will make up his mind soon.”

Dorian pointed at her. “Alright, that strange, all-knowing connection you two have? Frightening. Please refrain from showing it off around me, it gives me the shivers.”

Ellana crossed her arms, ignoring him. “Dorian. Why are you here?”

He smiled fondly at the ice in her voice, unperturbed by her lack of welcome. That was a part of Dorian that Ellana had always found odd - he never seemed to fear her, not really. Even the most courageous of her Inner Circle knew when to back down in the face of her wrath, and yet Dorian barrelled on ahead without a care in the world. It was baffling and more than a little infuriating, but a small part of her couldn’t help but be relieved that someone she knew would not stand down against her. It was like an odd sort of anchor. It made her feel less invincible, more real.

Dorian offered his hand, to which Ellana slowly accepted after a long moment of suspicious squinting. He lead her across the room to her armoire, where a lovely golden mirror rested, catching the sunlight and reflecting it in lovely beams across the stone wall.

“What is this about?”

“I know your secret,” Dorian said, smiling slyly over her shoulder in the mirror’s reflection. “I will admit, it was not one I had been expecting.”

Ellana’s eyes narrowed into sapphire slits. In a dangerously soft voice, she replied, “What secret.”

“Nothing life-threatening, sweetness, unless you expect to be choked to death with a rope of diamonds by an unseen assailant,” Dorian replied amusedly.

“Do not toy with me, Pavus.”

Dorian met her eyes in the mirror, gold brushing against sapphire. “I know you secretly adore fine things,” he said. “I know that you have a private collection of silks hidden in your armoire, and a locked box full of shiny odds and ends that Te’lise has been collecting for you. I’ve seen the way your eyes catch on the finery in Val Royeaux and linger there, though you always look away before someone notices.”

No one was supposed to know.

Mortified, Ellana could only watch as her icy white pallor flushed a deep pink at his words. Fear and humiliation, two very unwelcome sentiments, twisted harshly in her gut. “I’ve had enough of this,” she said tightly, pulling away from him. “Get out. Now.”

“Ellana –”

“How dare you,” she snarled, turning away from him. Her hands clenched into trembling fists by her sides in an effort to provide some semblance of self control, though really all she wanted to do was whip a dagger out and stab something repeatedly. “Is that why you came here, then? To, to mock me? I thought that you, of all people – “

“Ellana!” Suddenly Dorian was in front of her again, staring down at her with wide eyes. “Maker’s breath, no. Never. I…” he trailed off, looking lost. “I apologize,” he said finally. “I did not think that through. I had intended to be lighthearted about the matter, but it is clear that this means a lot to you.”

He rested a hand gently on her shoulder. “I didn’t come here to hurt you,” he said sincerely. “I come bearing a gift, only I wasn’t sure how to go about it.”

“A gift.” She repeated flatly.

“Yes, though I fear I might have spoiled it with my careless behaviour,” Dorian lamented. “Here, face the mirror again, sweetness. I promise I will play nice.”

Ellana gritted her teeth, tempted to refuse. The earnestness in Dorian’s face stopped her, however, and with a sharp sigh of displeasure she finally did as he bade, reluctantly gazing at herself in the mirror.

Dorian’s hands rose from behind her, and a blur of silver passed across her face to rest lightly against her neck, icy cold against her skin. Ellana shivered, and her eyes widened.

It was a necklace.

The jewelry was comprised of two simple chains fused together at the ends, designed to create an elegant silhouette against the wearer’s neck. Two simple chains, and yet as they caught the sun and lit up like starlight, Ellana thought it was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen.

“Oh,” she whispered very softly.

“I went with a simple design. That way, if you ever decide to wear it in public, no one can accuse you of being ostentatious.” Dorian was saying distractedly, brushing her hair over one shoulder so that he could clasp the piece on properly. “That isn’t all. I had the piece enchanted.” His eyes met hers in the mirror, bright with excitement. “Tap it with two fingers.”

Warily, Ellana did, and watched incredulously as it disappeared before her very eyes. She could still feel its weight against her skin, but there was nothing there. “Dorian…?”

“Tap it again.”

She obeyed, and the necklace was back as if it had never happened.

“I know you keep your secret a secret for a reason,” Dorian told her quietly. “You are a very private person, and as the Inquisitor there is more pressure on you than anyone else in Thedas to maintain a flawless, indestructible front. You do not want the world to know that you are just as much of a living, breathing person as anyone else, do you.”

Ellana thought of the locked box in her desk drawer, and of Te’lise pressing shiny pebbles and glittering gemstones into her hand each time she returned from a day trip, her face alight with an understanding smile. “No,” she responded. “I do not.”

Ellana turned towards Dorian. “You…” she started, and stopped. She felt strangely incapable of speaking. “Why?”

Dorian smiled at her. “You are my best friend,” he said. “Dare I say my only friend in this cold, barren wasteland that is the South. In mere months you have shown me more unconditional support than anyone else in my entire lifetime, and that… that truly means a lot to me.”

“Your best friend.” Ellana repeated. The title felt odd on her tongue, foreign. “I did not know that I was… friend… material.”

Dorian laughed, the sound echoing out into the chamber and bathing it in warmth. “I will admit, you aren’t the most approachable sort, but you are my best friend nonetheless.” He ran an approving eye over her. “Ah, as I thought. You wear it well.“

“Dorian. I…” But what was there to say? The words died in her throat, and she was left staring at him a bit helplessly.

Dorian gave her a half-smile of understanding. “No need to thank me, I can’t stand sappy confessions. Just do me a favour, will you? If you decide to wear this publicly, I want to be there when the Commander eventually notices. Nothing will be more priceless than watching him trip over his own feet.”

“You are incorrigible,” Ellana said, leaning forward to rest her forehead against his shoulder. She closed her eyes, face softening ever so slightly as he chuckled.

“I know.” Dorian replied, raising a hand to rest it against her back. There was nothing left to say.

It was odd, being cared for in such a manner. The necklace was a welcome weight around Ellana’s neck, grounding her after what felt like millennia of wandering Skyhold as a fading ghost. She felt real. She felt… pretty. Ellana slowly raised her arms, wrapping them loosely around Dorian’s waist.

The two friends stood together like that for a long time, stirring only when Cullen did eventually come knocking.

[wandchosen]

ignotus tags 

[sinner-as-saint]

The Unseen.

Hades!Bucky x Reader AU

Run-through: Your father is forcing a profitable marriage proposal upon you. Unwilling to endure such a thing, you run away from home and deep into some unknown woods. Naturally, your father sends his people to find you and bring you home, but this causes you to run deeper into the woods to a point where it feels like you’re not even in the same world anymore. Though fatigued; mentally, emotionally and physically, you manage to find shelter. You stumble upon a mysterious, handsome stranger. The God of the Underworld is baffled upon seeing you because it has been millennia since a mortal entered his dark, forlorn kingdom. And it’s been even longer since he felt something for someone… 

Themes: hades!bucky, fluff, angst, smut, 

You staggered through the woods. 

Holding on to whatever you could find to help you keep your balance, and not fall flat on your face. You had been on the run for days now; running from your tyrant father and his people, running from a marriage proposal which was being forced upon you, running from the only place you called home. You wondered, was it really home? 

You were currently deep into the woods. Famished, dehydrated, sleep deprived, your body covered in small cuts, bruises, insect bites and scratches. Your clothes were soiled. You could barely hold yourself up, but you had to get as far away as possible. 

This part of the woods was so dense that the sunlight barely got through. There was more fog around you than sunlight. Actually, you could no longer tell what time it was. Perhaps it was not daytime. 

Your throat burned, your tears had dried, your stomach rumbled in hunger; you were miserable. Your heart hurt at the thought of your mother; you had to leave her behind as well. You missed her, terribly. 

You walked on, and a while later you felt the ground beneath your feet get more soft and damp. Your senses were alert. There must be a water body close by, you thought. You rushed forward, and let out a raspy sigh of relief when you saw the cool, slow-moving river which snaked around the large trees. You could just tell by the sight of it that it’s water must be ice cold. The thick fog condensed and danced above it. It looked mystical. Too good to be true. 

You rushed to the river, kneeling by the side of it and picking up handfuls of water and drinking to satiate your thirst. You cleaned yourself as best you could - getting rid of all the dirt and muck from your face, and limbs and clothes. 

You felt at ease for the first time in the past days. You got up and sat back down at the river bank for a while, feeling light and almost comfortable even though you were all alone inside a dense and cold, and dark forest. You chuckled at how much safer you felt here compared to back at your father’s house. 

A minute later, you tensed up when you heard distant animal sounds. You panicked and took off running; deeper into the woods. You found yourself running alongside the river. You didn’t have a plan, you didn’t know where you were headed, but you knew you had to keep going. You couldn’t have your father finding you again and dragging you back home to marry whoever he chose for you just so he could profit off of it and expand his businesses; you refused to be a pawn in his games

You ran, stumbled, fell and stood up again. For hours. And just when you felt like you were about to pass out from fatigue again, you noticed a gate in front of you. It looked rusty and old, with dead vine all over it, surrounded in fog. You couldn’t see past it but something told you that once you’d get past it, everything would be alright. 

So you did. You pushed open the gate and stepped into what seemed to be a poorly kept, dying garden. Though disorganized, and unkept; it felt almost familiar. It felt like coming home. You looked further and saw what seemed like an abandoned, dark manor, almost as grand as a castle. The whole thing looked like an old, forgotten private property. 

“Help…” you called out with the little energy you had left. You doubted anyone lived here, but you called out anyways, just in case. “Help!” you called out again, falling to your knees on the rough ground. 

And right before passing out, you heard something getting closer and closer. It sounded like it was galloping… several of them. Horses? In here? 

Your eyes rolled back as you could no longer hold yourself up. You saw something approach you. Your blurry vision picked up on a tall, dark figure approaching. Whatever that was, it caught you right before your body fell to the ground. 

It was a man. Even in your insensible state, you could feel the dominant, strong, virile aura surrounding him. 

His low voice was the last thing you heard before you gave in to the darkness, “...I’ve got you, my love. You’re home now...” 

---

The god stood at the entry of the spacious bedroom, in the middle of which was a large bed, upon which you laid; comfortable, but still unconscious. 

Hands stuffed in his pockets as he leaned against the doorframe, he contemplated. Everything. He doesn’t remember the last time he had something so beautiful, and alive, inside the walls of his dark and dangerous kingdom. 

He wondered where you come from. Who were you running from? Why did you cry for help? How did you find the Underworld? The moment he saw you first entering his kingdom, he thought that you might be a lost, wandering soul. But then when his hands touched you, he felt your warmth and realized that you were very much alive. 

If you had made it through the entire woods to get here then you must be stronger and more courageous than you look, he thought. 

He stepped closer so he could hear your soft breaths. So full of life… he thought. Whatever it was that you were running from, he made a decision to protect you from it. He felt the urge to wrap his arms around you and shelter you, keep you safe forever. Why so? He didn’t know. He had never been so attached to mortals before. He barely even met any of them. 

But you… you walked right into his kingdom, and now you were making him feel things he had never felt before. 

The god had always been alone. He never quite had company, and he stayed as far away as possible from his dysfunctional family. So having you here was new, but also something he didn’t know he needed so badly. 

“Who are you, pretty human?” he whispered as he lovingly caressed your cheek while you slept. He had healed all your cuts and bruises the moment he picked you up in his arms, and placed you in his chariot. Now he was just waiting for you to wake up so he could talk to you. 

He couldn’t wait to meet you. 

---

You woke up to loud, warm puffs of air fanning your face. You peeled your eyes open, expecting a headache but there wasn’t one, what you did find though was a fairly large, mean and dangerous looking three-headed dog with shiny black fur standing beside you, on the bed, looking down at you with tongues hanging out of each of its mouths and wagging its tail so hard that its body moved side to side along with it in excitement.  

Your eyes widened even in the slightly hazy headspace, you almost took off running again but your body refused to get up from the comfy bed and then you saw the playful look in all three pairs of eyes and you immediately calmed down. 

“Hello there...” You whispered as you squinted and reached out to pet it. You gave it soft scratches behind the ears and under the chins and it immediately tackled you with wet kisses. You squealed and chuckled as you sat up, trying to escape the adorable monster. 

Maybe you had died? You thought to yourself as you kept petting the dog once it calmed down. Perhaps you were in some sort of after life, hallucinating about a three-headed while wearing a very vintage-y black gown with long, puffy sleeves; and sat in the middle of the softest bed ever inside what seemed to be a chamber fit for a Queen. 

“Am I dead?” You asked the three-headed animal. It didn’t answer, obviously so you tried to dig your memory to find something which would explain how you ended up where you are right now. All three heads laid on your lap, as you lazily pet them while thinking; you remembered running… deep, deep into the forest… you remember being tired, so tired you felt like you were about to pass out… wait you did pass out! In the garden. The dark garden, with the horses and the tall man. 

You gasped as you heard a voice, not far from you, answering your previously asked question. “No you’re not. Surprisingly.” 

Upon hearing the voice, the dog got up from the bed and immediately ran to the man who had just spoken. You got up from the bed too confused and nervous, standing and watching him cautiously as you took in the man’s appearance. Your heart raced the more he stared into your eyes with his deep, stormy ocean blue ones. 

He could easily be classified as one of the most handsome men you had ever seen. Tall, dark and dangerous; dark hair, dark suit, dark shoes, dark rings on his fingers. He looked like dominance and power personified. A rugged, intimidating alpha male with sophisticated charm. Icy eyes with a fiery look in them. 

He looked like a god. 

When you finally got over the beautiful man, you realized what he had just said. “What do you mean, surprisingly?” you were aware that this was the same man who had answered to your cry for help earlier so you were trying your best to be polite. 

The sound of your voice made his cold, frozen heart race. “You’re not dead. Just in the realm of it.” He spoke, confusing you even more. “You’re in the Underworld. My Kingdom.” 

You frowned, thinking hard on what he had just said. Wait a minute… you looked down and saw the three-headed dog sitting obediently at his feet, very much well-behaved. You looked back up at the handsome stranger and stuttered while getting your words out. “You can’t… you can’t be real.” This wasn’t a dream? 

He flashed you a lovely smile. “Really? Why not?” 

You looked around, panicking again. This can’t be real. This can’t be real. This can’t be real. “Because you’re a myth. You… you don’t exist. You’re not supposed to.” 

He almost chuckled. “And yet, here I am. Forgotten by most mortals, yes. But still very much real.” He took small steps forward as he spoke. You found his voice to be calming, soothing.

“Hades?” you couldn’t believe it. You had heard stories about him at school, read about him in books but never in a million years would you have even for a moment considered that he could be real. 

“The one and only.” He answered, looking down at his feet to find his beloved dog looking up at him. “You’ve met Cerberus already.” 

Hades. God of the Underworld. That sitting at his feet was the Guardian, the ultimate Hellhound. How can this be real life? Anyone else would’ve freaked out upon finding all this out, but you remained surprisingly calm. “You look… I mean, aren’t you supposed to be… you know-,”

He finished your sentence with an amused look on his face. “Bearded? Crowned? Carrying a pitchfork? Riding in a chariot?” 

You nodded. 

“Well, you mortals aren’t the only ones who evolve every now and then. Us gods, although more or less forgotten, have to keep up as well, don’t we?” 

You smiled faintly but it disappeared as quickly as it came. 

You were still a little anxious, and you fidgeted with your fingers. He noticed and walked up to you. Without a word said, he reached out and gently held both your hands in his large ones. He spoke up again, “I know you’re a little nervous. I expect you to be, given the circumstances but I assure you, you’re safe here.” He said, softly. 

You looked deep into his icy, sharp eyes which despite their intensity managed to provide you with a sense of comfort; effortlessly. Who would’ve known that the God of the Underworld could be so gentle? 

“Thank you for helping me.” Your voice was barely above a whisper but he heard it alright given he was so close to you. He squeezed your hands a little, as if to say ��You’re welcome.’ Your hands fit in his perfectly, you noticed. He stood just a feet away from you and you could feel the power radiating off of him. 

He smiled gently. “If I may ask, how did you end up so deep into the woods that you stumbled upon my Kingdom? What are you running from?” He wanted to figure this out since the moment he saw you. 

“My father.” 

His eyebrows furrowed in confusion. “Why is that?” 

“He wanted to marry me off to a business associate's son so he can profit off the alliance and expand his own businesses. I refused, repeatedly. But then I found out that he was planning to forcefully fly me out somewhere, to marry the same guy. So I took off. I ran from home, and didn't tell anyone where I was going.” You exhaled shakily. “And now I’m here.” 

He nodded, slowly and calmly as he hid his utter disgust at the mention of you almost becoming someone else’s wife. 

He noticed how you started tearing up while speaking of your cruel father, so he simply pulled you closer and tucked your head under his chin while running a soothing hand down your back. His arms wrapped around you in a safe embrace. You felt the cool material of his suit against your flushed face as he held you close. He smelt amazing. You wrapped your own arms around him, feeling his taut body beneath the material of his suit. 

You hadn’t been hugged in a long time, so you started tearing up even more, until you began letting out little sobs. He tightened his grip around you, pressing you against his muscular torso. “Shh, my angel. It’s alright. I’m here now. You’re safe.” 

You held back a sob, your voice cracking as you spoke, “But if… if he finds me, he will…” 

The god pulled away a little, his hand reaching up to gently cup your face and tilt it back so he could look into your teary eyes. “He won’t find you here. I will keep you safe, don’t worry.” He wiped the fresh tears which escaped your eyes. 

You were once again lost in his eyes, just now noticing the flares of grey in them. You were both caught in the moment, when you heard a low whine. It was the adorable monster who had managed to get in between your bodies. You looked down and cracked a little smile. 

“Of course, Cerberus will keep you safe too.” 

---

You and the god had quite a long conversation leading up to dinner. A conversation often interrupted by a certain three-headed dog’s constant need for attention from either one of you. 

You learnt a lot about the one whose Kingdom you were in. You found out that he’s been here forever. Despite being dark, cold and barren you could tell he loved his realm more than anything. 

You had to ask him about Persephone and he had you surprised when he told you that unfortunately their relationship didn’t last long and that she left him for good shortly after they got married. 

You also found out that those closest to him call him ‘Bucky.’ And that his one true friend has always been the hell-hound and guardian of the Underworld, who also was currently asleep at your feet. 

“Doesn’t it get lonely?” you asked, watching him from across the grand dinner table. 

He took a sip of his wine, never breaking eye contact with you. “Not anymore.” he answered and you melted. 

Over dinner, you spoke some more. Then he noticed you got all quiet. Damn it, he cursed. This was the moment he had been dreading all day. 

“You miss your home.” He wasn’t asking, simply stating. He noticed how you pushed your food around on your plate. You weren’t as curious to know about his kingdom anymore, you weren’t chatty; just quiet all of a sudden. He missed the sound of your voice. 

Home… “Not home, no. Just my mother. Sometimes I feel like she’s the only parent who’s ever truly loved me.” 

He could feel the pain in your voice. But some of the rules of the Underworld were such that even he couldn’t bend them. “You know I cannot let you leave.” 

You had that bit figured out the moment you found out who he was. “I know.” 

He was surprised by how calm you were. “You… don’t ardently wish to go back home?” 

You looked up from your plate and at his handsome face. “Going home would mean that I’d have to face my father. Now that I’ve been gone for so long, upon seeing me he’d either obliterate me or drag me down the aisle and marry me off against my will. I prefer none of those things. As for my mom, I do miss her but she’ll survive. She’s a strong woman.” 

The god listened, leaning back in his seat; very much at ease in your company. “And what about you?” 

“What about me?” 

“What do you want?” 

You cracked a little smile. Or perhaps it was a smirk. You mimicked his body language, leaning back in your seat as well. You twirled the wine around in your glass. “For now, I want to be away from my family. I feel safe here. I don’t want to leave.” 

He found himself wanting that as well. 

---

You woke up the next morning to a sight which made you chuckle. No, it wasn’t an overly excited Cerberus. It was breakfast, along with a generous serving of pomegranates. 

You ate it all up. Then set out to find the god after you got dressed and ready for the day. Somehow, everything one could need could be found in the large closets found in the room you slept in. You had only been here for a little while but you settled in just right. 

You walked along a shadowy corridor. Bucky had given you a tour yesterday, hence you knew that this path led to the throne room. And that’s where he was; manspreading on his throne, wine glass in one of his hands while the other lazily stroked his beloved three-headed guardian; who sat by the feet of his master and wagged his tail as soon as you came in sight. 

“Your Majesty.” You spoke, walking further into the room and stopping at the stairs which led to his throne. 

He smiled as he watched you standing there, dressed in a dark grey dress. Similar to the one you wore yesterday, just a different color. “You look beautiful.” 

“Thank you.” You looked down at the dress, smoothing the soft fabric down as you spoke. “Also thank you for breakfast.” 

He caught the smirk you had on your face. He knew the reason behind it. “I assure you I wasn’t trying to be funny.” 

You took the liberty of walking up the stairs which led to his throne. “I didn’t say anything.” You whispered with a smirk and reached down to greet Cerberus. “So what do you do all day?” 

He took a sip of his wine, watching you as you knelt to the ground beside him and gave the dog endless pets. “I’m a god.” He sounded cocky. “That’s plenty of work already.” 

When you looked up at him and smirked, he could’ve sworn he felt tingles dance down his spine. There you were, a beautiful woman happily sharing space with him inside his dark kingdom like it was no big deal, with no intention of leaving anytime soon because you said it yourself that being here made you feel safe. 

The more he looked at you, the more he saw the light radiating off you. The light he so desperately needed. The light which balanced out the darkness he carried with him. The light which showed him glimpses of possible futures with you, if you’d be willing. The god was content in your company. He doesn’t remember the last time he felt the need to protect something so fiercely. 

“Come with me.” He stood up and set his glass aside, holding his hand out for you to take. 

You took it and he helped you up. “Where are we going?” you asked, as he led you down the stairs and into the corridor again. 

“There’s so much for you to see. My kingdom isn’t just full of darkness and death. There’s beauty here too, of course, none quite like your own but close.” He spoke as he led you somewhere, holding your hand carefully in his as though it were made of glass and would shatter if he let it go. 

You rolled your eyes at his comment, pretending as if it didn’t make you all flustered. “Is it now?” 

The god led you all the way to the place he was most fond of in his entire kingdom, other than his beloved throne. It was a vast garden, fit to be the backyard of a castle. There were more kinds of plants and flowers than you could count. Cobblestone walkways leading to what seemed to be a pond in the middle, surrounded by stones and moss. 

The dark red roses caught your attention rather quickly. You reached out to touch the soft petals and you felt Bucky’s presence behind you. He was so close that you could feel his warm breaths against your skin. 

“It’s so pretty.” You whispered. 

He reached around you and plucked one of them, handing it to you. “Just like you.” He mumbled and you gave him a genuine smile as you accepted the gorgeous flower. Dark red, like blood and sin. 

Amongst the numerous plants, trees and shrubs you managed to spot the one growing pomegranates. You cracked a little smile. Even though the garden was partly shadowy and foggy; the rays of sun which came through were golden and gentle. As you looked around, you spotted a yellowish weeping willow tree and walked towards it, the god followed you. 

“You’re the first one to ever step in here, you know that?” he said while thinking about all the times he spent hours in here wondering if one day fate would ever allow him to find someone he could share the joy of being here with.  

You reached out to touch the dangling leaves and looked back at him. “Well thank you for the privilege, Your Majesty.” You teased. 

You walked a few steps forwards, standing under the willow tree and admiring his secret garden when you felt his arm snaking around your waist as he placed his chin on your shoulder. 

Neither of you said anything. He was more than happy to have you here, he had been lonely for way too long. You said to yourself, ‘this isn’t so bad.’ 

He had told you about the rules of the Underworld before, you knew you couldn’t leave. You didn’t want to either. Sure, you missed your mom a lot. But going back out there would mean having to live in constant fear of what if your dad finds you. And what would he do if he does? 

Being here meant that you’d be safe and wouldn’t have to worry about anyone catching you. You didn’t fear anything here. It was quiet and the handsome god was great company. You felt all warm and tingly as he held you close, yet it felt comfortable and natural - like you were meant to be here with him, as if you had known him all your life. 

As of now, neither of you knew where this mutual attraction would go, or what it would end up being. But at the moment, just having the other one there was enough. He gave you the safety you had been searching for all your life and you provided him the warmth and light he had craved for millennia. 

---

Days in the Underworld were surprisingly peaceful; filled with surprises, visits to the garden, learning more about the god and finding out why he stayed as far away from his family as possible, wandering his kingdom all day, reading… time just flew by. And before you knew it, you had lived in the Underworld for months. 

Your bond with Bucky morphed into something more affectionate and sweet. Lingering touches and longing stares turned into deep, passionate kisses and always having to sleep in the same bed because otherwise nothing made sense. It wasn’t just love, it was tender adoration. It was warm, and light and safe. 

You hadn’t been intimate yet, but the sparks flew around whenever your hands touched at night, or when your eyes met from across the table at dinner. You were both holding back from taking it a step further. It wasn’t like he wasn’t dying to have you in his bed, or that whenever he kissed you good morning you didn’t feel the need to get on top of him and ride him until the sun came up the next day - but you were both waiting for a sign from the other and it was driving both of you insane. 

It got really, really heated one time. Bucky was on his throne, with you in his lap. His hands slipped under your dress and lazily caressed your thighs while he kissed the hell out of you. Your fingers tangled in his hair, while you gasped and moaned through the kiss. 

But just then Cerberus barged in, barking and jumping around with nothing but chaos on his mind. Bucky let out a loud sigh while you hid your face into his neck and giggled. It was those moments which made you love the place all the more. Not just the place, but the god as well. 

Winter came and when the weather was the coldest, and you spent all your time indoors is when the memories of your mother started tormenting you. She used to spend all her time baking in the winter, so you asked Bucky if you could too. He, of course, let you have anything you wanted whenever you wanted so naturally he let you. 

You tried so hard to keep yourself busy and happy but you couldn’t help but miss your mom. Bucky noticed it. And it broke him. He gave you everything one could ever need. You had everything here, and yet he could see how your eyes weren’t so shiny and curious or filled with magic and light anymore. You were dimmer than when you first came here. 

He began seeing you wandering around his home a lot less as you spent all your time either in bed or standing on one of the balconies, staring out at the woods longingly. No amount of books, or poetry or visits to the garden or your favorite food or kisses from Cerberus made you happy any longer. And Bucky’s worst fear was materializing in front of his eyes. 

You were no longer happy in the Underworld it seemed. 

-

One night, he found you curled up in bed earlier than usual. He stood at the door and watched you. You weren’t crying, you were just sad. He walked into the room and called out, “Angel, are you okay?” 

You sat up immediately, not wanting him to see you like this but at the same time you couldn’t fake being happy either. So you gave him a faint smile. “Yes, just a headache. I’ll be fine by morning.” 

He smiled faintly. His heart breaking at the sight of the sadness in your eyes. “Come with me, I have something to show you.” 

You got out of the bed and took his hand. He led you to one of the libraries he had; the coziest one with the huge fireplace and the perfect window which allowed you to see the breathtaking view of the gentle snowfall. 

You stepped further into the room and saw that he had the fire going already and the room was much warmer than anywhere else in his castle. You walked right over to the large window, pressing your palm against it as you watched the light snowfall; clean, dazzling white and calming. Your headache faded little by little. 

You felt a soft, warm blanket being placed upon your shoulders and you immediately wrapped it around you. Turning your head to the side you found Bucky right behind you. He kissed the top of your head and wrapped his arms around you. 

“Feeling better?” He asked and you nodded. 

“Much better.” 

You stood there, basking in the comfortable silence and the warmth of the room, just watching the snowfall and how it accumulated on the ground; a fresh, thick blanket of ice. 

“You miss her.” Again, it wasn’t a question from him, just a statement. 

“Who?” You pretended not to understand. 

He kissed your cheek and whispered, “Your mother. Your home. You want to go back, don’t you?” He sounded almost heartbroken and bitter. 

You remained quiet. You didn’t say anything. No… ? 

He spoke up again. “Even if I let you go, you will never be willing to come back here. To me.” He pulled away from the hug and walked over to the fireplace, shifting the burning wood with a brass fire poker. “Why would you?” He sounded pensive. “Why would you come back to this dark, barren kingdom when you can be perfectly happy out there? You must feel like you’re being held captive here.” 

He didn’t turn around to face you so he couldn’t see the silent tear which fell down your cheek. So he thought that if given the chance you would run away from here and never come back to him again? Did the past months mean nothing? Did he not see that he was all you wanted? 

Your throat burned. 

“Is that what you think of me?” The crack in your voice caught his attention. He turned around to face you with a worried look on his face. He couldn’t believe he made you cry. You weren’t sobbing, but you couldn’t contain the tears. “You really think I’m gonna be happy out there, without you?” 

That broke him. 

“Angel… I didn’t mean to…,” it was rare for the god to find himself at a loss of words but now he did. 

You wiped your tears away. “Did you even notice that I haven’t cried in months? Not since I met you because you make me the happiest I’ve ever been. This dark, barren kingdom you speak of feels more like home to me than when I lived with my family.” 

He walked up to you and pulled you into his arms. “Baby… I’m sorry.” 

You hugged him back. “I don’t feel like I’m being held captive. I don’t want to leave you. But I can’t help but miss my mom. I don’t want you to think I’m not happy with you anymore, I am. But I… It’s… I don’t know.” 

“I’m sorry.” He said, pulling away to look down into your eyes. “I need you here, with me. The thought of you leaving me forever and never seeing you again, it… it kills me.” 

You held him by the back of his neck and pulled him closer. “I’m not leaving.” You gave him a sweet kiss. “I love you.” You kissed him again and sensed his surprise as he kissed you back feverishly. You whined when his mouth left yours only to kiss down your neck, nibbling on your skin and leaving dark red marks behind. 

“You drive me crazy, you know that?” He mumbled as he kissed along your throat, walking the two of you back until he plopped down on the soft, velvety couch with you on his lap. You looked at him with nothing but hunger in your eyes. He looked at you and smirked; burning desire, lust and sin in his icy blue eyes. 

“Likewise.” you whispered. 

His hands grabbed you at your butt, firmly as he pressed you further into him. You could feel him; big and hard under you. You moved your hips against him, grinding on him out of desperation and whining in need. 

He chuckled against your lips. “You’ve had me by my heart ever since you walked into my life.” He spoke as he cupped your face gently. “I never knew I could feel so deeply for someone until I met you.” 

You stared into his eyes, your heart overflowing with all that you felt for him and your body burning with desire at the same time. So much so that you could no longer sit still on his lap. You needed him so bad it almost hurt. 

You leaned into his touch. “I feel the same way.” You leaned closer, gently caressing the back of his neck. “Falling for you was so easy.” You felt his body tense under you. 

He groaned. “Come here…” he pulled your face closer and pressed his lips to yours immediately, kissing you passionately and making your body tingle; biting your lip before shoving his tongue past your lips and kissing you like he’s famished and you’re the only thing which can satiate his profound hunger. 

Next thing you knew, he pushed you down onto the couch and hovered above you. You wrapped your arms around his neck, pulling him closer. You moaned and whimpered, body squirming under his. You needed him, terribly.

Bucky’s mouth left your lips as he kissed his way down your body, undressing you in the process. Your long, flowy dress found itself on the floor as he settled himself in between your legs. His handsome face just inches away from your dripping core. 

He looked hungry, and feral – a man who wanted to do bad things to you, and you were more than happy to let him do whatever he wanted. “You’re mine.” He growled before he leaned in and kissed your wet folds, his tongue slowly circling around your throbbing clit and licking down, parting your wet folds with ease.

Your body felt hotter and lighter as a pressing need to release formed deep inside you as you felt his tongue stroked your most sensitive parts. “So fucking sweet…” he looked up at you and found you with your eyes shut, head thrown back in pleasure. “Look at me.” He ordered and the authority in his voice made you tremble.

You opened your eyes and supported your upper body up with your elbows digging into the couch and you took in the sight of him in between your legs. His strong arms wrapped around your thighs, keeping you in place and close to him. He maintained eye contact as he licked in between your wet folds again, making you whine as he teased you. His touch was deliberately slow, pleasurably agonizing. 

“Please…” you cried out, whimpering and begging him to take you already. 

Your hand flew to his hair and you tugged on it gently as he flicked his tongue over your clit over and over again. His stormy blue eyes watched how you lost control under his touch; legs shaking as he teased your entrance with the tip of his tongue. His hands wrapped around your thighs, securing you in his grip as he pushed his face further into you, making you cry out loud until you came undone. 

He kissed his way up your body again, then lifted off you for just a moment to get rid of his clothes. Once done, he was hovering over your naked body again. 

“If it were up to me, I’d keep you here…” he leaned in to kiss you on the lips, “just like this, forever.” He loved the sight of you; naked, hot and squirming under him. He desperately wanted to keep you there forever and never let you go. 

You giggled. “Fiend.” 

He smiled as he looked down at you. “Where have you been all this time?” He leaned in to kiss you again as his hands touched you wherever he could; letting his hands linger at your breasts and taking his sweet time; caressing and kissing your skin. 

His hands slipped in between your legs with ease; caressing your inner thighs as he went. You moaned into the kiss; his touch was slow, and gentle and enticing but also fiery - much like himself. 

You whimpered and squirmed under him, and he smirked through the kiss as he pushed his erected cock past your tight entrance, pulling your legs up to wrap them around his waist. You moaned out loud as he pushed into you, your back arching off the surface of the couch. He grunted once he filled you up entirely, giving you a couple of seconds to adjust. 

He grabbed both your hands, laced your fingers together with his and pinned your interlaced hands down above your head. He stared into your eyes, lips parted as he struggled to fit inside you. He had always wondered how he would feel inside you. How warm and how tight and snug you’d feel… but you felt better than he imagined. 

You threw your head back, moaning. You were so full of him that even you couldn’t even form a proper thought. His lips found yours again, trying to get you to stay quiet while he rolled his hips against yours. He pulled out and pushed himself back into you, and watched in awe how you struggled to fit him inside of you. 

“Come on, take all of me…” He mumbled breathlessly as he pushed deeper into you. You heard him gasp and swear under his breath as he rocked into you. Your nails sank into his skin, around his shoulders; which you held on to as he pounded into you. 

He bit your lips, kissed your open mouth, and shoved his tongue past your lips while he rammed into you; and you never once complained. He stretched you out completely. And it did hurt, but the pleasure compensated for the pain. Your legs trembled around his waist, he thrust deeper into you; fucking you like only a god could. 

Your back arched off the couch as you felt a familiar warmth washing over you. Bucky growled and bit down on your shoulder to keep himself from being too loud while he fucked you. He was relentless. The sound of his moans and grunts sent tingles dancing down your spine and you were sure that his bite left a mark. 

Bucky’s hand found its way to your front and he pressed the palm of his hand against your lower abdomen. He liked the rush of excitement which coursed through him each time he felt his cock deep within you. His hand travelled all the way to your neck and he gently squeezed the side of your throat. Hard enough to make you lose your mind while he kept pounding into you incessantly. 

“Fuck…” you heard a barely audible moan leave his lips as he rammed his cock in and out of you incessantly. 

You felt him quicken his pace. You tightened around him, and he groaned, pounding into you; growling and mumbling swear words under his breath. You felt the pressure in between your hips grow until you couldn’t hold back anymore. 

His other hand toyed with your folds; his fingers furiously rubbed the skin around your clit and made you tremble and whimper again. You moaned, craving more and more of him. With a few more strokes of his thick cock, you felt his thrust becoming irregular, and felt his cock throb against your walls. You tightened around him, feeling the burning hot need to cum grow hotter and hotter inside you until it exploded.

You came with a loud moan, gushing all around him. Bucky came right after you; buried deep within you – growling under his breath. His warm cum shot at your walls and trickled out of you when he carefully removed his length from your entrance. You were a whimpering mess. And so was he. 

He collapsed next to you. You were shaking just a little as he tucked your head under his chin and ran his soothing hand down your back; while kissing the side of your head. 

“I love you too, angel.” 

 ---

 Bucky agreed on letting you go for a few days, so you could meet your mom. But he had one condition: 

“My mom will freak out!” you exclaimed. 

Bucky shook his head. “Mortals can’t see him as the guardian of the Underworld. Your mother will see him as just a regular dog.” 

“Then how can I?” 

“You’re special.” He walked over to you and pulled you into his arms, kissing your forehead. “You were meant to be here. To be mine.” 

“Are you sure about this?” You bent down to give the excited three-headed little monster scratches. 

“Absolutely.” He was sending Cerberus along with you for your safety. 

You smiled at the dog and looked up at it’s master. “Alright then. When do I leave? And how?” 

The god smiled. “Right now. I’ll take you.” 

You smirked. “You know we can’t show up in a chariot being drawn by horses, right?” 

He chuckled. “Trust me, angel. Come on, take my hand.” 

You did. And the next thing you knew, all three of you were surrounded by black fog, and less than a few seconds later, you found yourself standing at the entrance of a beautiful, gated home you didn’t recognize. You looked beside you and there stood your beloved god and his trustee guardian. You realized it was night time. 

“Where are we?” you looked around, not recognizing the neighborhood. 

Bucky grabbed your hand in his and Cerberus’ leash in another. “Your mom’s place.” He led you to the front door and rang the bell. You were confused, but too excited to see your mom to ask any further questions. 

Needless to say, your reunion with your mother was filled with tears and teary smiles and hugs. She then told you that her and your dad were no longer together and that this was her home now. She didn’t know where your dad was, and neither did she want to. 

“Oh honey, who is this handsome young man?” Your mother asked, once she realized that Bucky was there too. 

You went along with the story you and him had concocted before leaving the Underworld. You told your mother that Bucky was your long term boyfriend and that you ran away to him because you were in love with him and couldn’t agree to marry someone else. 

“I’m gonna be away on a business trip for a couple of weeks, so I thought why not leave Y/N with you until I return. After all, she’s been wanting to see you.” Bucky spoke to your mom politely and won her over within a few minutes. The god was indeed very charming. 

After leaving Cerberus in your care, Bucky parted from you at the doorstep with a long, deep kiss. “I’ll be back for you, angel. Miss me.” 

You smiled, kissing him back. “I will wait. I love you.” 

“I love you more. Take care.” he kissed your forehead, and left. 

Leaving you behind to your mother whom you had missed, but who also had a thousand questions for you. You answered all of them, lied at most. 

---

The first week went by almost too quickly. Mother-daughter quality time, gossip and all. Cerberus was a sweetheart and each morning when you woke up and saw him in the kitchen keeping your mom company, you’d freak out for a moment or two. Then you’d eventually remember that she couldn’t see him for what he truly is and you’d calm down. 

By week two, the jittery feeling of being back with your mom had died down. Not that you didn’t enjoy spending time with her, but the fear of your father finding you caught you off-guard often. 

It was someday during the third week of you being back with your mom that your fears hit you hard. You had a terrible nightmare where your dad was back and was trying to take you away again. It was spine-chilling to a point where even Cerberus picked up on it. 

You woke up to him whining and licking your face. You sighed in relief upon seeing his heads looking down at you in worry and confusion. 

“I’m okay,” you gave him some pets and he immediately curled up on the bed beside you. You snuggled beside him, caressing his fur which looked shiny thanks to the moonlight coming in through the window. “You miss your daddy, don’t you?” You saw his multiple ears perk up at that. You giggled. “I miss him too.” You give his paw a kiss. 

“Well good thing daddy’s here.” You heard his voice coming from the dark shadow of your room. Cerberus jumped out of bed and was surprisingly quiet as he greeted his master with much excitement. “Hello,” Bucky greeted him, “how about you go home now? I know you’ve missed it.” One last scratch behind the ears and a snap of Bucky’s fingers later, Cerberus disappeared into black fog.

You sat up in the middle of your queen-sized bed and leaned over to light the soft, golden lamp shade by the side of your bed. You blinked in confusion. “Bucky?” You were pleasantly surprised. The soft golden light made him look almost angelic despite his signature, all black outfit. 

He gave you his signature cocky smirk. “Were you expecting someone else at this odd hour, angel?” 

You rushed out of bed and right into his arms. He wrapped his arms around you, holding you close and he kissed your hair. “I’ve missed you so much.” 

“I’ve missed you too baby. You have no idea.” He pulled away and cupped your face so he could get a good look at you. He leaned down to kiss your lips, deeply. You felt warm all of a sudden. 

You smiled through the kiss before pulling away, asking in a hushed tone, “How come you’re here at this time?” 

“I sensed that something was wrong. You were having a nightmare, weren’t you?” 

You nodded. “But I’m okay now.” 

“I’m sorry I didn’t come sooner.” 

You rubbed your nose against his. “Doesn’t matter, you’re here now.” 

He grabbed your face and kissed you again; down your neck and along your shoulder. His stubble tickled your skin and you giggled as quietly as you could. You felt his hands caress your skin under your shirt, inching closer and closer to your breasts while he walked you back and eventually pushed you down onto your bed. 

Your body tingled and burned under his warm touch, and there was nothing you wanted more than to have him buried deep in you. Ever since that first night together, you craved him almost all the time. After all, he made love to you like a god. 

“Do you know how hard it was, being away from you for so long?” He whispered, sounding gentle, but also demanding and hot. 

Suddenly you felt all confident and sassy. “Why don’t you show me then?” 

He smirked and grabbed your oversized t-shirt and tossed it over your head and somewhere behind him. The sight of your bare body underneath him made him growl. “Is this how you slept every night? Almost naked?” He whispered in your ear as his hands roamed your body, mainly toying with your breasts. “Did you touch yourself, while thinking of me? Hmm?” 

You gasped and moaned just at the sound of his voice, he was barely touching you. 

He pressed his mouth to yours again, impatient to just have you already. His mouth didn’t leave yours as his hand slipped in between your legs with ease; caressing your inner thighs as he went. His touch caused a shiver to run down your spine as you moaned through the kiss. 

“Shh,” he mumbled against your lips. “Can’t have your mom find out that her daughter is being a dirty, dirty little girl for me now, can we?” He ran his fingers up and down your folds, gathering and smearing your arousal around as he went. 

He messed with you for a little bit; stroking your walls with his fingers and making you whine. You whimpered quietly under him as he nuzzled your neck and nibbled on the skin along your throat. “Please…” you pleaded. He chuckled. 

“Please what, baby?” he teased you with his fingers, keeping you on the edge. 

You whined under your breath. “I need you… please…” 

His lips found yours again as the two of you hurried to unbuckle his pants and he pulled it down enough to free his erected cock. He couldn’t wait any longer. “I need you too baby,” he kissed you deeply, “but I’m gonna need you to be quiet for me, okay?” 

He pulled away and waited for an answer. You nodded, breathless already. 

“Good girl.” He pressed his forehead against yours while he pushed his erected cock past your tight entrance. You moaned under your breath as he did. You whimpered as you felt all of him. His lips found yours again, attempting to get you to stay quiet while he rolled his hips against yours. 

“Shh, angel.” He whispered in your ear before pounding into you like his life depended on it. He buried his face into the crook of your neck, something which had become a habit of his, as he groaned under his breath at how your body welcomed him perfectly.

You failed to form proper thoughts as he rammed into you. The sounds he made were downright sinful and you loved it so much; knowing that you had the power to make him lose his mind. 

“You’re all mine, you hear me?” He mumbled. “Tell me you’re mine,” he whispered right at the shell of your ear, and you moaned quietly at how he sped up into you.

You did as he asked. You told him again and again that you were his. And no one else’s. You couldn’t imagine loving anyone else. 

Bucky held you like you were the most fragile thing ever even while he fucked you like there was no tomorrow. You were a tear-stained, whimpering mess as you came around his thick cock. He came right after you, grunting and groaning under his breath. 

“I love you. So much.” He whispered, kissing the side of your face to calm you down. 

You smiled, breathless still. “I love you too.” 

 He stayed with you, in your bed long after you two were done going at it for a second time that night. You snuggled into his side, your hand lazily across his torso. “Are you gonna stay for a little longer? Have breakfast with mom and I?” 

He caressed your cheek with his thumb, “Won’t your mother ask how I got here?” 

“I’ll tell her that you got here quite early while she was still sleeping.” 

He raised his eyebrows at you rather dramatically. “Look at you lying without any shame.” 

You giggled and got on top of him, straddling his waist and placed both your palms against his toned chest. “Oh the things I do for love,” You leaned down and kissed his lips with your own swollen ones. 

He smiled. “Does your mom like me? As your… boyfriend?” He asked, sounding a little worried and it made you laugh because he was… him - a god, a king, ruler of the Underworld and here he was worrying about if your mom approved of him or not. 

You pulled away to look into his eyes. “Yes. She likes you quite a lot actually. Who wouldn’t? You’re perfect.” 

He smiled, his heart exploding at your words, as his hands caressed your exposed thighs. “I like her too. We’ll visit her every now and then, don’t worry.” he spoke and then looked around at your bedroom. “I like it here.” 

You kissed him again, pouring all your love out into the kiss. You pulled away again, “Also I was thinking maybe we could go back tomorrow.” 

He knew perfectly what you meant but he was dying to hear you say it. “Where to, angel?” He reached out and grabbed your hand, bringing it to his lips and kissed your knuckles. 

You smiled down at him, your heart exploding with just how much love you had for him. 

You answered, “Home.”

[bloodpenned]

Happy (early) Halloween, everyone! This is completely normal porn, nothing to see here. You are you, you are both, you are neither.

pairing: Ghost!Kylar x GN!Reader cw: masturbation under very dubious circumstances, bodily possession, body horror-esque / mindfuckery elements, loss of identity word count: 1.8k

Something is looming over you. An unmoving presence pins you into place, eyes staring straight into yours.

You can’t be certain, you had closed your eyes to fall asleep. Now, you don't have the courage to open them. But you feel it. A draft brushes over your cheeks, despite all your window being closed. The scent of dusty clothes clogs your nose. Through the logical side of your brain, you're sure there isn’t anything there. How could there be? The mattress doesn’t sink under another’s weight. No matter how hard you listen, you can't make out anyone's breathing and there’s been no creaks coming from your wooden floor. None of this knowledge has a chance of fighting the primal fear inside of you. The one making your heart race, making your chest stutter over breaths and urges you to stay. If you do, maybe you will simply turn invisible.

Time blurs together. The smell’s gotten worse. Your scalp itches, and your fingers twitch with the desire to scratch. Nothing happens. You don’t feel safe yet, but the worst of your panic has subsided. Exhaustion threatens to pull you under, but the remains of adrenaline in your veins keep you up. If you want to actually get around to sleeping tonight, you have to get over this fear. You begin with moving your foot, shifting the bedding alongside it. Nothing. You clench and unclench your fist. Nothing. You take a deep breath through your nose, then a couple more. Nothing. You crack your eyes open.

Only to be met with two glowing green embers, hovering right above your face. They grow in intensity when you acknowledge them, illuminating the contour of a human face. Wisps of black flicker in an ever-changing halo around their head, like messy hair. The green is all that’s familiar to you. Before this, you've caught flashes of it in the corner of your eye. Tricks of your mind or the light, you had assumed. You open your mouth- To scream, to gasp for air, to curse, not even you know. But you never get the chance to. Cold air moulds with your mouth like a kiss and wraps around your tongue, ice shooting down your spine and a fist crushing your heart.

Your entire body turns sluggish, every breath an effort and limbs struggling under unseen weight. Warm tears drip down your face. You're scared, you don't know what's going on! A terrible taste fills your mouth. Or. No... You’re (they are they are they are) so happy, so, so happy! Laughter bubbles up from your throat and out your mouth. It’s been so long since you’ve felt this warm! Got to experience fabric against their skin, a heart beating in your chest, lungs filled with air. And this all in the body of your beloved. The skin surrounding you, hugging you inside like it doesn't want you to leave, it's all perfect! You shudder, heat settling underneath your skin at the mere thought.

(images flash through your brain of yourself, watched from behind on the streets of town. at school. at work. in your bedroom. memories you can't have, like curled up in bed, asleep. the face of someone you hate contorted in pain. and ones you don't want to remember. of that night in the loft where you clawed at the latch until your fingers bled but there was no one. no one there to hear you whimper and cry after the other’s laughter disappeared down the hallway. or, apparently, there was. someone that watched over you when no one else did. someone that stuck.

nausea wells up in your throat. you have to remember things that are undoubtedly yours, you have to ground yourself. your parents- no. not yours. you don’t know these people. anything ‘yours’ brings multiple images. your room, your home, your hobbies, all flash around in doubles and blur together. your friends. friends. it brings up an empty empty empty hollowness from somewhere. what part of you got swallowed? you don’t know where you begin and they end, you don't know where they begin and you end.)

You lingered in this realm for a reason you never figured out, always failed to put your unfulfilled desire into words. Much less work through it. Drifting through an existence of nothing, you hoped to succumb to the void which never embraced you. Now you know it without a doubt. It was for this meeting that the universe made you stay. Not even death could keep you apart. Sure, you needed to get more creative to truly start a meeting, to talk. But this was only a small obstacle in the face of your fated love, and you overcame it! The tugging at your soul made sure you never strayed far. And if you were both alive, you could never do this, never be close in the ultimate way, never know each other's every secret and thought. Never be one. Watching over you, they (you) understood the true gravity of all this, of your connection. You will understand, maybe you already do. You’re listening, aren’t you?

“I love you.” Someone else breathes in your voice. Not just someone. Kylar, that’s their name. A scrawny person, black hair, green eyes, baggy clothes. Tiny. (maybe in this body you can finally reach the top shelf now haha but that’s not important no no it isn’t) Your arms twitch and shake as they wrap themselves around you in a hug. Struggling, you break through the water’s surface, jerking your head to the side. Your body feels bruised inside out, the temptation to give in pounding on you like a storm’s waves. It’s easier to slumber in the back of your own mind. Yes, it’s easier. Isn’t that you want? You know yourself better than anyone else. You want to stop thinking, want to stop hurting, want to be saved. It’s possible. Just let you love them, let them love you, your souls are-

“What are you- What’s happening to us?!” (mine yours ours yours mine ours) A beat of silence. Happy tears turn to sobs. “Me! Me! What’s happening to me?!” You gasp for air, tugging your knees up to your chest and slamming your head against them. Immediately, your panic intensifies, doubled. It’s a dream, it has to be a dream, this can’t be happening, you’re so scared (but this can’t be anything except real. you can feel the pain, you share it. why do you have to hurt yourself? they’d never do that, they’ll make you feel good, they’ll show you.) This is your body, but your willpower isn’t strong enough to stay in control for long. Where are they getting all the strength from?! (love love love it’s love and it’s all for you.) You’re thrust back underwater.

You don’t mind the struggle all that much. Your souls will only fuse together more through conflict, interacting closer as they fight for control. You can feel yourselves blurring together more and more. If that happens, you may not be able to leave again. But you don’t care. Why would you? What better way to share the rest of your existence with your beloved than in the most literal way possible? There’s no form of intimacy that could compare. Before this, there was nothing of you left anyway. Nothing is lost by speaking in your voice, by touching with your hand, by your hearts beating in sync. It's perfect. You are perfect. Except...

“...You'd mind, wouldn’t you? You don’t have to say it. I can tell.” (of course, you hate it. you don’t know what’s going on, don’t know who they are and know every little detail of their life. your body is not your own anymore and it's too tight it feels terrible it hurts and you hate them but you love them but you love you.) That's okay. It's a start. Together, you’ll figure out what you’re feeling.

Crawling out of bed, you pat your pocket for a comforting weight you can’t find. Once the moment passes, what you were looking for slips your mind. Stumbling like in a drunken stupor, you find yourself in the bathroom in front of the mirror. It’s you. (still, somehow.) There’s a glimmer of green in your eyes, and you don’t like it. It reminds you of yourself (it reminds you of them). But your heart beats faster at the sight of you reflected against the glass, and you tug your lips up into a smile. The glass is cold against your palm. Regular breaths turn into pants, goosebumps spreading across your flesh. (you're inside you're inside you're inside you're inside you're inside)

You're filled with heat, the warmth that had been building over time flares to a new height by looking at yourself. You want to so badly and you’re a bit curious, you’ve thought about this so much and you could have never imagined this. Are either of these your own? Pressing your lips to the mirror, you stare at yourself through half-lidded eyes. (this will be as close to a kiss as you’re ever going to get.)

Your hand moves down into your underwear, and you can’t deny the arousal are there. (see see see they can make you feel good they told you so your body can't lie.) With trembling fingers, from both excitement and nerves, you touch yourself. So much of it is muscle memory that you don't think about how, hardly have to dig through your beloved’s memory to figure out how to do it on your own. Your hand touches you, every touch a surprise and yet not at all. (just a little bit faster just a little tighter). It was never this overwhelming on your own. Voices mix together as you gasp and moan until it turns into one sharing the exact same idea, the desire to feel even better. There’s nothing but warmth and pleasure and relief, relief, relief, so much relief. A human body was never meant to house two. Nothing in your life comes close to the bliss you’re experiencing now, double the pleasure, nerves white hot and tingling.

You cum so hard you nearly black out. Your entire body twitches and shivers, you’re pretty sure some wire in your brain just sprung loose. Slumping on the sink and holding on to stay on your feet, you babble out your own name over and over as you ride out your bliss. Drool drips down your chin while you pant. With trembling arms and legs, you get yourself to stand upright. Your head's so much emptier than before. Quieter. Is it over? You feel… Content? Worried? You’re not sure. It's like you’re tangled up, tugged in different directions. Sleepy too, but you always do after getting off. Your gaze flickers up.

You stare at yourself in the mirror. One eye is bright green.